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When it comes to traveling the globe with ease and efficiency, the perfect carry-on luggage is essential.
Perhaps you’ve planned a chic getaway to Nizuc Resort & Spa in Cancún, Mexico, and you’re aiming to travel light while still having ample space for a stylish trip, complete with accessories and multiple outfits. You’ll want a carry-on that delivers on both function and flair. Aside from meeting airline regulations, “a carry-on should be able to fit all your necessities for a trip [of] between two and five days, yet lightweight and easy to travel with,” according to the experts at luggage brand Delsey Paris. Security features and expandability, along with price and value, are also crucial.
Shop the Best Carry-On Luggage
With countless options available, from sleek hard-shell cases to flexible soft-shell designs, finding the right carry-on can be overwhelming. Below, we’ve selected 10 of the best travel pieces on the market right now, to ensure your luggage not only meets your travel needs but also enhances your personal style.
Pros
- Like most Delsey Paris rolling bags, includes USB port for travelers to connect their own personal power banks and chargers with ease
- Securitech zipper, which Delsey says is three times more durable than a standard zipper
Cons
- Not all Delsey products have a Bluetooth tracker. Some newer Delsey collections, including Turenne 2.0, do have a Bluetooth tracker holder built in.
The highly coveted Carry-On Plus Expandable Spinner from Delsey features an expandable roomy interior with two packing compartments, elastic straps, and a mesh divider. The interior lining is removable and washable, so you can keep the inside of your bag fresh for your next getaway.
Travel tip from Delsey: “While the expandability gives travelers added flexibility to bring more with them (and shop while away!), check the luggage size restrictions, as you may need to check your bag. For road trips, the expandable feature is a dream, allowing you to pack a smaller pack with more space.”
Travel destination: Discover all-inclusive luxury family hotels in Majorca, the Zafiro Palace Andratx, set amidst beautiful palm gardens with stunning sea and mountain views. Enjoy five restaurants, various pools, and a top-notch spa in this coastal paradise.
Weight: 7.4 pounds
Materials: 100% polycarbonate
Colors: Plum, blue, black, graphite, platinum, ivory
Pros
- Soft exterior adapts to varying contents, offering increased packing capacity and easier storage in tight spaces
- Designed with resilient, easy-to-clean materials, it resists wear and tear while maintaining a sleek appearance.
Cons
- Soft-side luggage may not hold its shape well when empty, which can make it harder to store or stack neatly.
Away’s best-selling suitcase is now soft. The new Softside collection combines the brand’s signature modern aesthetic with unbeatable functionality, offering travelers who favor soft luggage the perfect balance of style and reliability. This collection features enhanced organization, with a top flap opening that reveals a spacious main compartment and additional interior pockets. It also includes two discreet exterior front pockets for easy access, a matching TSA-approved padlock for added security, and a proprietary stabilizer to keep your bag upright, even when fully packed.
Travel tip from Luigi Auricchio, Away’s VP of design: “Packing cubes are also great for organization and keeping items separate! You can group your clothes by day, destination, or item type.”
Weight: 9.8 pounds
Materials: High-strength nylon exterior
Colors: Jet black, coast blue, cloud gray, clay pink
Pros
- 100% carbon-neutral
- Environmentally conscious, made from recycled and sustainable materials, to offset all associated carbon emissions, making it a top choice for eco-aware travelers
Cons
- The focus on sustainability and innovative materials may result in a higher price point, compared to more conventional carry-ons.
Constructed from recycled materials with methods to offset carbon emissions, this carry-on is ideal for those who want to make a positive impact while enjoying a stylish and functional piece of luggage. Perfect for a long weekend getaway, the Aviator combines environmental responsibility with top-notch craftsmanship. Perfect for your long weekend stay at the Standard Ibiza.
Weight: 8.2 pounds
Materials: 100% carbon neutral. Made of recycled polycarbonate, recycled aluminum handles, recycled zippers, vegan leather details, and Negative Nylon lining made from 15 recycled plastic bottles.
Colors: Safari green, scuba navy, domino black, derby black, scout tan
Pros
- 360-degree wheels and ergonomic handle contribute to a smooth, hassle-free travel experience
Cons
- Depending on the model, may be fewer customization options compared to other brands
Carl Friedrik’s Core carry-on is renowned for its elegant and contemporary look, which appeals to travelers who prioritize aesthetics. The perfect carry-on for your next visit to Nizuc Resort & Spa in Mexico.
Constructed from high-quality, lightweight materials, the Core carry-on is built to withstand the rigors of frequent travel. Its hard-shell exterior provides robust protection for your belongings while keeping the suitcase itself light enough to meet most airline weight restrictions.
Weight: 7 pounds
Materials: German-engineered Makrolon polycarbonate shell, vegetable-tanned leather detailing, premium brushed fabric lining
Colors: Sand/chocolate, black/black, navy/navy
Pros
- Expandable main compartment, allowing you to increase packing capacity when needed
Cons
- Meets most airline size regulations, but check with specific airlines before traveling
The Béis carry-on roller is a sleek and stylish choice for travelers who prioritize both form and function. Designed by actor Shay Mitchell, this carry-on roller embodies a blend of elegance and practicality, making it a popular option for frequent flyers and occasional travelers alike. The robust, water-resistant exterior ensures your belongings stay protected in various weather conditions. Its smooth wheels, expandable capacity, and organized interior make it a top contender for those looking to travel in style en route to Nobu Hotel Caesars Palace.
Weight: 8.36 pounds
Materials: Polycarbonate body, PVC, polyester liner, vegan leather trim, nylon zipper, hardware metal
Colors: Matte black, atlas pink, maple, beige, olive, gray, navy, honey
Pros
- Front pocket is a unique feature that allows you to quickly retrieve essential items without opening the entire suitcase
Cons
- Lack of expandability could be a drawback for those needing extra packing space
The Ambeur front-pocket carry-on luggage offers a blend of stylish design and practical features, making it a strong choice for modern travelers. One of the standout features is the front pocket, which provides easy access to frequently needed items such as travel documents, electronics, or snacks. This added convenience allows for quicker access without having to open the main compartment, making security checks and boarding smoother.
Weight: 8 pounds
Materials: Polycarbonate shell
Colors: Gold, rose gold, black
Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable With Double Spinner Wheels
Pros
- Built-in TSA-approved lock provides added security for your belongings
Cons
- While the expandable feature adds some flexibility, the 21-inch size may still feel restrictive for travelers who need to pack more.
If you’re looking for a carry-on that combines practical features with a touch of elegance, the Samsonite Freeform is a standout option. It combines durability, sleek design, and practicality. Crafted from advanced polypropylene, the Freeform’s hardside shell is incredibly resilient, designed to withstand the rough handling of travel while remaining lightweight. This material ensures that the carry-on can handle impacts and rough conditions without compromising its shape or integrity.
Weight: 6.5 pounds
Colors: White, amethyst purple, black, dark teal, light grey, lilac, merlot, mint green, navy, pink rose, powder blue, red, sage green, tangerine.
Pros
- Hidden, odor-resistant laundry bag that compresses, keeping dirty clothes neatly tucked away your clean items untouched
Cons
- Additional battery feature might contribute to a slightly heavier carry-on, and issues with the battery could necessitate extra maintenance or replacement
Transform your travel experience with the July carry-on, featuring an innovative ejectable battery that includes both standard USB and USB-C ports. This smart power bank allows you to charge your phone and laptop effortlessly, keeping you energized throughout your trip. With its global flight approval, you can carry it on any airline, combining modern convenience with sleek design. The July Y-Strap Compression System provides a heavy-duty strap that pulls down to create more space in your case, perfect for a five-to-seven-day trip at Playa del Carmen’s Fairmont Mayakoba luxury resort.
Weight: 7.4 pounds
Materials: 100% aerospace-grade German polycarbonate
Colors: Dark brown, moss, navy, shadow lavender, charcoal, clay
Pros
- Well-designed interior with a mesh divider and zippered pocket, helping keep your belongings neatly organized and easily accessible
Cons
- Lacks external pockets for quick access to items like travel documents or snacks
The Monos carry-on is a standout choice for discerning travelers who value both elegance and performance. Its sleek design, robust construction, and thoughtful features like the expandable capacity and built-in TSA lock make it a versatile and reliable travel companion. The Monos carry-on’s premium quality and durability often justify the investment, especially for frequent flyers and style-conscious jet-setters. If you’re in the market for a carry-on that combines sophistication with functionality, this is a top-tier option that delivers on both fronts.
Weight: 7.01 lb
Materials: Aerospace-grade, water-resistant polycarbonate hard shell made from partially recycled materials
Colors: Desert taupe, rose quartz, olive green, blue haze, ocean blue, storm gray, stellar white, midnight black, sage green, terracotta, and terrazzo
Pros
- Exceptional durability and maneuverability
Cons
- Cost might be a significant investment for some travelers
One of the standout features of this carry-on is its high-quality construction. Known for its resistance to abrasion and wear, this luggage is designed to withstand the rigors of frequent travel. The four-wheel system provides 360-degree mobility, making it incredibly easy to maneuver through crowded airports and tight spaces. The expandability feature allows you to increase packing capacity, accommodating extra items when needed without sacrificing the benefits of the carry-on’s compact size.
Weight: 7.9 lb
Materials: Glossy recycled polycarbonate
Colors: Red, black, navy, halogen blue
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Alicia Banilivy is Harper’s Bazaar's Fashion Market & Retail Credits Editor. Alicia oversees all Ready-to-Wear, Jewelry, and accessories shopping credits for print issues. She has expertise in luxury fashion, editorial market, and styling. When Out-of-Office, Alicia spends her time as a personal shopper and closet organizer. She enjoys traveling, shopping, and spending time with family and friends.
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