luggage for adventure travel

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The Best Outdoor Luggage of 2022

These bags’ innovative features make them standouts for adventure travel

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There are two types of travelers in this world: those who need a specialized compartment for everything, and those who prefer to toss their belongings in a bag, zip it up, and go. Whichever you are, or if you’re somewhere in between, here are three of this year’s best outdoor luggage offerings to fit your travel style .

Norrøna Trolley Bag ($329)

The problem with most giant rolling duffels is that the internal frame takes up almost as much room as the gear you’re packing. But Norrøna’s Trolley duffel offers a cavernous 120 liters of storage space, thanks to a simple yet smart design feature that nixes the telescoping handle—and therefore the internal frame—in favor of flat-lying handles sewn into the top. This keeps the bag’s weight low, making it easier to stay under an airline’s 50-pound limit. Half-inch-thick, cushy trekking-style backpack straps make carrying this thick-skinned, 450-denier recycled nylon duffel over rough terrain more comfortable—even when it’s fully loaded.

STM Goods Dux 30L Backpack ($250)

STM stands for “smarter than most,” which sounds pretentious until you try the Australian brand’s Dux backpack . With 360 degrees of foam padding within the casing, our tester felt comfortable lugging around delicate cameras, lenses, and audio equipment. Flexible and adjustable polyethylene foam shelves form up to three protective compartments in the main body of the bag and are accessible through a zippered, butterfly-wing panel on each side. Plus, the laptop and tablet compartments are suspended above the bottom of the pack with a thick EVA foam cushion adding an extra buffer against dings and drops.

Gregory Quadro Pro Hardcase Carry-On ($230)

Many rolling carry-on bags now have a specific storage compartment for laundry or shoes. But Gregory ups the ante with a removable 22-inch sleeve that features an antimicrobial coating to prevent even the gnarliest items from permeating the luggage with their smell—a refinement that came in handy for our tester during a two-week trip without a way to do laundry. We also appreciated the external USB charging port (just zip your power bank into the interior pocket and plug it in) and compression straps with zippered storage for small items. The four wheels are buttery smooth rolling over all sorts of surfaces, from city streets to gravel.

• Carry-On Bag
• Duffel Bags
• Rolling Luggage

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Adventure Luggage

Hauling your gear across the airport doesn’t have to be miserable. Find the best duffel bag for your next trip with expert advice from Backpacker Magazine’s adventure luggage reviews.

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These bags’ innovative features make them standouts for adventure travel, latest in adventure luggage, >", "path": "https://www.backpacker.com/gear/essentials/adventure-luggage/no-more-yard-sales-our-favorite-products-for-backcountry-gear-organization/", "listing_type": "category", "location": "list", "title": "no more yard sales: our favorite products for backcountry gear organization"}}'> no more yard sales: our favorite products for backcountry gear organization.

Keep your pack—and your sanity—in order with these gear organizers.

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These products will hold up to whatever the world has in store.

>", "path": "https://www.backpacker.com/gear-reviews/yeti-panga-100/", "listing_type": "category", "location": "list", "title": "YETI Panga 100"}}'> YETI Panga 100

Having conquered coolers, YETI brings its bomber aesthetic to drybags.

>", "path": "https://www.backpacker.com/gear-item/granite-gear-32-wheeled-duffel/", "listing_type": "category", "location": "list", "title": "Granite Gear 32” Wheeled Duffel"}}'> Granite Gear 32” Wheeled Duffel

Roll it around or throw it on your back; this monster duffel can handle any load.

>", "path": "https://www.backpacker.com/gear-item/gear-review-the-north-face-base-camp-duffel/", "listing_type": "category", "location": "list", "title": "Gear Review: The North Face Base Camp Duffel"}}'> Gear Review: The North Face Base Camp Duffel

A staff favorite, again and again.

>", "path": "https://www.backpacker.com/gear-item/gear-review-outdoor-research-lateral-dry-bag/", "listing_type": "category", "location": "list", "title": "Gear Review: Outdoor Research Lateral Dry Bag"}}'> Gear Review: Outdoor Research Lateral Dry Bag

A dry bag that doubles as a duffel.

>", "path": "https://www.backpacker.com/gear-item/gear-review-golite-travelite-30-wheeled-duffel/", "listing_type": "category", "location": "list", "title": "Gear Review: GoLite TraveLite 30'' Wheeled Duffel"}}'> Gear Review: GoLite TraveLite 30'' Wheeled Duffel

An expedition-size wheeled duffle.

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Cram in everything you want...even if it includes the kitchen sink.

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Keep all your equipment in one place with this durable ski and snowboard bag.

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There might be a journey too daunting for this load hauler. But it's not on this planet.

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The Best Luggage for Wherever You’re Headed

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The Best Carry-On for Most People Away Carry-On Read more

An Upgraded Carry-On Aer Carry-On Read more

Best Budget Carry-On Travelpro Maxlite 5 Read more

Best Aluminum Bag Rimowa Original Cabin Read more

When you're going on a trip, packing your bags scratches a very specific mental itch. Do you like breezing to your gate with only minutes to spare, bypassing the checked-baggage line and sweeping through the Global Entry prescreened traveler security lane? Are you on a business trip and bringing makeup and camera-ready clothes? Or are you traveling with small children and struggling to keep track of all their stuffies, snacks, grandparent gifts, and innumerable electronics cords for tiny headphones and remote-controlled sharks?

In the past year, I've flown and driven thousands of miles. I've hopped on quick flights for work, struggled through cross-country travel with my spouse and kids, and cinched duffel bags on the rooftop rack of my car for weekend trips. The WIRED Gear team and I have taken all these bags on at least two flights minimum, overstuffed them, checked them, shoved them into overhead bins, hastily unpacked and repacked them in car trunks and on airport floors, and most importantly, let our children ride on them from baggage claim to the Uber. Whether you're slinging a duffel into a car trunk for a weekend trip or packing for a whirlwind jaunt across Asia, we've got you covered. Need a bag for your passport or groceries? Don't forget to check out our other guides, like the Best Laptop Backpacks , Best Laptop Totes , and the Best Recycled Bags , for more picks.

Updated July 2024: We added the Rimowa carry on, the Beis carry on, the Tumi Velocity backpack, the Lojel Cubo Large, the Aer carry on, the State Logan carry on, and the Calpak medium checked luggage. We also updated the information on sizing and checked links and prices.

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The Best Carry-On for Most People

Away's business practices may have raised some eyebrows , but there's no denying that this company changed the travel market entirely. It has increased in price since we first tested it, but multiple WIRED staffers still use the classic Away hard-shell carry-on ( 9/10, WIRED Recommends ) as their travel suitcase.

The classic Away carry-on has a light, polycarbonate shell, so there's not as much give in the case. However, hardshell suitcases look a lot sleeker than their soft-shell counterparts and protect fragile items better. The Away weighs 7.5 pounds, which is pretty standard for a hard-shell carry-on. When I tested it, I liked that it had multiple height settings and that the polycarbonate shell wiped clean and stayed mostly scuff-free (it helped that my tester was in the darker navy color). Away's suitcases also come with a built-in TSA-approved combination lock, four spinner wheels capable of rotating 360 degrees, and an included laundry bag to keep dirty clothes separate from the rest of your stuff. The handle did feel a bit wobbly, though.

★ Alternatives: We've tried similar suitcases by Monos ($255) and July ($295) . July's aluminum bumpers protect fragile belongings, but they do add weight. The Monos's handle rolls out more smoothly, but the July's pebbled surface doesn't show scuffs as badly. I have checked both of these suitcases multiple times on multiple cross-country trips, and both have also been ridden by two small children with no damage.

An Upgraded Carry-On

As the Away's ubiquity shows, it works perfectly well for the vast majority of people. But if you find flying to be as unpleasant an experience as I do, a few upgrades might be worth the expense to make it more endurable. We think two recent luggage launches are worth your attention. Reviewer Nena Farrell loves the viral Beis carry-on , which, in addition to coming in a variety of cute, distinctive colors, has extras like a cushy handle, a built-in weight gauge, and a retractable strap that lets you clip a backpack or duffel to the front, in case your personal item doesn't have a pass-through.

I also recently tested Aer’s latest luggage launch. I like Aer’s better than Beis' for a few reasons. The design is sleeker, without ridges to attract scratches and dirt. Although I rolled and spun it side by side with Calpak, July, and Monos luggage, I did not find that Aer's Hinamoto ball bearing system rolled more quietly or smoothly. However, Aer's carry-on has wheel locks. This was crucial when I found myself in the luggage section of a rental shuttle, trying to manage four four-wheeled suitcases on an overcrowded ride from the airport to the rental car outpost while my spouse and children relaxed in the last three remaining seats. As someone who tends to just toss an AirTag into the shoe pocket of their luggage, where it accidentally falls out halfway across the world, I also like the tiny dedicated AirTag pocket.

★ Alternative: If sustainability is your bag (haha), Paravel offers an Aviator carry-on ($425) that touts itself as the world's first carbon-neutral carry-on; it has an interior lining made of recycled plastic bottles, a telescoping handle made of recycled aluminum, and vegan leather trim to help it stand out from all the plain black bags at the airport. Reviewer Jaina Grey fell in love with its roomy interior and durable, anti-scuff hard-shell exterior.

Best Budget Carry-On

Look around any airport—if you see flight attendants or pilots, they will probably be rolling around a Travelpro suitcase. We like Travelpros because you get a lot of bang for your buck. They're durable, light, and not too expensive.

For only a little over $100, the Maxlite 5 is one of the more affordable Travelpro suitcases, and at 5.4 pounds, it's very light! The exterior toiletry pocket is a nice touch for when you go through security and need to take out your liquids, and the zippers are also quite strong and don't tend to get stuck. The wheels also rolled nicely on both the spinner and roll-aboard versions. Reviewer Matt Jancer did note that the aluminum handle extensions did sometimes stick and the main grab handle on the bag is only single-stitched, which may cause durability issues farther down the line. However, he has seen no issues yet. This probably the best bag you can get in the $100 to $150 price range.

Best Aluminum Bag

The publicist who sent me the iconic Rimowa carry-on for testing warned me that it had been used for promotional photos and might have "some minor patina." This comment was offered with mild apology which I assured her was unnecessary; getting a Rimowa with a few scratches and dings is like buying a preseasoned cast iron pan. Rimowa cases have a cult following among travelers precisely because of how elegantly they wear their miles. The whole point of these nearly indestructible anodized aluminum boxes is to batter them in Bali, scrape them up in Sicily, then cover the wounds in stickers. In fact, a vintage Rimowa with dings and vintage stickers will probably cost you more on eBay than new, though it's more fun to make every dent yourself. I tested the bag on a trip to New York and appreciated the fine-tuned details in construction (the seal is tight enough I had no qualms about it sitting on a rainy tarmac) and, especially, the uncommon confidence and balance of the roller wheels. The Rimowa feels indestructible, and every attempt to break it only improves that patina, which makes it an ideal travel companion. —Martin Cizmar

Best Checked Bag

For a large checked bag, Lojel's Cubo Large has one feature that was invaluable. It has a flat-top opening, which means you can open it like a box, instead of swinging out both sides like a clamshell. I could not believe how much easier this made it to access all of our stuff. On a recent family vacation, I checked the Cubo Large, put it in the trunk of a Chrysler Pacifica, drove to my brother's house, drove to the beach, and kept four peoples' items organized in one hotel room for a week. I could open the suitcase and grab my kid's sandals without pulling the whole suitcase out of the trunk. Once we got to our destination, it took up half as much floor space as any other suitcase. When it weighed about a pound over the checked bag weight limits, I could discreetly unzip it and take out my Chacos without opening a clamshell and displaying all my belongings for all of United's employees to see.

Granted, the stitching on the interior organizational pockets is not so solid for the price. My kids almost instantly busted the button that holds the lid up. Also, a 10-year warranty sounds good, but almost every other manufacturer offers a limited lifetime warranty that covers common problems, like broken zippers. However, this flat-top opening is a great feature that's worth recommending, especially if you have large, awkward items that wouldn't fit in one side of a clamshell suitcase.

★ Alternative: On this trip, I also checked the Calpak Evry Medium Luggage ($245) , and it did the job for half the price. It has a polycarbonate shell, interior organizational pockets, and a TSA-approved lock.

Best Backpack

Tumi’s iconic, expensive backpacks are the platonic ideal for airplane travel. The latest one is the Velocity, which is a collaboration with McLaren Automotive, and the sleek design is meant to evoke the aerodynamic lines of McLaren's racing cars. The shell is made from CX6, a type of woven carbon fiber that is engineered to be both super strong and incredibly light. This means that the bag has a firm structure that doesn't look saggy when it's empty, or stuffed like a turkey when it's full. It can fit a surprising amount of stuff—just unzip the front panel and it swings open like a glove compartment.

Like a lot of Tumi's backpacks, it comes with a bunch of travel-related extras, like a luggage tag, an add-a-bag sleeve, and a luggage-inspired leather grip handle. The padded laptop compartment fits laptops up to 15 inches (although surprisingly, the compartment is not suspended, so be careful putting it down). I filled it full of books and dragged it on our concrete walk, and I still couldn't scratch the surface. In keeping with the bag's slim profile, however, the water bottle pockets are extremely tight. It's also a little embarrassing flying with a $1,600 backpack in economy. Tumi has a wide array of equally attractive and useful laptop backpacks for less than half the price.

Best Kids Suitcase

For the past two years, I've found myself being the lone parent while flying with my two children, now 7 and 9. Unfortunately, trying to cheap out on my kids' suitcases has resulted in a garage full of dead luggage. My children busted the zippers on this generic rolling backpack off Amazon (which was much cheaper than when I bought it) almost instantly. The Target version is only 6 pounds and very cute, but the plastic shell and hardware is as fragile as a bird egg.

I would've saved so much time, aggravation, and money if I'd just bought them both State bags at the start. The Logan comes in a mini, carry-on, and checked size, and the carry-on has more or less the same dimensions as my carry-on. However, it has a number of child-friendly features. The prints are amazing; my kids love theirs. The front pocket is big enough for a snack box and their iPads, which means I can quickly usher them to their seats and unpack everything into the front pocket. There are two straps on the side that are ideal for tucking in Yellow Blanky and Truck Blanky when we have to move quickly at the gate. And it still weighs less than my own carry-on.

Best Convertible Bag

Every serious traveler knows the name of Seattle-based Tom Bihn, manufacturer of bomber bags that will last you a lifetime. The Aeronaut 45 is the classic Tom Bihn convertible carry-on, which the size of the maximum allowable carryon bag on a plane.

You get everything from a Tom Bihn bag that you pay for. It’s made of incredibly sturdy 1050 denier ballistic nylon, with bombproof YKK zippers. It has both hidden backpack straps and an extremely comfortable cross-body strap. This is commerce director Martin Cizmar's bag, and he's tossed it around and lugged it down rough streets and through crowds where roller bags are a liability. He owns two and the first lasted for more than a decade. This is the bag that both he and I would use, if we didn't have to constantly test other bags.

Best Lifetime Bag

Do you only want to buy one suitcase and never think about it, ever again? Briggs & Riley is one of the few companies with a lifetime unlimited warranty. I bought a Briggs & Riley carry-on as my first and only post-college purchase. Right now, it has lasted over 20 years. Periodically, I bring it into the one Briggs & Riley-approved dealership in my town to get a zipper pull put back on, and it's fixed for free in a few days. Its components are top-of-the-line. The face fabric is a heavy-duty ballistic nylon that’s water-repellent and abrasion-resistant. After having been dragged all over the globe, from the Philippines to Turkey to Iceland, the gleaming red is just as bright. The low-profile wheels nor handles have never broken. The grab handles are also luxuriously smooth and padded, and there's an interior folding garment bag for my husband's suits. The only downside is that at 9.3 pounds, it’s pretty heavy.

★ Alternatives: If you need an absolutely bomber-tough rolling suitcase and don't mind its 9.6-pound weight, the Pro Front-Access Carry ($799) will stand up to more abuse than most rolling bags, with its aluminum frame and 70-percent-recycled polycarbonate body. WIRED reviewer Chris Haslam says it's his favorite rolling bag in years. Jancer also likes Travelpro's Platinum Elite carry-on ($315) , which he calls one of the most high-end polycarbonate bags on the market.

Best Soft-Shell Carry-On

Yeti's coolers and cups are famous for being bomb-proof. The company recently launched a luggage line that's similarly overbuilt. The Yeti Crossroads 35L is a 22-inch roller bag that's carry-on size for most major airlines. It weighs 7.7 pounds, on par with soft-sided competitors of the same size.

I recently spent a week dragging the Crossroads up and down grimy subway station escalators, thumping it across cobblestones, and scrunching it into overfull overhead bins during a trip to London, Paris, and Brussels. The blue 700D nylon on the front and sides looks just as fresh as it did out of the box while the molded polycarbonate shell on the back has a few well-earned battle scratches. The two extra-large fixed wheels are rolling as smoothly as ever and hopped up curbs so well that I grew to favor them over smaller spinner wheels. The Crossroads has a half-dozen well-placed pockets and sturdy zippers that didn't give me any anxiety even as I tugged them hard while smooshing down to fit souvenirs into a carry-on with 8 days of clothing. —Martin Cizmar

Best Work Bag

The bag that I prefer for my personal item on work trips is the Lo & Sons O.G. 2, which is the larger version of the brand's Nouvelle purse ( 8/10, WIRED Recommends ). It comes in a medium and a large version; the medium is adequate as an everyday bag, but the large turns it into a versatile work/travel bag. It’s low-profile and has both smooth leather grab handles as well as a shoulder strap. I have kicked it under plane seats and around airports, and the nylon doesn't show any damage. There's a hidden separate compartment if you spill water on yourself, and it has sturdy feet so you can put it on an airplane bathroom counter and dig for your makeup without it falling over or getting the bottom of the bag too disgusting. The toothed zippers do tend to crinkle and snatch at your knuckles when the bag gets overstuffed, but I suppose you could always, uh, avoid overstuffing your bag.

★ Alternatives: We have plenty of recommendations in our guide to the Best Laptop Totes . L.L. Bean's boat tote ($35) is the iconic affordable, durable pick, but gear director Michael Calore's pick is the roomy zip hunter's tote ($55) .

Best Duffel Bag

The Big Haul ( 8/10, WIRED Recommends ) is our favorite duffel because it hits the right balance of robust build materials and pockets without being too heavy to lug around all day. The standout feature of the Big Haul series, which comes in 28-liter to 120-liter options, is the ability to easily reposition the carrying straps, which feature plastic fishhook-style ends that slip into fabric loops. You can connect one strap end-to-end or double up on two straps in an H pattern for more stability with heavy loads. Adding and removing the straps isn't super fast, but it's not difficult, either, and six low-profile loops seems less intrusive than six rattling plastic buckles.

Two small interior pockets and an exterior pocket keep small things organized, and its water-resistant fabric is thick and tough without being stiff. All the sewing around the grab handles feels very robust too. Padded backpack straps hide away under a padded pocket on the top of the bag. This means that when you sling the Big Haul over your shoulders to give your arms a rest, your back is against the relatively clean top of the duffel, rather than a wet, dirty bottom side that's been set down on the ground. The current iteration of the Big Haul is also made with recycled nylon. What's not to love? —Matt Jancer

★ Alternative: For slightly more money, the classic duffel in this category is the Patagonia Black Hole Duffel ($159) , which also comes in a variety of colorways and sizes. You can either carry it by the grab handles or with the shoulder straps, and it's made from 100 percent recycled polyester with a TPU-film laminate. I (Adrienne) have had the 40-liter version for almost 15 years now and the laminate has yet to peel. It also fits as a carry-on on flights.

Duffels are a huge and ever-expanding category. We also like durable Red Oxx duffels ($300) , and if you've ever gone to a popular outdoor destination, like Yosemite or Everest, you've probably seen stacks of North Face Base Camp duffels . This is the quintessential expedition bag. My own personal bag is the OnSight Tarmac EPO , but the company no longer exists.

Best for Camping

We love everything from Rux; I'm currently testing the waterproof adventure tote ($150) and I use it for everything from my climbing gear, to picnic gear, to bringing my kids' roller skates and soccer balls to the park. I have also leaked an entire water bottle in it and it stayed contained and out of the bottom of my car.

But for camping (or any outdoor pursuit, really), what you need is a Rux storage system , which, as the artist and filmmaker Van Neistat puts it, will help you kit your shit . It holds its frame shape, which means you can stack and organize inside of it just like a box, but it folds down like a bag for easy storage once you're at your destination. It's also light and waterproof and comes with a wide array of accessories . This is an upgrade for everyone who currently sorts their camping, climbing, or snowboarding gear in a series of $5 plastic totes and stacks them in their trunk.

A Good Emergency Go Bag

To be clear, any bag here could be considered a go-bag—even a grocery bag works when you have to leave the house imminently. But reviewer Nena Farrell used Calpak's duffel for an emergency surgery, and she is kicking herself for not getting it sooner. It was big enough for everything from makeup bags and extra outfits to a massive book and Nintendo Switch, and was comfortable to carry thanks to the large straps.

The shoe compartment was big enough for sandals and slides, but not big enough for shoes with an ankle. It was also a great place to stash haphazard Ziplocs of emergency toiletries and medications. There are some side pockets inside too, plus an exterior side pocket and a pass-through panel to place it on top of your luggage. It was a great hospital companion, but Farrell can't wait to take the Luka somewhere a little more fun.

Other Bags We Like

Not every good product can snag a best-in-category title, but there are several more bags we've tested that get our thumbs-up.

Samsonite Outline Pro Carry-On for $200 : This is a hard-side, four-wheeled spinner carry-on made from an outer shell of durable polypropylene. Standout features include an interior fabric made from 100 percent recycled plastic bottles and a “WetPak” storage pocket for keeping damp items separated from the rest of your luggage.

Osprey Ozone 40L for $280 : At 4.47 pounds, Osprey claims this bag is the lightest carry-on suitcase. It's also made from 400D recycled bluesign-approved nylon and is treated with DWR. This bag is light enough to easily hoist above my head and has also been checked multiple times.

Gregory Alpaca 40 Duffel for $140 : This duffel weighs a scant 2.7 pounds, but the water-resistant fabric and extraordinarily beefy (though plastic) buckles make it a solid bag for adventuring. There's an exterior pocket for storing shoes or dirty clothes. The backpack straps don't tuck away for storage—you have to unclip them—but might be the most well-padded, comfortable straps I've encountered on a duffel. Exterior daisy chains and an interior zippered pocket round out the impressive features list.

Land's End Waxed Canvas Duffel for $180 : Most duffel bags these days are made of nylon, and while it's tough to call a material that's been popular since the 1940s “modern,” nylon bags don't have the old-school charm that this waxed canvas bag does.

Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler 40L for $107 : This bag weighs 1 pound, 13 ounces, which is only slightly heavier than air. It also has backpack straps that stow away in a front pocket.

Skyway Epic Carry-On for $80 : At 7.1 pounds, the Epic is an average weight. The handle is a wee bit more finicky than our top pick, and the Travelpro's wheels glide a little more nicely. Still, the Epic is a solid choice.

Target Signature Weekender Bag for $81 : Looking like a cross between a duffel and a handbag, the Weekender has a structure that product reviewer Louryn Strampe says can become overfilled, so keep that in mind if you plan to bring it onto a plane as a carry-on. She appreciates its durability and the many internal pockets for organization, though, and its rather long five-year warranty.

Solgaard Carry-On Closet Plus for $275 : It's a tiny bit over what most airlines list as the maximum dimensions, but the difference is so small that it's accepted 95 percent of the time. WIRED reviewer Louryn Strampe praises its optional clip-in closet clothing organizer, which makes for efficient packing. The built-in TSA lock is easy to use, and there's an internal power-bank pocket. This suitcase is included in our Favorite Recycled Products guide.

Bags We Don’t Like

Some bags just aren't worth the asking price, especially with so many good alternatives at all price points.

Eagle Creek Caldera Convertible International Carry-On for $469 : At 6 pounds, 2 ounces, this bag is a bit heavy. There's a zip-off 19-liter backpack that you can separate from the rest of the 37-liter bag, but when they're zipped together, the combined size doesn't meet carry-on restrictions.

How to Pick a Bag

Nowadays, there are so many baggage options that narrowing down which bag you need can be difficult. Here are a few factors that might make a difference:

• Two or four wheels? Very few people who try the maneuverability of a four-wheeled spinner suitcase want to go back. Four-wheeled spinners are so much easier to maneuver in crowded airports or down airplane aisles. However, two wheels are easier if you're pulling it over rough terrain. Also, they don't roll away.
• Hard-shell or soft-sided? Fabric bags tend to be lighter. They're also more flexible, so they can squish down to fit tighter overhead bins or stretch to accommodate that souvenir sweatshirt that you couldn't resist. A hard-shell suitcase provides more protection, but has no give. If you travel with a lot of fragile items, consider an aluminum suitcase, which offers the most protection of all.
• Use a tape measure and a scale. Whether your bag fits in the overhead bin increasingly depends on both where you're flying (domestic or international) and what airline you choose. Always check the airline's weight and dimension requirements before packing your bag.

A Few Travel Accessories

If you're packing a bag, a few of these items are helpful.

Craftsman Measuring Tape for $14 : Always measure the dimensions of your bag! There's nothing worse than trying to walk on a plane and having to get out line because the gate attendant decided your bag was too big.

Samsonite Manual Luggage Scale for $15 : Weigh your bag before you leave the house, too. International airlines are sticklers for carry-on weight, and even American airlines will be unforgiving about weight for checked bags.

Apple AirTag for $24 : Drop an AirTag into an interior pocket to make sure you and your luggage are reunited at your destination. Don't have an iPhone? We suggest the Chipolo in our guide to the Best Bluetooth Trackers .

Eagle Creek Specter Pack-It Cubes Three-Pack for $35 : Keep everything inside your bags organized by separating it into different cubes. You shouldn't have to hunt through a pile of socks to find your bathing suit.

Calpak Clear Cosmetics Case for $75 : Calpak’s viral clear cases come in three sizes and a ton of colors for the edge trims. Reviewer Nena Farrell loved the small size for my gym bag and traveling with a smaller carry-on bag, while the medium was a great size for my daily makeup or larger suitcases.

Troubadour Buddy 2.0 Tech Case for $75 : You probably need a case to organize your spare charging cables and power banks. I've been testing this compact, waterproof, and recycled bag that fits neatly into my personal item.

UrPower Portable Steamer for $24 beats a travel iron because it's far lighter and you don't need to hunt down an ironing board at your hotel. WIRED reviewer Medea Giordano and I both have been using UrPowers for years. For a tiny thing, it's powerful and effective at steaming practically anything. You just need to refill it often.

InCase MacBook Sleeves for $50 will keep your laptop from bearing the damage caused by airport security lines. Travel through an airport without a case and it's only a matter of time before a bare laptop or tablet picks up nasty scratches and dents. Check our guide to the Best MacBook Accessories for more.

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The Best Luggage for International Travel

Experts swear by these top-tested suitcases for traveling abroad.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Best Overall

Samsonite freeform hardside expandable spinner.

Amazon Basics 20-Inch Hardside Spinner

Best Carry-On

Away the carry-on.

As you start planning your next trip to a different country by looking into hotels, flights and tourist attractions, don't forget that the key to a smooth travel experience ensuring you have the best luggage brand by your side. When you're traveling internationally, it's especially important to bring a suitcase that complies with airline restrictions, is comfortable to carry or roll throughout your journey and has plenty of room for all of your belongings and your souvenirs for the trip home.

With so many options to choose from, it can be difficult to decide which luggage is truly worth it. That's why at the Good Housekeeping Institute , I and my fellow Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab analysts put luggage to the test to determine which suitcases you should invest in. We've evaluated more than 100 pieces of luggage from popular brands in the Lab for properties like packability, durability and ease of use. We also share luggage with consumer testers who are able to try it out on their own getaways and provide real-user feedback about their experiences. Whether you're looking for a large checked bag for a long trip overseas, a quality carry-on for a shorter stay or a travel backpack for easy toting, we've found an option for nearly every traveler.

This top-performing suitcase from our best overall luggage brand Samsonite has repeatedly stood out in the Textiles Lab's and our consumers' tests and is priced under $200 — an incredible value. The hardside carry-on is made of polypropylene and weighs in at just 6.5 pounds, which is one of the lightest bags we've tested, so it won't eat too much into the lower weight restrictions set by many international airlines.

I was impressed by how easy it was to lift and roll the bag around, even when filled with our standard packing load. Despite the lightweight design, this carry-on is spacious with a butterfly-opening, unfolding into two primary compartments for easy packing, and there's an additional one inch of expandable storage with the pull of a zipper.

During our Lab evaluations, we liked how easy it was to pull the bag through our luggage obstacle course. While some testers said the telescopic handle felt a bit loose, the suitcase earned high scores for maneuverability, with testers sharing feedback including "very smooth rolling" and "the wheels moved really well." The material was more prone to scratching than some others we evaluated, but the suitcase proved to be durable overall in our drop tests, resisting major damage.

Listed dimensions: 21.25" x 15.25" x 10" | Weight: 6.5 lbs | Material: Hardside polypropylene | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

With more than 34,000 five-star ratings, t his best-selling suitcase from Amazon Basics is loved by both real users and our consumer testers who say it's worth every penny. Made of lightweight ABS plastic, the hardside suitcase isn't quite as durable as those made of polycarbonate, but the material helps to keep the cost low — under $100 — so I recommend it for someone shopping on a budget.

During our Textiles Lab evaluations for durability, there were some noticeable markings in our scratch tests, but we were impressed by how well the bag maintained its shape after being released repeatedly from our drop tester. Amazon reviewers who regularly use the suitcases say they hold up over time, as well.

When our consumer testers rolled the suitcase through our obstacle course, they were wowed by how smooth the wheels were, with one describing the bag as "very easy to move." We gave the carry-on high scores for packability, as we were able to pack our standard load of belongings (clothing, accessories and toiletries) for a short trip inside with room to spare. Plus, there are interior zippered mesh pockets for easy organization, and the bag expands up to one extra inch for additional packing space.

Listed dimensions: 22" x 14.9" x 10" | Weight: 7.3 lbs | Material: Hardside ABS plastic | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

One of the most popular suitcases on the market, Away's standard carry-on is definitely worth the hype . The bag is available in 11 colors, including on-trend options like green and red, along with neutral hues like gray and black.

Not only is the suitcase simple and stylish from the outside, it's also full of functional features inside to make packing for your next international trip a breeze. The bag unfolds into two separate primary compartments to fit all of your things: one fully zippered side and one with adjustable compression straps, and there are mesh pockets to stash smaller items.

Consumer testers and GH analysts alike love to travel with the Away carry-on, including one who shared, "It fit all of the clothes I needed for a long weekend. It rolled really easily and was light enough to pop in and out of the overhead bin." Testers said the telescopic handle felt flimsier than others they tried, but they were impressed with the bag overall, saying that it was easy to maneuver and roll over different types of flooring, including wood, carpet and tile. And it looked great after our drop and scratch tests, showing no major signs of damage or dents.

Listed dimensions: 9" x 13.7" x 21.7" | Weight: 8.1 lbs | Material: Hardside polycarbonate | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 100 days, unused

Briggs & Riley 31-inch Baseline Extra Large Expandable Spinner

The innovative design details of this softside checked bag from Briggs & Riley help to simplify packing for extended trips abroad. The bag features a unique push-button expansion system unlike any other we've evaluated , which allows you to easily expand the bag, fill it with everything you'll need and then compress it back down to its standard size.

One tester who was impressed with the amount of space in the carry-on version of the bag shared, "It fit clothing and accessories for two people for a seven-day summer vacation." And this checked bag offers more than double the packing capacity. Other innovative features include a built-in trifold garment folder for formal attire and reinforced corners for added protection.

At 15.6 pounds, the suitcase does weigh more than other models we've evaluated, but it is made with a nylon material that resisted wear and tear when I tested it in our abrasion machine. It also earned top marks in our latest round of drop testing. Along with performing well for durability, the suitcase received high scores for maneuverability, with smooth wheels and a sturdy telescopic handle.

Listed dimensions: 31" x 22" x 13.8" | Weight: 15.6 lbs | Material: Softside nylon | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

July Checked Luggage

Rolling a bag through the airport has never been easier than it is with July's classic luggage , including this spacious checked suitcase and its popular carry-on bags . One GH analyst who took the checked bag on a vacation abroad said, "I've never used a suitcase with wheels this smooth." I've personally traveled with luggage from the brand and was blown away by how effortless it was to roll the suitcases, even over carpet and concrete sidewalks.

The telescopic handle technically locks at 20 different heights to prevent it from falling down on its own, and most testers appreciated the slanted grip on the handle, sharing that it was comfortable to hold and easy to maneuver with.

Made with a polycarbonate shell, the suitcase is lightweight and durable, and the corners are reinforced with aluminum bumpers for an added level of protection. The bag held up well after being released repeatedly from our drop tester, but testers noted marks and scuffs on the surface after taking the bag on just one trip.

It boasts 80 liters of packing space and features one fully zippered compartment and one open compartment with a compression panel and Y-strap for security. Even more, it weighs just 8.3 pounds, which is similar to many of the carry-on sized bags we evaluate.

Listed dimensions: 26" x 18.75" x 11" | Weight: 8.3 lbs | Material: Hardside polycarbonate with aluminum corners | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 100 days, unused

Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside Expandable Checked Luggage

Travelpro luggage was created by a pilot who wanted to make bags specifically for other pilots and airline crewmembers who were always on the go. The result is a collection of highly durable, quality suitcases including the popular Platinum Elite medium checked suitcase.

Built to last, the luggage is made of heavyweight nylon material that performed well when I tested it for abrasion resistance. When I released the bag repeatedly from our drop tester, it showed no signs of damage or dents. Our testers also gave the suitcase high scores for ease of use and appreciated the sturdy feel of the telescopic handle. The suitcase does have a more traditional look, though, which some testers described as "old-fashioned," sharing that they wished it were sleeker.

Full of thoughtful and functional features, the suitcase makes packing and traveling a breeze. The bag can be unzipped to reveal one large packing compartment with compression panels that secure your belongings in place, a removable wet bag for toiletries, a large mesh zippered pocket in the lid for breathable storage and a built-in suiter to help keep more formal clothes in tip-top shape. To prevent the suitcase from tipping over when it's full, it's also designed with a unique tapered expansion system, so the bag is narrower at the top and broader at the bottom.

Listed dimensions: 25" x 18" x 11.25" | Weight: 9.8 lbs | Material: Softside nylon | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Delsey Paris Helium DLX Softside Expandable Luggage

While some softside luggage is bulky and pricey, this Helium DLX carry-on from Delsey is lightweight, as the name implies, and it's available for a great value. The polyester material isn't quite as durable or substantial as nylon styles we've tested, but the brand's polyester fabric has performed well overall in our abrasion tests without major wear.

Two external zippered pockets allow for easy access to travel essentials like your phone and ID, so you won't have to hold up the TSA line while scouring through your bag. While the bag unzips to expose only one main compartment for packing, it's equipped with a removable bi-fold organizer and expands by two inches for additional room. One tester said, "I love the pockets." Plus, the inner lining can be fully unzipped and removed for easy cleaning.

I personally carry luggage from Delsey and love the smooth wheels and sturdy telescopic handle, and our testers who tried Delsey's luggage found the handle to be comfortable to grip and use. However, they said the bags were more difficult to maneuver through our obstacle course than others they tested.

Listed dimensions: 12" x 17.75" x 28" | Weight: 8.4 lbs | Material: Softside polyester | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

L.L.Bean Adventure Rolling Duffle Bag, 135L

A rolling duffel like this one from L.L.Bean is ideal for longer adventures abroad or for overpackers like me. The duffel isn't as structured as standard suitcases, meaning you can compress it and slide it under your bed or in a closet if you're pressed for storage space — and on the other hand, you can really fill it to the brim when you're packing. Just be careful that you're not stuffing it too much because it can be easy to exceed an airline's weight restrictions.

One GH analyst who loves to travel with this bag said that it's one of her go-to picks for family vacations. With just two wheels, our analyst said it's a little more cumbersome to maneuver than a spinner suitcase, but you also have the option to carry the bag with the padded strap.

The bag has a wide opening for easy access to everything you need inside, and outer compression straps keep everything in place. Made of durable polyester material with a reinforced base, the duffel lasts for years and years without signs of wear, according to our analyst. Plus, it's water-resistant inside and out — perfect for inevitable leaks or wet weather. If you're looking for something smaller, the brand carries a variety of sizes to meet your travel needs.

Listed dimensions: 14" x 17.25" x 32.5" | Weight: 8.8 lbs | Material: Softside polyester | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 1 year

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack

When we evaluated this bag in the Textiles Lab, we were amazed by just how much we could fit inside during our packing tests. Not only did it beat out other travel backpacks we tested, it also outperformed some of our carry-ons because of its spacious interior .

The backpack has a suitcase-style opening and fully unzips to expose a highly organized interior jam-packed with zippered mesh pockets for all of your belongings. It also features a padded laptop sleeve that fits up to a 17-inch computer.

Made of recycled nylon and polyester, the bag is durable and water-resistant. When I tested it for abrasion resistance in the Lab, there were no visible signs of wear. Details like a sternum strap, waist belt and padded mesh provide comfort and support. With backpack straps that tuck neatly inside the back of the bag and carrying straps on all sides, you can easily grab it to lift into an overhead bin.

Some online reviewers wished it was equipped with a water bottle holder and said the zippers can be finicky, but we didn't have issues with them in the Lab.

Listed dimensions: 22" x 12" x 10" | Weight: 3.5 lbs | Material: Softside polyester and nylon | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Calpak Luka Duffel

Able to hold everything you need for a weekend getaway, this weekender from Calpak was the top performer in our Textiles Lab tests. Not only is the bag totally on-trend, thanks to the puffy padded design and fashionable color options, it's also full of functional features . One tester who used it as her personal item on a long trip said, "This bag fits everything I need and more!"

A GH analyst who used the bag added, "I appreciate the well-organized interior," which includes several zippered pockets and elastic storage. Outside, there's a separate shoe compartment, additional zippered pockets and a water bottle holder. Altogether, there are nine pockets, and the spacious bag aced our packing tests.

If you're pairing it with Calpak's popular luggage , this bag has a trolley sleeve that slides right over the telescopic handle of your suitcase. One tester noted that the stitching that secured the sleeve in place started unraveling a bit after just one use. The bag is made of a smooth polyester material that's comfortable to carry and water-resistant. A tester said, "It poured while I was traveling and everything inside this bag stayed perfectly dry."

Listed dimensions: 12" x 16" x 7" | Weight: 2 lbs | Material: Softside polyester | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler 40L Duffel Bag

This convertible duffel from Eagle Creek is the perfect adventure travel companion. The bag is durable, combining polyester and nylon for a water-resistant material that also held up well when tested for abrasion resistance . One GH analyst who travels with this duffel said that it still looks great after years of regular rough and tough use.

It's structured and maintains its shape for easy packing, but the duffel can be compressed to bring inside of your suitcase as an extra bag or for compact storage at home. According to our testers and GH analyst, the zippers have large pull tabs that are easy to use, and, according to the brand, they're covered in water-resistant strips for the ultimate protection in wet weather.

The duffel features a reinforced top handle and grab handles along the sides for carrying, and there are adjustable backpack straps for hands-free use that can be connected for an additional carrying strap or tucked inside the bag. Some online reviewers said the backpack straps are on the thinner side and weren't as comfortable as other traditional travel backpacks, but they appreciated the convenient option.

Listed dimensions: 11.5" x 23.25" x 11" | Weight: 2.5 lbs | Material: Softside polyester and nylon | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Amanda (she/her) researches and reports on products in the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab, ranging from clothing and accessories to home furnishings. She holds undergraduate degrees in apparel merchandising and product development and advertising and marketing communications, as well as a master of science degree in consumer sciences from The Ohio State University. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2022, Amanda was a lecturer for the fashion and retail studies program at Ohio State, where she taught fashion and textiles courses.

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Best Travel Luggage For 2023: Reviews, Tests, and Expert Advice

Selecting the perfect luggage can be daunting, but it is crucial.

With so many options available, it’s essential to understand what sets each one apart and how to choose the right luggage for your specific needs, whether you’re a frequent flyer, adventure seeker, or style-conscious traveler.

Get ready to embark on a journey of discovery as we explore the best luggage options for 2023 and beyond.

Short Summary

• This article provides an overview of the top 10 luggage picks for 2023 and beyond, with expert advice to help travelers find the perfect option.
• When selecting luggage, consider the size, weight, durability, materials, wheels & handles.
• Compare the quality & features of Samsonite vs. American Tourister or Briggs & Riley vs. TravelPro to make an informed decision.

Top 10 Luggage Picks for 2023 And Beyond

From the best overall suitcase to the most eco-friendly option, these top-rated luggage choices are designed to meet your unique travel requirements, ensuring you can focus on the adventure ahead.

To help you make an informed decision, we’ve divided our top 10 picks into specific categories, each addressing a different travel need.

In the following sections, we’ll delve deeper into each category, providing expert advice and insights to guide you in choosing the perfect luggage to accompany you on your next journey.

Best Overall Suitcase

However, the Briggs & Riley Baseline Large Expandable Spinner stands out as the top choice for all types of travelers. Rated as the best overall suitcase by GearLab, it boasts superior rolling performance, a unique compression system, convenient storage features, and a reputation for longevity.

While its high cost and significant weight may deter some travelers, the Briggs & Riley Baseline Large Expandable Spinner makes up for its excellent maneuverability thanks to its oversized wheels.

Investing in this suitcase means investing in a reliable travel companion that can withstand the test of time and countless adventures.

Best Value Suitcase

American Tourister, a well-known brand for providing great value, offers a best-value suitcase that checks all the right boxes.

Constructed of 100% polycarbonate, this lightweight and spacious suitcase boasts multiple compartments, a detachable laundry bag, a mesh pocket, and even a USB port.

Despite its telescopic handle not being as comfortable as other models, testers found the suitcase exceptionally easy to pack and maneuver. At less than half the price of some premium options, this best-value suitcase is perfect for those looking for excellent performance without breaking the bank.

Best Carry-On Luggage

To make your carry-on experience hassle-free, we’ve explored top options that offer ample storage and easy maneuverability.

Away is a highly recommended brand for carry-on luggage . With options like the Bigger Carry-On, Carry-On Flex, and Carry-On with Pocket, Away offers a range of hard-side carry-ons with spacious main compartments and additional pockets for organized packing.

Other notable carry-on options include the Solgaard Carry-On Closet Plus, featuring a built-in closet system and a bottle opener, and the Timbuk2 Copilot, a simpler bag with a zippered mesh panel and convenient front pocket for your checked bags.

Ultimately, choosing the best carry-on luggage comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of your travel itinerary.

Best Luggage for Frequent Travelers

The Hartmann Vigor suitcase, a hard-shell option, is known for its scratch resistance, lightweight construction, and generous capacity. The Platinum Elite softside luggage, on the other hand, is revered for its outstanding durability and ample storage space.

By focusing on the specific needs of frequent travelers, these luggage options provide reliable and long-lasting solutions for those who are always on the move.

Best Adventure Travel Luggage

Luggage designed for adventure travel features rugged construction, versatile storage options, and adaptability to cater to the unique needs of thrill-seekers.

For instance, the Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler is a duffel bag designed for adventure travel, offering a super-durable construction and oversized wheels for easy maneuverability in tight spaces.

As a reliable gear hauler, it ensures your belongings are well-protected throughout your journey.

Other top choices for adventure travel luggage include the Base Camp Duffel and the ORV Trunk, offering ample storage, water-resistant materials, and easy-to-use packing systems. With gear-hauling capabilities and the ability to withstand the elements, these outdoor gear luggage options are perfect for adventure seekers who need reliable and adaptable travel solutions.

Best Eco-Friendly Luggage

Some of the top eco-friendly luggage brands for 2023 include Paravel, Eagle Creek, Patagonia, Samsonite, Solgaard, Tumi, Solo NY, and Roam Luggage.

By choosing luggage that aligns with your values, you can travel with peace of mind knowing that you’re positively impacting the environment.

Best Stylish Luggage

Brands like Calpak, Monos, and BÉIS offer chic designs without compromising quality and performance. The Calpak Ambeur Carry-On, for example, features a sleek metallic design, an easy-to-use telescopic handle, and ample packing space.

Whether traveling for business or leisure, stylish luggage options allow you to make a statement while staying organized and efficient.

Best Lightweight Luggage

Brands like Samsonite, Delsey, Rimowa, and Away offer luggage options crafted from lightweight materials like polycarbonate, ABS, and polypropylene without compromising durability and storage capacity.

By choosing lightweight luggage, you can enjoy a stress-free travel experience without being weighed down by your belongings.

Best Luggage Set

Some of the most highly-rated luggage sets for 2023 include the Samsonite Freeform Hardside Spinner 2-piece set, Away Luggage Set, July Classic Family Set, and Coolife 3-piece luggage set.

Investing in a luggage set allows you to enjoy a coordinated and adaptable travel solution that caters to your every need, whether it’s a weekend getaway or an extended vacation.

Luggage Features to Consider

When choosing the perfect luggage, it’s essential to consider key features that can make a significant difference in your travel experience.

Material, durability, wheels, and maneuverability influence your luggage’s performance and longevity.

Understanding these features will enable you to decide and select the luggage that best suits your travel needs and preferences.

When selecting luggage, it’s important to consider the material it’s made of, especially if you’ll be carrying dirty laundry during your travels.

Material & Durability

Hard-side luggage is typically made from aluminum, polycarbonate, and polypropylene, while soft-sided luggage is constructed from polyester, nylon, and ballistic nylon. These materials are durable and light, making them ideal for travel.

For example, the Eagle Creek ORV Trunk 30 is made from 900D Bi-Tech Heather and 1000D Helix Poly Twill, reinforced by Bi-Tech Armor for maximum durability.

Wheels & Maneuverability

Wheels play a significant role in the maneuverability of your luggage, with two-wheeled and four-wheeled options offering different benefits. Two-wheeled luggage is more lightweight and maneuverable, while four-wheeled luggage is more stable and can accommodate more weight.

The type of wheels used can also impact maneuverability on different terrains, with polyurethane wheels providing a smoother ride and rubber wheels better suited for rough terrain.

Considering your travel destinations and personal preferences will help you choose the best wheel type for your luggage.

Storage & Organization

Smart storage and organization features in luggage can make packing and accessing your belongings a breeze. Packing cubes , compression bags, garment bags, and compression straps are popular storage solutions that can help you stay organized while on the go.

Luggage with external pockets, equipment keepers, and daisy-chain loops, like the Eagle Creek ORV Trunk 30, provides additional organizational options, such as backpack straps, for a more efficient travel experience.

The main compartment offers ample space for your belongings.

Luggage Brand Comparisons

Comparing popular luggage brands and their offerings can help you make an informed decision when choosing your next suitcase.

In this section, we’ll take a closer look at some of the top luggage brands, comparing their quality, price, and features to help you find the perfect match for your travel needs.

We’ll start by looking at Samsonite, one of the most popular luggage brands.

Samsonite vs. American Tourister

Samsonite and American Tourister are two popular luggage brands catering to different market segments. While Samsonite is known for its superior quality and durability, American Tourister offers a more budget-friendly option within the Samsonite range.

Both brands provide a variety of features, including spinner wheels, expandable compartments, and TSA locks, catering to different travel needs and preferences.

Briggs & Riley vs. TravelPro

Briggs & Riley and TravelPro are high-end luggage brands offering minimalistic designs and exceptional quality. TravelPro is typically more affordable and lightweight, while Briggs & Riley is renowned for its durability and compression capability.

By understanding these brands’ unique offerings and price points, you can determine which one best aligns with your travel needs and preferences.

Tips for Choosing the Right Luggage

Armed with the knowledge of top luggage options and their features, you can now confidently choose the perfect luggage for your travel needs.

Begin by determining whether a roller or spinner bag is most suitable for your requirements, then establish a budget and consider any essential features necessary for your specific travel needs.

When selecting your luggage, consider factors such as size, weight, durability, materials, and features like wheels and handles.

By considering these factors, you can ensure that you select the ideal luggage that will provide a seamless travel experience, allowing you to focus on the adventure ahead.

In conclusion, choosing the right luggage is essential for a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.

By considering material, durability, wheels, and organization and comparing top luggage brands and their offerings, you can make an informed decision that suits your unique travel needs and preferences. Whether you’re a frequent flyer, an adventure seeker, or simply someone who values style and functionality, the perfect luggage awaits you to embark on your next journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a hard or soft suitcase better.

For durability and maneuverability, hard-shell suitcases are the best option; however, soft-shell bags may be better at packing more easily.

What is the best luggage in 2023?

The best luggage for 2023 is hard-sided with spinner wheels and a secure TSA lock for easy transport and maximum protection.

Which luggage is strongest?

Samsonite carry-on luggage has the strongest plastic material exterior, making it the most durable hard-shell carry-on.

What are the key features to consider when choosing luggage?

When choosing luggage, size, weight, durability, materials, wheels, and organization are all essential features.

What are the most popular luggage brands for 2023?

Popular luggage brands for 2023 include Samsonite, Travelpro, TUMI, Rimowa, Solgaard, BÉIS, and CALPAK, offering customers a wide range of choices.

With so many options, deciding which brand is best for you can be difficult. Consider your needs and budget when making a decision. Think about the type of travel you do, the frequency of your trips, and the size and weight of the luggage you need.

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Leah specializes in women's outdoor sports as well as our new yoga and SUP focused sections. Her favorite travel accessory are the ones who can pack a punch, do double duty and make traveling with kids easier on everyone! She lives in Idaho with her husband and two sons.

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The Best Carry-On Luggage 2024, Tested and Reviewed by Travel Editors

Caroline Morse Teel

Caroline Morse Teel is the Managing Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline .

Caroline joined Boston-based SmarterTravel in 2011 after living in Ireland, London, and Manhattan. She's traveled to all seven continents, jumped out of planes, and bungeed off bridges in the pursuit of a good story. She loves exploring off-the-beaten path destinations, anything outdoorsy, and all things adventure.

Her stories have also appeared online at USA Today, Business Insider, Huffington Post, Yahoo, Boston.com, TripAdvisor, Buzzfeed, Jetsetter, Oyster, Airfarewatchdog, and others.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "Earplugs. A good pair has saved my sleep and sanity many times!"

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro.

Travel Motto : "Don't be boring."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Aisle (when the first class private suite isn't available)."

E-mail her at [email protected] .

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Packing for a trip can be stressful, especially if you’re trying to fit everything you need into a carry-on bag. With increasingly strict airline baggage allowances and common occurrences of lost/mishandled checked bags, finding the right carry-on suitcase is key to avoiding expensive checked baggage fees and ensuring your stuff makes it to your destination. 

No one understands this struggle more than the SmarterTravel team. As travel editors, we travel a lot (and are firm carry-on only flyers.) We tested and reviewed the top carry-on luggage over hundreds of trips to help you find one perfectly suited for all your travels.

The carry-on bags we reviewed underwent rigorous testing to see how they held up to the realities of travel. We evaluated important factors like size and weight, wheeled performance, ease of packing, durability, and special features. Our testing process included packing each bag to capacity, carrying it through airports, stowing it in overhead bins, and taking it on planes, trains, and automobiles during real-world trips.

Ranging in price from affordable to splurge-worthy, the best carry-on suitcases earned top marks across all our tests for their optimal size, seamless maneuverability, handy organization, stylish looks, and resilience.

From a lightweight hard-sided spinner that fits easily in tiny overheads to a large carry-on that expands for over-packers, these are our travel editors’ picks for the best carry-on suitcases of 2024. 

Best Carry-On Suitcase Overall: Samsonite Outline Pro Carry-On Suitcase

The Samsonite Outline Pro Carry-On Suitcase was our favorite of all the carry-on suitcases we tested. This smart and sleek suitcase is made from a durable polypropylene shell that helps contribute to its light weight of 6.4 lbs. Smooth spinner wheels and an adjustable handle make this bag easy to wheel even when fully packed.

The interior is just as nice, lined with a fabric made from 100 percent plastic bottles. There’s also a multi-functional panel divider that can compress clothes to create more space while providing pockets for organization. One of the pockets is water-resistant, so you can use it to separate swimsuits or wet clothing on the journey home.

Our favorite feature of the Samsonite Outline Pro is the antimicrobial handle technology used on the trolley grip and side handles, which helps keep us healthy while traveling. 

Dimensions: 15” x 10” x 23”

Weight: 6.4 lbs

Best Large Carry-On Suitcase: Roam Large Carry-On Suitcase

If you want to test the limits of an airline’s carry-on policy, we recommend the Roam Large Carry-On Suitcase as the best large carry-on suitcase. We’ve taken this suitcase on hundreds of flights and have only ever had to check it on very small puddle-jumper planes. This roomy carry-on can hold up to 42 liters, making it a great suitcase for chronic overpackers. 

This suitcase comes with two compression boards, which can be used to divide the two halves of the suitcase and help you fit even more in. The boards have large pockets perfect for packing cords and other small items. 

We also love that all Roam luggage can be customized to suit your style—you can choose the color of every part of this suitcase, right down to the wheels, to create a unique bag that definitely won’t get mixed up at baggage claim.

Dimensions:  9” x 16.25” x 22”

Weight: 7.7 lbs

Best Expandable Carry-On Suitcase: Delsey Rempart Carry-On Suitcase

An expandable suitcase is like having two bags in one—keep it small and compact for a short trip or open it up for a longer journey (or for the return trip when you buy lots of souvenirs to bring home). Delsey’s Rempart Carry-On Suitcase is our favorite expandable bag due to its patented Securitech Zipper that’s three times more resistant than a standard zipper (so you don’t have to worry about it ripping open, even when it’s expanded to its maximum capacity).

Other thoughtful features include an integrated TSA-combination lock, two packing compartments with compression straps, zippered pockets, and a lined divider. We also love that the interior lining can be removed and washed—an innovation you’ll appreciate if you’ve ever come home with a sandy suitcase after a beach trip.

Three carrying handles allow this bag to be carried in various ways. If you have other Delsey suitcases, the Rempart’s modular design allows it to stack on top for easy carrying and storage. 

Dimensions: 13.75” x 10.25” x 21.75”

Weight: 6.7 lbs

Best Soft-Sided Carry-On Suitcase: Travelpro Maxlite 5

The best soft-sided carry-on suitcase is also one of the lightest weight options on our list. The Travelpro Maxlite 5 lives up to its name, weighing just 5.4 lbs. This model is the brand’s latest and is a full half-pound lighter than the previous iteration, the Travelpro Maxlite 5. 

The suitcase has a unique tapered design that helps prevent it from tipping over when upright (a common problem with soft-sided suitcases). It also has a solid bottom tray design that helps increase the bag’s durability. The Travelpro Maxlite 5 can expand to 2 inches to provide extra space when needed. The interior is lined with a waterproof protectant that helps keep the bag dry. 

This suitcase comes with Travelpro’s limited lifetime warranty, which will cover the cost of repairs if it’s damaged for one year after purchase. 

Dimensions: 23” x 14.5” x 9” 

Weight: 5.4 lbs

Best Luggage Trackers

Best Small Carry-On Suitcase: Eagle Creek Gear Warrior XE 4-Wheel Carry-On Luggage

We love the Eagle Creek Gear Warrior XE 4-Wheel Carry-On because it’s deceptively spacious for its small size and light weight. It even expands slightly to give you a little bit of extra space when you need it. We’ve packed for week-long trips with just this bag and had no issues fitting everything in. Despite the diminutive size, this suitcase is packed with organizational features, like an exterior laptop sleeve and interior zippered pockets. 

Made from 100 percent recycled, water-resistant fabric, this carry-on-sized spinner bag is easy to wipe clean and great for rainy destinations. 

The Warrior is equipped with heavy-duty wheels that allow you to roll this bag over rough terrain—a perfect pick for navigating the cobblestone streets of Europe.

Dimensions: 21.65” x 14” x 10”

Weight: 8 lbs 12 oz

The Best Hardsided Carry-On Suitcase: Away The Carry-On

Away’s The Carry-On Suitcase has won many awards and is beloved by travelers, and for good reason—it’s smartly designed. The Carry-On is Away’s smallest suitcase and will fit in most overhead compartments and pass all but the strictest baggage sizers at the gate.

This durable carry-on suitcase is crafted from 100 percent polycarbonate for maximum impact resistance. It glides smoothly on premium 360-degree spinner wheels and features a telescoping trolley handle with two height settings for ergonomic maneuvering. The water-resistant shell safeguards your belongings, while convenient features like the TSA-approved lock, laundry bag, and color-matched luggage tag help streamline your packing routine. 

Thoughtfully designed, the suitcase maximizes storage with a double-buckle compression pad and extensive interior organization like three mesh pockets and a handy hanging pocket. Reverse coil zippers grant easy access to the wide opening, and an underside grab handle aids lifting. 

As a bonus, Away’s carry-on suitcase comes in a variety of beautiful colors, including glossy and matte options. 

Dimensions: 21.7″ x 14.4″ x 9″

Weight: 7.5 lbs

The Best Luxury Carry-On Suitcase: Tumi Continental Dual Access 4-Wheeled Carry-On

The Tumi Continental Dual Access 4-Wheeled Carry-On is an organized packer’s dream. The design of this suitcase keeps suits, shoes, clothes, and toiletries neatly separated and wrinkle-free. Convenient amenities like the built-in USB port and built-in TSA lock maximize functionality. 

This is a great suitcase choice for business travelers, as the interior features a removable garment sleeve and fiberglass rod that allows you to hang a suit or dress inside the case without getting crushed or wrinkled. 

The Continental Dual Access features Tumi’s signature smooth-rolling wheels and a 3-stage telescoping handle for easy maneuverability. Protective features like molded bumpers and side panels guard against impacts, while built-in tracers and TSA-approved locks keep valuables secured. With options for top, side, or bottom access via well-designed zippers, this suitcase optimizes packing efficiency for several days of travel. 

Dimensions: 22.0″ X 16.0″ X 9.0″

Weight: 11.1 lbs

The Best Carry-On Backpack: L.L. Bean Approach Travel Pack

A carry-on doesn’t have to be limited to a suitcase. For the ultimate in mobility, opt for a backpack as your carry-on. You won’t have to worry about climbing stairs or pulling a bag over rough sidewalks, and a backpack can fit under your seat on a full plane when necessary, avoiding the dreaded gate-check. 

Our favorite carry-on backpack is the L.L. Bean Approach Travel Pack . Use it on its own for a short trip, or combine it with a checked bag (put all the essentials in the backpack and carry it on the plane) for longer journeys.  

The Approach Travel Pack opens flat and can be packed like a suitcase, unlike a traditional backpack where you’ll have to shove everything in through the top and dig through the entire bag to find something buried at the bottom.

Dimensions: 20” x 12.5” x 10”

Weight: 3.3 lbs

5 Simple Ways to Make Travel Easier in 2024

How We Tested These Carry-Ons

These are the carry-on suitcases that the SmarterTravel team uses on their own trips. We’ve taken them on countless flights, train trips, road trips, and cruises to find out the pros and cons of each bag. 

When testing a carry-on, we consider the following factors:

• Size and weight
• Ease of transportation
• Organizational features

We’ve tested out numerous suitcases that didn’t make the cut, which helped us narrow the list to the best carry-ons worth investing in. 

What Size is a Carry-On Suitcase

The dimensions for a carry-on suitcase vary by airline and generally change depending on if it’s an international or domestic flight. For flights within the United States, the most common size limit for a carry-on suitcase is 22 inches long, 14 inches wide, and 9 inches high. 

The international carry-on suitcase size limit is usually 21.7 inches by 15.7 inches wide by 9 inches high, but this will vary by airline.

Note that airline carry-on size limits include all aspects of the suitcase, including the handles and the wheels, so be sure to check the total dimensions of your bag and not just the interior measurements. If your suitcase meets the size limit but the wheels don’t, it will not pass the carry-on sizer test.

Always check with your airline for the correct carry-on size for your trip, as it can change by destination. 

Is There a Weight Limit for Carry-Ons?

There usually isn’t a weight limit for carry-ons on domestic flights within the United States (unless you’re flying on a very small plane). However, you must be able to lift the suitcase into the overhead bin without assistance.

International flights are generally stricter with weight limits and will weigh your carry-on bag when you check-in. These weight restrictions vary quite a bit by airline but generally range from 15 to 35 lbs. 

What Can’t You Pack in a Carry-On Suitcase?

Remember, carry-on suitcases are subject to stricter security restrictions than checked bags. You can’t pack these items in carry-on suitcases, but you can pack them in your checked luggage:

• Liquids or gels bigger than 3.4 ounces
• Sharp objects (including knives, hiking poles, and large scissors) 
• Certain sporting goods (such as baseball bats and hockey sticks)
• Self-defense items (including pepper spray and brass knuckles)
• Weapons (including firearms) 

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We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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The 8 Best Checked Luggage Bags, Tested and Reviewed

All great trips start with perfectly packed gear

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

Final Verdict

How we tested, other checked luggage we tested.

• What to Look For

Frequently Asked Questions

Why trust tripsavvy.

TripSavvy / Jhett Thompson

If you’re heading off on vacation for more than a night or two, you’ll likely need a checked bag—and there are literally thousands from which to choose. The best will be durable, with a sturdy hard shell or soft fabric exterior capable of withstanding rough baggage handlers while hiding the worst of any wear and tear. An excellent checked bag should also roll smoothly and be easy to maneuver on many terrains and should make the most of its internal packing space with clever organization pockets and expansion features. 

To determine the best luggage options for various requirements and budgets, we tested 27 popular bags in the Dotdash Meredith lab. We reviewed each one for capacity, maneuverability, durability, organization, and value.

Best Overall

Samsonite winfield 2 hardside.

• Capacity 5 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Maneuverability 4.5 /5
• Durability 5 /5

Excellent interior organization

Stellar handling

Potential for slight scuffing

The Samsonite Winfield 2 28-inch hardside spinner scored near-perfect marks in our testing, impressing us with its design and durability. A 100 percent polycarbonate shell offers the perfect blend of lightness and toughness, absorbing impact by flexing and then rebounding to its original shape. During our intense testing, we found that even dented corners instantly popped back into place, and contents were kept secure throughout. And, with a brushstroke exterior, any minor scratches or scuffs are camouflaged, keeping your luggage looking sleek for longer. 

The suitcase’s square shape and expansion option guarantee maximum capacity. Even when stuffed full, it retained its shape and size perfectly and offered plenty of space. In particular, we love the compression feature that keeps contents neatly in place and the full-zip interior divider that makes it easy to separate clean and dirty clothes. Once packed, the suitcase is also easy to maneuver thanks to its sturdy, retractable handle and four multidirectional wheels. Whether pulling it behind us or pushing it in front, we felt it performed admirably, even over rough surfaces and around multiple obstacles.

Other features include oversized zippers and a side-mounted, TSA-approved lock. The suitcase has a limited 10-year global warranty and comes in various colors, from charcoal to Nordic blue.

Dimensions: 31.4 x 20.4 x 13 inches | Weight: 11.13 pounds | Wheels: 4 | Expandable: Yes

TripSavvy / Vicky Wasik

Best Budget

Kenneth cole reaction out of bounds suitcase.

• Maneuverability 4 /5

Allows for double-sided packing

Reinforced corners for added durability

Wide choice of bright colors

No expansion feature 

Difficult to handle on uneven terrain

Available online for less than half the price of our overall winner, the Kenneth Cole Reaction Out Of Bounds 28-inch suitcase is ideal for those on a budget. It boasts a lightweight hard shell with molded corner guards for maximum impact resistance. Besides a few scuffs around the edges, it stood up well to our durability tests and should provide good resilience for long-distance trips. We especially love how spacious this bag is. Despite its compact appearance, our tester could easily pack a month’s worth of clothes and accessories. 

The interior is divided in two by a large zippered pocket, making it easy to organize your belongings. Compression straps keep everything in place during transit, while four multidirectional spinner wheels promise the smoothest ride possible on even terrain. We were impressed with its ability to spin in any direction while traveling through tight spaces; however, we did find that the suitcase became less easy to maneuver on rough surfaces. Overall, though, this bag is tough to beat price-wise and offers excellent value for money. 

Dimensions: 29.5 x 20.5 x 11.75 inches | Weight: 9.6 pounds | Wheels: 4 | Expandable: No

Best Hardside

Travelpro platinum elite hardside spinner.

• Design 4.5 /5
• Maneuverability 5 /5
• Durability 4.5 /5
• Value 4.5 /5

Trendy design

Stands up well to rough handling

Superb maneuverability

Not particularly lightweight

The Travelpro Platinum Elite large spinner suitcase features a 100 percent polycarbonate shell that flexes on impact to prevent cracking. With its textured finish, aluminum corner guards, and genuine leather trim, it’s definitely a fashionable choice—and one whose sleek looks survived our drop and bat tests, with only minor scuffing visible afterward. The clamshell interior boasts two zippered divider panels, adjustable hold-down straps, and more accessory pockets than our tester knew what to do with—including a water-resistant one for damp items.

We found that the zippers were exceptionally smooth on the main compartment, interior pockets, and the 2-inch expansion feature. We were also impressed with how well the suitcase handled over bumps, around obstacles, and across various terrains. This is due to Travelpro’s trademarked PrecisionGlide System, with no fewer than eight self-aligning spinner wheels. Finally, the bag comes with a lifetime warranty that even covers airline damage for the first five years.

Dimensions: 30 x 18 x 13.5 inches | Weight: 12.3 pounds | Wheels: 8 | Expandable: Yes

Best Softside

Travelpro platinum elite softside spinner.

• Design 4 /5

Tough, functional shell

Thoughtful internal structure

Performs well on all terrains

May be too big for some

If you’re in the market for the ultimate softside suitcase, this one from Travelpro is the largest spinner in the Platinum Elite line. In fact, it’s so spacious that our tester felt able to fit double the amount required by our testing standards—making it ideal for extended trips, moving houses, or the incurable overpacker. It features scuff- and stain-resistant fabric that proved its durability by surviving multiple falls and bat beatings without sustaining a scratch or dent. Leather accents and chrome zippers add to the overall aesthetic appeal. 

We loved the intelligent interior design, with just the right number of storage pockets and compartments—including a fold-out suiter for keeping your best clothes wrinkle-free. The exterior zippered pocket is another nice touch and is perfectly sized for your passport or wallet. The tapered expansion provides up to 2 inches of extra, tip-resistant packing space, while the sturdy wheels handle well on smooth and rough surfaces. We did find that the bag’s super-large size made it a little cumbersome for maneuvering in tight spaces, though.

Dimensions: 32.5 x 21 x 13.25 inches | Weight: 11.5 pounds | Wheels: 8 | Expandable: Yes

Best Splurge

Tumi alpha 3 packing case.

Innovative, long-lasting material

Generous capacity

Plenty of organizational features

Relatively heavy

Retailing for over $1,000, the Tumi Alpha 3 Short Trip suitcase is definitely a splurge and one that we felt was probably only worthwhile for frequent travelers. However, for those willing to invest, it will last: The suitcase features Tumi’s exclusive FXT ballistic fabric, which is extra durable and virtually abrasion-proof. With impact-resistant side panels and protective bumper rails, it’s no surprise that it survived our tests without any dents or scuffs. Bonus: It comes with a five-year warranty. 

The suitcase also stands out for its multiple exterior and interior pockets. We liked that the main compartment and the largest exterior pocket are protected by a special security zipper, while the removable garment sleeve was another highlight. A two-stage expansion system meant we could fit everything in easily with plenty of space for more, while a three-stage telescoping handle and four double-spinner wheels ensured premium maneuverability. Other benefits range from an integrated TSA lock and Tumi Tracer to optional monogramming.

Dimensions: 26 x 19 x 13 inches | Weight: 15.4 pounds | Wheels: 4 | Expandable: Yes

Best Capacity

Delsey paris hardside spinner.

• Maneuverability 3.5 /5

Roomy with a deep clamshell design

Handles a variety of terrain and obstacles

Gorgeous, eye-catching hues

No internal pockets

Made from durable, lightweight polycarbonate, the Delsey Paris Helium Aero suitcase features a ridged exterior to help prevent damage—although it did show some minor scuff marks after our rigorous testing process. Nevertheless, we loved its amazing capacity, fitting everything on our list with plenty of space left over even before deploying the expansion feature. With a single divider separating the main compartment into two halves, interior organization options are relatively minimal. We suggest packing cubes for those who prefer a bit more structure. 

The suitcase has four double spinner wheels and a telescopic handle that locks in two different positions to enable two- or four-wheeled use. We found it easy to push or pull on smooth surfaces and a breeze over bumps, but it was more difficult to maneuver on gravel. Soft-touch top and side carry handles and an integrated TSA combination lock complete the package. There are several vibrant colors to choose from; we felt that the high-shine jewel tones would be particularly easy to spot on the luggage carousel. 

Dimensions: 31.75 x 20.75 x 12.75 inches | Weight: 12.5 pounds | Wheels: 4 | Expandable: Yes

Best Design

Roam the check-in.

• Capacity 4 /5

Potential to create a completely unique piece

Rolls easily over different terrain

100-day free trial

Relatively expensive

Could be more spacious

If you’re looking for an on-trend and totally out-of-the-box suitcase, this one from Roam is probably for you. Some of its features are standard: the polycarbonate shell, the telescoping handle, the four spinner wheels, and the TSA lock. Our tests found each to perform at the top end of the spectrum, with absolutely no visible damage after our rough handling process and beautifully smooth maneuverability even on gravel. Other elements, such as the water-repellent zippers and internal compression boards, are less expected. 

Perhaps most exciting is that this suitcase is genuinely customizable, with options to choose the color of every aspect, from the front and back shells to the zippers, bindings, and wheels. There’s even a monogram patch on the back for that extra-personalized touch. Don’t want to choose your own colors? Roam also offers a selection of colorways inspired by and named after different travel destinations. You can choose to make your suitcase expandable, which we’d recommend since a relatively limited capacity was this bag’s only drawback.

Dimensions: 26 x 17.5 x 10 inches (non-expandable), 26 x 17.5 x 10.5-12.5 inches (expandable) | Weight: 9.3 pounds | Wheels: 4 | Expandable: Yes (if chosen as an optional extra)

Best Duffel

Briggs & riley wheeled duffel.

Solid organization

Durable fabric

Wheels avoid back strain of classic duffels

Expensive for a duffel

Only available in two colors

Packing bulky or odd-shaped gear or heading off on an expedition that requires a super-tough, versatile bag? This duffel from Briggs & Riley is an excellent option. It features 800-denier ballistic nylon, which we found incredibly strong with no signs of damage post-testing. And, although, the two color choices of black or army green are not particularly exciting, they’re designed not to show wear and tear and are infinitely practical. Unlike traditional duffels, this one is wheeled for your convenience, with two wedged feet to keep it upright. 

The interior is incredibly roomy and made more so by the external Outsider handle and the zip-around lid pocket with its 2-inch expansion feature. We liked the cinch-down garment panels, which keep everything in place while doubling as a divider. There are many internal and external pockets, including a PVC-lined one for your wet or dirty gear and a zippered mesh pocket for smaller essentials. We found the bag super light and smooth to operate on hard floors, carpet, and gravel, and we liked that it packs down small for easy storage. 

Dimensions: 27 x 15 x 15 inches | Weight: 8.6 pounds | Wheels: 2 | Expandable: Yes

Passing our tests with flying colors, the Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside is easy to maneuver over any terrain, features thoughtful interior organization, and comes backed by a 10-year warranty. If you are sticking to a budget, the Kenneth Cole Reaction Out of Bounds Hardside Suitcase delivers incredible value at an accessible price point.

To create the recommendations above, we subjected each piece of luggage to the same rigorous testing process. First, we weighed the suitcases. Next, we packed them with a prescribed list of items to replicate what one might pack for a seven-day sightseeing trip in the fall . We noted spaciousness, whether the suitcase had an expansion option, and the usefulness of any organization features. We also checked the smoothness and durability of all zippers. 

Next, we tested maneuverability by rolling the suitcase through an obstacle course that included speed bumps and cones to simulate airport obstacles. We also tested how easily it operated over tile, carpet, and gravel. Finally, we tested the bag’s durability. This involved several drop tests, pushing it off a countertop, and noting any dents, scratches, or scuff marks. Then we beat the suitcase with a baseball bat, making sure to target all sides, corners, and wheels before checking for exterior and interior damage. 

Using our observations, we rated each suitcase on a scale from 1 to 5 for a list of attributes, including capacity, organization, maneuverability, durability, and value.

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage, 29-Inch : Although it won points for its huge capacity, we felt this suitcase could use more comprehensive internal organization, a smoother handle system, and better performance on rough terrain. 

Briggs & Riley Baseline Expandable Spinner, 26-Inch : We found this to be a thoughtfully designed suitcase with great movement and a clever expansion option. However, the boxy design and high price tag prevented it from making our list.

Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable : Although this suitcase looks sleek and comes in many colors, has an expansion option, and offers plenty of room, we felt it was let down by its awkward maneuverability on all but the smoothest surfaces. 

Briggs & Riley Sympatico Large Expandable Hardside Spinner : This suitcase stood up well to our durability tests and offered clever internal organization. However, we found the zippers were prone to sticking, and the handle was a little flimsy.

Monos Check-In Large Hardside : We really liked how well-built this suitcase felt and that it was easy to roll over all terrains. The downsides included slightly sticky zippers and the fact that it lacks the option to expand.

Arlo Skye The Zipper Check-In Large Hardside : This is an attractive, spacious suitcase with many intuitive design features. However, we found that it scuffed easily during our tests and felt it should be a little more durable at such a high price point. 

Paravel Aviator Grand Checked Hardside : Pros of this suitcase included its chic design, pretty colors, and smooth operation. Cons included a relative lack of interior organization options and the fact that it suffered several scuffs and dings during testing. 

Rimowa Essential Lite Check-In Hardside : This bag is costly, and our testers felt it was not worth the money, considering how easily the suitcase dented during testing and how difficult it was to maneuver over rough surfaces. 

July Checked Bag, 26-Inch : This is a well-designed, good-looking suitcase with thoughtful interior organization and options for customization. However, it scuffed easily during testing, so we would only recommend purchasing it in darker colors. 

Calpak Ambeur Large Hardside : Initial impressions of this suitcase were good, thanks to its glamorous exterior and versatile pockets. In the end, though, it was discounted because it was easily damaged during testing and lost balance when rolling over gravel. 

Beis The 29-Inch Large Check-In Roller : Although expensive, we felt this was an excellent suitcase with intuitive organization options. It stood up well to durability tests and maneuvered easily, and it would be a worthy alternative for several of our categories. 

Nomatic Check-In Hardside : This is a sleek suitcase with some excellent organization features; however, we felt that it was overpriced, especially since we struggled to pack everything on our testing list inside—a problem that we rarely encountered with other bags. 

AmazonBasics 26-Inch Hardside Spinner : This was a great piece of luggage for the price, with plenty of room and excellent exterior durability. Its flimsy compression straps and handles and the fact that the wheels stopped spinning on gravel hurt its overall rating.

Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler 130L Duffel : We liked this duffel's durability and ability to convert to a backpack. However, it didn't make our final list because of its lack of organization, flimsy main grab handle, and limited maneuverability.

What to Look For in Checked Luggage

There are two main types of checked luggage: softside luggage, with popular materials including ballistic nylon and polyester, and hardside luggage , with the most popular materials being polycarbonate or ABS plastic. Both are available as luggage sets, and there are pros to both. Softside luggage is less prone to scuffs, dents, and scratches and more forgiving for the overpacker. Hardside luggage protects your valuables with a rigid frame and offers better weather resistance.

A checked bag should be roomy enough to accommodate everything you need for your trip while having some space left for souvenirs. Too small, and it’s a waste of the additional fee many airlines now charge for checked bags; however, it’s also worth bearing in mind that the largest bags may take you over airline weight limits when packed to capacity. A bag with an expansion feature you can deploy as needed is ideal. 

Maneuverability

You need a suitcase that can roll smoothly for many miles through airport terminals and withstand being pushed or pulled over various terrains, from smooth concourses to uneven sidewalks and cobbled streets. The best have four spinner wheels that allow them to move in any direction (handy for weaving through crowds) and a sturdy, telescoping handle capable of supporting the weight of your suitcase even when fully loaded. 

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) considers any luggage with a linear measurement of over 62 inches oversized. To work out your suitcase’s linear size, simply add the dimensions for length, width, and height. Airlines usually accept bigger bags but will charge a fee for them. The price (and the maximum size accepted) varies from carrier to carrier.

The IATA also lists items that cannot be packed in checked bags. These include e-cigarettes, spare batteries, power banks, and potentially hazardous items such as gas canisters, fireworks, lighters, and bleaches. Again, detailed lists may vary depending on your airline and destination, so it’s always a good idea to check before flying. Banned items will be removed and typically confiscated.

Smart suitcases are defined as any suitcase that has an integrated electronic device. This could be a USB charging point (super handy for keeping your phone going throughout your journey), a built-in scale (no last-minute repacking at the check-in counter), or a GPS real-time luggage tracker . The downside? Many airlines have banned smart suitcases that use non-removable lithium-ion batteries due to a potential fire risk on planes.

When suitcase shopping, you should research which models offer the best value for money—ultimately, you’re looking for quality construction that will perform well and save money in the long run by lasting several years. Then, you should spend as much as you can afford while also not paying for gadgets or gimmicks you don’t need. Often you’ll pay extra just for a brand name, so you need to decide if that’s worth it for you.

Each manufacturer will have guidelines, but generally speaking, you should remove any external dirt with a soft-bristled brush or damp cloth (depending on which is more appropriate for the stain and the material your luggage is made of). Make sure your luggage is completely dry before packing it away, and store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. You can use an approved lubricant to keep wheels and zippers running smoothly.

Jessica Macdonald is TripSavvy’s Africa travel expert. She is an experienced traveler who has put many brands and types of checked luggage to the test on her adventures to more than 50 countries—whether on cultural breaks to cities across Europe, a scientific expedition to the Peruvian Amazon, or a months-long backpacking adventure through South East Asia.

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The Best Carry-on Luggage of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

For frequent fliers or light-packing vacationers, these are the best carry-on bags.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Other Carry-ons We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure/Joy Kim

Several of our favorite carry-on bags are on sale ahead of Labor Day. Score deals on the Samsonite Freeform Carry-on Spinner and the Delsey Chatelet Air 2.0 21-inch Spinner this holiday weekend.

Every frequent flier needs a good carry-on. And even if you travel only occasionally, you'll be glad to have one on hand. But besides allowing you to bypass checked baggage , what makes a high-quality carry-on? If you ask us, it's about capacity, maneuverability, durability, and design.

With this in mind, we tested 452 carry-on bags, including suitcases, duffels, weekenders, backpacks, and underseat bags to see which models check all the boxes. We packed them up, spun them around, hoisted them overhead, rolled them over various surfaces, and whacked them with a baseball bat to see how they'd hold up in a real-life setting. We also built an airplane set in our New York City lab to hoist them into overhead bins before our editors bring each bag on real trips to see how they fare long-term. The results of these tests were considered — along with price, weight, dimensions, materials, and smart features — to narrow down the best carry-ons currently on the market.

Best Overall

Samsonite freeform carry-on spinner.

This all-star carry-on has a spacious capacity, a durable thermoplastic shell, and smooth-rolling wheels.

There's no designated zippered section for dirty clothes.

We tried lots of excellent suitcases, but the Samsonite Freeform Hardside Spinner was a clear winner as a lighweight, durable, expandable carry-on. We've now tested this bag twice in our lab, recently retesting it to make sure we still loved it as much as we did two years ago when we first tried it out. Exceeding expectations during both lab tests and when we took it out for real-world testing, too, we found that it's easy to maneuver on two or four wheels and rolls smoothly on various surfaces, including carpet, hard flooring, and over curbs. We also like that the aluminum telescoping handle extends and locks with the push of a button.

This all-star suitcase has various pockets within the main compartment, and it expands a couple of inches when you need extra space. We were able to pack enough clothes for a four-day trip, including two pairs of shoes, multiple jackets, and two toiletry bags — no expansion needed. We wish this carry-on had a zippered section or removable bag for dirty laundry, but it does have a separator to keep your shoes away from your clean clothes.

We loved the sleek, minimalist-modern design of the Freeform, which comes in more than 12 hues ranging from white to mint to merlot. After hitting it with a baseball bat during both tests, the polycarbonate (high-strength thermoplastic) shell remained scuff-free and showed virtually no signs of damage. Even after six months of regularly traveling with this bag during our travels, it shows no signs of wear and tear, and we were able to easily buff out any minor scuffs it had accumulated. Considering the reasonable price, durable construction, and spacious capacity, we think it's a great choice for frequent fliers and anyone in need of a high-quality carry-on.

The Details: Hardside | 21 x 15 x 10 inches | 5.6 pounds | Expandable | Polycarbonate | 4 dual spinner wheels

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim
• PHOTO: Jhett Thompson

Best Overall, Runner-up

Tumi alpha international dual access carry-on.

This bag has two access points and a removable garment bag for a suit or dress.

When the front-access section is fully packed, it will eat into the space in the main compartment.

The Tumi International Dual Access carry-on was a close runner-up to the Samsonite Freeform. It moves like a dream on various types of flooring, thanks to the four smooth-gliding dual spinner wheels and comfortable telescoping handle. Even after using the bag for three months, the wheels never got caught on any surfaces, making it easy to run through the airport or navigate a new city. Made of the brand's signature ballistic nylon, it also passed our baseball bat test with flying colors.

We were able to pack everything into the bag’s various compartments and loved the flexibility of a removable suiter for trips with dressier attire. The clamshell design also features several interior pockets and compression straps on one half to easily hold our four-day-trip packing list. The front-access portion can easily fit a sweater or light layer when the main suitcase isn’t stuffed full, or you can use it for tech items or a small makeup bag instead. There are also two pockets on the exterior for smaller items like an umbrella, as well as a built-in USB port you can connect to a power bank (sold separately). Though the price is higher than many other carry-ons, this is an investment in an undoubtedly high-quality carrier that will last for years to come.

The Details: Softside | 22 x 14 x 9 inches | 10.7 pounds | 35-liter capacity | Expandable | USB port | Ballistic nylon | 4 dual spinner wheels

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Leticia Almeida

Best Expandability

Away the carry-on flex.

This carry-on is pretty spacious to begin with, but you can unzip the expander for 2.25 inches of extra space.

It might not meet all carry-on sizing requirements when you fully expand it.

This durable carry-on manages to be compact and portable while still offering a ton of space inside thanks to two large interior compartments and a helpful compression system. You can zip your items in on one side and buckle them in on the other, using the mesh pockets to store smaller items for organization. As all overpackers know, sometimes you just need a few extra inches of space — and The Carry-on Flex features a zipper expander that adds an additional 2.25 inches if you happen to buy one souvenir too many on a trip and need to fit it all in on the way home. However, be wary of your airline’s overhead bin allowances because using the expander may make your carry-on one inch too large, and you may be forced to check it (the expanded dimensions of the bag are 22.7 x 14.7 x 9.6 inches).

Other highlights we loved during testing included the smooth wheels that can roll in any direction; the different height options of the handle; and the notch on the underside of the bag that makes it so much easier to lift out of a car trunk, into an overhead bin, or off of a luggage carousel. The bag also felt very sturdy and tough with no dents and barely a scratch after we threw it off counters and hit it repeatedly with a baseball bat during testing.  

The Details: Hardside | 21.7 x 13.7 x 9 inches | 8.15 pounds | 39.8-liter capacity (unexpanded), 46.7-liter capacity (expanded) | Expandable | Polycarbonate | 4 dual spinner wheels | Limited lifetime warranty

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure/Jhett Thompson
• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure/Joy Kim

Best Budget

Amazon basics expandable hardside 21-inch spinner.

This wallet-friendly carry-on has a scratch-resistant shell and a surprisingly spacious capacity.

It only comes in four colors and doesn't have any smart features or a combination lock.

For something more affordable , look no further than Amazon. We found that this budget-friendly hardside suitcase maneuvers really smoothly, even on carpet and over bumps, and the handles turn like a champ. Not only that, but the scratch-resistant shell held up surprisingly well through our bat and drop tests on more than one occasion — like the Samsonite Freeform Carry-on, we loved this bag so much that we tested it a second time recently to make sure it was still up to our standards. We did notice some minor scuffing after our second round of hitting the bag with a baseball bat, but we were able to buff them out with a finger easily.

During testing, we were able to fit four days worth of clothing, shoes, and toiletries without having to expand the bag, though we're comforted by the fact that there's room to spare. After six months of regularly using the bag, we found it to be the perfect size for weekend trips.

Travel + Leisure s enior editor Jasmine Grant noted that this carry-on is "an excellent choice for a budget suitcase. It's light, durable, and expands to fit way more than you might assume by just looking at it." The Amazon Basics Hardside Spinner exceeded our expectations in more ways than one. And while it only comes in four colors, we're big fans of the simple, sleek design.

The Details: Hardside | 22 x 15 x 10 inches | 6.3 pounds | Expandable | Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene | 4 dual spinner wheels

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Vicky Wasik
• PHOTO: People / Vicky Wasik
• PHOTO: Tripsavvy / Vicky Wasik

Most Spacious

Briggs & riley 22 inch spinner.

The expansion system is easy to use and adds 10 more liters of space, making this the most spacious carry-on on this list.

The bottom of the bag scratched when it was pulled over a curb during testing.

While carry-ons typically have less room than checked bags, the 22-inch spinner from Briggs & Riley lets you get the most bang for your buck. It has the largest capacity on this list when fully expanded, offering up to 51 liters of space. Our favorite aspect of the bag, though, has to be the clever expansion system that adds 25 percent more room. Instead of using a zipper like a traditional suitcase, you simply press two buttons located inside the bag to raise panels that take it from a 41-liter bag to a 51-liter bag in seconds.

The bag is plenty spacious without the expander as well, and we were able to fit our full packing list with room to spare during testing. The bag has one large compartment inside that is pretty deep and becomes large enough to fit bulky items like boots once expanded. The top of the bag has a small compartment with two mesh pockets for storage, and there is a compression pad inside to pack down clothes. There is also a pouch on the back exterior of the bag that can store a power bank and a small electronic device for charging on the go. The carry-on rolled smoothly on various terrains when we wheeled it from carpet to concrete and through our obstacle course. The hardside shell seems quite durable and didn't dent after we hit it multiple times with a metal baseball bat, although it did scratch on the bottom when going over a concrete curb during testing. Overall, we think it's a sturdy bag that has plenty of space for overpackers.

The Details: Hardside | 22 x 14 x 9 inches | 8.6 pounds | 41-to-51-liter capacity | Expandable | Recycled polycarbonate, recycled polyester | 4 dual spinner wheels

Most Stylish

Delsey chatelet air 2.0 21-inch spinner.

The Chatelet Air 2.0 has a gorgeous vintage appeal, and despite the elevated aesthetics, it doesn't sacrifice functionality or durability.

It's not expandable, so the compact design is best for short trips.

If luggage aesthetic is a top priority, Delsey's Chatelet Air 2.0 might be your best bet. Inspired by traditional Parisian architecture with unique lines, contrast stitching, and a vintage appeal, this suitcase is a sight for sore eyes. Sleek design aside, it's exceptionally functional. There's a fully zippered compartment on one side and compression straps on the other, plus pockets throughout and even a handy USB port.

What's more, the zippers open and close smoothly, and it glides effortlessly with the four spinner wheels on carpet, hard floors, and even stone pavers. It's durable, too, sustaining no visible damage after three months of use including two international flights in which the bag was checked. This bag is a standard carry-on size, and we were able to fit everything on our packing list . However, it’s probably best for short trips as there wasn't really any room to spare when we finished.

The Details: Hardside | 22 x 15 x 10 inches | 7.74 pounds | 44-liter capacity | USB port | Polycarbonate | 4 dual spinner wheels

Best Softside

Samsonite elevation plus carry-on spinner.

This bag is durable and full of smart organizational features.

It can get a little wobbly when turning tight corners.

We frequently recommend Samsonite luggage for its durability and design, and this carry-on is no exception. Voted our favorite bag in our softside luggage test , we were impressed with how well it performed in our tests. After pushing it off a table and hitting it with a baseball bat repeatedly, it showed no signs of damage — not even dirt or minor scuff marks. We rolled this bag over multiple terrains and found that it was easy to maneuver and reroute, although it wobbled a bit during tight turns.

This is a fairly small carry-on, but it fit our entire packing list during testing, although we did have to use some elbow grease to squish the last few things in (but then again, softside suitcases tend to have more flexibility to fit extra items). It comes with external bags to help with organization, which was a thoughtful detail we appreciated. The outside of the bag has two large zipper pockets, while the interior features a two-section pocket that you can detach and reattach with snaps. It also comes with a bag that you can use for shoes or dirty laundry, as well as another flat, removable pocket. The bag even has a built-in space for an Apple AirTag or another small luggage tracker . All the zippers worked well even when it was packed quite full. In the end, we think this is a great option for fans of softside luggage who want a durable bag that will last them a long time.

The Details:  Softside | 22 x 14 x 9 inches | 6.7 pounds | Recycled rPET | 4 dual spinner wheels

Most Durable

Travelpro x travel + leisure carry-on spinner.

This 45-liter carry-on survived being dropped and hit by a baseball bat without a single scratch.

It may not fit in some overhead bins if you use the expander.

Durability is important with any bag, and we were impressed with how this 45-liter Travelpro carry-on stood up to being thrown around. Despite being slightly flexible, it was rock-solid when it came to durability, surviving our drop and bat tests without a single scratch. We think this makes an excellent investment for frequent flyers with top-notch organization inside, including two split-case compartments with two separate zippered divider panels, multiple accessory pockets, and a removable pouch. We were also impressed with the quality of the compression straps, which were adjustable and stylish without sacrificing durability. It's also quite spacious, providing plenty of room for our packing list during testing. Plus, it has a generous two-inch expander if you need more room. While some hardside bags are very rigid, we noticed that this one has a bit of give if you do need to pack it extra full.

The Details: Hardside | 23 x 14.5 x 9.5 inches | 8.6 pounds | 45-liter capacity | Expandable | Polycarbonate | 4 dual spinner wheels

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

July Carry On Trunk

We love this trunk for how sleek and stylish it looks while still having useful features like an ejectable power bank and a customizable handle height.

You have to be more intentional about what you pack since the trunk has no expandability.

This stylish carry-on trunk features a clamshell design that opens right down the middle rather than the 30/70 design that many trunks typically have . It feels like a luxury bag thanks to the zipperless clasp closures, ejectable power bank, and multi-stop rubber handle (you can customize the handle to sit at any height you want). We found the trunk super easy to maneuver over different surfaces like carpet and concrete pavers during testing, and it rolled effortlessly on four wheels. When we rolled it on two wheels, it did slow down slightly, but it was still easy to move, and the weight felt evenly distributed through the bag and handle.

The trunk had no scuffs after we pushed it off a counter three times, though it did collect black marks during our real-world travels, but we were able to easily wipe them away without permanent damage. We did manage to give it a few very small dents after hitting the trunk with a baseball bat, but they were barely noticeable. One thing to note is that this trunk has no give because of its hard shell and clasp closures, so you cannot overstuff it, and you have to be more picky with your packing list.

The Details: Hardside | 21.5 x 14.75 x 8.75 inches | 8.4 pounds | 42-liter capacity | Ejectable USB-C battery | Polycarbonate | 4 dual spinner wheels

Best With Laptop Compartment

Samsonite just right carry-on spinner.

It’s packed with organization features, including a padded laptop sleeve, a wireless charging pocket, and removable packing cubes.

There was some peeling and scratching on the outer material and wheels of the bag after our durability tests.

If you tend to travel with a laptop and other devices, the Samsonite Just Right Carry-on Spinner is especially handy with a tech organizational panel that you can unzip and unfold at the front of the bag to easily store and access your valuables. This panel features a 15-inch laptop sleeve, a padded tablet sleeve, a document sleeve, a wireless charging pocket, a USB charging port, and plenty of zippered storage pockets. There are locks for both the main compartment and the laptop compartment, and the bag also comes with removable packing cubes for additional organization.

Though the suitcase felt a bit heavy after we packed it, it was very easy to maneuver, gliding through turns and different terrains beautifully. It suffered some minor marks after we threw it off counters and hit it with a baseball bat, including some peeling and scratching on the exterior and the wheels. One of the top corners was ever so slightly dented as well, but chances are you’ll stick this carry-on in the overhead bin rather than checking it so it won’t get banged around as much, especially if you have your laptop inside. All of the built-in tech compartments, elastic compression straps, and bonus packing cubes are an excellent way to keep all of your valuables in place. 

The Details: Hardside | 22 x 14 x 9.3 inches | 7.9 pounds | Expandable | USB port | Polycarbonate | 4 dual spinner wheels

Best With Brakes

Aer carry-on.

This unique carry-on has a brake system to prevent it from rolling away.

Choose a darker color if you’re worried about dirt and marks.

If you’ve ever had a bag roll away from you like a runaway train (forcing you to run after it so it doesn’t hit someone), you know it’s a humbling experience. The most noteworthy thing about the Aer Carry-on is that it has a Hinomoto wheel brake system to stop it in its tracks. “It's such a unique feature and helpful if on public transport or stopping on an incline with bags since it securely holds the bag in place,” says T+L associate editorial director Morgan Ashley Parker , who owns this bag. The wheels spin easily and soundlessly, and then you can pop the brake on to stop them from rolling. In fact, Parker says it has “some of the smoothest wheels I've used in a carry-on, even when packed full.” 

The 48-liter capacity is quite large for a carry-on — perfect for those who need all the space they can get — and the bag feels sturdy all-around, from the double-layer zippers to the internal compression system. The top and side handles have a hole to which you can attach other bags and belongings with a carabiner. The bag comes in five colors; we traveled with a white one, and though it got beat up a bit, we were able to buff out most of the scuff marks.

The Details: Hardside | 22.7 x 15 x 9 inches | 8.4 pounds | 48-liter capacity | Makrolon polycarbonate | 4 dual spinner wheels

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Best Aluminum

Tumi 19 degree aluminum international carry-on.

This sleek aluminum bag is just as durable as it is beautiful.

Weighing more than 11 pounds, this is heavy for a carry-on.

This stunning Tumi carry-on will make a statement in any airport, with four metallic colors to choose from and a durable aluminum shell to protect your belongings. As the priciest option on this list, you are paying for the Tumi label, but we can confirm that this is a high-quality piece that is worth the investment. This 31-liter bag is on the smaller size for a carry-on — and like most aluminum bags , it feels quite heavy (weighing more than 11 pounds) — but we were impressed by the built-in organization that makes it easy to pack. Both halves of the suitcase have fully zippered closures and compression straps — an ideal combination because you can use the compression straps to get the contents as tightly packed as possible and put less strain on the zippers when you ultimately zip each side closed. There are two smaller zippered flaps on each half of this suitcase so you can fit smaller items in there, as well as an internal card pocket and a hanger bracket to hang garments. We thought the wheels were very sturdy (both when rolling the bag and when hitting the wheels directly with a baseball bat), and the leather-wrapped handles are comfortable to pull. The latches feature two TSA-approved combination locks with push buttons to open them, and you can also monogram the bag with custom initials.

The Details: Hardside | 22 x 14 x 9 inches | 11.2 pounds | 31-liter capacity | Aluminum | 4 dual spinner wheels

Best Compression

Paravel aviator carry-on plus.

A compression board makes it easy to fit everything into the zippered compartments, and there's a removable laundry bag for dirty clothes.

This suitcase isn't expandable, but it's one of the larger carry-ons we tested.

For highly organized travelers that want to fit a lot in a carry-on, we recommend the Paravel Aviator. After regularly traveling with the bag for six months, we really love the exceptional capacity and organizational features. Even though it's not expandable, the built-in compression board makes it easy to fit everything into the zippered compartments. It also comes with a removable laundry bag for dirty clothes.

Inspired by retro luggage with a modern twist, this classy carry-on is gorgeous. Not only that, but the durable polycarbonate exterior feels sturdy and sustained just a few minor scuffs during our tests. It's super easy to maneuver, too. Although the Paravel Aviator is somewhat steep in price, we think it's a worthwhile investment for those in the market for a high-quality suitcase. While updating your luggage collection, lovers of vintage-inspired design and organization should also consider a train case .

The Details: Hardside | 23 x 15 x 9.5 inches | 8.5 pounds | 46.6-liter capacity | USB port | Recycled polycarbonate | 4 dual spinner wheels

Best Waterproof

Rains texel cabin trolley.

The padded laptop sleeve on the front is completely waterproof.

It's on the larger side and may not fit in the overhead bins when packed full.

No traveler wants their stuff to get wet unexpectedly, so be prepared for surprise rainstorms with this carry-on from Rains. Both the hardside shell and the front pocket of this bag are fully waterproof, making this a safe way to transport your belongings. Tough polycarbonate forms the majority of the outer shell, while a padded laptop pocket in the front is made from waterproof PU fabric that can safely store laptops and tablets up to 15 inches. There is also a large strap on the front of the bag that attaches with a buckle closure to keep the front pocket nice and secure.

We found the capacity of this bag to be impressive during testing. The inside compartments were deep enough to fit everything on our packing list, and the mesh dividers allowed plenty of room for things like underwear and socks. Even though there is no expandable feature, we didn't feel like we were tight on space. The compression strap on the other side of the bag helped to pack down clothing and was easy to use. We did notice that when fully packed, this suitcase is a tight squeeze into the overhead compartment on our test plane set, so we would be careful not to overpack it to make sure it fits. The bag rolled smoothly during testing on two wheels and four, and the weight of the suitcase felt evenly distributed. As long as you're mindful of the packed sized of this bag, we think it's a great option for anyone who wants to make sure their things stay dry.

The Details : Hardside with a padded front pocket | 22 x 10 x 13.2 inches | 8.75 pounds | 42-liter capacity | Polycarbonate | 4 dual spinner wheels | Waterproof

Other Carry-on Bags We Liked

While we tested plenty of high-scoring carry-on bags, there were many items that almost made our list but didn’t quite make the cut due to several weaknesses with maneuverability, capacity, design, durability, and/or overall value revealed during testing. 

Delsey Paris Cruise 3.0 Carry-on : We appreciated the large capacity and expandability of this bag, allowing us to easily fit everything on our packing list. But the wheels are somewhat large, which makes it hard to fit into an overhead bin.

Arlo Skye The Zipper Carry-on Max With Front Pocket : Even though it doesn't expand, this suitcase fit everything on our packing list, did well rolling over bumps, and showed no signs of damage from our bat swings. Plus, like some of the other Arlo Skye luggage pieces , it comes with a removable power bank. While we have few complaints. we were concerned about this bag fitting in the overhead bins.

Travel + Leisure / Tamara Staples

Samsonite Tru-frame Carry-on Spinner : We loved this carry-on for its futuristic, zipperless design and durability, though it felt a bit more compact than some of the more spacious carry-ons on this list.

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

July Carry On Pro : We found this suitcase to be aesthetically pleasing, plenty spacious, and easy to maneuver. While the feature-rich design is enticing, it was pretty similar to the Away Carry-on, which compressed a little better.

Calpak Ambeur Front Pocket Carry-on Luggage : This is a stylish option that comes in a handful of metallic colors for under $300. We love that it has a laptop compartment on the front of the suitcase, though it seems to poke out from the suitcase the more we packed it, and we found the zipper of the compartment to be stiff.

Zero Halliburton Classic Aluminum 3.0 International Carry-on : This is one of the most durable suitcases we've ever tested, though it felt a little small for a carry-on. Ultimately we preferred the Tumi option on our main list as our favorite aluminum carry-on.

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Away The Softside Bigger Carry-on : This suitcase from popular luggage brand Away 's new softside collection is sleek and stylish, so we have no complaints about the way it looks. The outside material felt durable, and we had no problem fitting all of our things inside, although it is pretty large and heavy for a carry-on bag.

The T+L team performed various luggage tests in our New York City lab to evaluate the capacity, maneuverability, durability, and design of each carry-on. We filled each carry-on bag with enough clothing and essentials for a four-day trip, including six shirts, three pairs of pants, five pairs of socks, five pairs of underwear, two jackets, and two pairs of shoes, plus one small and one large toiletry bag. We then analyzed how well the bags handled the cargo.

After packing them up, we rolled the bags around on different surfaces (when possible) to see how well they maneuvered over pavement and carpet, and we maneuvered them through human obstacle courses to see how they can handle sharp turns in tight spaces. We also recreated an airplane set in our lab to lift the bags into real overhead bins and push them underneath seats. We whacked the fully packed bags with a metal baseball bat and pushed them off a table to see how well they held up to wear and tear.

After testing these bags in the lab, we sent them home with our T+L editors to travel with the bag for a period of six months to continue evaluating the luggage in the real world. Keeping price, size, adjustability, features, and standout quirks in mind, the carry-ons with the highest scores in all testing categories were ultimately chosen for this roundup, and we will continue to update it as we test more carry-ons.

Tips for Buying Carry-on Luggage

Consider hardside vs. softside luggage.

When buying carry-on luggage , you'll see a range of hardside and softside options. Suitcases with hard shells can be better for protecting things from crushing and are generally easy to wipe clean. However, depending on the color and material, they can be prone to scuffing.

Softside luggage, on the other hand, is typically a lighter weight, more flexible if you tend to be an overpacker, and often just as durable as its hardside counterpart. While a textile shell can be trickier to clean, it may not show as much dirt or scuffs either, and it likely won't dent like a hardside bag can. See our rundown of how to choose between hardside and softside bags for more information.

Look for lightweight construction

Lightweight luggage is crucial when choosing a carry-on. Be sure to note the empty weight of the suitcase or bag before buying it, as heftier designs will make a jam-packed carrier all the more cumbersome. Weight affects not only maneuverability, but also your ability to hoist it into the airplane's overhead bin. The wheeled carry-on suitcases we tested ranged in weight from 4.36 to 12.9 pounds. Anything heavier than that is going to be too heavy for many people.

Decide if you want extra organizational features

Some carry-on luggage is relatively basic, with a main compartment and a pocket or two. However, many suitcases, weekenders, and duffel bags have additional organizational features that make packing and accessing your stuff much easier. This may include a laptop sleeve, a shoe separator, a laundry bag, various zippered sections, exterior pockets, and even charging capabilities .

Choose between handheld, spinner, or two-wheeled luggage

When it comes to choosing the best carry-on bag for you, first consider your traveling style and packing needs. Spinner luggage, which features four wheels that can spin 360 degrees, is easy to maneuver whether you're running to your airport gate or making your way through a new city. Bags with spinner wheels are generally quite easy to roll over various surfaces, making them a great option if you plan to walk for long periods of time with your luggage. They allow you to maneuver well-stuffed expandable luggage more easily. Two-wheeled bags, however, may be less sturdy, but they'll give you a few more inches of extra space when packing. Bags with only two wheels also tend to be slightly lighter than their four-wheeled counterparts. Lastly, opting for a weekender or carry-on backpack means you can dash around as needed, and your bag will be more compact, but you will have to manage all the weight on your back or shoulders instead of rolling it.

Travel + Leisure/Joy Kim

Frequently Asked Questions

Rules vary among airlines , but most allow carry-on luggage no larger than 24 inches tall, 16 inches wide, and 10 inches deep. Some are slightly stricter, setting the limit at 22 x 14 x 9 inches. Keep this in mind when using your suitcase's expander, as the additional couple of inches could put you over the size limit. When in doubt, check the airline's website.

Some airlines have a carry-on weight limit of roughly 35 pounds. However, this is often not strictly enforced, and many domestic airlines don't have a limit at all. Bear in mind some international flights may restrict carry-ons over 22 pounds. Either way, make sure you are able to lift your bag on your own, otherwise, it's probably too heavy.

All liquids, including makeup, lotion, and other cosmetics, must be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces in carry-on luggage. (For checked baggage, you can bring pretty much any size.) Powdered makeup, bar soap, and solid deodorant are usually allowed in larger containers. Lighted makeup mirrors are also permitted in carry-ons. You'll also want to put all liquid beauty and personal hygiene products in a clear plastic bag before going through airport security. You can review the TSA's official liquids rules here .

AirTags are allowed in both carry-on and checked luggage. These luggage trackers use such low energy Bluetooth that they're safe and TSA-compliant. For other GPS trackers, you should check with your individual airlines to make sure that your device is allowed, especially if they use a higher level of power.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this article, commerce writer Theresa Holland pored over in-house testing insights for dozens of bags, then cross-checked product descriptions and manuals to compile a comprehensive list of the best carry-on luggage currently on the market. She also has an extensive writing background, writing for top brands about traveling must-haves among several other commerce areas. Of the above brands, she owns carriers and on-the-go accessories from Away, Tumi, Paravel, Amazon Basics, Monos, and July.

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The 9 Best Luggage Sets for Traveling in Style

Our top picks for luggage sets that deliver value—and a pulled-together look to boot.

Gear-obsessed editors choose every product we review. We may earn commission if you buy from a link. Why Trust Us?

Traveling with matching luggage is practically a requirement for jet-setters and influencers. But in addition to looking pulled together as you gliding through the airport, luggage sets are also a smart choice to stretch your travel gear budget. With the exception of a few premium and ultra-luxe brands that sell pieces individually, most sell sets of rolling suitcases and some add in rolling duffle bags and accessories like packing cubes .

Whether you're searching for a five-piece set for an upcoming family vacation or want to treat yourself to a two-piece upgrade from the beat-up bags in your closet, we've handpicked a selection of our favorite luggage sets that deliver on style and value. Read on for our recommendations, along with an expert guide on what to consider before buying.

In the market for more excellent luggage and accessories? Check out our stories on the best rolling duffel bags , packing cubes , and travel accessories .

The Best Luggage Sets

Best luggage sets.

Best Hardshell

Samsonite omni pc hardside 3-piece luggage set.

Best 4-Piece

American tourister fieldbrook xlt softside luggage set.

Best Soft-Sided

Swissgear sion softside luggage set, what to consider.

Most luggage sets come with two or three pieces, with a few four- and five-piece sets out there. Beyond that—and the value luggage sets offer—considerations are the same as buying single pieces, namely hardshell versus soft-shell, size and weight, special features, and, of course, style.

Size and Weight

The very first thing to do is to check carry-on and checked bag size and weight requirements—along with baggage fees—of the airlines you fly most. While there are some standards across the board, the safest bet is to assume that every carrier has different rules. And these days, if you have a low-priced, budget airline ticket, you may not be allowed to bring a roller suitcase in the cabin at all.

Typically, sets include one carry-on rolling suitcase and one or more medium or large checked bags. Carry-on luggage ranges from roughly 19 to 22 inches on the tallest side. Keep in mind that major domestic airlines generally allow carry-on bags no larger than 22 by 14 by 9 inches, whereas international airlines often cap cabin bags at 20 inches or less. Medium checked bags are 24 to 26 inches tall on average and large bags range from 28 to 30 inches tall. Note that luggage brands often list suitcase dimensions without wheels, so make sure to read the fine print.

There's more of a range for bag weight, which somewhat depends on the exterior material. As a rule of thumb, an empty carry-on that's six pounds or less is considered lightweight. The same holds true for medium bags that are eight pounds and under and large bags at 10 pounds or less.

Hardshell Versus Soft-Sided

There are die-hard fans in both camps, and pros and cons for each style. Most hardshell roller suitcases are made of polycarbonate and soft-shell luggage is made of ballistic nylon.

While there are always exceptions, hardshell roller bags are often more durable and lightweight but usually lack outer pockets, whereas soft-sided luggage typically includes at least one exterior pocket but the fabric fray over time. (In theory, soft-sided luggage is also more susceptible to being accidentally cut open during transportation, but the ones we recommend are made with thick, durable materials.) There are expandable options for both types. Keep in mind that no luggage is completely scratch- or tear-resistant.

Spinner Versus Fixed Wheels

The scales have tipped in favor of 360-degree spinner wheels, though there are still some bags with inline skate wheels on the market. Options with double spinner wheels are preferable for better stability and they're often easier to maneuver. The upgrade to look for is a braking system, a feature that hasn't yet trickled down from high-end brands.

Factor in the warranty when buying any suitcase, especially since so many unexpected things can happen to luggage once it's out of your hands. Some brands offer a trial period with a money-back guarantee. Otherwise, you may want to consider brands with either a 10-year or lifetime limited warranty.

How We Selected

As a former travel editor, I have deep familiarity with luggage brands and I've either tested or owned options similar to the ones we recommend. The selection of luggage sets includes hardshell and soft-sided collections from top brands including Samsonite, American Tourister, Travelpro and Delsey, and we aimed to include options on both ends of the price spectrum, from three-piece sets for $200 or less to multi-piece sets that run $500 and up.

We compared features—wheel type, handles, locks, organizational pockets, and warranty, to name a few—plus dug deep into specs for things like size, weight, and expansion. Our selection includes hardshell and soft-sided carry-on and checked luggage from top brands, and every set we cover has high customer ratings.

We let quality of materials and value-added features drive our choices, with picks that feature everything from TSA-approved locks and telescoping handles to mesh pockets and compression straps.

This three-piece set of roller suitcases is as tough as it looks. The rugged hardshell spinners win our top spot for high quality and a reasonable price point, plus a solid lineup of features—including Samsonite’s 10-year limited warranty.

Each rolling suitcase has a TSA-approved lock and opens like a clamshell, with two main compartments and a zippered mesh divider. There’s also a multi-position telescoping handle, plus handles on the top and side to get a good grip while putting it into the overhead compartment or off the luggage carousel.

This luggage set includes four versatile soft-sided pieces covered in lightweight yet rugged 600-denier polyester to mix up for weekend jaunts and long vacations. There's a cross-body boarding bag with oodles of organizational pockets inside and out, along with a spacious wheeled duffle.

The 21-inch carry-on and 25-inch checked bag are only 5.6 and 7 pounds, respectively, and feature large front-zippered pockets and telescoping handles. They have inline skate wheels rather than spinner wheels—which may be a dealbreaker for some—and no TSA-approved locks or expandable sections. That said, American Tourister's 10-year limited warranty is a definite plus.

SwissGear’s Sion soft-sided expandable luggage set includes a carry-on and two checked bags, all with spinner wheels and well-designed roomy main compartments with multiple pockets.

All of the brand’s bags come with an extended 10-year warranty. I’ve owned similar pieces of SwissGear’s soft-shell luggage and I can attest to its durability and thoughtful design.

The bags are sporty with an upscale feel, and if you like extra pockets inside and out to stay organized while on the go, they’re an excellent choice. There are two on the front, one large accordion pocket on bottom and a smaller one on top perfect to stow a cell phone and other quick-grab items. Inside, you’ll find a zippered mesh pocket, a removable zippered wet bag, and two adjustable compression straps.

The only potential drawback is that these suitcases are slightly heavier than average measured against the sets we cover.

Delsey Paris Helium Aero Hardside Luggage Set

Delsey is a name that may not be as familiar as some others we cover here, but the French brand has been around since 1946 and is know for turning out high-quality, reasonably priced luggage. All of Delsey's bags are backed by a 10-year warranty.

One of its best-sellers is the Helium Aero, a hardshell made of polycarbonate that comes in dozens of bright, poppy colors that have a metallic, glossy finish.

This three-piece set includes a 19-inch carry-on, which meets requirements of some smaller international airlines, along with large 25- and 29-inch checked bags. All feature extra-durable double spinner wheels, a TSA-approved lock, and a telescoping handle.

Inside, there are two main packing compartments with a mesh divider on the lid. The main drawback is the lack of internal organizational pockets.

Paravel The Ultimate Luggage Set Plus

Paravel is a travel brand founded in 2016 that's known for its stylish, sustainably produced luggage and accessories. This four-piece set features its popular Carry-on Plus and Aviator Grand, each with 360-degree spinner wheels, a TSA-approved lock, and vegan-leather details. Inside, expect to find a compression board, a removable laundry bag, and a large pocket inside the divider panel.

Also included is the Weekender, which features a trolley sleeve, plus a fold-up bag for last-minute purchases and a set of four packing cubes.

I adore Paravel's design, inspired by the golden age of travel with thoughtful modern details. Also, the brand recently extended its warranty to 10 years, which is a huge plus.

Because I tend to pack light, expandable pieces aren't a must for me. But if the feature is important to you, this set probably isn't the best choice.

Amazon Basics 3-Piece Set Hardside Luggage Set

It's tough to beat three hard-sided roller suitcases for less than $200, which makes this Amazon Basics set an excellent value.

There's a 21-inch carry-on and two checked bags measuring 26 and 30 inches, respectively. All have double spinner wheels, zippered mesh dividers, three zippered pockets inside the main compartments, and telescopic handles.

They also expand to add up to 15 percent more space—but my favorite detail is the feet on the side that let you set the bag down if you're carrying it lengthwise.

These roller suitcases don't have a TSA-approved lock, which is a drawback but likely not a dealbreaker.

Samsonite Freeform Hardside Luggage Set

This sleek duo from Samsonite is part of the brand’s Freeform collection, which has a high-end look without a high-end price tag.

The 21- and 28-inch pieces feature double spinner wheels, telescoping handles accented with brushed metal, recessed combination TSA-approved locks, and they’re expandable up to two inches. The interior is just as well executed, with a zippered divider on the top lid and crossed compression straps in the base.

Like all of Samsonite’s luggage, they’re backed by a 10-year limited warranty.

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Luggage Set

It isn't uncommon to see flight crews wheeling Travelpro's soft-sided spinner luggage through airports. They're made of durable stain- and water-resistant polyester and backed by the brand's lifetime limited warranty.

The Maxlite collection is astonishingly lightweight. The largest piece in this trio is a 29-inch checked bag that's only 8.5 pounds—not a typo!—along with a medium 25-inch checked bag and 21-inch carry-on that's 5.4 pounds.

The bags are tapered at the top and heavier at the base to prevent tipping, and all feature well-designed spinner wheels and a telescoping handle that locks at two heights. There's also a roomy front pocket and the bags expand up to two inches.

Traveler's Choice Dana Point Hardside Luggage Set

Attention to detail and a reasonable price point is what makes this Traveler’s Choice luggage set a standout.

For starters, it comes in a fantastic selection of modern colors, all featuring an eye-catching herringbone-textured finish. There are double spinner wheels, multi-stage telescoping handles, and they expand up to two inches, though there aren’t any TSA-approved locks.

Another highlight is the carry-on’s built-in power bank compartment and USB port. Inside, there’s a zippered mesh pocket on the lid and compression straps in the main compartment.

Rachel Klein is the Deputy Editor of Popular Mechanics.

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13 best carry-on luggage pieces 2024 - we tested them all.

Discover the best carry-on luggage for your unique travel style and needs.

The Best Carry-on Luggage

Rachael Hood | U.S. News

Things aren't always as they seem – especially when it comes to luggage. In our quest to find the best carry-on bags, we discovered that while some suitcases look good, they don't always hold up to the demands of travel. Some designs have attractive features that add bulk but not additional functionality, while others just don't live up to the hype.

To determine the best carry-on luggage, we tested dozens of bags on countless trips to find the ideal bag for every travel need. Read on to find the best option in a variety of categories, tested and reviewed by our team of experts.

Best Overall: Solgaard Carry-On Closet Original – Large

• Jump to features and expert insights ↓
• Overall Runner-up: Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-on Hardside Spinner

Best Hard-sided: Away The Carry-On

Best soft-sided: samsonite solyte dlx carry-on spinner, best lightweight: july carry on light, best for international travel: delsey paris helium aero international carry-on - expandable spinner, best affordable: amazon basics 20-inch hardside spinner.

• Best Expandability: Briggs & Riley Essential 22" Carry-on Expandable Spinner
• Best Underseater: CALPAK Luka Soft-sided Mini Carry-On Luggage

Best for Business Travel: Amazon Basics Expandable Softside Carry-On Spinner – 20.4 Inch

Best luxury: carl friedrik the carry-on pro.

• Best Carry-on Duffel: The North Face Rolling Thunder–22"

Best Carry-on Backpack: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

(Note: Prices were accurate at the time this article was published; they may fluctuate due to demand or other factors. Original photos were taken by our editors during luggage testing.)

Price:  $315 or less

Dimensions: 22.4 x 14.6 x 9.6 inches | Weight: 8.1 pounds; 8.85 pounds with closet insert Packing capacity: 4-7 days |  Color options:  Red, purple, navy or 6 others, plus precious metals options Hard- or soft-sided:  Hard-sided   | Warranty: Lifetime

Sturdy and attractive, this suitcase is set apart from the rest by its patented and removable shelving system. This unique design feature makes packing easier, keeps items in place and removes the need for unpacking at your destination. Rather than a zippered clamshell design, the Solgaard Carry-on Closet has two latches that open with just the squeeze of two levers together; it secures with a TSA-approved lock.

The waterproof polycarbonate exterior has an aluminum frame and corner guards so this suitcase can withstand all the rigors of travel. There's also an ergonomic handle and frictionless wheels, which make it easy to maneuver on all types of terrain. What's more, this sustainable suitcase helps to repurpose 6 pounds of plastics that may have ended up in the ocean.

What our editors say:

This carry-on suitcase has it all! From the power bank (sold separately) to the super sturdy and comfortable handle to the removable closet feature – not to mention the attractive yet functional appearance – this suitcase packs a punch. I really like how easy it is to pull on a variety of surfaces, including carpet and brick. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

Best Overall Runner-up: Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On Hardside Spinner

Leilani Osmundson | U.S. News

Price: $369.99 or less

Dimensions: 23 x 14.5 x 9.5 inches | Weight: 8.1 pounds Packing capacity: Up to 10 days; 45 liters | Color options: White, red, blue, green or gray Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: Limited lifetime

The Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On Hardside Spinner is a truly well-rounded carry-on with a plethora of unique features. USB A & C ports on the outside of the bag give easy access to charging. (A power bank is not included, though the bag does have a pocket for one inside the expansion zipper.) Self-aligning magnetic wheels – a reviewer-favorite feature – allow painless travel through the airport as well as on roads, sidewalks, uneven surfaces and more. A built-in TSA zipper lock offers ultimate protection for your possessions.

Even without the features listed above, this Travelpro spinner is, at its core, a high-quality piece. The hard outer shell is ultra-strong and 100% polycarbonate; aluminum corner guards further protect your belongings. The clamshell-style suitcase has two large interior compartments along with three extra pockets, one of which is water-resistant, and the expansion zipper allows for an extra 2 inches of packing room. Plus, this carry-on is made with genuine leather trim, so you can travel in style as well as comfort.

There are some amazing features on this carry-on, but my favorite is the wheels – as someone who typically prefers hands-free travel (primarily backpacks), I found that the way this suitcase easily glides around everywhere absolutely changed my mind about wheeled luggage. Just know that since this is one of the larger bags on this list, I would still check your airline's carry-on size requirements before traveling (though it's been tested for most major domestic airlines, and it fit perfectly on Delta). – Leilani Osmundson, Senior Digital Producer

Amanda Norcross | U.S. News

Price: $275 or less

Dimensions: 21.7 x 14.4 x 9 inches | Weight: 7.5 pounds Packing capacity: Up to 5 days; 39.8 liters | Color options: Black, navy, blue gray or olive, plus 2 glossy options Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: Limited

When it comes to hard-sided carry-on luggage , nothing beats The Carry-On by Away. The bag is lightweight yet indestructible thanks to a 100% polycarbonate exterior. Plus, you can easily wipe away most scratches with a magic eraser.

In late 2023, Away launched a new iteration of The Carry-On that somehow made it even more efficient. The most notable new features are an additional underside grab handle, three extra interior compartments, and an enhanced compression system that upholds the bag's ability to accommodate nearly a week's worth of clothing. The bag's 360-degree wheels are also slimmer than those of its predecessor for improved maneuverability. While Away has long been known for its neutral colored matte options, glossy options of this bag are now available.

The Away Carry-On is my ride or die. I've taken it on so many trips over the past five-plus years and it's still in perfect shape. I know I'll have it with me for many years to come. – Amanda Norcross, Senior Content and SEO Strategist

Catriona Kendall | U.S. News

Price: $199.99 or less

Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9.5 inches | Weight: 7.1 pounds Packing capacity: Up to 7 days; 32 liters | Color options: Black, gray, green, aqua blue or royal blue Hard- or soft-sided: Soft-sided | Warranty: 10-year limited

This classic soft-sided option from Samsonite offers everything you need for a smooth trip. There are three spacious pockets and a trolley strap on the outside so you can stack it on top of another rolling suitcase, as well as a USB port for charging your phone (though you'll have to purchase a battery separately).

Inside the suitcase, three more zippered pockets – including one for wet items – help you stay organized, while buckles keep the main compartment's tie-down straps out of your way while packing. This spinner can conveniently expand by 0.75 inches, but keep in mind if you're flying that overpacking may put it over your carry-on size allowance.

I've used other spinner suitcases in the past, but none of them glide as smoothly as this bag, with its 360-degree dual-spinner wheels. I also love the high-quality, lightweight material, but my favorite part is its organizational features – especially the WetPak pocket. I'd highly recommend the Samsonite SoLyte DLX for anyone who needs a trusty soft-sided carry-on for a flight; it definitely fits more than I thought it would. – Catriona Kendall, Editor

Price: $245 or less

Dimensions: 21.25 x 14.17 x 7.5 inches | Weight: 3.9 pounds Packing capacity: Up to 7 days; 32 liters | Color options: Beige, light green, dark green, lilac, charcoal or 3 others Hard- or soft-sided: Hard | Warranty: Lifetime with 100-day returns

Weighing just under 4 pounds, this bag is the lightest hard-sided carry-on we found on the market. It's constructed with an extremely durable German polycarbonate shell, and the interior has two mesh zippered compartments to keep your belongings from shifting. The inner nylon lining is also resistant to water and stains. To make the suitcase easy to maneuver, there's a top carry handle, a telescoping handle and dual-spinner wheels.

I was absolutely shocked by how light this suitcase is. While some lightweight designs can be extremely flimsy, this July carry-on is very durable and holds a good amount of clothing. With compression packing cubes I was able to pack enough clothing for a week. It was extremely easy to put in the plane's overhead compartment, and the wheels rolled very smoothly for my entire journey. The only thing I noticed is that since the bag is so lightweight, the trolley bag I had was making it want to topple. Next time, I'd use a smaller tote or a north-south design to avoid that issue. – Rachael Hood

Erin Evans | U.S. News

Price: $179.99 or less

Dimensions: 21 x 14 x 10 inches | Weight: 8.16 pounds Packing capacity: 5-7 days; 41 liters | Color options: Black, blue, red or gray Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: 10-year limited

This DELSEY PARIS carry-on is a well-built piece of hard-sided luggage. It meets carry-on suitcase size restrictions for most international airlines and offers an easily accessible front compartment – ideal for a laptop up to 15.6 inches or other items you want to be able to grab quickly. The suitcase has a TSA lock and two spacious internal compartments for clothing, shoes and travel gear. The double-spinner wheels glide smoothly across all types of surfaces, and the handle pulls out and retracts with ease.

I was incredibly impressed by this little workhorse of a carry-on bag. There are so many different pockets and compartments within it for organization, and it fits a surprising amount of clothes, shoes and accessories. The handle and wheels make it easy to maneuver, and the glossy exterior makes it look sleek and chic. – Erin Evans, Managing Editor

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Price: $80 or less

Dimensions: 21.46 x 14.76 x 9.45 inches | Weight: 7.34 pounds Packing capacity: Up to 7 days; 23 liters | Color options: Black, navy blue, orange or light blue Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: 1-year

The Amazon Basics 20-inch Hardside Spinner is similar to many other hard-sided luggage products on the market, but it's available at a fraction of the price. The ABS shell is textured, so even if you – or luggage handlers – bang it around a bit, it does not show scuffs or scratches easily. The double-spinner wheels (a must, honestly, in today's luggage landscape) make the bag effortless to maneuver.

Inside, one side of the bag features a compression strap, while the other has a large fabric zippered closure, complete with a few organizer pockets for smaller items. Thanks to its availability on Amazon Prime, the carry-on luggage ships quickly, so it's also a great option if you need new luggage in a crunch.

This carry-on bag is a superb selection for the budget-conscious traveler. I appreciated how much I was able to get into this bag (it doesn't look huge, but it fit quite a lot), and the textured exterior really ups the durability factor. The compression straps and the interior organizer even helped me squeeze in a bit more. – Erin Evans

Best Expandability: Briggs & Riley Essential 22" Carry-on Expandable Spinner

Price: $699 or less

Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9 (up to 11.5) inches | Weight: 10 pounds Packing capacity: Up to 7 days; 37-48 liters | Color options: Black, navy or olive Hard- or soft-sided: Soft-sided | Warranty: Lifetime

The Briggs & Riley Essential 22" Carry-on Expandable Spinner has a standout feature that other bags on this list don't: one-touch CX expansion. Exclusive to Briggs & Riley, this technology allows your bag to expand and compress in one swift motion. Simply press and pull up on the red levers found at opposite ends of the bag, and it will grow 2.5 inches. Once you've packed your belongings, push down on the buttons to compress the bag before zipping it up.

This bag also features a garment folder to reduce wrinkles in a suit or dress, as well as cinch-down garment panels to secure the clothing in place. Other convenient features include interior mesh compartments for organization, an exterior pocket for airport essentials (or even your laptop) and a signature PowerPocket where you can charge your smartphone.

While the bag is undoubtedly an investment at $700, its "simple as that" guarantee (free repairs forever, no questions asked) – plus sturdy features like impact-resistant corner guards and self-repairing zippers – means you'll have it for life.

When it comes to quality, this is the best luggage I've ever used – period. The compression/expansion system is just the icing on the cake. – Amanda Norcross

Best Underseater: CALPAK Luka Soft-Sided Mini Carry-On Luggage

Price: $165 or less

Dimensions: 16 x 14.5 x 9 inches | Weight: 5.1 pounds Packing capacity: 2-4 days; 34 liters | Color options: Chocolate, oatmeal or rose quartz Hard- or soft-sided: Soft-sided | Warranty: 2-year limited

Compact and filled with useful features, this CALPAK underseater has a water-resistant exterior, a TSA-approved lock, and side and top handles for easy lifting into the overhead or pushing under the seat. There's a telescoping handle, a luggage trolley sleeve and two exterior pockets for stowing small items like your passport, boarding pass and earbuds.

On the inside, there's a padded laptop sleeve, multiple interior pockets and compression straps. For added convenience, the main panel can be secured via built-in snaps to get your laptop out while traveling (and keep your other belongings from spilling out), or you can unsnap it while packing to maximize the interior storage space.

When I'm traveling on a quick trip with my laptop, this is my go-to bag. Its compact size glides easily under the seat, and it's also compact and light enough to fit into the overhead bin even on the smallest regional planes. I love the laptop sleeve and the zippered exterior pocket for my book, earbuds and wipes. To maximize the interior space, I use compression cubes from Lug , and I'm able to squeeze in four to five outfits, a pair of shoes and daily necessities. – Rachael Hood

Price: $83 or less

Dimensions: 20.4 x 14.9 x 8.2 inches | Weight: 6.35 pounds Packing capacity: 2-3 days; 26 liters | Color options: Black, olive, gray, red, blue or purple Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: 1-year

This simple but sturdy carry-on piece from Amazon is a great option for business travelers, thanks to its front pocket for easy laptop access, smooth double-spinner wheels and TSA lock. This Amazon Basics soft-sided carry-on also features a handle on the bottom between the wheels, which makes it easy to put the bag up into and pull it out of the overhead bin. On some airplanes, it may even be small enough to fit under the seat.

The interior of the bag features one large compartment with two compression straps, plus two zippered pockets on the opposite site. The 20.4-inch option is ideal for shorter trips, but this style is available in larger sizes as well. Another bonus: It's available on Amazon Prime, so it ships quickly.

This Amazon Basics option is on the smaller side for a carry-on, but that's what makes it a solid choice for business travelers going on short trips who only need to pack a few things. The laptop pocket is easily accessible, and the handle on the bottom of the bag is super useful for hauling it out of an overhead bin. The black color is professional, and the price can't be beat. – Erin Evans

Price: $565 or less

Dimensions: 21.7 x 15 x 9.6 inches | Weight: 9.5 pounds Packing capacity: 5-7 days; 43 liters | Color options: Gray/cognac, gray/chocolate, gray/black or black Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: Lifetime with a 100-day trial

Constructed with premium materials, this luxury carry-on has Italian leather accents, Japanese spinner wheels and a polycarbonate exterior with an aluminum metal frame for stability. It closes via two secure latches with combination locks (rather than a zipper). There's a front laptop compartment with a smaller pocket and pen slots to keep business essentials or travel documents easy to access.

The interior has leather details, compression straps and a removable compression pad with a pocket – ideal for small items like ties, fashion jewelry or silk scarves. Travelers can also purchase an additional compression pad to have a pad on each side of the interior compartment.

This suitcase exudes luxury with its Italian leather trim and understated elegance. The design of it looks very sleek, the interior is spacious, the handle is very sturdy and the wheels glide with ease. I especially liked that the top of the suitcase is very flat, which gave my trolley bag a secure base so it wasn't moving around while I was at the airport, and the front compartment was ideal for accessing my laptop on the go. It feels very sturdy, but the only downside is it weighs more than a typical carry-on. – Rachael Hood

Best Carry-on Duffel: The North Face Rolling Thunder – 22"

Price: $270 or less

Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 8.5 inches | Weight: 7.34 pounds Packing capacity: Up to 5 days; 40 liters | Color options: Black Hard- or soft-sided: Soft-sided | Warranty: Limited lifetime

The North Face's 22-inch Rolling Thunder duffel doesn't have the bells and whistles of other carry-on options, but it's a sturdy and reliable option for those who want a duffel style on wheels. The duffel has a hard-sided back panel, two wheels that can withstand various terrain and plastic bumpers for abrasion resistance. The soft-sided top of the bag is made of water-resistant Base Camp material and nylon for extra durability. There are two zippered pockets on the outside to stash small items and a mesh pocket inside for some added organization.

I brought this duffel on a trip to New Zealand, and it held up very well. The Rolling Thunder had no issues after being checked on six different flights, and the flexibility of the style allowed me to easily store it out of the way in my campervan once I had unpacked. It's definitely a simpler style, but it does its job well. Be aware, though, that this wheeled style doesn't have straps that would allow you to carry it like a duffel; it can only be rolled. – Catriona Kendall

Price: $200 or less

Dimensions: 22 x 12 x 10 inches | Weight: 3.5 pounds Packing capacity: 5-10 days; 35 liters | Color options: Multiple options but color availability changes frequently Hard- or soft-sided: Soft-sided | Warranty: Lifetime

When it comes to hands-free and adventure travel, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L can't be beat. This lightweight carry-on backpack comes with a sternum strap, a removable waist belt and a weight-distributing harness system, all to make for a comfortable carry (since sore shoulders can be a concern when it comes to carrying backpacks through time-consuming airport experiences).

Organization is a breeze with a top zippered pocket – perfect for storing travel documents or a Cotopaxi hip pack – and a padded laptop sleeve on the outside. Internally, you'll find two mesh compartments, one large and one subdivided, that work great with Cotopaxi packing cubes . The backpack's straps can be tucked away for more streamlined travel, and the bag even comes with a rain cover (though the Allpa is already TPU-coated to be water-resistant).

Furthermore, Cotopaxi is dedicated to sustainability : 94% of Cotopaxi products contain repurposed, recycled or responsible materials. The vibrant, one-of-a-kind Del Dia Allpa backpacks , for example, use remnant fabric.

I've taken my Cotopaxi Allpa on countless adventures and it's survived everything – wind, rain, being shoved into tiny rental cars, you name it. Besides being incredibly durable, I love how much this backpack can fit; my longest trip so far with only the Allpa 35L as my luggage has been a comfortable nine days, and that included packing bulky cold-weather gear. I just wish it had a water bottle pocket like the Allpa 42L does! – Leilani Osmundson

Also Recommended

Solo New York Re:Serve Carry-On Spinner: While the Solo New York Re:Serve Carry-On Spinner is a solid (and sustainable) carry-on bag for less than $200, it doesn't offer quite enough space – especially for someone who may be traveling for longer.

Away The Aluminum Carry-On Bag: This is a well-built carry-on bag. The only downfall is that it's on the heavier side, weighing nearly 11 pounds. Away's Aluminum Carry-On is also more than twice the cost of the standard carry-on by Away, which works just as well.

Lipault Plume Cabin Size Spinner: This is a great soft-sided option if you're looking for a lightweight suitcase. Featuring a sleek nylon construction, a large front exterior pocket and internal zippered pockets, the Lipault Plume Cabin Size Spinner works well but isn't as lightweight as the July Carry-on Light.

Monos Carry-on Plus: It's a high-quality suitcase with a lot of internal details, but given its larger size this bag doesn't fit in the overhead compartment on multiple planes (especially regional jets). That said, if you're traveling domestically on larger planes, the Monos Carry-on Plus could be an option to consider. Or, the smaller standard Monos Carry-on could be a good option as well.

Pros and Cons of Hard-sided Luggage

Pros and cons of soft-sided luggage, frequently asked questions.

Aside from traditional rolling suitcases, the following items can be used as carry-on luggage provided they meet carry-on size limitations (which vary by airline) and fit in the overhead bin or fully under the seat (not sticking out) in front of you.

• Duffel and weekender bags:  This includes weekenders and duffel bags with wheels . Just note that wheels are included in carry-on dimension restrictions.
• Garment bags:  These are also considered carry-on baggage by most airlines. You can place your garment bag in the overhead bin, or in some cases, a small closet on the plane.
• Pet carriers:  Some airlines consider pet carriers to be carry-on luggage. Check with your chosen airline when preparing for your trip with Fido.
• Backpacks:  If your carry-on backpack fits under the seat, it will count toward your personal item allowance on most major airlines. This means you'll have the option to bring an additional bag for the overhead bin.
• Diaper bags: If you're traveling with a baby, diaper bags and other baby travel gear generally don't count toward either allowance – meaning you can bring these items in addition to your carry-on bag and personal item.

Purses , briefcases and camera bags can be carried on the plane as well, but usually aren't considered carry-on bags and are instead labeled personal items. Underseater bags – often designed specifically to fit comfortably under a plane seat – are also ideal as a personal item.

Typically, travelers can bring one carry-on bag (for the overhead bin) and one personal item (for under the seat) on the plane, free of charge.

Carry-on luggage sizes can vary by airline. Several major U.S. carriers, such as American Airlines and United, impose a 22 x 14 x 9-inch rule. If you're buying new carry-on luggage, this is a good default size to choose – especially if you fly with a variety of airlines.

For international airlines, it's often 21.5 x 15.5 x 9 inches. To be sure about dimensions as well as any weight restrictions, see our guide to Carry-on Luggage Size & Weight by Airline . It usually doesn't matter how heavy your carry-on bag is, though some airlines do monitor the weight.

• Hard-sided: The hard-sided July Carry On Light weighs less than 4 pounds, making it one of the most lightweight carry-on bags on the market. Other lightweight carry-on bags we recommend include the hard-sided Away The Carry-On (7.5 pounds) and the Amazon 20-Inch Hardside Spinner (7.3 pounds).
• Soft-sided: If you're looking for a lightweight, soft-sided carry-on bag, consider the Lipault Plume Cabin Size Spinner (4.8 pounds) and the Samsonite SoLyte DLX Carry-On Spinner (7.1 pounds).

Hard-sided luggage is often heavier than soft-sided luggage – but only by a few pounds. If you're planning to purchase a hard-sided carry-on bag, look for something that's made of polycarbonate or polypropylene, both of which are lightweight yet durable materials.

How We Tested

Our team tested 26 carry-on bags across several price points and on a variety of trips spanning overseas flights, weekend getaways, overnight trips and more. We traveled by car, plane, train and cruise and packed for a variety of climates and activities, from shore excursions in Mexico to rainy road trips around Iceland. For bags with wheels, we tested their maneuverability on multiple surfaces, including gravel, pavement, grass, moving walkways, cobblestone and carpet. After four months of testing, we deem these carry-on bags the best of the best for 2024.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

The following editors personally tested the luggage recommended in this article:

Erin Evans , Managing Editor: Evans loves a durable bag and also can't say no to a good deal. Considering how banged up luggage can get, her picks on this list are both well-made and affordable.

Rachael Hood , Senior Editor: Hood rarely checks a bag, yet she loves to pack a lot and pick up some new finds along her journey. She looks for a combination of durability, functionality, interior space and overall appearance.

Catriona Kendall , Associate Editor: Kendall opts for convenient and versatile carry-ons that can work well for weekend and weekslong trips alike.

Amanda Norcross , Content & SEO Strategist: Norcross has mastered the art of traveling with a carry-on bag only, but believes this is only possible with the right luggage.

Leilani Osmundson , Digital Producer: Osmundson prefers lightweight, streamlined luggage that's ideal for adventure travel.

You might also be interested in:

• What to Pack in Your Carry-on Bag
• What Is Allowed in a Carry-on Bag
• The Best Personal Item Bags
• The Best Travel Insurance Companies

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• GENERAL TRAVEL

The Best Luggage for International Travel

Dan is the founder of a small travel goods company, Traveling Tranquilo. His passion is helping o...

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One of the most important, and often most overlooked, decisions to make when traveling abroad is what luggage to take. Most of us would rather be scoping out a cool weekend getaway, finding new restaurants to try, or making lists of must-see attractions. Figuring out the best luggage for your trip seems boring and dull in comparison. 

But, great luggage is essential for a great trip. We have assembled a list of go-to options for all your travel abroad needs. A lot of time and research was invested into this list as we believe your travel gear should propel you forward on your adventures. It shouldn’t be a burden. With the right gear, you gain the confidence to explore further and push more boundaries. And that’s what meaningful travel is all about.

Read on to learn our breakdown on the best luggage for international travel this year.

What makes luggage “good” vs “great?”

The luggage industry is huge! The amount of companies and products available will make your head hurt if you look long enough. In this endless sea of luggage options, there are many good options out there for you. But, with how big of a decision it is to travel abroad, we wanted to show you the options we considered great! Use these guidelines (as we did) when doing your own research in finding the best luggage options out there: 

• Ability to be hands free. Being able to carry your luggage like a backpack is a must. Wheeled luggage is very convenient, no argument there. But, have you ever tried to wheel a suitcase on the old cobblestone streets of Italy? Not fun. The best luggage for travel abroad allows you to be hands free, giving you the ability to perform nearly every other task required to travel (while your luggage is in tow!).
• Durability. The rigors of travel are tough on our luggage. You need something constructed out of strong, durable materials that will hold up to the wear and tear that a life of travel will inflict. All reputable companies will disclose the materials used in the construction of their products. A few common, quality materials to look for are 600D Nylon, Tarpaulin, 1000D Polyester and Cordura.
• Company values. Purchasing quality luggage is a big investment. When doing so, be sure the company you are purchasing from has your best interests in mind. We prefer products from smaller companies, as they are more focused on providing the most value possible to you. Luggage companies that were started by travelers also tend to produce great products. Being travelers themselves, they have the knowledge and experience to know what works best.

Your study abroad backpack—or backpack for any kind of meaningful travel—should fulfill the above requirements at minimum. That’s the sweet spot!

The best all-around luggage

The travel bag by nomatic.

Our vote for the best all-around luggage is the Travel Bag by Nomatic. Started by John and Jacob out of their basement, Nomatic is driven by a passion to create the most functional travel gear ever. This passion shines through in the design of their Travel Bag which boasts over 20 features! The bag is constructed out of durable and waterproof Tarpaulin material, so it is made to last and keep your belongings dry. 

Best All-Around Luggage: The Travel Bag from Nomatic

A wrap around zippered flap opens the bag up lengthwise—giving you easy access to the entire bag. This flap also has a built-in padded sleeve for a laptop and a tablet. Thanks to an innovative strap design, you can either wear this as a backpack (hip belts included) or carry as a duffel. Hate putting your dirty shoes in the same space as your clean clothes? There is a separate, self-contained pocket made just for shoes! 

There is even a built-in sleeve which allows you to slide the Travel Bag over the handle on a rolling suitcase if needed. The combination of its carry-on size, durable and waterproof construction, and endless features make this great bag our vote for Best All-Around Luggage.

• Best For: Study Abroad, Intern Abroad, Long Term Travel (i.e. Teach Abroad), Carry-On Travel
• Buy It Now!

Best carry-on luggage for international travel

Minaal carry-on 2.0.

Looking for the perfect carry-on bag that fits all the strict international airline standards? Minaal Carry-On 2.0 is just the bag for you—it’s the best luggage for traveling abroad with only hand luggage. 

Best Carry-On Luggage: Carry-On 2.0 from Minaal

The team at Minaal designed this bag specifically to be compliant with all international carry-on bag restrictions.* Don’t let the sleek design fool you. The Carry-On 2.0 is made of heavy duty 600D Nylon, so it’s built to last. The backpack straps include a sternum strap for added comfort while carrying. The bag opens into a lay-flat design, making the process of packing and unpacking simple. While it is a bit on the smaller side (allowing it to be a universal carry-on), there is still ample space to pack for an extended weekend trip. Avoid checked bag fees with this great bag from Minaal!

• Best For: Carry-On Travel, Weekend Trips, Intern Abroad
• Cost: $299.00

*Note, these are changing all the time, please refer to your airlines rules before purchasing 

Best luggage for travel & work

Standard luggage’s daily backpack.

When work coincides with travel, there is a delicate balance to achieve. You want a functional and comfortable bag, but you don’t want to show up to the office with your hiking backpack and its 57 straps dangling everywhere. You want something that is professional and practical. Look no further than The Daily Backpack from Standard Luggage. 

Best Luggage for Travel & Work: The Daily Backpack from Standard Luggage

The Daily is constructed with hide-away straps, which allow it to function as a backpack, a briefcase, or a shoulder bag. Constructed out of 310D Nylon, the Daily is durable, yet sleek and professional looking. The compartments and pockets are designed with the young professional in mind, complete with padded laptop and tablet sleeves. 

• Best For: Carry-On Travel, Work Related Travel, Intern Abroad
• Cost: $119.00

Best luggage for adventure travel

Allpa 35l from cotopaxi.

Looking for best luggage for traveling abroad that can keep up with your ultra-adventurous ways? The Allpa 35L from Cotopaxi is perfect for you. 

Best Luggage for Adventure Travel: The Allpa 35L from Cotopaxi

Constructed from heavy duty Nylon ensures this bag can withstand even the most rugged adventures. Cotopaxi designed the harness system with backpackers in mind. There are padded shoulder straps and a padded hip belt to help evenly distribute the weight while carrying. The Allpa 35L has a full, wrap around zip opening, allowing you easy access, comparable to a suitcase. Inside, Cotopaxi included zippered mesh pockets, keeping all your stuff organized. There is even an included rain cover, which can be stowed in the pack, making it a natural pick as one of the best backpacks for study abroad or volunteer abroad with a healthy dose of adrenaline.

• Best For: Adventure Travel, Weekend Travel, Short-Term Study Abroad, Carry-On Travel
• Cost: $199.95

Other essential gear for every traveler: 

• Packing cubes. No meaningful traveler should leave home without packing cubes. This essential piece of travel gear is for perfect for trips of all types. By subdividing your luggage, there is no more unpacking your entire bag to find that one specific thing you needed. Packing cubes keep you organized, which makes packing and unpacking less of a chore.
• Daypack. All the luggage we have shown you so far is great for getting your stuff from your home to your destination. But, you don’t want to lug your large bag around with you everywhere you go. That’s where a good daypack comes in. Use your daypack for your daily adventures. Perfect for exploring new cities or taking day trips, a smaller bag is a must during longer-term meaningful travel.
• Adapter. Traveling abroad introduces many new and exciting differences to your daily life. For new travelers, one of the least expected differences are the various electrical outlet types found abroad. Don’t cross everything off your list before leaving, only to forget an outlet adapter. Make sure to research what you need before leaving, allowing you to keep your devices charged while abroad.
• External battery. Long haul flights, cross-country train rides, and action-packed days of exploring take their toll on the batteries of our electronic devices. Taking an external battery pack ensures your devices stay charged, all day long. Never miss a picture, Instagram post, or text again by keeping one with you in your daypack!

#TravelHack—Buy it all at the same time!

You’ve read through this long list and thought, “I need all of these for my trip—yikes!”. Well, cast your travel-gear-purchasing worries aside because you’re in luck! Our company, Traveling Tranquilo, has created the No Borders Bundle specifically for you, slightly worrisome travel worrier. We have researched and tested a full line up of travel gear and accessories to bring you a one-stop shop solution. Awesome, right?

Complete with a carry-on bag, a daypack, packing cubes, outlet adapter, external battery, and even a phone case to help you break language barriers. Don’t need everything, no problem. Customize the Bundle to fit your needs.

Get what you need and get out there!

When preparing for any trip abroad, be sure you take an honest look at your travel gear situation—don’t sacrifice comfort and durability for quick and cheap stuff. You deserve the best luggage for travel abroad. 

Your luggage and accessories need to be built for the type of travel you plan to do. It may not be the most exciting part of planning a trip abroad, but it's one of the most important. Being properly equipped ensures that you get the absolute most out of your adventures. Stay focused on your travels, not your stuff. Hopefully this guide helps provide great options to suit your needs. Please don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions—it's our mission to help!

This article was provided by Traveling Tranquilo. Traveling Tranquilo was started with one purpose in mind—help travelers get the most out of their adventures by properly preparing and packing beforehand.

UP NEXT: GoAbroad’s 2018 Study Abroad Gear Guide →

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The Best Wheeled Luggage of 2024

Wheeled luggage needs to be smooth-rolling and durable enough to keep rolling for years of travel. Our picks from Monos, Travelpro, Db, and other top brands deliver that and more.

Shopping for the best wheeled luggage can be overwhelming. I know firsthand how tough it is trying to sift through different brands, designs, warranties, and more to pick the wheeled luggage for your next adventure.

I went through a series of cheap wheeled suitcases, and I constantly dealt with issues, from ripped zippers to broken wheels. Since then, I’ve traveled all over the world, tested dozens of suitcases, and learned a lot about what works for good luggage and what doesn’t.

Wheeled luggage is a broad category. It includes two-wheeled rollers, four-wheeled spinners, hard shell luggage, rolling duffel bags, wheeled backpacks, and everything in between. I’ve found that the best luggage is highly personal. You want wheeled luggage with the best quality and features, but it’s even more important that it fits your specific needs and preferences.

Whatever type of rolling luggage you are looking for, I’ve got you covered. Each one of these recommendations is hand-selected and is great at what it does. I’ll break down the strengths and weaknesses of each to help you know which one will work best for you.

• Our Top Picks
• Best Wheeled Luggage Overall: Monos Check-In Medium
• Best Budget Wheeled Luggage: AmazonBasics 25" Softside Spinner
• Best Carry-On Wheeled Luggage: Briggs & Riley Torq 22"
• Best 2-Wheeled Carry On Luggage: Bric's X-Bag Carry-On Rolling Duffel
• Best Wheeled Duffel Bag for Checked Luggage: Travelpro Bold 30" Rolling Duffel
• Best Backpack Wheeled Luggage: Eagle Creek Gear Warrior Convertible Carry-On Backpack
• Best 2-Wheeled Checked Luggage: Db Hugger Roller Bag 90L
• Best Soft-Sided Wheeled Luggage: Travelpro Platinum Elite 25" Check-In
• Best Underseat Wheeled Luggage: Samsonite Theorym Underseater Spinner
• Best Rolling Duffel Bag Luggage: Bric’s X-Bag 21" Rolling Duffel
• Best 24-inch Wheeled Luggage: LEVEL8 Luminous Textured Check-In 24"
• Best 4-Wheeled Carry-On Luggage: Monos Carry-On Pro

Monos Check-In Medium : Best Wheeled Luggage Overall

Monos is one of the best luggage brands out there, and they’ve really earned their reputation. Their products emphasize minimalist design and uncompromising quality so that you can focus on enjoying the experiences of travel, not problems with your suitcase.

One thing I love about Monos is their commitment to quality. All of their products undergo intensive testing, and they offer an excellent limited lifetime warranty that covers repairs or replacement for damaged shells, wheels, handles, or zippers.

This Monos Check-In Medium is a sleek, durable suitcase that hits a perfect balance between functionality, style, and simplicity.

The durable polycarbonate shell is nearly unbreakable (as long as you aren’t tossing it off a moving bus). It also has tons of fun colors to choose from and a stylish, streamlined design that looks great in the airport (or on Instagram).

Monos’ quiet and ultra-durable spinner wheels make theirs some of the best rolling luggage on the market.

The interior organization of this suitcase is really well thought out, and it makes it easy to pack all your belongings neatly and securely. There are two big dividers that keep everything in place, and several zippered mesh pockets that give you a place for smaller items.

There really is a lot to love with this rolling luggage. It’s not the cheapest suitcase out there, but if you’re looking for a suitcase that looks good, functions better, and will last a lifetime, a Monos case is a great choice. For a closer look, check out our full Monos luggage review .

• Technical Specs

AmazonBasics 25" Softside Spinner : Best Budget Wheeled Luggage

If you’re looking for cheap luggage, Amazon is most likely where you’re doing your shopping. Amazon’s in-house brand, AmazonBasics, offers a great array of rolling luggage that is affordable and surprisingly capable.

If you’re looking for affordable luggage , you want something simple. You won’t get the same top-notch design as more premium luggage brands, so don’t worry about fancy features (which are just extra things to break), and focus on finding a suitcase that is durable enough to last more than just a few trips.

The AmazonBasics 25” Softside Spinner is a fairly basic soft shell suitcase with 360-degree spinner wheels. It definitely isn’t the most stylish or cleverly-designed rolling luggage out there, but it does the job and hits a great price point.

The outer material is a durable polyester fabric that offers some water resistance (though I definitely wouldn’t leave it out in a rainstorm). While the corners are somewhat reinforced, they aren’t as tough and rigid as more expensive rolling luggage, so I would be careful when packing fragile items.

This spinner bag doesn’t have much in the way of organization, but you do get one external front pocket, one internal pocket, and elastic compression straps. It’s pretty basic, but there’s ample space to bring everything for your trip.

One advantage of the simplistic design is that this suitcase is very lightweight for a checked bag at 6.8 lbs. I haven’t found many suitcases that are lighter than this while still offering so much space.

I also love that it has multiple grab handles on the sides and bottom. This is an easy-to-overlook feature, but it really makes it easier when you have to lift or move it.

While you definitely aren’t getting innovative design or premium materials, it is fairly well-built and offers great bang for your buck.

AmazonBasics also makes some of the best affordable carry-on luggage if you don’t need as much space. Plus, if you’re looking to buy a full set of suitcases, you can check out our article on the best cheap luggage sets .

Briggs & Riley Torq 22" : Best Carry-On Wheeled Luggage

Briggs & Riley is one of the most respected luggage brands in the industry. Their rolling luggage comes with painful price tags, but if you view it as a lifetime investment, you can start to see the value.

Briggs & Riley has one of the true lifetime warranties in the business. You can return any damaged suitcase, and they will repair or replace it, no questions asked.

If you travel extensively, your carry-on bag can really take a beating, and you want something that will last. A Briggs & Riley suitcase is something that will last your entire life, and you can hand it down to your grandkids.

The best carry-on luggage needs to be tough, lightweight, and have accessible exterior pockets. The Briggs & Riley Torq 22” gives you all this and more in a bomber hard-sided bag that will last forever.

This suitcase starts with a durable polycarbonate hard shell. It has a scratch-resistant texture and heavily reinforced corners.

The standout feature of this carry-on bag is the hinged outside pocket on the front. I personally think external pockets are a must-have for carry-on luggage so you have an easily accessible place for electronics, passports, and other essentials. Usually hard-sided bags don’t come with external pockets, so it’s awesome to see it included here.

The design of the front pocket is also unique. Instead of a zipper, it has a locking clasp and then opens on sturdy hinges. Zipped pockets tend to snag or break, so this design is better for long-term durability. It also makes it super easy and fast to open.

In the pocket, you’ll find a padded laptop sleeve and several compartments that make it easy to keep smaller items organized.

The internal organization is less impressive, with one zippered divider on one side and a compression system on the other.

If you want the best carry-on luggage , this is one of the best out there, though you’ll pay an arm and a leg for it.

Bric's X-Bag Carry-On Rolling Duffel : Best 2-Wheeled Carry On Luggage

Bric’s is a family-owned Italian brand that originally started making fine leather bags and travel gear. With an emphasis on preserving quality craftsmanship, their rolling luggage has high-end materials, impeccable build quality, and details like genuine leather detailing.

I won’t make it a secret that I really love two-wheeled rolling luggage. You get more durability than spinner wheels, more internal space, simpler construction, and even better ergonomics .

The best rolling carry-on luggage should capitalize on these advantages with durable construction and versatile design that’s ready for anything.

The Bric’s X-Bag Rolling Duffel is an adventurous soft-sided carry-on that is perfect for global (or domestic) travelers looking for rolling luggage that is lightweight and durable enough to go anywhere.

It’s made with a durable but lightweight polyamide fabric that has a PVC coating to give it good water resistance. This carry-on suitcase is tough while still being exceptionally light, meaning it’s easier to lift into the overhead bin or drag across a city.

With three internal pockets and a pair of simple compression straps, the internal organization isn’t anything special, but it works. If you like to be more organized, it’s probably worth investing in a set of packing cubes.

This rolling carry-on also is the perfect size to fit either domestic or international carry-on size restrictions . This adds a ton of versatility and means you can fly pretty much anywhere in the world with this bag.

It is expandable with a wraparound zipper that adds 2” of depth, or compressible with a compression system around the entire exterior, so you can expand or shrink this bag depending on the trip.

This lightweight luggage is versatile enough for any trip.

Travelpro Bold 30" Rolling Duffel : Best Wheeled Duffel Bag for Checked Luggage

The founder of Travelpro invented the two-wheeled rolling luggage back in the 80’s. They originally started selling carry-on suitcases for flight crews, and now they make some of the best soft-sided bags on the market.

Duffel bags are awesome for their ability to swallow surprising amounts of gear. They are easy to pack, easy to store, and dead simple. Combine that with a pair of wheels, and you get a load-hauling machine that’s ready for any long adventure.

The Travelpro Bold 30” Rolling Duffel is a massive beast compared to most rolling luggage. With 118 L of storage space, it has room for family vacations or long-term international moves.

The exterior fabric is a rugged high-denier polyester with a waterproof coating. This material should prove almost indestructible for normal use.

Everything about this bag is rugged and overbuilt. With reinforced wheels, skid guards, corner bumpers, and big, beefy handles, it feels tough and should stand up to some abuse.

The massive main compartment is divided into two sections, and each of them can be accessed by its own dedicated zipper opening. This makes it easy to keep things organized and separated and makes the enormous space that much more functional (if you need one large space, you can also zip away the divider to combine the two compartments).

Getting into the lower compartment isn’t super easy when everything is packed to the brim, so I wouldn’t use this for anything you need frequent access to.

It also has an outside-access wet pocket that works great as a hidden laundry bag for keeping damp or dirty clothes separate from the rest of your gear.

It comes in an array of colors, so you can pick one that will be easy to find at the baggage claim.

Of course, it’s important to acknowledge that this duffel is huge, bulky, and a little difficult to manage. If you can get away with something smaller, I’d recommend that. However, if you need a massive rolling duffel as your checked luggage for gear-intensive trips, this is the one to get.

Eagle Creek Gear Warrior Convertible Carry-On Backpack : Best Backpack Wheeled Luggage

Eagle Creek has been selling travel gear for over 40 years, and they specialize in highly durable and capable bags and suitcases for travelers who venture far off the beaten bath.

You won’t get sleek urban styling in Eagle Creek’s lineup, but you will get tough, functional designs and a fantastic “No Matter What” warranty.

During travel, wheeled luggage really makes a lot of sense for carry-on bags. With wheels, you don’t have to carry all the weight, and it’s easy to maneuver through crowds or wait in lines at airports.

Sometimes, though, a backpack is a better option. If you are venturing into more remote areas or will be doing a lot of walking, dragging a suitcase behind you can be awkward and cumbersome.

The Eagle Creek Gear Warrior Convertible Carry-On Backpack is an innovative carry-on that can transform from a standard rolling suitcase into a comfortable carry-on backpack .

This bag has thickly-padded shoulder straps and a supportive hip belt to help distribute the load when using it as a backpack. I love that the bag is really designed around backpack carry rather than just throwing shoulder straps on as an afterthought.

When you’re ready to use it as a wheeled carry-on, the shoulder straps and hip belt can stow away behind a zippered panel so they aren’t in the way.

This carry-on backpack has oversized durable wheels with chunky rubber tires that perform great over rougher surfaces.

One thing I don’t love is having to deal with all the straps and buckles while wheeling through the airport or stuffing it into overhead bins. Even when you stow away the hip belt and shoulder straps, there are still compression straps that can snag and get in the way.

One last feature: this rolling carry-on backpack comes with a smaller 18L daypack that attaches to the front of the main bag. I love that you get a full-sized carry-on and a compact travel daypack in a functional package.

Db Hugger Roller Bag 90L : Best 2-Wheeled Checked Luggage

Db is a Scandinavian brand that builds tough luggage for adventurous travelers. With bags for everything from skis to surfboards to mountaineering gear, they have luggage for any adventure.

Db also emphasizes innovative design, and they’ve invented an array of technologies meant to make their bags light, protective, and functional.

The Db Strom Roller Bag 90L is a big, tough softshell rolling luggage with a simple (yet highly functional) design and durable construction.

This big two-wheeled bag has a ton of storage space for longer or more gear-intensive trips. The main compartment opens fully, making it super easy to pack and access anything inside.

There isn’t a ton of organization, though. You get a few mesh pockets along the inside to store small items, but I would prefer having multiple compartments. I really like being able to have a designated place for everything while packing, so while the big open compartment can fit a lot of stuff, it isn’t the best for keeping it organized.

One of the most innovative features of this rolling luggage is the “rib-cage” design, patented by Db. It is a softshell bag, but it has hard ABS ribs built into the material. This gives it extra rigidity and makes it very protective for your packed gear while still staying lightweight.

This bag also has Db’s unique “Hook-Up System” that lets you attach a carry-on or backpack from Db. This makes it easy to roll through the airport without juggling multiple bags.

If you’re looking for two-wheeled rolling luggage that’s big, protective, and durable, the Db Hugger is worth checking out.

Travelpro Platinum Elite 25" Check-In : Best Soft-Sided Wheeled Luggage

Here’s another product from Travelpro. While they originally started with two-wheeled rolling luggage, they also make some great spinner luggage . The Travelpro Platinum Elite line is their high-end range of rolling luggage designed with flight attendants, pilots, and other frequent fliers in mind.

Platinum Elite products cost more than Travelpro’s less expensive suitcases, but they have higher-end materials, more advanced designs, and an upgraded limited lifetime warranty. This line includes the best soft side luggage on the market.

The Travelpro Platinum Elite 25” Check-In is a stylish, smooth-rolling suitcase that is fully outfitted for the most organized travelers.

The four spinner wheels are ultra-smooth and plenty durable for long-term use. Spinner wheels don’t shine on rough surfaces though, so if you’re heading out on cobblestone streets in Europe, you’ll probably want to get one of their bags with two wheels.

The built-in TSA-approved lock is super easy to use and keeps your belongings secure throughout your trip.

The organization of this suitcase is awesome, and it is way more than you see in most check-in luggage. There are two exterior pockets, a removable wet bag for toiletries and liquids, and a nifty compression system with two zippered pockets built-in. The fold-out garment holder for hanging clothes like suits, making this perfect luggage for men traveling for business.

I love seeing that level of organization in a suitcase, though for many people, it may be more than you need (especially the garment hanger). It also adds extra weight to the bag. While weight isn’t the most important thing for checked luggage, it is good to be aware of so you don’t end up paying extra for an overweight bag.

If you want a durable and super organized softshell check-in suitcase, the Travelpro Platinum Elite spinner is a great choice.

Samsonite Theorym Underseater Spinner : Best Underseat Wheeled Luggage

Underseat carry-ons are perfect for keeping all your travel essentials like electronics, books, passports, and snacks close at hand (never separate yourself from your snacks while flying).

The Samsonite Theorym is ideal for this, with tons of organization pockets to keep your phone, tablet, headphones, charging cords, books, and more within easy access in the airplane. You can pack your clothing in your checked bags or bigger carry-on while keeping smaller items close by in this underseat spinner suitcase.

The overall design is well-thought-out, with storage in the lid and a padded laptop/tablet sleeve that folds out of the way to give access to the main compartment. You also get an exterior pocket so it’s easy to get to important items.

The 360-degree spinner wheels make rolling it through the airport effortless.

The zippers are also lockable, so you can add a TSA-approved lock to keep your belongings secure.

This underseat carry-on is small, and most people will definitely want a bigger carry-on to be their main suitcase. It is also surprisingly heavy for its tiny size.

If you need a little extra packing space in addition to your main carry-on or check-in suitcase, the Samsonite Theorym is a perfect addition to your travel arsenal.

Bric’s X-Bag 21" Rolling Duffel : Best Rolling Duffel Bag Luggage

Bric’s is a 70-year-old Italian brand that makes luggage, purses, packs, and other travel gear with an emphasis on old-world craftsmanship, timeless design, and solid quality.

If you appreciate good design, you’re sure to find something you like from Bric’s. They have a wide range of beautiful products that look amazing and function just as well.

The X-Bag 21” Rolling Duffel is probably the only duffel bag in the world that can claim to be stylish. Typically when you envision a duffel bag, you think of a big, bulky, oblong blob that looks more like a bean bag with handles than luggage. Not so with this sleek carry-on duffel.

The style is spot-on here, with an adventurous but refined design and premium leather trim detail that really adds that next level of sophistication. This carry-on duffel bag is your best bet if you want to travel in style.

Not only does it look great, but also functions great as a piece of carry-on luggage. The big wide-opening main compartment is super easy to pack, and there is an exterior pocket and three internal pockets.

I personally wish there was a bit more organization on the inside to keep things from turning into a jumbled mess. It also doesn’t have any sort of laptop sleeve, so it definitely won’t be the best for business travel or any other trips where you’re taking a laptop.

This carry-on duffel rolls on a pair of oversized ball-bearing wheels that are smooth and durable. You’ll have no problem taking on cobblestoned streets in Europe.

Overall, if you’re looking for a carry-on duffel bag that looks amazing, this is the one to get.

LEVEL8 Luminous Textured Check-In 24" : Best 24-inch Wheeled Luggage

LEVEL8 is a modern luggage brand that specializes in streamlined hard-sided suitcases. They offer many of the same features and quality materials as higher-end brands but hit a much more affordable price point. I really love the sleek, understated appearance of their cases.

A 24-inch suitcase is a good compromise when you need a bit more space than most carry-ons, but don’t want to deal with an oversized check-in bag. The Luminous Textured Check-In 24″ gives you a check-in suitcase with ample packing space and no unnecessary bulk.

The ultra-simple exterior is sleek and stylish, and it looks good anywhere. It’s also made with a tough German Makrolon Polycarbonate shell, meaning it will stand up to some abuse. This is a premium-grade shell at a much lower cost than brands like Monos and Away.

The fit and finish of this case is really spot-on. I love the subtle texturing, and every detail seems to be really well-thought-out. Honestly, it just looks and feels good!

Even though this is a big-ish hard shell suitcase, it isn’t overly heavy, meaning you can pack more without worrying about going over airline weight limits.

My biggest complaint (and you may be sensing a theme here) is that I wish this suitcase had more organization. There is a large divider and a few internal pockets, but it’s pretty basic overall. I like having a place for everything (and everything in its place) so more pockets and dividers would be welcome here.

Monos Carry-On Pro : Best 4-Wheeled Carry-On Luggage

It’s fitting to finish this list where we started: with another sleek hard-shell suitcase from Monos.

The Monos Carry-On Pro bag stood out in all our tests for sheer functionality. It has durable wheels, fantastic internal organization, and an external pocket.

This spinner suitcase is built around a durable polycarbonate shell. This lightweight material is tough, and the Monos hard shell is sleek, stylish, and impact-resistant, with reinforced corners. You can count on it to look good after years of travel.

Like all Monos cases, you get their durable and smooth spinner wheels that make them some of the best-rolling luggage out there.

Unlike most hard shell carry-ons, this case has an external-zippered pocket. This hard, protective pocket covers the entire front of the suitcase and has a padded laptop sleeve and plenty of smaller organizing compartments inside. I think external pockets are a must-have for carry-on. I love being able to keep important items within easy access, and the Monos Carry-On Pro is great for that.

You also get Monos’ great limited lifetime warranty, which gives you a lot of peace of mind.

If you’re looking for the best carry-on luggage with spinner wheels, I don’t think you’ll be disappointed with this sleek and rugged case.

How to Choose Wheeled Luggage

There you have it! Twelve of the best rolling luggage options on the market. Each one is great at what it does, but which one’s right for you? There’s a lot that goes into choosing the best rolling luggage, from size to materials to features. Here are some of the key things to take into account while you shop:

One of the first things you’re going to need to decide is what size suitcase you need. Are you looking for a big checked bag or a compact international carry-on ?

It’s important to understand airline luggage size restrictions when picking a suitcase. Here are some of the categories to choose from and what size restrictions to expect.

• Checked luggage needs to be less than 62 linear inches to avoid extra fees (linear inches means you add the length, width, and height together)
• Domestic carry-on luggage in the US is typically limited to 22” x 14” x 9”
• International carry-on luggage is limited to 21.5” x 15.5” x 9”
• Underseat carry-on sizes vary by airline, but the limit is typically close to 18” x 14” x 8”.

Of course, you should always do a bit of research and know how to measure luggage to make sure a specific piece of luggage will work on the airlines you fly with.

Two Wheels or Four Wheels

The best rolling luggage falls into one of two categories: two-wheeled roller or four-wheeled spinner.

Luggage with four wheels seems to be all you see nowadays. These suitcases come with swiveling 360-degree spinner wheels that let you roll them in any direction. They are smooth, easy to use, and they can even be fun to maneuver through the airport (if anything about airports can be called fun).

Two-wheeled suitcases used to be the norm, but they’ve been losing ground to their spinner-wheel descendants. I still think there are a lot of reasons to choose two wheels over four.

For one, two-wheel luggage is typically more durable than spinner wheels. The wheels are tougher, bigger, and have sturdier mounts, so they do a better job on rough surfaces like cobblestones, brick, or unpaved paths.

Two-wheel suitcases also have more internal space because the wheels don’t take up as much room. This can make all the difference when you’re trying to pack your carry-on to the max.

Ultimately, the choice between two or four wheels comes down to personal preference. I personally prefer the durability and simplicity of two-wheeled luggage, but if ease of use is more important, you may be happier with spinner wheels.

Quality and Durability

Luggage takes a lot of abuse during travel, whether it’s the rough use from airline baggage handlers, or wear and tear from dragging it across cities around the world. The best rolling luggage should be built to handle everything you throw at it (within reason, of course).

There are a few common areas where luggage breaks: zippers, wheels, and corners are common problem areas. Here are a few points to look for when shopping for the best luggage:

• High quality zippers: I couldn’t tell you how many zippers I’ve snagged and broken over the years. I think it’s a curse. YKK-brand zippers are the best in the business, so I’d look for that in a good suitcase.
• Reinforced corners: Hard shell suitcases are most likely to break at the corners where they take repeated impact. Look for cases that have tough, reinforced corners.
• Good materials: A suitcase is only as good as the materials it’s made from. For hard shell luggage, polycarbonate is much better than ABS. For soft shell luggage, look for thick, durable fabrics like ballistic nylon or Cordura.
• Durable wheels: After having a pair of spinner suitcases break in Germany, I’ve become obsessed with finding luggage wheels that can handle abuse. Look for bigger wheels, ball bearings, and thick, rubber tires.

Of course, cost is going to be the trade-off here. Higher-quality luggage will typically cost more. If you are looking to hit an affordable price, you’ll want to find a suitcase that has good value and doesn’t compromise on basic build quality.

Most good luggage brands offer some sort of limited lifetime warranty. Basic warranties typically offer repair or replacement for manufacturing defects within a certain time frame.

Some companies offer better full-coverage warranties that will repair or replace your damaged suitcase no matter what. Carry-on fall from the overhead bin and break a wheel? Covered. Checked bag chewed up by the baggage claim conveyor? No problem.

Of course, luggage that comes with a better warranty usually costs more. You’re paying for the quality and service that goes into selling products that can be guaranteed for life. You’ll have to decide whether that’s worth it or not.

Wheeled Luggage Accessories

If you’re shopping for the best rolling luggage for your next trip, here are a few essential accessories to make sure you are fully equipped.

Monos Compressible Packing Cubes

It can be challenging to keep the main compartment of your suitcase neat and organized. It seems that no matter what you try, it always turns into a jumbled mess.

These zippered packing cubes are fantastic for keeping your suitcase organized. They come in sets of four or six with an array of different sizes to hold everything from socks to shirts.

The mesh front panel makes it easy to see what is inside each packing cube.

If you want to up your organization game while traveling, these are a fantastic choice.

Away Small Toiletry Bag

This small zippered bag works well for keeping all your toiletries organized and in one place.

One external zippered pocket and a transparent internal divider make it easy to see and access all your toiletries. Though it’s definitely compact, you’ll be surprised at how much fits in this little bag.

The small size is perfect for light packers, but if you need a bit more space, you can check out Away’s Large Toiletry Bag .

July Tech Kit

It can be hard to keep track of small electronic items like cables, headphones, and chargers. I usually find myself stuffing them into my pockets, or losing them deep in my luggage and having to dig them out.

This little case gives you a dedicated place for those small, easy-to-lose items. With room for earbuds, chargers, cables, a USB battery bank, and a pen/stylus, you won’t have to worry about losing anything.

The transparent plastic case protects your electronics while making it easy to see what’s inside, while elastic holders keep everything secure and organized.

Why Trust TravelFreak?

All of us on the TravelFreak team are avid travelers, and we have a lot of experience with rolling luggage. We’ve tested suitcases on our own business trips, vacations, and long-term overseas travel.

For this article, I consulted with the team and we put our heads together to list the best rolling suitcases out there. All the bags on this list were meticulously chosen based on our personal experience and testing during our own travels.

It’s a core value here that we only recommend products that we really like and would be happy using on our own adventures. We are dedicated to finding products that outperform others on the market, and everything on this list is the best at what it does (in our opinion and experience, of course).

Think we’ve missed something? Drop a recommendation in the comments. We’re always happy to check out new luggage and see how it measures up!

Wheeled Luggage FAQs

Which suitcase brand has the best wheels.

Monos suitcases have smooth-rolling wheels that are tested to be extremely long-lasting.

What are the best durable luggage wheels?

Eagle Creek rolling luggage has bomber oversized wheels that can take a lot of abuse.

Are 2 wheels or 4 wheels better on luggage?

2-wheeled rollaboard luggage is more durable, but 4-wheeled spinner luggage is easier to steer through the airport.

What is the best luggage for rolling on carpet?

Two-wheeled luggage is typically better for rolling in carpet than spinner luggage.

Do airlines prefer hard or soft luggage?

Hard luggage is preferred for check-ins as it’s more protective and less likely to snag or tear.

Jakob Thygerson

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Bus from Moscow, ID to Jackson, MI

More travel options, enjoy free onboard entertainment, reserve a seat, need to make a change, on this page, bus stations and stops in moscow, id, moscow (s.m.a.r.t transit).

View this address on Google Maps

To view more info about this station, visit our page Moscow (S.M.A.R.T Transit)

Bus stations and stops in Jackson, MI

Jackson bus stop.

To view more info about this station, visit our page Jackson Bus Stop

Discover all the places you can go

Choose from almost 2,300 destinations with Greyhound, FlixBus and our connecting partners!

Frequently asked questions

With Greyhound and FlixBus, you can conveniently reach 7 destinations from Jackson, including Detroit, Chicago, Atlanta.

The bus trip from Moscow to Jackson is about 2152 miles long. The quickest trip with Greyhound takes 45 hours 55 minutes.

The Moscow to Jackson bus starts from $269.99. Booking in advance, whether on the app or website, is the best way to get the most affordable bus travel. If you book online, you can choose to pay with a debit card or credit card on the Greyhound app or website. If you prefer, you can also pay in person with cash.

You can track the status of your Moscow to Jackson bus using Greyhound's bus tracker . With this tool, you can see the real-time location of your bus and get updates on its departure and arrival times.

Traveling by bus from Moscow to Jackson with Greyhound is a convenient and environmentally responsible choice, as bus travel reduces traffic and emissions compared to traveling by car.

When traveling on the bus from Moscow to Jackson with Greyhound, you can bring one carry-on bag with you (maximum 25 lbs, 16x12x7 inches). You can store one bag under the bus for free, and if you have a Flexible fare, the second bag stored under the bus is also free. You can also carry additional or bulky baggage for a supplementary charge. You can reserve extra baggage while booking your ticket on our website or app. Alternatively, you can add bulky items later through the 'Manage My Booking' section. If your departure is from a location with Greyhound personnel, you can book and pay for your extra luggage there. For more information, please refer to our baggage policy page here .

You can easily find the bus stops in Moscow and in Jackson on this page: check the address and their location on the map!

Greyhound buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts to assist passengers using wheelchairs or mobility scooters. Each bus has space for two passengers with these devices. It's recommended to book your bus from Moscow to Jackson in advance to ensure a spot. If you'd like to transfer to a regular seat, our drivers will stow your device for you. Service animals are also welcome on board our buses. For further details on accessibility and service animal policies, please check this link .

Greyhound runs up to 1 ride per day from Moscow to Jackson. You can search for your preferred departure date and check the schedule using the search bar above.

Yes, on this website you can book both Greyhound and FlixBus tickets from Moscow to Jackson. You can check both the Greyhound and FlixBus ride schedules once you select your departure city, destination city, and desired trip date.

The last Greyhound bus to Jackson from Moscow leaves at 2:25 pm.

Onboard services available on Greyhound buses from Moscow to Jackson include free Wi-Fi for all passengers, personal power outlets near every seat, reclining leather seats with footrests, extra legroom, overhead storage, and an on-board restroom.

The first Greyhound bus to Jackson from Moscow leaves at 2:25 pm.

Reckless 80L

The Reckless 80L is designed for off-road riding/camping, Backcountry Discovery Route exploration, and international fly-to-ride trips.

Reckless 80L (V4.0)

The R80 is our larger capacity rackless luggage system designed for off-road riding/camping, Backcountry Discovery Route exploration, and international fly-to-ride trips. The Reckless 80L is 100% waterproof, expands and contracts for various load volumes and riding conditions, and features adjustable leg angles to fit enduros up to larger ADV bikes.

Updates to Version 4.0

• CURV® composite harness
• Gnoblin compatible
• Two-directional Molle panels on beavertail & leg holsters
• Two settings for leg strap location
• Low-profile cam buckles
• Helmet Clip

The updated Reckless 80L V4.0 offers a stiffer, more durable, and lighter-weight design featuring CURV® composite harness material. The stiffness of the CURV® material significantly reduces movement of the bag, adding more stability for technical off-road riding. CURV® has a unique high-impact strength that will not fatigue or crack, even when riding on very hot days or in freezing temperatures.

Additional updates include multi-directional Molle on the beavertail and leg holsters, two settings for leg strap mounting, low-profile non-slip cam buckles, a helmet clip, and optimized integration for the optional  Gnoblin  rear mounting accessory. The R80 is also now built with 100% recycled 1680D Ballistic nylon with eco-friendly PVC backing and UV treatment.

With the Reckless 80L we replicated the traditional three-bag organization and packing system of a touring bike (two side panniers and a rear duffle) for bikes that don’t have pannier racks. The Reckless system saves you the added weight and expense of metal side pannier racks.

It’s 100% waterproof and easy to get into, so you don’t have to unstrap everything to get at your lunch or pull out a jacket. The side bags slide and strap into the leg holster which stays attached to the bike. All three main compartments are welded-seam roll-top drybags for total waterproofness. The center top bag is our Stinger 22L Tailbag , which has stashable backpack straps and works great as an airline carry-on or a day pack for short hikes. The side bags are interchangeable and include a clear panel on the front so you can easily find your gear.

In addition to the three main compartments, the optional 4L drybag auxiliary pocket (aka Aux Pox) are perfect for storing smaller items that you might need quick access to throughout the day. The Aux Pox holsters can be used with or without their roll-top drybags, making them a great place for extra fuel bottles , water , tool roll , or spare tubes.

The rear beavertail creates a convenient spot to tuck a motorcycle jacket  or to store wet things – like a tent rainfly, towel, or campsite garbage – that you don't want inside your dry bag. The inside panels of the beavertail include a tent pole bag , a removable map pocket, and two reinforced clear pockets for small items like toothbrush/toothpaste. The entire beavertail assembly is removable, giving you the option to ditch the Stinger 22L, therby reducing weight and total capacity.

Adding additional storage is easy if you need more than 80L of space. The beavertail straps extend to accommodate a second or larger top bag. The outside of the beavertail includes a 3-column MOLLE webbing panel, and each leg includes a 2-column panel on the front, with a 3-column panel on the rear. Add Mosko MOLLE   P ouches , or choose from a wide array of 3rd party MOLLE accessories.

The R80 harness is a 3-piece system, which can be disassembled for an international fly-to-ride trip. The entire system fits conveniently in a roller luggage system, like our Mule Gear Hauler .

If you have a crash on a long trip, the various components can be repaired or replaced individually, saving cost and hassle. A foam pad reduces chafe between the harness and the bike, and the harness is armored with Hypalon for abrasion resistance. All R80 drybags are made from 840D TPU (PVC free), to stand up to UV and cold weather.

• Adjustable leg angle for a custom fit on almost any bike
• Aux Pox 4L compatible for additional storage
• Super durable wrapped and riveted leg holster construction
• Hypalon armor panels – protection where you need it most
• Field-replaceable mounting straps and drybag retention straps
• Leg holster compression straps for easy loading
• Removable beavertail stash spot for extra storage and expansion
• Enlarged rear-fueling hole
• Five MOLLE panels for quick attachment of MOLLE accessories for volume expansion
• Two-directional Molle on beavertail and leg bags
• Two settings for the leg strap location
• Low-profile cam buckles on leg straps
• Helmet clip
• Reckless 80L harness
• Two 25L dry bags
• Stinger 22L tail bag
• Your choice of 0 or 2 Aux Pox pockets
• Tent pole bag
• Removable map/document pocket
• Hardware Pack (10 t-nuts, screws, washers + Allen key)
• Heat Shield with hose clamp
• Exhaust heat damage is not covered under warranty. Please use the included heat shield, and follow the installation instructions carefully.
• KTM 690, Husqvarna 701, and GasGas 700 customers:   The stock exhaust on these bikes runs VERY hot. Even with careful heat shield use, melting of the bike's plastics and the luggage can occur on these bikes specifically. Consider the Arrow brand aftermarket exhausts, available from Rottweiler Performance .
• Africa Twin customers, please note that the passenger grab handles found on the 2016-19 Africa Twin models may inhibit the fit of the Reckless 80L on the tail of the bike.
• On dual-exhaust bikes or bikes with especially high/exposed pipes, you will need a second heat shield, available for purchase in our website's Hardware & Parts section .
• Contact between soft luggage (no matter how soft) and your bike's plastics or painted surfaces will cause cosmetic wear to the bike over time because accumulated dirt is abrasive. If that is important, try applying a clear protective film (like  Allstar Performance Tape or  3M Polymask Protective Tape ) to your bike.
• Different bikes and installation approaches present different wear points to the Reckless 80 harness. After installation, go for a short test ride, then check for wear points. Adjust the harness position, file down sharp rack edges, or apply a sacrificial wear patch as needed. Continue to check for high-wear points over time, but remember that the harness is made to take a lot of abuse. Some visible wear is normal, and in no way does it affect the strength or waterproofness of the luggage.

The Reckless 80L is designed to fit a wide variety of motorcycles – from small enduro-style bikes up to larger adventure bikes. 

• View Assembly Instructions PDF
• View Harness Dimensions PDF
• We recommend adding the optional Gnoblin  rear mounting accessory for rock-solid attachment & easy on-off functionality.
• For bikes in the 250cc to 500cc range, we recommend using side racks or a tail rack. Check out  True North Moto .

PRODUCT VIDEOS

Product Overview

Quick CLIPS

Key features, the 2 bag system.

Tough bag on the outside, dry bag on the inside. The outer bag is engineered to resist punctures, abrasion, and tears. The 100% waterproof inner drybag is constructed of 22oz 840D TPU with welded seams, keeping water out and your stuff bone dry.

Infinite Expandability

Hypalon MOLLE panels allow you to customize and configure your Reckless system exactly the way you want it. MOLLE accessory pouches enable you to expand the capacity of your panniers for things like fuel bottles or a hydration reservoir. The expandable rear Beavertail creates a convenient spot to tuck a motorcycle jacket or store wet things you don't want inside your dry bag.

Compatible With Most Bikes

Adjustable leg angles allow the R80 to fit small enduros up to larger ADV bikes and can be easily transferred between different motorcycles. Making it an excellent choice for riders who own multiple bikes or frequently switch between models.

THE NITTY GRITTY

• Adjustable leg angle for a custom fit on almost any bike.
• Compatible with two removable 4L drybag-equipped auxiliary pockets aka Aux Pox.
• Super durable CURV® material for the chassis with riveted leg holster construction.
• Hypalon armor panels – protection where you need it most. 
• Field-replaceable mounting straps and drybag retention straps.
• Redesigned leg holster compression straps for easy loading.
• Removable beavertail stash spot for extra storage and expansion.
• Enlarged rear-fueling hole.
• Five MOLLE panels for quick attachment of MOLLE accessories for volume expansion.

DRY BAG CAPACITIES

• One 22L Stinger Tail Bag 
• Two 25L Per Leg Bag (50L Total)
• Two 4L Aux Pox Auxiliary Pocket (8L Total)

POSSIBLE CONFIGURATIONS  

Ultralight:  50L Capacity - 9.8lbs / 4.4kg

• No Stinger 22L Tail Bag
• Two 25L Leg Bags
• No Aux Pox Added
• Beavertails Removed

Minimalist:  58L Capacity - 12.2lbs / 5.5kg

• Two 4L Aux Pox

Simple:  72L Capacity - 12.8lbs / 5.8kg

• Stinger 22L Tail Bag

Standard:  80L Capacity - 15.2lbs / 6.8kg

• Two Leg Bags
• Two Aux Pox

Round The World:  88L Capacity - 16.5lbs / 7.8kg

• One Large MOLLE pouch on beavertail
• Two Medium MOLLE pouches on leg holsters

Harness Materials

• CURV® Composite harness
• 100% recycled 1680D Ballistic Nylon with eco-friendly PVC backing and UV treatment
• Hypalon armor panels - protection where you need it most
• Leg holsters wrapped behind harness and riveted, to eliminate seam failures
• Harness constructed with internal PE stiffener to prevent flopping
• Aluminum stiffener supports built into each leg of harness adding lateral rigidity
• EVA foam pad on the underside of harness reduces chafe to the luggage and the bike
• Reflective logos and material on each leg

Dry Bag Materials

• 100% waterproof durable 840D TPU with welded seams

Exhaust Heat Shield Materials

• Laser-cut anodized aluminum

Visit our Help Center for Product Care info.

We never cut corners during development or manufacturing, so we stand behind our products. If one fails due to a problem with materials or workmanship, we’ll make it right. All Mosko Moto products include:

Limited Lifetime Warranty

'Limited' means it does not cover:

• wear & tear
• neglect/misuse/abuse
• sun degradation
• modification and/or use for a purpose other than what the item was designed for

Crash Care Program

• 2 Year One-Time Repair or Discounted-Replacement Guarantee
• 5 Year Accident Repair or Discounted-Replacement Guarantee

Highly Recommended Accessory Products

• The Gnoblin
• Packing Cubes
• First Aid Kit
• Pinner Tool Roll

Customer Reviews

Works and fits great

atendeu as expectativas

Perfect for adventures, only suggestion is that it could be quicker and easier to change between the revolver settings for switching bikes and adding and removing aux pox. Love the small bag for putting the tent poles!

I was set on getting the 40 because I thought the 80 would be too big..they're not. They're perfect for both my 890 and 1150gs. If you're planning on living off of your bike for multiple days and don't like riding with a backpack these are a must. Combined with a Nomex tank bag this system is all time

It’s durable and can handle the heat very well

Warranty and Crash Replacement

We never cut corners during development or manufacturing, so we stand behind our products. If one fails due to a problem with materials or workmanship, we’ll make it right.

We offer an industry-leading limited lifetime warranty on all our sewn seam bags, and a two year warranty on welded seam bags. Contact us for discounted crash replacement pricing.

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They Traveled Home After Defending Ukraine, and Ended Up in a Russian Prison

Two Colombian soldiers who had fought for Ukraine are now under arrest in Moscow. They wound up there after stopping over in Venezuela, which apparently extradited them.

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By Anatoly Kurmanaev Simón Posada and Oleg Matsnev

Anatoly Kurmanaev and Oleg Matsnev reported from Berlin, and Simón Posada reported from Bogotá, Colombia.

Venezuela appears to have sent two foreign members of Ukraine’s military this week to face trial in Moscow, a significant escalation of Kremlin’s campaign to punish its enemies abroad.

The arrest of Colombian fighters in Moscow followed their arrival and subsequent disappearance last month in Venezuela, a neighbor of Colombia and a Russia ally.

Their apparent extradition could damage relations between the governments of Venezuela and Colombia, which share close economic and historical ties, experts said, underlining how the war in Ukraine is creating geopolitical ripples far from the battlefield.

Russian state media on Friday published a video of the country’s secret police interrogating the two Colombians, José Medina and Alejandro Ante, about their combat service in Ukraine, where they fought in the ranks of Ukrainian Armed Forces for eight to 10 months.

A Moscow court on Thursday separately ordered Mr. Medina and Mr. Ante taken into custody on accusations of being mercenaries, a crime under Russian and international law.

Relatives of the two Colombian servicemen confirmed to The New York Times that the men seen in the video being hauled through a corridor by security officers and later interrogated were Mr. Medina and Mr. Ante.

The relatives said they last heard from the two men, retired Colombian professional soldiers, when they landed in Caracas, the Venezuelan capital, on July 18, as they traveled home from the battlefields of Ukraine.

“Hey my cutie, heading to Venezuela, and soon to Colombia,” Mr. Medina, 37, said in a video sent to his wife Cielo Paz, as he walked in his military uniform toward an airplane that would take him from Madrid to Caracas. Mr. Medina later shared his geolocation in Caracas’s international airport, Ms. Paz’s phone records show, before breaking off contact.

Venezuela’s government has not commented on the apparent detention and extradition of the Colombian soldiers. The country’s foreign ministry did not respond to a request for comment.

Venezuela’s government has also not responded to official requests made in the past month by Colombia for information about Mr. Medina and Mr. Ante’s whereabouts, according to copies of two diplomatic letters seen by The New York Times.

Venezuela’s president, Nicolás Maduro, has long allied himself with Russia in his standoff with the United States over his government’s authoritarian turn.

But he has also attempted to maintain good relations with Colombia’s leftist president, Gustavo Petro, an ideological peer of Venezuela’s nominally socialist government.

Venezuela’s apparent extradition of two Colombian citizens comes at a particularly sensitive time for Mr. Maduro’s relations with Mr. Petro, who is attempting to mediate a political agreement between the Venezuelan government and the opposition following a contested presidential election there last month.

Venezuela’s electoral body proclaimed Mr. Maduro the winner without providing any details, while vote counts from electoral observers released by the opposition show that he lost decisively.

In approving the apparent extradition of Colombian citizens, Venezuela’s government is showing that Mr. Maduro is prioritizing traditional alliances with authoritarian nations such as Russia at the expense of more neutral democracies such as Colombia as he hunkers down, said Vladimir Rouvinski, an expert on Latin American relations with Russia at the Icesi University in Cali, Colombia.

“Maduro has crossed out the possibility of reaching any sort of beneficial deal with Petro,” Mr. Rouvinski said.

Mr. Medina and Mr. Ante are the first foreign combatants of the war in Ukraine known to face service-related charges after being detained in a third country.

Both Russia and Ukraine have relied on thousands of foreigners to boost their depleted forces.

Some joined the war because they sought adventure, wanted to defend an ideological cause or because they hated the enemy . But many others — particularly from poorer countries in Latin America, Asia and Africa — went to Ukraine primarily to earn a living for their families.

Colombian fighters have proven to be particularly useful recruits for the Ukrainian military because of their experience fighting Marxist guerrillas and training with U.S. weapons and officers.

Hundreds of retired Colombian soldiers have traveled to Ukraine since the start of the war to fight for Kyiv for about $3,000 a month, more than they could make at home based on their skills, about a dozen Colombian recruits and their relatives said in interviews.

“The money simply did not add up,” Mr. Ante’s brother, River Arbey Ante, said in a brief phone interview on Friday, describing his motivation to enlist. As a frontline soldier, Mr. Ante earned in Ukraine more than double what he had made as a bodyguard in a provincial capital of southern Colombia, his brother said.

Mr. Ante and Mr. Medina had served in the Carpathian Sich 49th Infantry Battalion, one of the two main destinations for Latin American recruits in Ukraine’s Armed Forces.

Russia and Ukraine have sought to punish foreign nationals who had joined the opposing side, to raise morale among their own citizens and deter others from joining the enemy.

Early in the war, a court in Russian-occupied Ukraine issued death sentences against two British nationals and a Moroccan who were taken prisoner while fighting for Ukraine. The sentences were never carried out, and the men were later repatriated in a prisoner exchange.

Since then, Russia has tried Ukraine’s foreign fighters mostly in absentia.

Ukraine has conducted similar trials against captured foreigners fighting for Russia. Most famously, a Ukrainian court convicted a Brazilian man on terrorism charges before eventually returning him to Brazil.

International law is ambiguous about the legality of foreigners such as Mr. Medina and Mr. Ante joining a faraway war, legal experts have said. Such men partly meet the definition of mercenaries, who are banned under the Geneva Convention because they are motivated primarily by money and have no ties to combatant nations.

But because foreign fighters in Ukraine are members of the regular armed forces and receive similar payments and benefits as Ukrainian citizens, the Ukrainian government has claimed that they are legal combatants.

In addition to the Geneva Convention, Russian law explicitly bans mercenaries. The Kremlin, however, has relied significantly on private military companies to recover from the setbacks of its invasion two years ago, and since last year has recruited heavily from nations such as Cuba, Nepal and Syria.

The risk to Russia of its reliance on mercenaries became apparent last year, when the leader of the Wagner paramilitaries, Yevgeny V. Prigozhin, staged a mutiny and marched his forces on Moscow. He died in a plane crash months later.

In Colombia, relatives of Mr. Medina and Mr. Ante said they were still waiting to learn what happened to their loved ones. Mr. Medina was scheduled to arrive home on his birthday, July 19. One of the last messages he read on his phone was a photo taken by his wife, Ms. Paz, of a festive table decorated with balloons and a hanging “Happy Birthday” sign.

An official at the Colombian Embassy in Moscow said on Friday that the embassy had learned about the former soldiers’ detention from news reports and that they had yet to receive a reply from Russia’s foreign ministry about the men's status.

The lack of response from the Venezuelan and Russian governments presents a diplomatic challenge for Mr. Petro’s government, said Mr. Rouvinski, the political science professor.

After assuming the presidency in 2022, Mr. Petro has sought to preserve Colombia’s status as a main ally of the United States in South America. But he has also assumed a neutral position on Russia’s invasion, even after a Russian strike injured several prominent Colombian intellectuals visiting Ukraine.

In late 2022, Mr. Petro’s ambassador to Russia, Hector Arenas, offered a tip to Russian tourists who wanted to visit Colombia despite the various wartime travel restrictions: fly via Venezuela.

Genevieve Glatsky contributed reporting from Bogotá, and Stanislav Kozliuk from Kyiv.

Anatoly Kurmanaev covers Russia and its transformation following the invasion of Ukraine. More about Anatoly Kurmanaev