Best Carry On Luggage For Travel 2025: Buying Guide

When it comes to travel, the right carry-on luggage can make or break your experience. In 2025, travelers have more options than ever, with cutting edge designs and smart features that promise convenience and style. But with so many choices, how do you select the best carry-on bag that suits your needs? From hard-shell vs soft-shell to innovative smart features, this guide will help you navigate the complexities of choosing the perfect carry-on for your next adventure.

The best carry-on luggage for 2025 should combine durability, ease of use, and innovative features. Ideal carry-on bags are lightweight, spacious, and compliant with airline size regulations, making travel easier and more efficient.

Imagine breezing through the airport, effortlessly gliding your carry-on across terminals with ease, knowing it fits perfectly in the overhead compartment and contains all your essentials. No stress, no delays,just smooth sailing. This scenario can be your reality if you know what to look for when choosing the best carry-on luggage. Let’s dive into the key factors that will make your decision easier and your travel experience better.

What Makes the Best Carry-On Luggage for Travel?

The best carry-on luggage for men should be durable, lightweight, and packed with user-friendly features. Travelers are looking for convenience, functionality, and stylish designs. Key features to prioritize include size compliance, ease of movement, and modern enhancements like built-in charging ports or smart tracking. Whether you’re embarking on a business trip or a leisurely vacation, your carry-on should make the journey easier, not harder.

The best carry-on bag for offers a mix of durability, lightweight materials, and innovative features like smart technology and 360-degree wheels. Ensure it meets size restrictions and enhances your travel experience.

Dive Deeper:

• Durability and Materials: In 2025 or 2023,2024, your carry-on luggage should stand up to the rigors of frequent travel. Look for materials that offer a balance between sturdiness and flexibility, such as polycarbonate for hard-shell cases or ballistic nylon for soft-shell options. Both are resistant to wear and tear, ensuring longevity even with constant use.
• Weight and Maneuverability: A lightweight design is essential, especially when navigating busy airports. The best carry-ons weigh less than 8 pounds and feature 360-degree spinner wheels for easy movement. These wheels allow you to glide through terminals effortlessly, no matter how crowded it gets.
• Smart Features: Many of the best carry-ons now include built-in charging ports, GPS tracking, and digital locks for added security. These features are particularly valuable for business travelers or those who want to stay connected while on the go.

What is the Best Size Carry-On Luggage for International Travel?

When traveling internationally, finding the right size for your carry-on is critical. The typical carry-on size accepted by most airlines is 22 x 14 x 9 inches. However, size regulations may vary depending on the airline, so it’s important to confirm the exact measurements before you buy.

For international travel, a carry-on size of 22 x 14 x 9 inches is standard, but be sure to check your airline’s specific size requirements to avoid issues at the airport.

Dive Deeper:

• Airline Regulations: Each airline has its own carry-on size requirements, so knowing the exact specifications is essential. Most major airlines, like American Airlines, United, and Delta, adhere to the 22 x 14 x 9-inch limit, but budget carriers often have stricter guidelines.
• Capacity vs Size: While you don’t want to exceed size limits, it’s crucial to maximize space within those dimensions. Look for carry-ons that offer expandable compartments, which give you the option to pack more without compromising on size.
• Wheeled vs Non-Wheeled: Many travelers opt for wheeled carry-ons for ease of movement, but non-wheeled bags may offer better packing capacity and be more lightweight.

Is Hard or Soft Luggage Better for Carry-On?

Choosing between hard-shell and soft-shell luggage largely depends on your travel style and the protection you need. Hard-shell luggage offers a sleek, protective exterior, perfect for protecting fragile items, while soft-shell bag provides more flexibility and often includes expandable sections.

Hard-shell luggage offers more protection for fragile items and a durable exterior, while soft-shell luggage is more flexible and expandable, providing extra packing space.

Dive Deeper:

• Hard-Shell Luggage: Hard-shell luggage is typically made from materials like polycarbonate or aluminum, which provide excellent durability and impact resistance. If you’re carrying fragile items like electronics, or if you’re traveling to destinations with rough conditions, hard-shell luggage offers peace of mind. However, it’s generally less flexible and may not fit in smaller overhead compartments.
• Soft-Shell Luggage: Soft-shell luggage is often made from materials like ballistic nylon or polyester, which are more flexible and lighter than hard-shell alternatives. These bags usually offer more pockets for easy organization and often come with expandable compartments for additional packing space. If you’re traveling to a destination where you might pick up extra items along the way, soft-shell bags are ideal.
• Durability and Protection: While hard-shell bags offer better protection for your items, soft-shell bags can handle heavier loads without cracking. Additionally, soft-shell luggage can be easier to store in small spaces, as it can often bend or squish slightly to fit into tight compartments.

Are Expandable Carry-On Luggage Worth It?

Expandable carry-on luggage is designed with the ability to increase its capacity when needed. It features an expandable zipper or mechanism that allows you to increase the depth of the bag, giving you extra space for your belongings. While many travelers swear by the convenience of expandable luggage, it raises the question: are they truly worth the investment? Let’s take a deep dive into the pros and cons of expandable carry-on luggage to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your travel needs.

Expandable carry-on luggage offers additional packing space, flexibility, and convenience, especially for longer trips. However, it can add weight and might not fit under the seat or in overhead bins depending on the size increase. Consider your travel needs before deciding.

The Benefits of Expandable Carry-On Luggage

• Increased Capacity When Needed: The main advantage of expandable luggage is the flexibility it offers. If you’re packing light for a shorter trip but anticipate needing extra space for souvenirs or items bought during your travels, expandable luggage gives you that option. It allows you to have a compact bag for easy maneuvering through airports but provides extra capacity when you need it. Example: If you’re traveling on a short business trip with minimal clothing, you might keep your luggage compact and avoid overhead bin issues. However, if you plan to extend your trip or purchase gifts, you can easily expand your carry-on to fit everything without worrying about checking in additional luggage.
• More Packing Options: Many expandable carry-ons come with additional internal compartments, compression straps, and extra pockets that can help with organization. Even when expanded, the bag remains organized, making it easier to access your items during the trip. This added organization is a big bonus when you need to fit more items in a structured way.
• Convenience for Last-Minute Additions: If you’re an impulsive shopper or have unexpected changes in your itinerary (like picking up extra items from your destination), the ability to expand your carry-on can save you from having to check in additional luggage or purchase a larger bag at the last minute. It adds an element of convenience for those who prefer to travel light but still want to have extra space available.

The disadvantages of Expandable Carry-On Luggage

• Increased Weight When Expanded: While expandable luggage is often lightweight when not expanded, the additional space comes with a price. When you increase the depth of the bag, it naturally becomes heavier. This can be an issue if you’re trying to adhere to strict airline weight limits for carry-on bags. Example: If you initially pack a bag within the weight limit but expand it during your trip, you may risk exceeding the carry-on weight limit, especially if the bag is filled with heavier items like jackets, shoes, or electronics. Airlines often charge hefty fees for overweight carry-ons, which is a crucial consideration for travelers on tight budgets.
• Potential Size Issues with Airlines: Not all airlines are equally lenient when it comes to carry-on size. While an expandable bag might fit perfectly into the overhead compartment in its compact form, expanding it could make it too large, leading to potential issues at the gate. Example: Low-cost carriers and smaller regional airlines tend to be more strict about baggage size restrictions, especially for overhead bin space. Even if you have a “carry-on” bag, expanding it could cause problems if it no longer fits within the allowable dimensions for your airline.

Are Expandable Carry-Ons Worth It for Frequent Travelers?

For frequent travelers, expandable carry-on luggage can be a game-changer, offering convenience and flexibility. Whether for business or leisure, the ability to expand your luggage for longer trips or unexpected items can make your journey more manageable. However, frequent travelers should consider whether they need the additional space often enough to justify the slightly higher price tag and potential downsides.

• Business Travelers: For business trips that involve conferences or client meetings, having expandable luggage allows you to pack more efficiently without the need for a separate checked bag. The flexibility to expand when needed can be particularly useful for those who have unpredictable schedules or need to bring back additional materials from meetings.
• Leisure Travelers: For travelers who tend to buy souvenirs or gifts, an expandable carry-on can provide the extra room needed to bring everything back. However, if you’re someone who likes to stick to a tight packing list and doesn’t buy much while traveling, a non-expandable carry-on might suffice.

How to Choose the Right Expandable Carry-On

If you decide that expandable luggage is worth it for you, here are a few things to look out for when choosing the right one:

• Quality Zipper and Mechanism: The expansion zipper or mechanism should be strong, durable, and easy to operate. Make sure it can handle the weight when the bag is expanded without risk of breaking or getting stuck.
• Durability: Since expandable luggage often involves more moving parts, choose a bag made from high-quality materials (e.g., polycarbonate, ballistic nylon) that can withstand frequent use.
• Weight Considerations: Opt for a lightweight base bag that doesn’t add too much weight to your luggage, especially when expanded.
• Travel Style: Consider how often you actually need the expansion feature. If you rarely buy extra items while traveling, a non-expandable bag might be more practical, but if you’re a frequent shopper or long-term traveler, the flexibility of an expandable carry-on may be worth the investment.

What Are the Best-Rated Carry-On Luggage Options?

The best-rated carry-on luggage options for combine durability, style, and smart features. Leading brands like Away, Samsonite, and Travelpro continue to receive top marks for their innovative designs and high-quality construction. Consider customer reviews and expert ratings to help determine the best option for your needs.

Summary: Leading brands like Away and Samsonite are highly rated for their carry-on luggage, known for durability, design, and ease of use. Look for reviews to find the top-performing options for 2025.

Dive Deeper:

• Customer Reviews: Look for carry-on luggage that consistently receives high ratings for durability and ease of use. Customer reviews often provide real-life insights into how the luggage performs over time, particularly in terms of build quality and functionality.
• Expert Recommendations: Many luggage experts and travel bloggers provide detailed reviews and recommendations based on real-world testing. These sources are invaluable for understanding which brands and models truly stand out.
• Best Value for Money: A high-rated carry-on doesn’t always have to come with a high price tag. Many mid-range brands like Travelpro and Briggs & Riley offer excellent quality at a more affordable price point.

What is the TSA 3-1-1 Rule for Carry-Ons?

The TSA’s 3-1-1 rule applies to liquids in carry-on luggage. Travelers can bring 3.4-ounce (100ml) containers of liquid, gel, or aerosol in a single 1-quart-sized bag. This rule is crucial for keeping your travel experience smooth and ensuring compliance with airport security regulations.

The TSA 3-1-1 rule limits travelers to 3.4-ounce liquid containers in a single 1-quart bag, ensuring a faster security screening process.

Dive Deeper:

• Packing Tips: To avoid delays at security checkpoints, be sure to pack your liquids, gels, and aerosols in clear, resealable bags. This will help you pass through security more quickly and avoid the stress of having to unpack or discard items.
• Exceptions: Some exceptions apply to certain medications, baby food, and breast milk. If you need to carry larger quantities of liquids for medical purposes, ensure you have proper documentation to pass through security smoothly.
• Avoiding Mistakes: Many travelers unknowingly break the 3-1-1 rule by carrying oversized containers of liquids or forgetting to place their items in a clear bag. Keep a small zippered pouch in your carry-on for liquids to make this process hassle-free.

How to Maximize Space in Carry-On Luggage

Maximizing space in your carry-on luggage is essential for efficient packing, especially when you’re trying to avoid checked baggage fees or ensure everything fits into a small cabin-sized bag. Whether you’re going on a short weekend trip or a longer vacation, knowing how to pack efficiently will make your journey more convenient and hassle-free. Here are several strategies you can use to ensure that you maximize every inch of space in your carry-on.

Maximizing space in carry-on luggage requires smart packing strategies like using packing cubes, rolling clothes, and choosing versatile items. Organizing your belongings efficiently ensures you can bring everything you need without exceeding the baggage limit.

1. Use Packing Cubes or Compression Bags

One of the most effective ways to maximize space in your carry-on luggage is by using packing cubes or compression bags. These organizational tools allow you to pack clothing and accessories in a more compact, organized manner.

Packing Cubes: These are small, lightweight fabric cubes that help compartmentalize your clothes. By grouping similar items together (e.g., shirts in one cube, pants in another), you can maximize the space in your bag and avoid rummaging through a jumbled mess of clothes.

Benefits:

• Keeps your items organized
• Reduces wrinkles by keeping clothes from shifting around
• Helps you see everything at a glance, which is especially useful for business trips where you may need to quickly access a specific outfit.

Compression Bags: These are vacuum-seal bags that allow you to compress bulky clothing, like sweaters or jackets, into a fraction of their original size. By removing the air, you can fit more clothes into a smaller space.

Benefits:

• Ideal for bulky items like jackets or sweaters
• Significantly reduces the space these items take up in your carry-on
• You don’t need a vacuum, as many compression bags come with a rolling mechanism to expel the air.

2. Roll, Don’t Fold

Rolling your clothes instead of folding them is another space-saving technique that has become widely popular among seasoned travelers. This method allows you to pack more efficiently and reduces the likelihood of wrinkles.

How to Roll Clothes Properly: Start by laying your clothing flat, then roll them tightly from one end to the other. Make sure to roll each item as tightly as possible without damaging the fabric. This method works especially well for items like t-shirts, jeans, and activewear.

Benefits:

• More clothes fit into your bag
• Clothes are less likely to wrinkle than when folded
• Items are easy to access since you can roll them in a way that allows you to see all your clothes at a glance.

3. Choose Versatile Clothing

When packing for your trip, aim for items that can be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits. By selecting clothing that is versatile and can be worn in different combinations, you’ll save space while still having enough outfits to last for your entire trip.

• Example Items: Choose neutral-colored items like black, white, or navy, which are easy to pair with any other color. Opt for wrinkle-free fabrics or materials like merino wool that don’t require frequent washing or ironing.
• Maximizing Outfits: Pack multi-purpose items like a scarf that can double as a blanket on the plane or a jacket that can be worn during both casual and formal occasions. Layering pieces such as cardigans or sweaters can also create different looks without needing extra clothes.

4. Utilize the Inside of Shoes and Other Small Spaces

Shoes often take up a lot of space in a carry-on, but you can use the inside of shoes to store small items like socks, underwear, or accessories.

• Packing Shoes: Place smaller items inside your shoes to save space. You can also wrap fragile items like jewelry or chargers in socks or scarves to protect them.
• Maximize Zipper Pockets: Most carry-ons have side pockets or zipper compartments. These can be used for small items such as toiletries, electronics, or even a small handbag.

5. Wear Bulky Items on the Plane

If you’re packing bulky items like jackets, coats, or boots, wear them on the plane rather than packing them in your carry-on. This saves you valuable space in your luggage and keeps your larger items easily accessible during your journey.

Benefits:

• You won’t have to worry about fitting bulky items in your bag
• Wearing heavier clothing can also help you stay comfortable during flights, especially if the temperature in the cabin is cold.

6. Invest in a Good Quality, Expandable Carry-On

If you’re packing for a longer trip but still want to use a carry-on, an expandable suitcase can provide more space when needed. These bags offer extra capacity by expanding when necessary and offer a tight, secure fit when not in use.

Benefits:

• Gives you flexibility depending on how much you need to pack
• Perfect for longer trips or when you’re planning on shopping during your vacation

7. Organize with Toiletries and Gadgets in Mind

Don’t let your toiletries or electronics take up unnecessary space. Opt for travel-size toiletries or consider purchasing multi-purpose travel-sized products. For electronics, organize chargers, cables, and accessories using pouches or small cases to keep them compact and easy to access.

Toiletries Tips:

• Use TSA-approved travel-sized containers
• Pack only the essentials and avoid overpacking with unnecessary items.

Electronics Tips:

• Use a tech organizer to keep cords and devices neat.
• Consider compact versions of your electronics, like a mini laptop or tablet instead of a full-sized laptop.

What is the Best Carry-On Luggage Manufacturer?

Choosing the best carry-on bag for a woman isn’t just about picking the right size or features; it’s also about selecting a reliable manufacturer known for producing high-quality, durable, and stylish luggage. With so many brands on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the one that best suits your travel needs. To help make your decision easier, we’ll explore some of the top-rated carry-on luggage manufacturers, highlighting their unique features, reputation, and customer satisfaction.

The best carry-on luggage manufacturer is one that offers a combination of durability, innovative features, customer service, and value. Leading brands like Samsonite, Away, Tumi, and Rimowa are known for their premium quality, stylish designs, and commitment to traveler satisfaction.

1. Samsonite

Samsonite has been a household name in luggage for over 100 years, earning a solid reputation for producing durable, high-quality bags. As one of the leading brands in the industry, Samsonite offers a wide range of carry-on luggage options, from soft-shell designs to durable hard-shell models. Known for its innovative features, the brand has continued to push the envelope with new technologies like lightweight polycarbonate shells, smooth-rolling wheels, and RFID-blocking compartments.

• Popular Models: Samsonite’s Winfield 3 DLX and Omni PC collections are often highly recommended for their durability and affordability. They offer great value without compromising on quality, making them a top choice for budget-conscious travelers.
• Samsonite offers products that are designed to last, backed by a 10-year warranty. Additionally, their carry-ons are renowned for being travel-friendly, with features that cater to both business and leisure travelers alike.

2. Away

Away is a newer player in the luggage market but has quickly gained popularity for its sleek, minimalist design and practical features. Known for its hard-shell carry-on luggage, Away’s products are modern, durable, and designed to withstand the demands of frequent travel. One of Away’s standout features is the inclusion of built-in battery packs for charging devices on the go.

• Popular Models: The The Bigger Carry-On and The Carry-On are two of the brand’s most popular sizes. Both offer excellent packing capacity, durability, and convenience, making them an ideal choice for short to medium-length trips.
• Away’s reputation for offering premium luggage at competitive prices, along with its customizable options (like interior colors), appeals to travelers who value both style and function. Their lifetime warranty further adds to their appeal, offering peace of mind that the brand stands behind its products.

3. Tumi

Tumi is known for producing luxury travel gear, and their carry-on luggage collections reflect the brand’s commitment to quality and elegance. Tumi bags are often made from durable ballistic nylon or sophisticated hard-shell materials, ensuring they can withstand the rigors of travel. Known for their attention to detail, Tumi offers a wide range of travel accessories alongside their luggage, such as garment bags, backpacks, and laptop cases.

• Popular Models: The Tumi Alpha 3 Expandable International 4-Wheeled Carry-On and Tumi V3 Expandable Carry-On are designed specifically for business travelers, with features like padded laptop compartments, dual spinner wheels for smooth maneuvering, and expandable packing space for extra room on return trips.
• Tumi’s premium construction and high-end design make it an ideal choice for frequent business travelers who need luggage that reflects their professional status. Their bags are not only durable but also come with features like the Tumi Tracer system, which helps track lost luggage.

4. Rimowa

Rimowa is a German brand renowned for its premium quality and luxury appeal. Famous for its aluminum and polycarbonate carry-on luggage, Rimowa bags are both stylish and functional, offering a unique combination of high-end materials and sophisticated design. The brand’s luggage is particularly known for its sleek, silver-hued exteriors and signature grooves, which not only look great but provide additional strength and durability.

• Popular Models: The Rimowa Essential Cabin S and Rimowa Classic Cabin are popular models that cater to travelers who want the best in both aesthetics and performance. Rimowa’s cabin bags are often found in premium business-class cabins, a testament to their quality.
• Rimowa is the go-to brand for those who want a luxurious carry-on that stands out. Their products are built to last and are backed by a global warranty. While they are at the higher end of the price spectrum, many travelers find that the investment is worth it for their durability, stylish design, and performance.

5. Briggs & Riley

Briggs & Riley is well-known for producing high-quality, durable luggage with a focus on practical features and long-lasting performance. The brand is especially favored by business travelers for its thoughtful design elements, such as the CX Compression Expansion System, which increases packing capacity without compromising on size.

• Popular Models: The Briggs & Riley Baseline Domestic Carry-On Expandable Spinner and Symmetric Expandable Spinner are highly rated for their durability, spacious interiors, and expandable capacity.
• Briggs & Riley offers a lifetime warranty, including coverage for damage caused by airlines, which is a rare feature in the luggage industry. This level of customer service makes it a standout brand for frequent travelers who want peace of mind when it comes to their luggage.

Why Choose Szoneier for Your Custom Carry-On Luggage?

As you prepare for your next trip, remember that your carry-on luggage is one of the most important pieces of gear. Take time to find the right size, features, and design that suit your travel needs. If you’re looking for high-quality, customizable carry-on luggage, Szoneier is your trusted partner. Whether you need a bespoke design or a specific feature, we can craft the perfect luggage to meet your needs. Get in touch today to inquire about custom designs, and let us help you take your travel experience to the next level.