travel bag size

The Ultimate Guide to Luggage Sizes: What Size Should You Get?

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Did you know that choosing a suitcase (or multiple cases, for that matter) in the right size can save you some money in luggage fees and help you become a more organized traveler?

On one end, unused space in your luggage will result in wrinkled clothes and a messy suitcase. Not to mention the extra weight and possible luggage fees. And on the other – having too little space will limit your packing capacity. That’s why nailing the correct luggage size is very, very important.

In this guide, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about all the different luggage sizes, restrictions, and more, so you can understand what size luggage is better for you. Make sure to check out our FAQ section at the bottom if you still have any questions!

Luggage Size Chart

But before we begin this article, down below you can check out our infographic and table with the most common luggage sizes, which will offer an easier way to grasp the differences between them.

Measuring Luggage

Basically, each airline has different size and weight restrictions for hand and checked luggage. Usually, premium airlines will allow slightly larger bags, and cheaper ones will allow smaller ones with tighter weight limits. Your job as the passenger is to find out the restrictions yourself because they change all the time, and it would be impossible for us to list and update each airline individually.

There are two types of size restrictions that you need to know. The first one is dimensions – height (top to bottom), width (side to side), and depth (front to back). It will usually be applied for personal items and carry-ons and could be stated as follows: 55 x 35 x 25 cm (22 x 14 x 9 inches). Airlines will usually offer measuring boxes inside airports, where you can put in your bags to check if they fit.

The second measurement is linear inches. Linear inches just means the total sum of height, width, and depth, and it’s mainly used for checked luggage, which needs to be under 62 linear inches. So to get linear inches, measure the height, width and depth individually and add them all up.

To measure the dimensions of your suitcase, you can place it next to a wall and measure the height, width, and depth by placing a measuring tape next to the wall. To get a more exact measurement, you can place a book or something flat on the other end of the measuring tape. Make sure to include the wheels, handles, and anything else that’s sticking out! Another thing to keep in mind is that fabric suitcases might become a bit larger once they’re packed to the brim, so before measuring, pack your suitcase full and measure in the widest end.

Hand Luggage

Hand luggage means all the bags that you’re allowed to take with you on the plane without checking them in. Usually, it’s a carry-on, a personal item, and any other items that aren’t counted towards the allowance, such as duty-free items .

Hand luggage has to be stored under each passenger’s front seat or in the overhead compartments, which are located above each seat. You won’t be able to access it during take-off and landing because they have to be tucked away securely in case of an emergency.

When you arrive at the airport, you won’t need to go to the check-in desks if you have just hand luggage, and you’ve already printed your tickets back home. You’ll be able to go straight to security , where TSA (Transport Security Agency) will screen your hand luggage for any prohibited items. After that, you’re free to do duty-free shopping or wait at the designated gate until boarding starts.

Carry-on Luggage vs Personal Items

The main difference between carry-on luggage and personal items (other called “underseat luggage”) is that carry-ons need to be stored in the slightly-larger overhead compartments and personal items under each passenger’s front seat. Usually, most people choose smaller rolling suitcases as their carry-ons and backpacks, duffels, or tote bags as their personal items. That said, you can use any type of bag as a carry-on or a personal item, whether it’s a briefcase, rolling suitcase, duffel bag , backpack, tote, or even a regular shopping bag.

You won’t really be able to access stuff from your carry-on during the first and last 15-30 minutes of the flight, as well as any turbulence, so pack your most necessary items in your personal item, such as your laptop , headphones, e-reader , any medicine, e.t.c.

Personal Item Size and Weight Requirements

Most airlines won’t specifically mention an exact size requirement for personal items, and instead, they’ll just say that it has to fit under the front seat. On average though, it should be 6-9 inches in width, 10-14 inches in height, and 17-18.5 inches in length . They avoid stating the exact measurements because each airline has different types of aircraft in their fleet and each aircraft has a different amount of space under each seat. To get the exact personal item size requirements, you should probably ask the airline directly, or check our list where we compiled personal item restrictions for most popular airlines .

Some airlines also have individual weight restrictions for personal items. But most of them just have some kind of weight limit for the total weight of your personal item and carry-on.

Tip: Looking to purchase a personal item? Check out the Matein Travel laptop backpack , which I’ve used as my personal item on multiple flights without any issues. It always fits under the front seat and it’s surprisingly spacious.

Carry-on Size and Weight Requirements

On average, carry-ons usually have to be 8-10 inches in width, 13-15  inches in height, and 19-23 inches in length. Each airline has different carry-on size requirements, however, the most popular one is 22 x 14 x 9 inches . The restrictions are so different between airlines because the overhead compartments tend to differ in capacity across different aircraft.

In terms of weight, each airline has different weight requirements for carry-on luggage. Most airlines in America don’t have any weight requirements for hand luggage but some do, especially budget airlines. If the airline has a carry-on weight limit, it’s usually between 15-35 lbs (7-16 kg) . Some airlines will also have a specific weight limit for the total weight of carry-ons and personal items.

Tip: Looking for a new carry-on? I’ve used the Travelpro Maxlite 5 19-inch fabric carry-on for a while now and I love it. It’s spacious, lightweight, and very durable. Even though it’s slightly over the limit in width, I’ve never had any issues with that on international flights.

Domestic Carry-Ons vs International Carry-Ons

When you’ll be shopping for a new carry-on, you’ll notice that some of them will be marked as “international carry-on” and some as “domestic carry-on.” That’s because carry-on size restrictions are usually stricter for international flights and looser for domestic ones. If you’re flying domestically, you might get away with a 23-inch (longest side) carry-on, but on an international flight, you’ll probably be limited to 19-21 inches.

So essentially, domestic carry-ons will be slightly larger than international ones. If the carry-on is too large , you will be asked to check it in, and you’ll have to pay additional fees. That’s why it’s important to buy a smaller carry-on if you’re planning on flying internationally. Usually, international carry-ons will have to be under 22 x 14 x 9 inches .

Hand Luggage Fees

Almost all airlines will allow bringing one personal item completely for free. When it comes to carry-ons though, most airlines allow bringing one for free, but budget airlines might charge a fixed fee depending on your class, which could be anywhere from 10$ to 50$. For instance, Spirit airlines will charge 31-50$ for carry-on luggage and Ryanair will charge about 6-20 EUR.

Keep in mind that most of these items are usually allowed for free in addition to other hand baggage:

• Assistive devices for the disabled
• Other wearable clothes
• Walking canes
• Food in disposable containers meant to consume on the airplane
• Child restraint seats
• Duty-free items
• Reading materials
• Cameras ( some airlines consider cameras as personal items, while others don’t. )
• Pet carriers ( Some airlines consider pet carriers as personal items, while others don’t. )

Read Next : 12 Best Underseat Bags Without Wheels in 2022

Hand Luggage Advantages and Disadvantages

Using only hand luggage and avoiding checked luggage altogether is a technique used by many, me included because it offers many benefits:

• No need to wait in line at the check-in counter
• Most of the time, completely for free
• Less likely to be stolen or lost because it’s on you at all times
• Easier to carry around, especially if you use a backpack as a personal item together with a carry-on suitcase
• The best place for keeping valuables and fragile items
• You can access all of your items during the flight
• Less likely to break because it isn’t exposed to baggage handling

However, there are some drawbacks to using only hand luggage, such as:

• Less packing space
• Harder to manage for families because they usually need to bring more items
• It needs to be lugged around the airport after security instead of being handed over at the check-in desks
• Usually, has much stricter weight limits

Tips for Buying Hand Luggage

• If you’re flying on short flights, consider using only an underseat rolling suitcase or backpack. People who fly for business often only need to fly out domestically for a quick meeting, so a lot of them travel with only a personal item. You can easily fit a spare shirt in there as well as some toiletries and a laptop, which is really all you need.
• For up to two-week vacations, a carry-on and a personal item offer more than enough space. Personally, I’m a light packer, and I can travel for up to three weeks or even a month using only a carry-on and a personal item. For most people, this offers enough space.
• Consider getting a backpack with a back strap as your choice of personal item. That way, you can secure it around the retractable handle on top of your carry-on, which makes it incredibly easy to lug around. Especially in crowded areas, such as public transport and airports.
• If you’ll be flying internationally, get a carry-on under 22 x 14 x 9 inches with wheels and handles included. On domestic flights, you’ll probably be able to use something larger, but if you want to avoid paying extra fees down the line, make sure your carry-on is under this limit.
• Make sure to get lightweight hand luggage. The weight restrictions are pretty strict as it is already, so make sure to get a lightweight carry-on and personal item. Especially the carry-on, because you’ll have to stow it in the overhead compartments. So instead of going with a hardside carry-on, get a fabric one instead, which will most likely be lighter.

Read Next: Airport Travel Terminology 101 – The Ultimate Guide

Checked Luggage

Checked luggage is all baggage that’s too large or too heavy to be carried on the flight, and has to be checked in instead. This means that you’ll need to hand it over at the check-in counters at the airport. The baggage will then be transferred over to baggage handling and it will be loaded in the cargo hold of the airplane . When you land, you’ll have to pick up your checked luggage from the luggage conveyor belts in the baggage reclaim area.

You can use other kinds of baggage as well for checked luggage, not just suitcases. You can also use large backpacks, duffel bags, totes, musical instruments in their cases, large trunks, and other oversized items. A lot of times, you’ll have to check in specialty items, such as large musical instruments and all kinds of sporting equipment, such as bicycles, snowboards, golf clubs, e.t.c.

Read Next: What to Put in Carry-on and What in Checked Luggage (Guide)

Checked Luggage Size and Weight Restrictions

Most commonly, checked luggage will have a size restriction of 62 linear inches (height + width + length) and a weight limit of 50 or 70 lbs. These are the IATA guidelines that are enforced in the EU and US which are there to keep the baggage handlers from handling too heavy bags. Oversized and overweight baggage will be accepted, but it will be labeled as oversized/overweight and you’ll have to pay a fee for that unless it’s sporting equipment. For instance, American Airlines will accept oversized bags up to 126 linear inches (320 cm) and overweight bags up to 100 lbs (45 kg.)

Small vs Medium vs Large Checked Luggage

Checked luggage comes in different sizes, and usually, the longest dimension is 23-32 inches long. Depending on the longest side, checked luggage is usually divided into three sizes, which are small, medium, and large. Small checked suitcases usually are 23-24 inches on the longest size, medium ones 25-27 inches, and large ones in 28-32 inches. Quite often, suitcases above 30 inches will actually be oversized, because they’re over 62 linear inches with wheels and handles included.

For most people, a medium checked suitcase will be the best option, because it will be just within the checked luggage size limits and offer a large amount of space for all of their items.

Read Next: 8 Best 62-Inch Checked Suitcases in 2022

Checked Luggage Fees

On most international flights, airlines will allow you to bring one or two checked bags completely for free. On domestic flights, usually, they’ll offer either one free checked bag or none at all. This depends a lot on the airline though. Additional bags will cost on a per-bag basis, starting with cheaper rates and continuing with more expensive ones. For instance, for American Airlines on domestic flights, the first checked bag will cost 30$, the second 40$, and the third one 100$ .

If you aren’t flying alone and you’re carrying a lot of checked bags, it’s usually a better idea to split them evenly among all the passengers to save some money on the checked baggage fees. It also isn’t advisable to bring more than two checked bags because the fees start to get pretty costly after that.

The fees for overweight and oversized luggage can get very expensive, upwards of 100-200$ for each bag, so before you arrive at the airport, make sure that each bag is under the weight limit.

Checked Luggage Advantages and Disadvantages

Although there are a lot of disadvantages for flying with checked luggage, there are some advantages as well, such as:

• Checked bags offer much more space
• Better for families who carry a lot of items
• Checked bags don’t need to be carried around the airport after checking them in
• No need to worry about size and weight, as the restrictions are pretty hard to reach
• You should be able to get away with a slightly oversized checked bag because they’re rarely measured

However, there’s a reason why I don’t travel with checked luggage. In my opinion, it has more disadvantages, such as:

• With a personal item, carry-on, and a checked suitcase, it’s much more difficult to use public transport
• Checked luggage is mostly a paid service, especially with budget airlines
• There’s just too much space if you’re a light packer
• Checked bags can get damaged from baggage handling
• Items get lost or stolen much more frequently when packed in checked luggage
• You won’t be able to access the contents of checked luggage during the whole flight
• In case checked baggage gets lost, you’ll be left without a lot of items and your trip might be ruined
• You’ll have to wait in the check-in line at the airport

Tips for Buying Checked Luggage

• Avoid plastic checked suitcases. Hardside ABS, Polycarbonate, or Polypropylene suitcases can crack pretty easily. When they’re thrown in the baggage area under a pile of other suitcases, this can happen very easily. That’s why you should choose an aluminum checked suitcase or a fabric one, which will be much less likely to break.
• Before buying a checked suitcase, double-check that it’s below 62 linear inches.  Oversized checked luggage fees can get pretty expensive, usually between 100-200$. To avoid this hefty fee make sure that your suitcase is below 62 linear inches (height + width + depth) with handles and wheels included. A very large amount of large checked suitcases, in fact, about 50-80% of them are oversized, so pay close attention to the dimensions.
• A medium checked suitcase (25-27 inches) is more than enough for most people. Usually, medium checked suitcases are 58-61 linear inches in size, which is just below the 62 linear inch size limit, so when you’re looking for a checked suitcase, get one in this size.
• Get a bright or patterned checked suitcase. Checked luggage gets lost much more frequently. So when you’re shopping for a new case, make sure to get one that’s colorful and easy to recognize . It will be much easier to spot on the baggage carousel and if it gets lost, the chances of finding it will be much better because you’ll be able to describe it better. If you already own a dark checked suitcase, get a colorful patterned luggage cover .
• Avoid checked luggage with spinner wheels. Rolling, inline (2 wheels) suitcases are better options for checked suitcases because they’re much less likely to break while the bag is checked in. Spinner wheels are much more likely to fall off because they’re extended out from the main shape of the suitcase. It’s actually one of the most common things that break on checked bags.
• Consider getting a pelican trunk instead of a typical checked suitcase. They’re basically indestructible and they’re one of the most popular choices for climbers, camera crews, and other people who need to bring a lot of expensive checked gear.

What Size Luggage Should You Get?

There are all kinds of different factors that determine what kind of suitcase you should get. Before buying any luggage, you should understand how often and where you’ll be traveling, how many people you’ll be flying with, what are your packing traditions, and so on.

Are You an Over-Packer?

There’s nothing wrong with being an over-packer, but it will affect what kind of luggage you should choose and how much you’ll be paying in fees. Most over-packers like to travel with a checked suitcase and a personal item, such as a small backpack, skipping the carry-on entirely. You’ll be able to pack your valuables and essentials in the personal item and be left with a very large amount of space in your checked suitcase, where you can pack all of your clothing and anything else you’d need. A medium checked suitcase will usually offer about 90-100 l of space while a carry-on only 35-50 l, so the difference is pretty significant.

How Long You’ll Be Traveling?

The length of your trips/vacations also determines what kind of luggage you should get. If you’ll be traveling for months, unless you’re an extreme minimalist, you’ll need to bring some kind of checked luggage. But for two to three-week trips, it’s perfectly fine to bring only a carry-on and a personal item, unless you’re an over-packer or you need to bring other kinds of gear for your job, planned activities, e.t.c.

Where You’re Flying to and What Are Your Planned Activities?

Think about what you’ll be doing and what gear you’ll need. Do you need scuba diving or skiing gear? Are you into photography and need to bring a large tripod? Are you flying to a cold-weather country and you need to bring a lot of extra warm clothing? The kind of travel that you’ll be doing, determines what size luggage you should get.

Think about valuable and fragile gear specifically. Try to keep the most valuable items in your hand luggage. If that isn’t possible, remember to ensure your gear and invest in a durable, large enough, checked suitcase or trunk. A good option for that is the pelican trunk , which is the industry standard for professionals.

Tip: It’s Better to Buy a Smaller Suitcase, Instead of a Larger One

Many people will probably disagree but I personally think that it’s always a smarter choice to buy a smaller suitcase instead of a larger one. This will make you become a lighter packer, which could end up saving you some money in the long run on checked baggage fees.

A lot of times, people are bringing gear that they don’t really need and end up with heavier, oversized suitcases. Remember that you’ll also have to carry your luggage around the town and to the airport. You’re on a vacation to get new experiences, not buy a lot of unneeded stuff, and be exhausted from carrying an oversized suitcase. Of course, if you’re traveling for work, that may not be true, but for general leisure travel, it’s a better idea to get a slightly smaller suitcase than you think you’d need.

What Size Luggage I Use Personally

I usually travel one or two weeks at a time, so a personal item (backpack) and an international carry-on are more than enough to fit in everything that I need. I rarely use checked luggage because I’m a minimalistic packer.

My favorite has become the B06XZTZ7GB ?tag=cleverjourney-general-th-20&linkCode=ogi&th=1&psc=1′ title=’Matein laptop backpack’ target=’_blank’ rel=’nofollow noopener sponsored’ data-aawp-product-id=’ B06XZTZ7GB ‘ data-aawp-product-title=’Matein laptop backpack’>Matein laptop backpack for a personal item, which fits perfectly under the front seat and has many neat compartments for everything that I need. It’s 18 x 12 x 7.8 inches large, but I never pack it full, so it always fits under the front seat.

And for the carry-on, I use the B07BM9DFX9 ?tag=cleverjourney-general-th-20&linkCode=ogi&th=1&psc=1′ title=’Travelpro Maxlite 5 International 19-inch carry-on’ target=’_blank’ rel=’nofollow noopener sponsored’ data-aawp-product-id=’ B07BM9DFX9 ‘ data-aawp-product-title=’Travelpro Maxlite 5 International 19-inch carry-on’>Travelpro Maxlite 5 International 19-inch carry-on , which is pretty light and small enough for domestic luggage restrictions. It’s 21.75 x 15.75 x 7.75 inches large with wheels and handles included, so sometimes it’s a little bit above international limits, but I’ve never had any issues with it. I’ve tried squeezing it inside the measurement boxes myself, and I managed to fit it in with a tight squeeze.

My laptop backpack has a rear strap that wraps around the carry-on’s retractable handle so my backpack can be secured on top of it. It’s handy because my carry-on has spinner wheels, and it’s super easy to move around. In tight spaces, for instance, in the subway, it’s much easier to store the backpack on top of the carry-on.

If you’re a light packer like me, I’d suggest going with a backpack and a carry-on. It’ll be enough for 1-2 week trips, but if you wash some clothes midway and don’t buy too many souvenirs, you can stretch that to three weeks or even a month. If you’re traveling longer than that or you’re an over-packer, you should get a 25-27-inch medium checked suitcase instead of the carry-on.

Also check out: Airplane seat upgrades

Frequently Asked Questions About Luggage Sizes

What’s the largest luggage size for checked-in luggage ( 62-inch luggage ).

In order to comply with the 62-linear-inch checked luggage size requirement, you shouldn’t get a suitcase larger than 29-30 inches (longest side.) Almost all 31 and 32-inch suitcases will be oversized. Even a lot of 28-30-inch suitcases are oversized, so you have to double-check the product description and find out how large they really are. Count the total sum of the height, width, and depth, with wheels and handles included to get the true linear-inch measurement. The largest suitcases within the 62-linear-inch restriction are about 100-120l in volume.

To maximize the amount of space that you can have inside, choose a fabric suitcase, which will open from the top, instead of the middle, as you see on most hardside cases. This means you’ll have a larger main compartment. Also, make sure to get it with inline rolling wheels, instead of spinner ones, which results in a lot of unused space.

Tip: If you want to maximize the amount of space you get from a 62-linear-inch checked suitcase, get the Pelican 1615 travel case , which is exactly 62 linear inches in size and is virtually indestructible.

What’s the largest size for hand luggage?

When we talk about hand luggage, there are different restrictions for personal items and carry-ons. There are also different restrictions for each airline. In general, personal items should be below 17 x 10 x 7 inches in dimensions and carry-ons under 22 x 14 x 9 inches.

The largest size restriction for personal items that we found was on Southwest airlines, where personal items need to be under 18.5 x 13.5 x 8.5 inches. The largest size restriction for carry-ons was on Alaska Air, which was 24 x 17 x 10 inches. Generally, more expensive airlines will have looser restrictions for hand luggage.

What are the 3 luggage sizes?

If we’re talking about dimensions, the three luggage sizes are height (from top to bottom), width (from side to side), and depth (from front to back).

If, however, we’re talking in terms of luggage types, what people most likely mean with the 3 luggage sizes is personal items, carry-ons, and checked luggage, which have three different size and weight restrictions.

What’s the best luggage size for 20 and 23 kg?

The most common weight restriction for checked luggage on budget airlines is 20 or 23 kg (44 or 50 lbs). The best luggage size for this weight restriction is between 25-29 inches (longest size) . That’s because 20 or 23 kg checked luggage has to be under 62 linear inches (157 cm). You can calculate the linear inches by adding up height, width, and depth. Most suitcases above 29 inches will be over this limit, which means you’ll have to pay oversized baggage fees. You should always include the wheels and handles in these measurements.

Can I use backpacks and duffel bags as hand/checked luggage?

Yes, you can use backpacks and duffel bags as checked luggage. Theoretically, you can use any type of bag as checked luggage, as long as it’s durable enough to withstand baggage handling. You could even use a cardboard box , although it may not be a wise idea.

Personally, I’ve only traveled with a large backpack as my checked luggage. That’s because I do a lot of hiking and my hiking backpack is much larger than a carry-on. It’s pretty common for people to travel only with a large backpack (not only hike) and keep their essentials in a plastic bag or a tote bag during the flight. This gives you a lot of freedom because everything you need is packed inside one large backpack.

Do I need to include wheels and handles when measuring luggage?

You always need to include wheels, handles, and other elements that are sticking out when measuring luggage. A lot of people don’t know this and they end up purchasing oversized luggage, only to regret it later. You also need to take into account that if you’re buying an expendable suitcase, it will become a few inches wider when expanded.

What size luggage should I use for a week-long trip?

For a week-long trip, everyone should be able to fit everything they’d need in a carry-on and a personal item. Some people struggle with over-packing and end up using checked luggage for week-long trips, which can be avoided with smarter packing choices. When packing for your trip, always lay everything out and re-evaluate each individual item individually. Ask yourself if you’ll be using these items on your trip. And if the answer is “Maybe” you should leave that specific item at home. Personally, I can fit everything I’d need for 2-4 weeks in a single carry-on and a personal item.

What if my checked luggage is oversized?

IATA, which is the largest worldwide airline regulator, states that checked bags can’t be over 62 linear inches in order to keep the baggage handlers from working with oversized bags. Anything over 62 linear inches will be labeled as “oversized” and will cost you an extra 100-200$, depending on the airline.

Even if you pay the hefty oversized luggage fees, there is a limit to how large checked luggage you can bring. Each airline considers this individually, and, for instance, American Airlines will allow oversized bags up to 126 linear inches (320 cm).

The rules are slightly different for sporting equipment, though. Bicycles, for instance, will almost always be allowed, even if they’re oversized, and their luggage fees won’t be as expensive.

What if my checked luggage is overweight?

Overweight checked luggage is allowed, but will be marked as overweight and will cost an additional 100-200$, depending on the airline. IATA states that checked baggage can’t weigh over 70 lbs (31 kg), to protect the baggage handlers from working with overweight items, so anything over that will be marked as overweight. Each airline has a different limit on overweight checked luggage. For instance, American Airlines will allow checked baggage up to 100 lbs (45 kg).

Do carry-on measurements need to be exact?

Unfortunately, carry-on measurements need to be exact. Most airlines have measurement boxes inside airports, which are in the exact measurements of their restrictions. If your carry-on looks oversized, they’ll ask you to put it inside the measurement box. Carry-on suitcases aren’t really flexible, so you won’t be able to get away with an oversized carry-on. If, on the other hand, you’re using a duffel bag or a backpack as your carry-on, then you might get away with a slightly oversized bag, as you’ll be able to squeeze it inside the measurement box.

Should I get hard or soft luggage ?

There are pros and cons for both, but I personally tend to lean towards fabric luggage. It’s lighter, less likely to crack or break, and you can extend it slightly outwards if you’ve over-packed. On the other hand, hardside luggage offers more protection to your items and is better-looking in my opinion. Modern hardside suitcases made from Polycarbonate are also pretty durable and don’t weigh much more than comparable fabric alternatives. So it doesn’t really matter that much whether you choose a hardside or softside bag – it’s more a matter of preference.

The only real instance where I wouldn’t use a hardside plastic suitcase is in checked luggage. They’re put under a lot more pressure from baggage handling and quite often, they get thrown around and placed at the bottom of a pile of checked suitcases. They’re much more likely to each up with cracks or dents, so using a fabric-checked suitcase would make more sense.

Should I get a rolling or spinner suitcase ?

There are advantages to both, but generally, it’s better to stick with spinner suitcases for carry-on luggage and rolling ones for checked luggage. That’s because while spinner suitcases are much easier to move around, they’re much easier to break off the suitcase. And in checked luggage, they’re much more likely to break off from luggage handling.

Rolling suitcases will usually be more spacious because the wheels are somewhat integrated within the main frame. On spinner suitcases, they’ll extend outwards of the suitcase, which results in a lot of unused space underneath the suitcase. Remember that the wheels are counted towards the total measurements.

But if you’re having back problems or in general lugging around a suitcase gives you hard time, then a suitcase with spinner wheels might make more sense. Compared to inline rolling suitcases, they’re much, much easier to move around – they practically roll by themselves.

How much luggage can I bring on international flights ?

Most airlines will allow one personal item and one carry-on for free on international flights. As for checked luggage, most airlines will allow one or even two checked bags for free for each passenger, and the rest will need to be paid for with additional fees, ranging from 30-100$. In general, the fees increase for each next checked bag and could be as follows: 30$ for the first checked bag, 40$ for the second, and 100$ for each next one.

You’ll be able to bring up to 10 checked suitcases (even though it’ll cost a small fortune!) but on some international destinations, a bit less. Airlines operate within the rules set by airline regulators, and in some countries, each passenger can have only two or three checked bags.

How many pieces and what size should a luggage set be?

Most luggage sets come in three pieces: one carry-on (19-23 inches), one medium checked suitcase (25-27 inches), and one large checked suitcase (28-32 inches). I would advise against getting a 3-piece luggage set like this because quite often, the largest piece in the set is oversized, which means that it’s above the 62 linear inch limit and you’ll have to pay oversized luggage fees.

Instead, it would be much more beneficial to get a 2-piece set containing a carry-on and a medium checked suitcase, or a 3-piece set that also contains a personal item (underseat bag). If you’re getting a 3-piece set with a large checked bag, make sure that it isn’t oversized.

Luggage sets are often cheaper to get than buying each piece individually, so it’s quite often a smarter choice to buy a whole set.

Final Words

Getting the right size luggage is really important because if it’s oversized, you might end up paying extra in fees, or just end up with a lot of unused space. For anyone new to traveling, I’d advise getting a small backpack as a personal item and a carry-on that’s within 22 x 14 x 9 inches. This is more than enough for most trips, and I’m usually able to squeeze in everything needed for 2-4 weeks in there. If you’re an over-packer, you might need to swap that carry-on with a medium checked suitcase, which would be 25-27 inches in size (longest end).

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Carry-On Luggage Size Chart for 64 Major Airlines [Dimensions, Sizes & More]

Alex Miller

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Table of Contents

Carry-on luggage size chart for major airlines.

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Whether you’re flying domestically or internationally, every airline has its carry-on luggage size restrictions. There is no one-size-fits-all approach, so you need to check your airline’s specific policy before traveling to ensure your carry-on bag isn’t rejected with potential additional charges.

Below, you’ll find a helpful chart detailing the most popular airlines’ carry-on restrictions, including the size and weight of a standard carry-on, and whether this varies due to the cabin you’re traveling in. We’ve also covered checked luggage sizes and allowances , too.

Don’t forget that there are many ways to avoid paying for baggage fees such as carry-ons and that’s what we cover in our in-depth article.

In some cases, you’ll see that the airline has a rule about maximum linear dimensions . That means that when you add a piece of luggage’s length, width, and depth together, the sum can’t exceed a specific number.

For example, if you have a suitcase that’s 28 inches long, 20 inches wide, and 18 inches deep, the linear dimensions would total 66 inches, too big for many airlines.

Unless specified, the maximum weight allowance is across your standard carry-on luggage and personal item combined. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is considered carry-on luggage.

There’s no industry standard for sizes for carry-on luggage, with every airline assigning their own size and weight restrictions. If you want to purchase a carry-on bag that would be accepted by most airlines, then the most common maximum size would be 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm), including handles and wheels.

Which carry-on luggage is best?

The best carry-on bag depends on your own requirements. For example, do you need a wheelie case or a backpack, or a bag with a laptop compartment or built-in security? We’ve rounded up what we consider the best carry-on luggage bags for any traveler , ranging from soft-sided and hardshell wheelies to convenient backpacks.

Is a backpack considered carry-on?

A backpack would be considered a carry-on item if it adheres to the maximum size restrictions of a specific airline. Most airlines have a larger size allowance for a standard carry-on piece and slightly smaller one for a personal item (where permitted).

What is not allowed in a carry-on bag?

For safety reasons, there are certain items that are prohibited to be stored in carry-on luggage. These include individual containers with liquids over 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or a combined amount of liquids over 1 quart (1 liter); sharp objects such as scissors, blades, or pen knives; firearms; sporting equipment such as baseball bats or hockey sticks; tools; and lighters, matches, or other flammable items.

Is there a weight limit for carry-on luggage?

As with size restrictions, there are no industry standards for maximum weight allowances for carry-on luggage. These are defined by each individual airline, with some airlines actually not publishing a specific weight restriction — just that you must be able to lift the bag into the overhead compartment yourself.

It’s also worth checking whether the airline’s stated weight allowance applies just to your carry-on piece or whether it applies to the combined weight of your carry-on and personal item.

What is the difference between a personal item and carry-on?

Many airlines allow passengers to bring a personal item in addition to a carry-on bag. A personal item is usually a smaller bag, such as handbag, briefcase, or laptop bag , that can be stored under the seat in front of you. Some airlines specify size and weight restrictions for personal items, while many don’t specify maximum sizes or weights.

What is hand baggage only?

If you’ve booked a “hand baggage only” fare (sometimes referred to as a basic fare), this means that you may only bring hand baggage that is within the airline’s restrictions. No checked baggage is included. Depending on your airline, hand baggage may include 1 standard carry-on bag and 1 smaller personal item. Each airline sets its own size and weight restrictions for carry-on, so check the table above for more information.

What does TSA allow for carry-on?

TSA allows passengers to pack certain items in their carry-on baggage and prohibits others. Liquids may be brought on board under the 3-1-1 rule: a maximum of 3.4 ounces per container up to a total of 1 quart, stored within a clear, zip-top bag, with 1 bag permitted per passenger. Exemptions to this rule are made for infant necessities or required medication. Items such as lighters, blades, and baseball bats are not permitted in your carry-on.

See more information in our guide to how to easily get through TSA airport security .

What is the standard size of a carry-on bag?

There are no universal standards for carry-on baggage, with each airline setting its own size and weight restrictions. If you want to purchase a bag that adheres to most airline standards, then look for a case that’s no larger than 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm), including all handles and wheels.

Can I take my phone charger in my carry-on?

General chargers for electronic devices can be packed as carry-on or into your checked baggage . If you’re using a portable power bank , then most airlines require you to pack this in your carry-on bag. This is because of the risk of lithium batteries catching fire in the hold.

Is a 24-inch suitcase a carry-on?

A 24-inch suitcase would be considered a carry-on by some airlines — but not all. Some airlines state maximum linear dimension only, so as long as your other 2 measurements are smaller to allow for the 24-inch length, then this would be fine. But generally, a suitcase measuring 22 x 14 x 9 inches would be the most widely accepted. This includes American Airlines and United Airlines .

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About Alex Miller

Founder and CEO of Upgraded Points, Alex is a leader in the industry and has earned and redeemed millions of points and miles. He frequently discusses the award travel industry with CNBC, Fox Business, The New York Times, and more.

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The Ultimate Luggage Size and Weight Guide

Your trip can go from exciting to frustrating quickly if you end up at the airport and discover your luggage isn't the right size. Suddenly you're shelling out more money than expected because your baggage has to be checked, and now you don't have access to your carry on. Before heading to the airport, check out our luggage size guide to stay within the limits.

When to use a Checked Bags

There's a certain convenience that comes with checking your bags. You can pack your carry on minimally, enjoy the lightened load, and still bring everything you need on the trip. With much more freedom to pack what you need, the most difficult decision will now be what bag you bring? Peruse the  Travelpro Checked Luggage page to find the perfect bag for

Checked Baggage Size and Dimensions

While you certainly can pack more when you check a bag, you still have to follow limitations. Checked luggage sizes vary depending on the airline and whether or not you are a "frequent flier" with that particular airline.

We've rounded up all the major airlines and listed the  checked luggage sizes and their limits to help you know what you're getting into.

Checked Suitcase Weight Limits

Airlines impose a luggage weight limit to ensure the plane isn't overloaded and to reduce the possibility of injuring the baggage handlers. Most domestic flights have a checked bag weight limit of around 50 pounds (unless you want to pay a fee to pack something heavier). However, your  international checked baggage size  varies considerably depending on which airline you choose.

When to Carry On

Many airlines allow a free carry on (usually for the overhead bin) and a free personal item (usually for under the seat in front of you). Domestic flights limit their size but don't pay much attention to the weight. International flights have specific size and weight requirements.  Travelpro has a lineup of stylish and functional carry on bags  for every type of trip. Related: See what you should bring in your TSA-approved carry on .

Carry On Bag Size and Dimensions

Domestic flights follow similar guidelines for carry on dimensions: roughly 22x14x9 inches. Check out our rundown of maximum carry-on sizes by airline to ensure you meet the TSA carry on size limits.

When you’re heading overseas, there are different rules to follow. International flights have different guidelines for size, and most also limit the weight of the carry on. Before you fly, make sure you’re not over the weight limit. You can read more about the international luggage standards here.

Helpful Tip: Our modern luggage collections all contain a variety of carry on suitcases that will meet your preferred airlines size restrictions.

Personal Items Limitations

Personal items get stowed beneath the seat in front of you. This space is designed to give easy access to items you might need while flying: laptops, medication, books, and more.

Space is limited, though. If you exceed it, you may have to store your personal item in the overhead bin – and that could result in added fees.

Related: Learn more about  what counts as a personal item and their size limitations .

Knowing what to bring and how big your luggage sizes can be, will make your trip much smoother and more enjoyable. As you plan your next getaway, find the perfect bag that accents your personality , and review the size guidelines to know whether you should check or carry on.

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Luggage Sizes: Understanding And Choosing The Best For You

You want to buy a new suitcase but you are not sure which size to get? I’m here to help! In this post, I will tell you everything you need to consider, in order to get the perfect suitcase size.

I will also show you some good luggage options at the very end. Be sure to check those out, if you’re not sure which suitcases are worth buying.

Suitcase Sizes: The Basics

The traditional suitcase sizes range from 18” to 32”. So, there are a lot of different luggage sizes to choose from.

Each different size of luggage also has a specific luggage volume you can calculate to see how much you can fit inside it.

Let’s take a look at the breakdown.

Small Suitcase Size / Carry-On Size

• 19-22 inches
• Weekend or business trips

Suitcases that are up to 22” are considered carry-on luggage. While all larger bags are considered checked luggage .

But this is not always the case – some airlines allow larger bags inside the cabin , and will accept a 23” suitcase as a carry-on.

Medium Suitcase Size

• 25-27 inches
• Long weekend or week-long trips

A Medium sized suitcase tends to be between 25″-27″ and can easily fit everything you need for a weekend or even a week’s beach holiday.

If you are packing for a variety of climates or need cold weather gear for a ski holiday, then I find it a struggle to fit everything in. That is where a large luggage size comes in.

Large Suitcase Size

• 28-31 inches

A large luggage size is handy for when you go on trips longer than a week or just need more variety of clothing or gear with you. They are obviously larger and heavier, so be careful you still stay within the luggage weight limits for your airline.

Extra-Large Luggage Size

• 32 inches or more

For those of you who are going for even longer vacations or have bulky clothing like winter jackets or lots of different outfits, then the 32″ sized luggage is the size you want to look at. Different manufacturers have various sizes in this league, but 32 inches is the starting point.

Luggage Collections

With most luggage collections, you will see either three or four different sizes for one suitcase. That’s usually 21”, 25”, 28”, and sometimes 31” . Obviously, this is not a rule – with some brands, you’ll see smaller suitcases, and with others, you’ll struggle to find anything under 25”.

The right size for you depends on a lot of different factors, and I will do my best to cover them all in this post. And hopefully, by the end of this post, you’ll be 100% sure which size is just perfect for you!

Packing 101: Understanding What Size Luggage You Actually Need

I have a friend who I love dearly. But whenever we go away, she has three pieces of luggage. And guess what – she winds up actually using only about 40% of the items she packed.

Don’t pack for “what if” scenarios. I used to make these mistakes when I was a lot younger, and boy did I learn from them. The thing that sobered me up was when I had to carry an over-packed 30” suitcase with a broken wheel on a ferry and a train. And I had another bag that held my 70-lb laptop, and everything that did not fit in the suitcase.

I had sore arms for the next three or four days. And all of that because of the “what if” packing – turns out that the chances you will need a proper jacket and rain boots in a seaside town in the middle of July are non-existent.

You need to understand what you actually need, and what you don’t. You don’t need the third pair of jeans or the fifteenth pair of socks, or even your compression socks . And you certainly don’t need that shirt you haven’t worn since your graduation.

Once you have a really good understanding of what you actually need, you will be able to pack for long trips in small suitcases. Especially if you know some really cool packing hacks.

How Good Are Your Packing Skills?

Over the years I’ve learned to pack for two weeks in a small carry on . And you can too – it takes some time, practice, and a Marie-Kondo understanding of the things you actually need.

There are lots of useful tips and tricks you can learn that will tremendously reduce the amount of space you actually need in a suitcase. One of the best tricks I learned was to roll my clothes – if you haven’t tried this already, you’re missing out!

The next time you go pack your suitcase, try rolling your clothes instead of folding them. Not only will it save you a lot of space in your luggage, but it also keeps the clothes from wrinkling.

Another incredibly useful trick I learned was to put my underwear and socks into plastic bags and then stuff those inside my shoes. I also realized that this doesn’t work with all kinds of shoes, like soft Converse sneakers or espadrilles. But it works like a charm with bulkier footwear, and it really helps you utilize your suitcase to the max.

I don’t know about you, but before I learned this trick I used to pack my socks and underwear in the mesh zippered pockets on the cover of a softshell, or on the divider of a hardshell suitcase . Now I use that space for cosmetics, towels, or swimsuits, depending on what I’m packing for.

When you get really good at packing, you will realize that you don’t actually need a 32” suitcase for a two-week holiday.

How Are You Travelling?

Are you flying somewhere, or are you taking a train/driving?

And if you are flying, does your ticket allow for a checked bag? I find it easier to justify packing a big suitcase to myself if I’ve bought a ticket that includes a checked suitcase. But that’s not always the case, especially with short flights and budget airlines.

In this case, I’d say that the size of your suitcase depends mostly on your ticket. If you already paid for a checked bag, then by all means bring a 28” suitcase and pack everything you want inside it. But if your ticket doesn’t allow for checked luggage, you will save time and money if you opt for a carry-on. Especially if you’re going on a shorter trip, and you don’t need to bring too much stuff in the first place.

But if you are traveling by train or bus, then you’re better off getting a smaller suitcase. Think about it –you’ll have to drag that thing to the train station, then all the way to the hotel. Maybe you’re even switching between trains, or getting on a ferry at one point?

The lighter your luggage is, the easier it is for you to move around. You won’t be stressed out and you won’t be in pain if you’re not carrying a 40-lb suitcase.

If you’re driving somewhere, think about the trunk space . Sure, there’s plenty of room for your luggage if it’s just you and your partner, but if you’re going away with a group of people… One time I went on a holiday with 4 friends, in one car. None of us were allowed to bring a big suitcase because there simply wasn’t enough room in the trunk. Talk about being squashed like sardines.

This is something you need to think about – if you are getting in a car with three or four more people, you really need to pack light. The trunk will fill up really quickly, and there will be very little (if any) space in the back seat. And trust me, you don’t want to ride for 5 hours with your bags under your seat.

What Do You Need The Suitcase For?

Do you need a suitcase for a specific trip, or are you just looking to expand your luggage collection?

If you are buying a suitcase for one particular trip, then it makes sense to get a size that is just right for that trip. If you’re going away for a really long time, then you need a large bag. But if your trip is two weeks or under, you can manage with a 25” suitcase.

If you are buying a suitcase because you want to add another one to your existing luggage collection, make sure you get something you will use . Don’t get a 32” suitcase just because you don’t own one – if you’ve got this far without it, chances are you won’t use it too often. And if you are not using it often, then you are not getting your money’s worth.

Instead, consider which size you’re currently using most frequently. And then get another one – it’s good to have a backup if your favorite suitcase gets damaged beyond repair . Plus, if you’re always traveling with a 21” carry-on, then you will definitely get your money’s worth if you buy another one of those.

It’s kind of like buying perfume online – would you rather buy another bottle of your favorite perfume, or order something you’ve never smelled before and risk not liking it?

When Do You Travel Most Often?

Are we talking about the summer or winter holidays? Because the difference is huge.

Summer clothes are lightweight, thin, and take up very little space. But winter clothes are bulkier and heavier – one down jacket will take up as much space as a pair of jeans, a couple of tops, and a beach towel.

Therefore, it makes perfect sense to buy a larger suitcase if you’re going away to the mountains. Especially if you want to go skiing or snowboarding, and you need all the additional equipment. This is actually one of the few scenarios where I will tell you that it’s better to buy a really big suitcase.

For most other scenarios, you will rarely need something larger than 28” max. Especially in the spring and summer, when you’re packing thin and lightweight clothes, and you can wear that one jacket you want to bring.

Who Are You Travelling With?

Do you travel alone? With friends? With a spouse?

If you travel alone, it makes more sense to get a small suitcase. You don’t really have people that can carry it for you, and it’s a lot easier to go places with small and lightweight luggage.

But if you’re traveling with a partner or just one other person, then your best bet is splitting a suitcase with them. I always recommend this to couples and they always thank me – why would you bring two small suitcases, when you can fit clothes for both of you in one large bag?

You can alternate who carries the suitcase so neither of you gets too tired, and both of you can also have a backpack or a smaller duffel for any additional stuff you need.

This is a very useful trick for air travel – you don’t have to pay for two big suitcases. Instead you can have one checked bag and two carry-ons. And that can hold enough things for about a month.

How Much Do You Shop?

Do you only buy a couple of souvenirs , or do you go cray-cray if you see a hot sale?

If you plan to do a lot of shopping on your trip, then definitely go for a larger suitcase, preferably one with expandable capacity.

But don’t go too big – go for one or two sizes larger. And don’t pack it fully. Leave some room inside, so that you can fit all the things that you buy on your trip.

Even if you don’t normally shop too much on your trips, you will benefit from having an expandable suitcase. You never know – maybe you’ll find that one pair of sneakers you’ve been eyeing for months but are sold out everywhere else.

Where Are You Staying?

Are you staying in a hotel or AirBnB ? Maybe you’re even visiting a friend or family?

Here’s why I’m asking – if you’re staying someplace where you have a washer, you don’t need to bring too many clothes. Instead of packing 7 shirts for 7 days, you can just bring 4 and then wash them and wear them again.

So, if you have access to a washing machine, you can pack less stuff in a smaller suitcase. But if you’re staying in a hotel, then you don’t have that luxury. In that case, you will probably need a large suitcase size, which can fit all of your clothes.

Most Important Points

• Always go for the smallest suitcase size you feel comfortable with
• Don’t buy a giant suitcase just because you don’t have one
• Don’t pack for “what if” scenarios – if you wind up missing something, you can always buy it
• If you’re traveling with a partner or a friend, the two of you can split a really big suitcase
• If your plane ticket includes a checked bag go nuts
• If your plane ticket doesn’t include a checked bag get a carry-on
• If you’re traveling alone get a small suitcase
• If you are traveling in the winter, get a bigger suitcase because boots, jackets, and sweaters take up a lot more space than sundresses and shorts.
• If you have access to a washing machine, you don’t need too many clothes

I think that covers most of what I was saying earlier. Anyway, let’s check out some suitcases.

Top Product Overview

Best sized suitcases for travel, american tourister curio.

This is one of my favorite budget options. It’s a hardside suitcase, and it is available in three sizes – 20”, 25” and 29 ”. All of the suitcases are  made from polypropylene , and they are really lightweight. The only downside to these is that they don’t have  expandable capacity , and you will need to make the best of what you get.

At the moment, all three Curio suitcases are discounted and are under $100. SEE ALSO:  American Tourister Curio Detailed Review

Delsey Helium Aero

Delsey’s Helium Aero luggage is a  great durable option . The suitcases are  made from Polycarbonate,  which is the sturdiest material for luggage. It bends upon impact – you can literally dent the shell and then pop it back in place. These suitcases are  available in four different sizes , and they all feature e xpandable capacity.

Overall, a great choice for air travel.

SEE ALSO:  Delsey Helium Aero Full Review

Samsonite Solyte DLX

The Samsonite Solyte DLX is definitely one of the best and most durable soft side suitcases you can get. It’s made from 100% rugged polyester weave, which is a very popular material for sturdy soft luggage. It has excellent tear resistance , and it is also water-resistant, which is why it’s so popular.

Samsonite Solyte DLX suitcases are available in  three sizes,  they feature spinner wheels and all of them have the expandable capacity.

Travelpro Crew 11

Travelpro is a brand that manufactures luggage for airline employees. If it’s good enough for them, then it’s good enough for you, right?

The Crew 11 suitcases are a very popular option. They are  softshells with spinner wheels and multiple compartments  and pockets. The suitcases are made from  ballistic nylon , and they are very durable.

You can get these in a lot of different sizes, but the four I featured are the most popular options.

SEE ALSO:  Travelpro Crew 11 Review (Softsides & Hardsides)

Samsonite Omni PC

The Samsonite Omni PC is a very popular suitcase. It’s a Samsonite that you can get for less than $100  – I think that’s what appeals most to people.

These are  hardside suitcases , with a rather unusual shell design. But thanks to their diamond-pattern exterior, they are very scratch-resistant. All three Omni suitcases feature s pinner wheels, double packing compartments and expandable capacity.

If you’re looking for a high-quality suitcase at an affordable price, the Omni is the way to go.

Luggage Sizes FAQ

In this section, I’ll cover some of the most frequently asked questions about luggage sizes regarding both carry-ons and checked bags.

Are Suitcases Measured Diagonally?

No, suitcases are usually not measured diagonally . Instead, if airline personnel think your bag is too big for a carry-on, they will ask you to put it in a sizer that restricts height and depth of luggage. In practice, this means that you can get away with luggage that is an inch or two wider than it should be.

Also, suitcases are measured with wheels, handles, and other protrusions, so when you are shopping for a suitcase, be sure to look for external dimensions and not case dimensions.

Case dimensions only account for the size of the packing compartment – they don’t account for the wheels and handles. In general, the wheels and handles add about 1.5” to the bag, and that’s your difference between a carry-on and checked luggage.

Additionally, some airlines will restrict luggage based on linear size . Instead of measuring the diagonal, liner size is just adding up all the different dimensions. For example, most airlines will restrict checked baggage to 62” linear – this could be a 27” x 21” x 14” suitcase, or a 26” x 20” x 16” one.  For carry-ons, the usual restriction is 45” linear.

What’s The Biggest Suitcase Size?

The biggest suitcase size is 32”. These are extra-large checked suitcases that often measure 31-32” with the wheel and handle, and they are rare. Most brands will have a 28” suitcase as their biggest option – these bags often have a capacity of 90-100 liters, which is more than enough for the average person.

Why doesn’t everyone make extra-large checked because? Because they’re not very popular. A 28” suitcase is still big enough to get you through a 20-day trip, but it’s significantly lighter and easier to maneuver than a 32” one. Also, the bigger and heavier your luggage is, the more likely you are to go over the weight limit for checked bags and incur a penalty fee.

The actual biggest suitcase in the world was built in 1999, and it measures 13.33 x 8.75 x 4.16ft. It’s obviously not for sale and it was built just for the purposes of getting a Guinness World Record, but hey – now you know a useless fun fact!

What Is Carry-On Suitcase Size?

The maximum allowed size for a carry-on suitcase is determined by the airline, but in most cases it is 45” linear. For most airlines, the maximum height of a carry-on suitcase is 22”, including the wheels and handles. However, and I can’t stress this enough, it is very important that you always check what the policy of the airline you are flying with.

Some will allow only bags up to 21”, others won’t let you carry on anything wider than 15”, and some (like Southwest) will let you carry on bags up to 24”. It varies from airline to airline, but a 21” suitcase is generally considered a carry-on almost everywhere.

What Is The Smallest Suitcase Size?

The smallest suitcase size is 18” for proper suitcases . These are mini carry-ons that work best for overnight trips because they have a very small capacity. Also, this is the standard size of suitcases for children . You can go even smaller, but then we’re not really talking about proper suitcases.

Instead, we’re talking about underseat bags. Some brands will put as much effort into these as they put into their other luggage, so you can buy a proper underseat suitcase with a multi-stage handle, spinner wheels, and two packing compartments. These mini suitcases are usually 16” or smaller.

What Happens If Carry-On Is Too Big?

If your carry-on suitcase is too big and you’re not allowed to bring it inside the cabin, you will be forced to check your bag . If your ticket allows for a checked bag and you don’t have one, you don’t need to pay an extra fee. But if your ticket doesn’t include checked luggage, you will need to pay for it.

Make a point of checking the carry-on restrictions of any airline you travel with, and you will avoid nasty surprises. It’s especially important to this if you’re flying with a local airline that uses smaller aircrafts. Smaller planes have smaller overhead bins and even standard carry-ons won’t always fit inside them.

It’s worth noting that slightly oversized carry-ons make it inside the cabin all the time. It depends on how strict the airline is with enforcing the rule, but also who’s working that particular day, and whether they’re in a good mood. As long as your carry-on is not visibly oversized (bulging, extended, etc.), you can easily sneak it onto the plane.

What Happens If Carry-On Is Too Heavy?

If your carry-on suitcase is too heavy, you will most likely be forced to check it at the gate. This will also incur a checked baggage fee, and depending on the weight of the carry-on, you might also get an overweight baggage fee. But the latter will happen only if your carry-on exceeds the maximum weight for checked bags, which is usually 50 lbs.

Considering that carry-ons have a significantly smaller capacity than checked luggage, it’s almost impossible to make them weigh more than 50 lbs.

Most airlines have a weight limit of 20 lbs for carry-on bags but be sure to double-check if this is the case with the airline you are traveling with. Some airlines don’t have any weight restrictions for carry-ons, and you could get away with a suitcase that’s entirely packed with bricks. It generally depends on the size of the aircraft – if you’re flying in a small plane, an overweight carry-on is trouble.

You can avoid all of this by simply weighing your carry-on at home and taking out any items that are making it overweight. Additionally, a few ounces or even a pound extra shouldn’t really matter – most airlines don’t even weigh carry-on luggage, unless it’s obvious that it is too heavy.

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How to Maximize Your Luggage by Understanding Suitcase Sizes

After spending seven years in the U.S. Air Force as an Arabic linguist, Carissa is now a freelance writer using points and miles to fund a four-year (and counting!) adventure. She previously worked as a reporter for The Points Guy. Her writing has since been featured in numerous publications, including Forbes, Business Insider, and The Balance. When she's not flying, you'll usually find her in a Priority Pass lounge somewhere, sipping tea and cursing slow Wi-Fi.

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Table of Contents

Check in luggage size chart

How to measure luggage size, how to get free checked luggage, luggage sizes recapped.

Odds are you're going to bring along some luggage with you on your next trip. This is true whether you're boarding a plane, train or automobile — but the mode you choose could impact the bags you bring, especially when taking to the skies.

Let's look at each airline's luggage size restrictions, how to measure your bags and ways to get free checked luggage on airlines. 

If you're traveling on an aircraft, where you're traveling may impact how large your bags can be. Also, international sizes aren't necessarily the same as domestic sizing requirements, so double-check your suitcase size before bringing your bags along. 

Here are the measurements for check-in luggage sizes when flying with airline carriers in the United States. 

Note that some airlines may also have different baggage policies based on where you're traveling. American Airlines, for instance, allows passengers flying to Australia or New Zealand to check bags up to 70 pounds. This is great news if you're traveling with a large suitcase.

» Learn more: Which airlines have the best (and worst) fees?

Large checked luggage sizes can be problematic, especially if traveling on a low-cost carrier like Spirit Airlines or Frontier Airlines.

To avoid oversized baggage fees, you'll want to measure any checked luggage before your flight. This includes both the size and the weight. 

Luggage scales are a cheap and effective way to get an accurate weight measurement on your suitcases. 

Measuring the size of your luggage isn't tricky. Most airlines require that your bag be 62 linear inches or less. Therefore, your bag's length, width and height cannot exceed 62 inches. This measurement includes the wheels and the handle of your luggage. 

To measure your bag, you'll want to grab a tape measure. First, lay your bag flat on the ground, then measure its height. Next, you'll want to measure how long and wide it is. 

If your bag has an expandable feature that you plan to use, be sure to expand it before you measure. 

Once you've gathered all three data points, add them together. For example, if your bag is 24 inches tall, 20 inches long and 18 inches wide, its total linear length is 62 inches. 

Note that using modern spinner bags, which include four wheels on the bottom of your suitcase, means you'll have less space within your actual bag. This is thanks to the requirement to include wheels and handles in your measurements. 

If this all sounds a little overwhelming, don't worry. Most luggage companies design their bags to fit within these standards. So if your bag isn't huge or a strange shape, the odds are that it'll fit within the dimensions required by airlines. 

» Learn more: Ways to avoid paying checked baggage fees

Want to avoid checked luggage fees? There are a few ways to do so. 

Elite status

The first way to avoid those fees is to achieve elite status with a specific airline. Often, even the lowest elite status tiers have the advantage of free checked bags. 

Active duty military and veterans can take advantage of complimentary checked bags on many airlines. 

On United Airlines, for example, Silver elite members get one free checked bag on all flights, even when flying basic economy. Even better, their baggage allowance is bumped up to 70 pounds — an additional 20 pounds over those without elite status.

» Learn more: The beginner's guide to airline elite status

Co-branded credit cards

Many airlines offer co-branded credit cards that'll give you a free checked bag on flights. This includes airlines such as:

Alaska Airlines .

American Airlines .

Delta Air Lines .

United Airlines .

These cards may charge an annual fee, but if you fly just a few times yearly, it pays for itself with free checked luggage. 

» Learn more: The best airline credit cards right now

Travel cards

Don't want to commit yourself to a single airline but still want free checked bags? A few different travel cards come with an annual airline fee credit.

This credit will reimburse you for expenses you incur while traveling, including checked luggage fees, seat assignments and lounge access. 

The Platinum Card® from American Express is one, as is the Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card . 

Terms apply.

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

No matter how you're traveling, it's essential to understand the size of your suitcase. After all, you don't want to be maxed out on a trip before you even depart — where would you put your souvenirs?

If you plan on hopping on a plane, look at our detailed checked luggage size chart and recommendations for avoiding checked luggage fees. 

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are some of the best travel credit cards of 2024 :

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1.5%-5% Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

Up to $300 Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!

on Capital One's website

2x-5x Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day. Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options.

75,000 Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

Use SAVE500 for an additional Rs.500 off*

Use SAVE1000 for additional Rs.1000 off*

Use SAFARI5 for Additional 5% Off

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Luggage Size Chart: Ultimate Guide to Carry On & Check-in Baggage

The importance of a luggage bag size chart cannot be overstated, as improperly sized luggage can transform an anticipated journey into a hassle at the airport. From incurring additional fees for oversized and trolley bag to facing restrictions on carry-on access, understanding and adhering to additional questions related to luggage size limits is pivotal. Before heading to the airport, a quick review of our comprehensive luggage size guide ensures a smoother travel experience.

Which luggage to take when traveling?

There are tons of questions regarding selecting the right type of luggage for travel can be a daunting task, as various factors come into play to ensure a seamless journey. The duration, distance, and destination of the trip are crucial considerations. For short trips, a compact carry-on, duffle backpack  or office bag may suffice, offering convenience and avoiding check-in hassles. Longer journeys, especially those involving multiple destinations, may require larger suitcases to accommodate ample belongings. The type of travel, be it business, leisure, or adventure, further influences the choice. A well-informed decision on luggage size and type not only caters to practical needs but also enhances overall travel comfort and efficiency.

Luggage Size Chart

Explore our comprehensive inch luggage size chart below, providing detailed dimensions for various bag types, ensuring you stay well-informed for your travel packing needs.

When to Opt for Checked Luggage

Choosing checked luggage is often the preferred option for extended trips where a larger wardrobe is essential. Business travelers, especially those with formal attire or multiple outfits, may find checked bags more accommodating. Vacationers planning for diverse weather conditions or various activities could also benefit from the extra space. Additionally, when carrying larger items or specific equipment necessary for the journey, opting for checked luggage ensures a smoother and more comfortable travel experience.

Checked Baggage Allowances and Restrictions

When to opt for carry on bags.

Carry-on bags are the perfect choice for travelers in specific situations, such as short trips or weekends away. Their compact size and lightweight nature make them ideal for quick getaways. Opting for carry-on bags offers several advantages, including convenience, cost savings, and the ability to bypass the often time-consuming baggage claim process. Travelers can enjoy swift departures, avoiding the hassle of waiting for checked baggage.

Carry on luggage size chart 

Personal items limitations.

Airlines typically designate a specific space beneath the seat for personal items, such as laptops , medications, books, or other essentials. This space is intended to provide convenience for passengers during the flight. However, exceeding the allotted space may necessitate the use of the overhead bin and, in some cases, could lead to additional fees. It's essential for travelers to be mindful of the dimensions and limitations imposed by airlines to ensure a smooth and hassle-free boarding experience.

In conclusion, understanding luggage size guidelines is paramount for a seamless travel experience. The choice between carry-on and checked luggage depends on factors like trip duration and specific needs. Adhering to airline regulations prevents unnecessary fees and ensures swift boarding. The convenience of personal items beneath the seat is advantageous, but travelers must be mindful of space limitations. To assist in making informed choices, it is recommended to refer to our comprehensive luggage size chart in kg or luggage size chart in cm. By consulting this, travelers can sidestep common pitfalls, enjoy cost savings, and embark on their journeys with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the 3 sizes of luggage?

• Luggage generally comes in three main sizes: small, medium, and large. Small luggage, often referred to as carry-on, is suitable for short trips, while medium and large sizes cater to longer journeys with increased packing capacity. 

What is the size limit for carry-on luggage?

• The carry-on luggage size chart varies among airlines, but common dimensions range around 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm). It's crucial for travelers to check their airline's specific requirements to ensure their carry-on meets the size restrictions and avoids any inconvenience during boarding.

Continue reading

Check In Baggage Rules You Need to Know in 2024

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Travel right: Carry-on luggage size and weight guide

Unclear if your carry-on bag is allowed on? This article has everything you need to know to avoid last-minute encounters with TSA, excess baggage fees and a stressful start to your vacation. Use this airline-by-airline guide to see what size and how heavy your carry-on luggage can be .

In this post

• What size is carry-on luggage?
• What is the carry-on luggage weight limit?
• What is a personal item on a plane?
• What is the standard international carry-on luggage size?
• Carry-on luggage vs. a personal item: what’s the difference?
• Carry-on luggage policies for domestic airlines
• Carry-on luggage policies for international airlines

And with KAYAK’s Baggage Fee Assistant , you can see whether your luggage is included in the overall flight price. Just search for your flights on KAYAK, add the bags you want to take using the tool on the left and watch your results instantly update.

1. What size is carry-on luggage?

Most airlines follow very similar size regulations when it comes to carry-on luggage. The majority go by a standard height, width and depth measurement.

In general, standard domestic carry-on luggage size is 22 x 14 x 9 inches. If you’re flying internationally, that may vary a little to 21.5 x 15.5 x 9 inches. Remember, those dimensions include the handle, wheels and anything else that may protrude from your suitcase so don’t miss them from your measurements.

A few airlines, including Delta, American Airlines, Air Canada and Southwest Airlines, measure their carry-on using what’s called “linear inches”. This is a measurement that adds up the height, width and depth of your carry-on to create a single total number.

For example, Delta’s carry-on limit is 45 linear inches – so if the combined height, width and depth of your luggage is less than 45 inches, you can take it as carry-on:

✅ 22 (h) + 14 (w) + 9 (d) = 45 inches ✅ 25 (h) + 10 (W) + 10 (d) = 45 inches ❌ 24 (h) + 14 (w) + 8 (d) = 46 inches

Carry-on size limits are there to make sure everyone’s luggage will fit in the overhead bins. I always try to fly with only carry-on luggage no matter where I go or for how long. Apart from it forcing me to not overpack, I always travel easier knowing my luggage is in reach rather than in the hold, or even worse, still back at the airport!

2. What is the carry-on luggage weight limit?

Weight limits for carry-on luggage are even more of a minefield than size restrictions, although generally they’re not as strictly enforced. That doesn’t mean, however, that you can fill your case to bursting and make it so heavy it requires a group effort to get it in the overhead bin.

Many major airlines such as American Airlines, Delta, JetBlue and United Airlines have no weight limits at all. As long as you can lift your bag over your shoulders, high enough to get it in the overhead storage bin, you’re fine.

Other limits vary dramatically by airline, and can even change for the same airline depending on where you’re flying from and to. From a lightweight 15 lbs with Qantas, Qatar and Singapore Airlines to a more manageable 51 lbs with British Airways, it’s always important to check in advance.

As long as you’re sensible and within a few pounds though, you shouldn’t have any problems.

3. What is a personal item on a plane?

You may see some airlines include carry-on luggage and “one personal item” in their size guidelines. That personal item refers to a small bag – typically a laptop bag, purse or briefcase . Airline size regulations for personal items vary wildly, but as long as it’s small enough to fit easily under the seat in front of you, there shouldn’t be any problems.

If you have something specific to carry such as a baby bag for diapers and food, a pair of crutches or something particularly fragile, airlines tend to be quite accommodating in including it as carry-on. To be on the safe side, you should always check directly with the airline in advance.

4. What is the standard international carry-on luggage size?

Carry-on luggage sizes can vary between domestic and international flights, although not by much. For most international flights, the maximum carry-on luggage size is 21.5 x 15.5 x 9 inches or 46 linear inches . If your luggage fits within these dimensions, you’ll have no problems treating it as carry-on.

There are some exceptions such as Qatar Airways, which states measurements of 20 x 15 x 10 inches or 45 linear inches for its carry-on baggage. Pay attention in particular if you’re flying in Europe or with smaller regional airlines, as they can have very different restrictions depending on the airplane.

5. Carry-on luggage vs. a personal item: what’s the difference?

The practical difference between carry-on luggage and a personal item is that the former is for storage in the overhead bin and the latter for under the seat in front of you.

Your carry-on luggage is the bag you don’t hand over at check-in. If you’re traveling light, using your carry-on luggage allowance can prevent you having to check any bags at all. That’s always a win, as your bags will never get lost or left behind and you don’t have to wait at baggage collection once you’ve landed.

Many airlines include a carry-on luggage allowance in their ticket price. Some – especially small and budget airlines – charge extra for it, although it’s usually still cheaper than paying for checked luggage .

Personal items are things like your purse or laptop, briefcase or camera, and are usually permitted on top of your carry-on luggage free of charge. Size allowances vary by airline but most simply follow the ‘fit under the seat in front of you’ guideline.

If you’re not sure what you can take in your carry-on or personal item, check out our FAQs .

Not sure if your carry-on luggage size fits your airline policy?

To take the anxiety out of boarding and make sure your carry-on is always compliant, we created a fun  Bag Measurement tool . Download the  KAYAK app  and you’ll never need a tape measure again.

Just open the app and tap on “Measure your bag.” Using your camera, capture your luggage and our app will do the math for you to give your bag’s exact measurements. Handily, it also compares airline baggage policies in one place too, so you can quickly check your carry-on fits no matter who you’re flying with. Watch the video below to see how it works.

6. Carry-on luggage policies for domestic airlines

Although there are differences in carry-on luggage size and weight restrictions between lots of different airlines, many also now tow a similar line to each other.

When it comes to carry-on baggage, few domestic airlines now specify a weight limit. Of those we’ve detailed below, only Hawaiian Airlines and Frontier Airlines impose weight restrictions. The rest go by dimensions only.

For personal items, Delta, Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines all dispense with measurements, instead simply asking that it fits under the seat in front of you. None of the domestic airlines impose a weight limit.

To make it easier for you to search, we’ve gone through the main domestic US airlines and detailed the size and weight limits for both carry-on luggage and personal items. We’ve also included any other relevant information, tools and tips we think you might find useful when flying with each specific airline.

Alaska Airlines

American Airl ines

Hawaiian Airlines

Southwest airlines, spirit airlines, united airlines.

• Carry-on luggage size: 22 x 14 x 9 inches
• Carry-on luggage maximum weight: Not specified
• Personal item size: Must fit under the seat in front of you
• Personal item maximum weight: Not specified

The Alaska Airlines carry-on luggage allowance includes one carry-on bag and one personal item for all fares.

American Airlines

• Personal item size: 18 x 4 x 8 inches

The American Airlines carry-on luggage allowance includes one carry-on bag and one personal item for all fares, Basic Economy included.

• Carry-on luggage size:  22 x 14 x 9 inches or 45 linear inches
• Carry-on luggage maximum weight:  None (with exceptions)
• Personal item size:  Must fit under the seat in front of you
• Personal item maximum weight:  Not specified

All  Delta fares include one carry-on bag  and one personal item. Most routes have no weight limit for carry-on with a few exceptions. Flying to or from Beijing or Shanghai in China comes with a 22lb weight limit, and from Singapore it’s a 15lb limit.

• Carry-on luggage size:  24 x 10 x 16 inches
• Carry-on luggage maximum weight:  35 lbs
• Personal item size:  14 x 18 x 8 inches

Frontier fares include only a personal item  and no carry-on luggage. That means you’ll need to add and pay for carry-on luggage, with prices varying by route and when you add it. As always, adding it when you book your flights will be cheapest.

As always, there are exceptions. If you buy one of the WORKS or PERKS fare bundles, carry-on (as well as checked) baggage is included. And if you’re an Elite member of the FRONTIER Miles rewards program you too are blessed with carry-on included.

• Carry-on luggage size:  22 x 14 x 9 inches
• Carry-on luggage maximum weight:  25 lbs

Hawaiian Airlines includes carry-on luggage  and a personal item on all fares, but watch out for that weight limit.

• Carry-on luggage maximum weight:  None
• Personal item size:  17 x 13 x 8 inches

You can take a carry-on bag and personal item on all fares except a Blue Basic ticket, where you can only bring a personal item – most of the time. There are, of course, some exceptions.

If you’re in the US military, are an unaccompanied minor, or are traveling to or from the UK or Europe,  including connecting flights , you can  take carry-on with a Basic Blue fare . The same applies if you upgrade your seat or reach the giddy heights of Mosaic status in JetBlue’s TrueBlue rewards program.

• Carry-on luggage size:  24 x 16 x 10 inches
• Carry-on luggage maximum weight:  Not specified
• Personal item size:  16.25 x 13.5 x 8 inches

Note: As well as offering comparatively generous  carry-on and personal item sizes, Southwest  also includes both in all its fares.

• Carry-on luggage size:  22 x 18 x 9 inches
• Personal item size:  18 x 14 x 8 inches
• Personal item maximum weight:  None

Spirit keeps its flight prices low by charging for carry-on  baggage and allowing only a smaller personal item for free. Fees vary depending on the route and when you buy it.

If you add when booking your flight, the average fee is $37, although that can be lower for domestic US flights. Add it later and it gets more expensive the longer you leave it, rising to $65 if you pay at the gate. The moral being, always add luggage when you book to get the best deal.

• Personal item size:  17 x 10 x 9 inches

If you’re flying domestically or between the US and Canada, you can bring one carry-on bag and one personal item on all fares except Basic Economy, where you can only bring a personal item.

If you’re flying to South America or across the Atlantic or Pacific on a Basic Economy fare, you can bring carry-on luggage and a personal item.

Certain MileagePlus, Premier and Star Alliance Gold members also qualify to bring a carry-on to all flights no matter their fare. Check the  United carry-on guide  for details.

7. Carry-on luggage policies for international airlines

Many of the international airlines have different fares and a confusing array of classes, from economy to first. These come with different carry-on and personal item restrictions, so be sure to check which class ticket you have before packing.

Aer Lingus, Air Canada, Lufthansa, Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) and Turkish Airlines all have the same carry-on size limit but weight allowances vary. Almost all of the International airlines we’ve listed impose carry-on weight restrictions, and many on personal items as well. The only exception is Air Canada.

British Airways

Qatar airways, scandinavian airlines (sas), turkish airlines.

• Carry-on luggage size:  21.5 x 15.5 x 9.5 inches
• Carry-on luggage maximum weight:  22 lbs
• Personal item size:  13 x 10 x 8 inches

Aer Lingus has gone to town on the complexity of its carry-on policies and prices.

If you’re flying trans-Atlantic, your carry-on and personal item are included in your fare. If you’re flying in Europe, you’ll need to book a “Carry-on bag with priority boarding” ticket and pay upwards of €9.99. Or you can check your bag into the hold, in which case it’s free.

There are a raft of exceptions to this including different fare types and connections, so you should check carefully when you book.

If you’re flying Aer Lingus Regional (that uses smaller planes limited mostly to Ireland and the UK), the allowances shrink. Your carry-on must be a maximum of 18.5 x 13 x 8 inches and weigh no more than 15 lbs.

Air Canada lets you bring a carry-on bag and personal item on all its fares, but does stress that you must be able to lift your carry-on into the overhead bin unassisted.

• Carry-on luggage size:  21.6 x 13.7 x 9.8 inches
• Carry-on luggage maximum weight:  26.4 to 40 lbs (fare dependent) including personal item
• Personal item size:  15.7 x 11.8 x 5.8 inches
• Personal item maximum weight:  26.4 to 40 lbs (fare dependent) including carry-on luggage

If you’re traveling with Air France on an Economy ticket, you can take one carry-on and a personal item with a combined weight of 26.4 lbs. If you’re flying in Premium Economy, Business, or La Première, you can take two carry-on bags and one personal item with a combined weight of 40 lbs. Air Canada lets you bring a carry-on bag and personal item on all its fares but does stress that you must be able to lift your carry-on into the overhead bin unassisted.

• Carry-on luggage size:  22 x 18 x 10 inches
• Carry-on luggage maximum weight:  51 lbs
• Personal item size:  16 x 12 x 6 inches
• Personal item maximum weight:  51 lbs

British Airways includes a carry-on bag and personal item in all its fare prices, with generous size allowances.

• Carry-on luggage size:  22 x 17.5 x 9.5 inches
• Carry-on luggage maximum weight:  33 lbs
• Personal item size:  17.5 x 14 x 8 inches
• Personal item maximum weight:  33 lbs

Another of Europe’s huge budget airlines, easyJet offers only a personal item to take free on board, which they market as a “small cabin bag.” For a proper size carry-on bag you’ll need to book a FLEXI Fare or an Up Front or Extra Legroom seat, or just add a large cabin bag separately. Prices start from £5.99.

• Carry-on luggage size:  22 x 15 x 8 inches
• Carry-on luggage maximum weight:  15 to 30 lbs (fare dependent)
• Personal item size:  22 x 15 x 8 inches
• Personal item maximum weight:  15 lbs

Economy class passengers can bring a single carry-on weighing 15 lbs. Premium Economy passengers can up that to 22 lbs. Business and First Class can bring two carry-ons of up to 15 lbs each. As with Qatar Airways, tickets issued in Brazil have a weight limit of 22 lbs.

Beware too that Emirates only allows one item for Economy and Premium Economy fares – either a carry-on or a personal item, not both. It also notes that if you carry a garment bag it must be no more than eight inches thick when folded.

• Carry-on luggage size:  21.5 x 13.5 x 9.5 inches
• Carry-on luggage maximum weight:  26 to 40 lbs (fare dependent) including personal item
• Personal item maximum weight:  26 to 40 lbs (fare dependent) including carry-on luggage

KLM’s policies change with their fares. Economy gets one carry-on and one personal item up to 26 lbs in combined weight. Premium Comfort gets two carry-ons and a personal item but the same combined weight of 26 lbs. Business Class gets the same as Premium Comfort but with a weight increase to 40 lbs.

And if you bring a baby on your lap, you can take one extra carry-on weighing up to 26 lbs.

• Carry-on luggage size:  21.5 x 15.5 x 9 inches or 22.5 x 21 x 6 inches for foldable garment bags
• Carry-on luggage maximum weight:  17.5 lbs
• Personal item size:  15.5 x 11.5 x 4 inches

All Lufthansa Economy Class and Premium Economy Class fares include one carry-on bag and personal item, with size and weight restrictions. Business and First Class fares include two carry-on bags, although the second bag may need to be checked in on flights from Italy, India and the USA.

• Carry-on luggage size:  20 x 15 x 10 inches
• Carry-on luggage maximum weight:  15 to 33 lbs (fare dependent)
• Personal item size:  Not specified

Economy Class Qatar Airways passengers can take one carry-on and one personal item weighing up to 15 lbs. Business and First class can take two carry-on bags and one personal item weighing up to 33 lbs. Tickets issued in Brazil have a weight limit of 22 lbs.

It’s worth noting that Qatar Airlines considers your laptop and case part of your carry-on and not a personal item. Note too that 20 inch luggage length is shorter than most other carriers.

• Carry-on luggage size:  21.5 x 15.5 x 8 inches
• (Priority fares) Carry-on luggage maximum weight:  22 lbs
• (Priority fares) Personal item size:  15.5 x 8 x 10 inches

Budget airline Ryanair keeps its prices low by allowing only a smaller personal item as part of the fare price. You’ll need to buy its Priority & 2 Cabin Bags option if you want to take a carry-on bag weighing up to 22 lbs. Prices vary by route and when you book.

Ryanair’s Priority bundle also lets you board the plane early, but don’t be fooled! This often means standing at the front of the queue in a corridor instead of relaxing at the gate while waiting for the plane to be ready.

• Carry-on luggage size:  21.5 x 15.5 x 9 inches

All SAS fares allow you to take one carry-on bag and a personal item with the exception of the Go Light fare – but only if you’re traveling in Europe. On this fare you’ll need to pay for your carry-on bag. If you’re on a Go Light fare to or from Asia, Canada or the US, your carry-on is included.

Plus and Business Class passengers can take two carry-on bags with them. SAS also notes you can bring airport purchases and Duty Free bags onboard with you at no cost.

• Personal item size:  15.5 x 11.5 x 6 inches
• Personal item maximum weight:  9 lbs

Turkish Airlines Economy Class passengers can take one carry-on and one personal item on board. Business Class passengers can take one extra carry-on of the same weight and dimensions.

For both domestic and international flights, infant passengers are also allowed one more carry-on bag.

• Personal item size:  16 x 12 x 8 inches

All fares can take a personal item on board , but you can only take a carry-on bag if you’re on a TimeFlex Fare, are a Premium customer, require assistance at the airport or are traveling with a child younger than two.

How was this guide created?

Experience and research! I’ve been traveling the world and writing stories about it for 20 years and have one mantra: carry-on is king. Unless I’m nervously checking in surfboards or skis, I only ever  pack a carry-on  and personal item.

Over time I’ve learned a lot about the tricks to success and pitfalls of getting carry-on wrong. This guide is a culmination of that experience combined with extensive research into US and international airline luggage policies. I also got great advice from the KAYAK teams who build the features and tools you use to book your travel.

If you found this article helpful, we’ve got plenty more inspiration and information to share. Unsure where to travel this year? Check out our guide to  traveling with a carry-on vs checked bag  and if you’re thinking of traveling off-season, this  in-betweasons guide  has an in-depth breakdown of prices and places to visit. Dive in!

This post is part of our Flight guide. Want to make sure you get the most out of your trip? Read about how to find cheap flights in our guide.

Carry-on luggage FAQs

A backpack is generally considered a personal item rather than a carry-on, as long as it fits below the seat in front of you or meets the dimensions specified by the airline.

If you’re traveling with a full size backpack that can only be stored in the overhead bins, this would qualify as carry-on luggage. As always, check the permitted dimensions and weight before you travel.

A duffel bag is typically considered carry-on luggage, yes. This does, of course, depend on its dimensions which are almost always the deciding factor for airlines over the type of luggage you have.

If it’s too big to fit under the seat in front of you and has to go in the overhead bin, you should consider it to be carry-on luggage rather than a personal item.

None of the international airlines we’ve mentioned in this guide would allow a 24-inch suitcase as carry-on, as it doesn’t meet their size requirements. Domestically, both Frontier and Southwest Airlines would allow you to take your 24-inch suitcase as carry-on thanks to their generous size limits.

Generally, I’d say a 24-inch bag will be treated as check-in luggage more often than carry-on, so think carefully before traveling with it!

The TSA has strict rules around what you can take in your carry-on luggage. Generally speaking you can take most things you’ll need for your journey.

Foods including fruits are fine. If you’re taking baby foods and medicines it’s worth checking with the airline first to make sure they don’t breach liquid limits. If you have support devices like crutches, walking stick, stroller or wheelchair, you shouldn’t have any problems but let the airline know in advance, just to be sure.

The TSA has strict rules around what you can’t take in your carry-on luggage . Rules against carrying weapons and ammunition are obvious, but it’s liquid allowances that catch most people out.

Currently, you can’t bring any liquid, gel, aerosol, cream or paste containers bigger than 3.4 ounces (100ml if you’re in Europe). If you do, it’ll be confiscated at security or you’ll be turned away if you’re not willing to relinquish it. Exceptions include medications and children’s foods but it’s always worth checking in advance to be sure.

Disclaimer: prices and information are correct as of 21.07.2023 and may vary with time.

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Luggage Sizes Chart: Ultimate Guide to Suitcase Dimensions and Travel Needs

Josephine seale.

Traveling requires thorough planning, especially when it comes to your luggage. Here’s a guide to understanding the common luggage sizes to help you pack efficiently.

Table of Contents

Luggage Sizes Chart

Why Do Luggage Size Limits Matter?

Consequences of exceeding luggage size limits.

Wheels and Handles in Luggage Measurements

Exceptions to common luggage size limits, carry-on luggage size standards, prohibited items in carry-on luggage.

Checked Luggage Size Essentials

Oversized checked luggage fees, how to measure the luggage, oversized luggage consequences.

Packing Techniques

Deciphering luggage sizes: a comprehensive guide.

• Consumer Reports – Luggage Buying Guide ( https://www.consumerreports.org ): This guide is an all-encompassing resource for those looking to understand the world of luggage. From the diverse types of luggage available to nuanced features that can enhance your travel experience, Consumer Reports breaks it down seamlessly. Their emphasis on quality, durability, and value gives a well-rounded perspective. If you’re a first-time buyer or even someone seeking an upgrade, this guide is an excellent starting point.
• American Airlines – Carry-On Baggage Rules ( https://www.aa.com ): This official resource from American Airlines provides concise information on their carry-on baggage regulations. It’s straightforward, user-friendly, and offers clarity on what you can expect when flying with them. While it is specific to American Airlines, it provides a benchmark of what major airlines might expect.
• American Society of Travel Advisors ( https://www.asta.org ): ASTA offers an array of insights, not just on luggage, but on the entire travel spectrum. It serves as a hub for travel advisors, offering insights, news, and guidelines. While it may seem like a deep dive for someone merely looking for luggage guidelines, it offers an enriched perspective for frequent travelers or those looking to understand the travel industry more deeply.

About Post Author

Josephine Seale is the perfect tour guide!

She loves interacting with people of all ages and enjoys escorting individuals or groups on sightseeing tours. Josephine has a professional manner and appearance, and she always maintains a positive attitude.

Her good organizational, critical thinking, and time management skills make her an ideal candidate for this position. In addition, she is able to read, write, and communicate effectively in Spanish.

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The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks

By Kit Dillon

Kit Dillon is a writer focused on bags and travel gear. He has worked for Wirecutter for a decade and lost count of the number of bags he has tested.

When you open up your favorite carry-on travel backpack, it should feel like you’re opening the door to a well-organized closet or sitting down at a clean desk, with everything in the right place and easy to reach.

This is your moment to center yourself, no matter how chaotic the journey.

What we considered

A 45-liter bag maximizes overhead space but can get heavy when fully packed; 35-liter bags tend to be more manageable.

A bag with a clamshell design opens like a book and is the easiest to pack, but a bag that opens traditionally tends to have more structure.

Ideally, a travel backpack has handles on all sides—especially the bottom—so you can pull it out of overhead bins or from under seats.

Some internal pockets are useful, but major organizing is better managed with packing cubes.

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack and the larger Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L offer the best combination of features, quality, and durability. Both bags are exemplary carry-on travel backpacks that are designed for comfort, durability, and organization. Though these backpacks are great as companion bags for any trip, they’re designed to ultimately replace all of your other luggage and become your exclusive bag as you travel.

This style of packing is not for everyone, but once some people try it, they’re forever hooked. Finding the right bag is a personal choice, though, and no single bag will appeal to everyone. That’s why we also have picks that are great for people who travel for work , others that are designed to be carried over long distances , and a bag that’s basically luggage on your back .

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, best small carry-on bag for most situations: cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack, best large bag for most situations: peak design travel backpack 45l, best mobile office: patagonia black hole mlc 45l, best bag for long journeys on foot: osprey farpoint 40 and fairview 40, best bag if you need a large suitcase on your back: tortuga travel backpack pro 40l, other good carry-on travel backpacks, how we picked and tested, the competition.

I’ve been covering aspects of luggage and travel bag design for Wirecutter for nearly a decade, and I have personally researched, tested, and compared hundreds of bags in that time. I personally try to do most of my travel with a single backpack, whenever possible. I spent nine months roaming around Hawaii with not much more than that, and I spent another six months nomadically couch-surfing in New York City.

I reached out to writers who specialize in traveling the world carrying everything they need in a single bag: Eytan Levy, the owner and operator of the Snarky Nomad travel website; James Feess, founder of The Savvy Backpacker ; and Sharon Gourlay, of the Where’s Sharon? travel website. I also spoke with moderators of Reddit’s r/onebag and r/heronebag forums, as well as with Chase Reeves, bag fanatic, reviewer, and owner of Matterful .

We researched and tested bags designed for those who want to travel light and stay flexible while flying, without the burden of checking luggage. For some people, the challenge of cutting down a packing list is intimidating. But if you can get past that initial hurdle, traveling with a single bag is a revelation. With fewer items, you have more time to concentrate on and appreciate the journey.

• When you’re not loaded down by heavy luggage, it’s easy to remain more mobile. And it’s easier to adjust your plans mid-trip. If you’re willing to do laundry on the road, then one bag is all you need to travel indefinitely. At its heart, one-bag travel allows you to discover more—not just about the places you’re going but also about yourself and what you really need day to day.
• Size and weight still matter. If you desire more creature comforts or more gear, or if you plan to be away for a long time across multiple climates, you’ll want a bigger travel backpack . These larger bags tend not to be carry-on-friendly, however, especially in Europe, so be prepared to check them.
• No single backpack is perfect for everyone. Before you make any purchase, consider some basic points. How much can you carry? And where do you usually visit: the city or outback? Travel gear should feel like a welcome companion—there to support you when you need it but unobtrusive when you don’t.

45-liter bag vs. 35-liter bag

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

A versatile small pack for a week or a weekend.

This durable bag’s clamshell design makes it easy to organize your stuff. And due to its strap design, this bag can be worn on your back or carried in your hand while you’re on the move.

Buying Options

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack is an easy-to-organize, comfortable-to-carry bag for getaways lasting just a few days or a whole week.

It’s one bag that can do it all. This is a great all-around bag for any traveler who’s dedicated to packing light, or for a smaller person who wants less to carry. There are handles on all four sides of this bag, so it’s easy to grab no matter where you’ve stowed it. It’s also protected by a full lifetime warranty, and it has the build quality to back that up. After more than four years of testing, this single backpack (plus a personal item ) has replaced nearly every travel bag or piece of luggage I use.

It comes in various sizes, but we think the middle-of-the-road version is the best. Cotopaxi also makes the Allpa in 28-liter and 42-liter sizes. But for us, the 35-liter bag is the best option. At 42 liters, this bag becomes heavy for most people to carry when it is fully packed, and we’d prefer that it had a more-robust hip belt. At 28 liters, the bag becomes a touch small for most people, and its internal organization feels fussy for shorter trips, such as an overnight. Cotopaxi also makes a hip pack , which is designed to fit snugly into the Allpa bag’s front top compartment. It’s a neat little addition to the bag, and it is worth getting if you like wearing fanny packs while you travel.

It’s organized, easy to pack, and easy to carry. The Allpa bag has a clamshell design, so it opens like a hard-sided suitcase—a large YKK zipper runs around three sides of the bag, allowing it to fall open into two halves when unzipped. On the right side is a deep compartment, spacious enough for two large packing cubes or half a suitcase’s worth of clothing (which you access through a mesh zippered flap). On the left, there’s space for one more medium-size packing cube behind a zippered flap. Above that there are two smaller pockets with high-visibility backing—useful when you’re looking for hard-to-differentiate personal items.

It’s secure but still accessible. The Allpa pack has two side-access zippers—great for on-the-go access, especially when the bag is hanging from your shoulder. One of these reveals a flat computer pocket with a padded false bottom; so if you drop the bag, it won’t land on the corner of your computer. The other reveals a “secret” pocket with a hidden zipper and access to the main compartment. All of the main compartment zippers are protected by security loops, which you thread the zipper through at the end of its run. This prevents anyone from subtly or quickly grabbing a zipper and opening your bag when you aren’t paying attention.

It’s comfortable to carry. The Allpa bag’s hip belt—which can be removed while the bag is on your back—is substantial enough that it’s comfortable to wear when you need it. With or without the hip belt, the Allpa bag is comfortable to carry over long distances. However, folks who have longer torsos (over 19 inches) may find that the waist belt sits a little high off the hips, unless you fully extend the shoulder straps. Speaking of shoulder straps, unlike the ones on our other picks, the Allpa bag’s straps are contoured to fit people who have large or small chests. It’s not a specifically gendered design, but our female tester noticed the improvement right away.

The Allpa pack is made with 1680-denier ballistic nylon, similar to the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45 . (Denier is a measure of a fabric’s fiber thickness.) It feels similar to a strong canvas, but it has a more prominent weave. This is the type of bag that’s as easy to toss into an overhead compartment as it is into the back of a rusty pickup truck. And it also includes a rainfly, which is unique in this category.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• Though this pack is well organized for packing, it’s less ideal as a mobile office. The Allpa pack has a minimal amount of administrative organization—places to keep pens and papers, spaces to hold tickets, and so forth. This is where a good personal item comes in handy. However, if you want to travel with just this one bag, there are a few nooks you can hide things in. The front organizer is deep enough that you can also fit several small organizing pouches, if you want, or the aforementioned fanny pack.
• We prefer the model without the TPU front. Cotopaxi does enjoy playing around with fabrics and colors. Sometimes the company has released the Allpa pack without the TPU-lined front panel. The TPU panel improves water resistance, but after many years of traveling with our bag, we’ve found that the TPU layering can begin to flake in spots.

Capacity: 35 liters Weight: 3 pounds 5 ounces Main compartment access: clamshell opening Style: adventurous Colors: assorted

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

An easily customizable large bag for long trips and expensive gear.

This bag was built with photographers in mind. Yet most travelers will appreciate its easy accessibility, clever tuck-away straps, and the elegant way the bag expands and contracts. The accessory cubes cost extra, though.

The Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is a good choice for those carrying more expensive gear—especially camera gear. It’s also great for those who prefer a large, backpack-based packing system.

One bag provides many configurations. Some bags in this category are built to do one thing extremely well—be carried on your back. But the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is built to adapt. It’s the Swiss Army knife of backpacks: adjustable, customizable, and (if you spring for the extra cubes and organizers) an almost perfect system for a photographer or gearhead on the move. Most bags’ expanding mechanisms aren’t worth the extra zipper they’re built on, and they look about as attractive as a boiled ham splitting out of its plastic packaging. That’s not the case with the Peak Design: This bag looks just as good fully packed at 45 liters as it does compressed to a 30-liter daypack.

It’s expandable, with clever folds and zippers. You can access the bag through a back panel (which doubles as a computer and tablet pouch) as well as a front one (if you unzip the pass-through divider). You can also get into the main compartment via two wing-like trapezoidal flaps, which run along each side of the pack. In its natural shape, the Travel Backpack holds 35 liters, but an expansion zipper lets the bag swell to 45 liters. If you want to use the bag as a daypack, you fold in the top corners and snap them down, reducing the bag’s volume to a slim 30 liters. In this configuration, it will still feel larger than a normal daypack, but we think that’s a small compromise for being able to use one backpack as both your travel bag and your daily explorer. The bag itself consists of 400-denier nylon and polyester fabrics. It feels tough but not as tough as some other bags we’ve tested, such as the Cotopaxi Allpa.

It has fold-away straps, for easier storage. The Peak Design lets you tuck its shoulder and hip straps away when you’re not using them. But unlike any other bag we’ve ever tested, this pack has magnetic flaps on the back panel that open and close with an almost magical snap. Once you’ve played with them, you’ll wonder why every backpack doesn’t have something similar. A small, childish part of me still gets excited about tucking away the straps when I put the Peak Design into an overhead bin. Although the straps are thin, they’re still comfortable. The hip belt isn’t quite as plush as the one on the Tortuga pack; still, even when the Peak Design is fully loaded, the belt doesn’t pinch or dig into the body.

It’s great for carrying expensive gear. If you travel with a camera, you don’t have to use Peak Design’s camera cubes , but they do make carrying that gear a whole lot easier. The cubes come in five sizes. And if they’re situated properly in the bag with the provided clips, they line up with the Travel Backpack’s side-access flaps for quick access. Caleigh Waldman (a photographer for this piece and, full disclosure, my spouse) took this bag across the country for a wedding shoot. “I want this backpack,” she said after three weeks of travel. “I want to travel with it everywhere. With my cameras. Without my cameras. It doesn’t matter. I want to travel with it.”

• It’s expensive—especially if you commit to the entire system of packing and camera cubes.
• More complexity means more things that can break. The adjustable design and multiple zippers do add complexity, and complexity adds potential weaknesses. Peak Design covers all of its bags with a lifetime warranty , which should alleviate most people’s concerns. But if you’re particularly hard on your gear and still need to carry as much as possible, you might consider the Tortuga bag instead.

Capacity: 45 liters Weight: 4½ pounds Main compartment access: back-panel loader Style: minimalist and unobtrusive Color: black, sage

Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L

Combines more organization with a simple interior.

This bag’s split interior makes organizing easy. Those who travel for work will appreciate this bag’s dedicated panels for organizing tech, books, papers, and assorted miscellaneous items.

If you travel often for business and prefer a bag that’s much easier to work out of than most of our other picks, you may like the Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L . This bag has a front panel and assorted pockets that make it feel like a small traveling office.

It’s built like luggage but organized like your office. Of all the bags we recommend, the MLC (short for Maximum Legal Carry) comes closest to being a suitcase on your back, due to its large size, simple interior, and minimal external features. The MLC is also one of the simplest bags we tested, divided into two leaves (imagine a book with only one page), with a main compartment for packing and a second compartment for document organization and tech storage. The MLC has a built-in laptop compartment that fits 17-inch laptops and is situated close to your back; this protects the computer and keeps its weight closer to your body.

Despite its size, it’s comfortable enough to carry. Most carry-on backpacks of this size, without frames, become somewhat unwieldy when fully packed. Thankfully, the Black Hole MLC bag, like the Cotopaxi Allpa, is a welcome exception to this rule. The MLC has two shoulder straps, a hip belt, and an optional shoulder strap, for easy carrying. When they're not in use, or when you’re checking your bag, all of the straps can be stowed away easily. When fully loaded, the bag was pleasant to carry—not as comfortable as the Peak Design or the Osprey, but decent enough. I wouldn’t want to carry it all day across a city, but I wouldn’t mind carrying it through an airport to a car and to a hotel.

It’s built from high-quality materials, with durability in mind. This pack is made from recycled polyester, and the fabric is woven in a cross-weave that’s very similar to what Patagonia uses in its long-lasting Black Hole series of duffle bags . This is a material I’ve come across a bunch with Patagonia gear, and I’ve tested it thoroughly; it’s very tough. The front of the bag is coated in a weather-resistant TPU, for extra protection from the elements. The bag has large YKK zippers (the industry leader) and smaller YKK zippers throughout. Unlike the Cotopaxi Allpa pack, the Black Hole MLC bag has no security loops.

It comes with one of the best repair programs and a lifetime warranty. Similar to our other picks, the MLC is backed by an excellent lifetime warranty , and we’ve always found that Patagonia’s repair program goes above and beyond other comparable companies.

• We wish the Maximum Legal Carry (despite the name) came in a few more sizes. The 45-liter capacity may be intimidating for some people, and there is no alternative.

Capacity: 45 liters Weight: 3 pounds 10 ounces Main compartment access: clamshell Style: retro Colors: tan, black, olive, green

Osprey Farpoint 40

For long distances on foot.

A great starter option for one-bag travel, this bag is easy to pack, adaptable to most situations, and sturdy enough to take with you as you travel the world.

(limited colors)

You save $46 (25%)

Osprey Fairview 40

For long distances and smaller torsos.

A scaled-down version of the Farpoint, this bag has shoulder straps that are slightly lower, to keep the bag’s bulk more aligned with smaller torsos.

Updated in 2023, the Osprey Farpoint 40 and Fairview 40 packs are both built around a hiking backpack frame that’s easy to carry over long distances.

It’s built for travel but designed for hiking. The Farpoint 40 bag is well made, easy to pack, and comfortable to carry over most mid-length distances—such as walking across a city for an afternoon. (For simplicity’s sake, everything we say here about the Farpoint bag also applies to the Fairview bag.) Osprey makes excellent backpacks for hauling around, and its lifetime warranty is renowned within the industry . The Farpoint pack also has an optional messenger bag–style strap, which offers some flexibility when you’re maneuvering tight spaces like subways or crowded city centers.

It’s simple to pack, but not as spacious as it seems. Opening the bag reveals a clamshell design; it’s deep enough to accommodate most large items, yet you won’t have to fumble awkwardly with zippers once it’s time to close up the bag. The feeling you get is not unlike when you’re packing a bit of sturdy luggage, and that’s something we love about bags like this one—especially when you use packing cubes . Osprey says this bag, when fully packed, can carry 40 liters. But after using the Farpoint bag for a few years, we’ve decided that its rounded shape seems to cut into that theoretical packable space more than other bags do. In practice, the Farpoint pack’s available space is closer to—but still less than—that of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L .

It’s the easiest bag to carry among our picks. Like all Osprey bags, the Farpoint 40 has very comfortable shoulder straps. The years of design and consideration Osprey has put into its hiking backpacks are quite evident in the Farpoint 40. After more than seven years of long-term testing this bag, we’re still surprised by how great it feels to wear when fully packed. Crucially, the straps of the Farpoint 40 stow away neatly behind a zippered panel. However, when you’re using the shoulder straps, the design forces you to also use the hip straps. Though this isn’t a huge issue, if you prefer a sleeker look or would rather have the option of using shoulder straps without hip straps, the Cotopaxi Allpa pack is more flexible, and it lets you hide the waist straps while the bag is on your back.

The Fairview 40 has the same features, in a scaled-down size. The Farpoint 40 and the Fairview 40 packs basically have the same design, but the Fairview pack is made for someone with a more-diminutive torso. It’s also slightly lighter. However, it has the features and durability of the Farpoint bag. It also has the same hip belt and adjustability. On both, the chest-strap clip is also equipped with a small security whistle that’s surprisingly loud. It’s a handy feature for anyone traveling in unfamiliar environments.

• For a smaller carry-on travel backpack, this one has little to not like. However, we do wish Osprey would trade some of the sleeker contours for a little more interior space.

Capacity: 35 liters Weight (Farpoint): 3 pounds 3 ounces Weight (Fairview): 3 pounds 2 ounces Main compartment access: front-panel loader Style: active Colors (Farpoint): green (Gopher), gray (Tunnel Vision), blue (Muted Space), black Colors (Fairview): blue (Winter Night), red (Zircon), blue (Night Jungle), black

Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L

A suitcase to carry on your back.

For dedicated single-bag travelers, this water-resistant, durable bag is easy to pack and to travel with. And it’s comfortable to wear over endless miles—as long as you don’t mind the heavier weight.

The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L maximizes packing space in a bag that’s durable, water-resistant, and customizable to fit most torso lengths (there’s also a 30L version ), with plenty of organizational features to suit any digital nomad.

It’s like a suitcase, with backpack straps. The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L is built to occupy the maximum carry-on space available. It’s a nearly perfect blend of backpack and luggage. On the outside, its tear-resistant sailcloth and sealed zippers provide ample protection from sharp objects and the elements. Opening the main clamshell zipper reveals a cavernous interior and a few organizational features that make the bag a cinch to pack. The front panel is a particular standout, great for keeping track of electronics and chargers. Of all the bags we tested, the Tortuga strikes the closest balance between the carrying comfort of a hiking backpack and the space and organization of a piece of luggage.

It’s as easy to pack as luggage. When it comes to packing, the Tortuga pack has a soothingly minimal interior, as any good suitcase should. In addition to the bag’s cavernous main pocket, its interior lid has a large vented panel. The panel is too narrow to hold additional packing cubes, but it’s great for holding light jackets or doubling as a dirty-laundry bag (if you’re really committed to one-bag travel). The Tortuga is available as a 40-liter pack (the maximum space for a carry-on bag), which we tested; there is also a 30-liter version, which is compliant with some intra-European flights. The more-diminutive version is a decent choice for weekend travel or for minimalist travelers—but for those uses, we prefer the space-saving profile and extra internal organization of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L bag.

It’s very customizable. The Tortuga pack is the most adjustable model we tested, thanks to its adjustable torso length, shoulder straps, and waist-belt system. The adjustable strap system lets you manipulate the location of the shoulder straps (video) to fit a wider variety of body sizes, in both the 30- and 40-liter versions. Of the packs we’ve tested, this one (with its included load-adjuster straps at the top, to prevent the bag’s weight from sagging toward your lumbar region) is the best at distributing its weight (4½ pounds when empty—roughly 1½ pounds more than most of our other picks, except the Peak Design ). The hip straps are removable if you need, but the shoulder straps are not stowable.

• Its straps don’t stow away. Some people, especially those who are hard on their gear, may consider not being able to remove or stow the shoulder straps (as they can with our other picks, like the Cotopaxi Allpa ) a disqualifying factor. But after years of testing, traveling with, and occasionally checking our bag, we haven’t had an issue. However, if these mysteries beneath the airport also make you nervous, you might prefer our picks with easy-to-stow straps, such as the Peak Design.
• It's heavy. We’ve fielded complaints from some testers who said that older models of this bag were too heavy for them to carry, even with the padded hip belt and adjustable straps. The additional padding does add weight. At 4½ pounds, this latest Tortuga bag is more than half a pound lighter than it used to be (the difference is noticeable), and it weighs the same as the equally large Peak Design pack. We are currently testing a new, lighter, and less-expensive version of this pack—aptly named the Travel Backpack Lite 40L —and will report back soon.  In the meantime, if you think you would struggle carrying the Tortuga, we strenuously encourage you to consider one of our more-manageable picks, like the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L.

Capacity: 40 liters Weight: 4½ pounds Main compartment access: clamshell opening Style: minimal, with a rigid construction Color: black

If you want to travel like a backpacker but also fit in at a board meeting (and you have the budget for it): Consider the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45 . This bag’s reputation for durability, adaptability, and a low-key aesthetic make it a favorite among many dedicated one-bag travelers. And after testing it, we think it’s a great bag too. That said, for the bag to really stand out against other backpacks—and to take full advantage of its carrying adaptability—you need to buy the internal frame , the hip belt , and (if you’re traveling with a suit or jacket) the shoulder strap . On a bag that already costs $330, all of this adds up. Everything about the Tom Bihn bag (the fabric, the zippers, the quality of construction) feels like an upgrade from other bags, but it’s simply too pricey, and its design is too rarified and specific for most people. The biggest flaw, from our perspective—apart from the price—is that the Tom Bihn bag lacks a dedicated laptop pocket. In its place, the company sells laptop sleeves (a fine version if you don’t have one) that clip into the bag’s central compartment. Not everyone needs a dedicated laptop pocket, but we prefer the more secure feeling of bags that do.

We’ve narrowed our specifications for a great bag to the following list of features, ordered from most relevant to least:

• Front- or back-panel loader or clamshell opening, for the main compartment: As with any good piece of luggage, with this type of bag, you should be able to open it and see everything you’ve packed. When you have a bag with a panel-loading or clamshell design—rather than a traditional, top-opening design—you can pack and unpack it just as you would a suitcase.

• Backpack strap comfort and design: You never know when you’ll be walking farther with your bag than you’d intended. The more comfortable and well designed the straps are, the easier traveling will be. “Ideally, you want a bag’s shoulder straps to adjust to the angle of your shoulders,” said Eytan Levy of Snarky Nomad. “Good shoulder straps are the difference between an easy trip and a hard trip.”
• Hip-belt comfort and design: A hip belt transfers heavy loads from your back and shoulders onto your hips, letting your legs—not your back—bear the brunt of the weight. Just having a waist belt is a plus, but having a padded and sculpted one—especially on bags with over 40 liters of volume—makes a world of difference.
• Material quality: Durability is critical for any type of luggage, but especially for a backpack that will be your only bag. Most bags worth considering are made of nylon, which resists abrasion more than polyester fabrics of similar density. Spending more, however, can get you exotic, light, and strong materials, such as Dyneema or sailcloth.
• Weight: Once the bags arrived, we weighed each one ourselves. Most of the bags weighed within a few pounds of one another. But unless you’re very strict with yourself, by the time you’re packed for a two-week journey, all bags are going to feel equally massive, even if one is just 2 pounds heavier than another when empty.
• Stowable straps: These are nice to have, but they aren’t absolutely necessary. “The more often you need to check a bag, the more often you need to hide away the straps,” Levy said. “But if the straps are tough enough, it doesn’t matter.”
• Accessory pocket layout and design: Some people will love an accessory pocket that has a specific space for everything; others may find that feature constricting and unadaptable. We prioritized bags with simple designs that guided our packing without constraining us.
• Style: This is purely subjective. We preferred bags that had a minimalist exterior style, but not all of our picks will please everyone. Most of the people we spoke with, however, preferred not to stick out like a tourist wearing a large, colorful backpack, if they could avoid it.

During testing, we flew across the country with these bags, took weekend trips to nearby cities, lived out of them on extended trips, and tried them locally in our daily routines. We also packed and unpacked each bag, using a standardized set of weeklong travel necessities and accessories, to see how well the internal organizational features (or lack thereof) aided or got in the way of efficient packing.

This is not a comprehensive list of all of the carry-on travel backpacks we have tested. We have removed any models that have been discontinued or that no longer meet our criteria.

The Away Outdoor Convertible Backpack 45L is a rare miss from the Away team. This bag is resoundingly average for the price. Although it’s made from excellent materials, the bag is let down by its overall design, which lacks any kind of structure or attention to comfort. There are better options.

The cheap, no-frills Cabin Max Metz bag is intriguing for the price. Any bag at this price should almost be considered disposable. That said, if you need a simple bag that costs less than a seat upgrade, this might be the way to go—unless you can pick up the eBags Motherlode bag for under $100, which we think is a better deal at that price.

The GeniusPack Travel Backpack is the only model we came across that tried to fit a suit into a travel backpack. Though some people might need that, we think those who have to travel with a suit (or clothes that require pressing) would be better off with a piece of carry-on luggage . GeniusPack now offers a second version of this bag, but our conclusion hasn’t changed.

For certain people, the GoRuck GR3 is almost worth the cost. It’s strong and simple and covered by an iron-clad repair guarantee. The removable hip belt is comfortable to wear, and it’s good at displacing the weight of a 45-liter backpack. This is a decent bag. After testing it, however, we weren’t thrilled with the internal Velcro lining for compatible Velcro packing cubes. Velcro isn’t great: It wears out, it’s difficult to keep clean, and it clings to dirt. That might seem like a small thing, but for the price, this bag should feel perfect.

The Minaal Carry-On 2.0 was designed to be a backpack for business people. But if you’re carrying it for business, you’re probably wearing at least a blazer, so you wouldn’t use a backpack in any case. If you’re a business traveler who falls more on the casual end of the business-casual spectrum, and you’re not on a budget, this is a well-thought-out pack. But we think our picks are more versatile for world travel, and they come at a better price. Minaal has since introduced a 3.0 version of this bag ; our thoughts about it remain the same.

The Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L is a slightly larger sibling of the Farpoint pack. The Sojourn Porter bag is about 2 inches longer, and it pushes right up to most airline limits. If you don’t mind possibly having to check your bag at the last minute, this would be an excellent alternative to the Farpoint pack.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Chase Reeves, Matterful.co , phone interview , October 10, 2018

Addison Ryan, moderator, r/onebag , email interview , September 8, 2018

Lindsay Lorraine Calderón, moderator, r/heronebag , phone interview , September 28, 2018

Meet your guide

Kit Dillon is a senior staff writer at Wirecutter. He was previously an app developer, oil derrick inspector, public-radio archivist, and sandwich shop owner. He has written for Popular Science, The Awl, and the New York Observer, among others. When called on, he can still make a mean sandwich.

Further reading

The Best Travel Backpack

by Geoffrey Morrison

For trips ranging from a week to multiple months, the Osprey Farpoint 55 and Fairview 55 carried everything we needed comfortably.

The Best Buy It for Life Backpack (Please Don’t Call It Tactical)

by Kit Dillon

A buy-it-for-a-lifetime backpack should last you for years of heavy use. But as with all investments, you need to decide if it makes sense for you.

Wirecutter’s Favorite Bags, Totes, Backpacks and Carryalls

by Truth Headlam

Whether you’re going to school, work, the gym, the store, or on vacay, you need a bag. Here’s the Wirecutter-recommended carrying gear we love most.

I Took 5 Trips in 6 Months. My Go-To Weekender Bag Was This Surprisingly Spacious Backpack.

by Elissa Sanci

Struggling to pack for your weekend away? The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L fits so much more than you’d expect.

To revisit this article, visit My Profile, then   View saved stories .

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The Best Travel Bags for Wherever You’re Headed

If you buy something using links in our stories, we may earn a commission. This helps support our journalism. Learn more . Please also consider subscribing to WIRED

Best Carry-On for Most People Travelpro Maxlite 5 Read more

Best Hard-Shell Carry-On Away Carry-On Read more

Best Soft-Shell Carry-On Yeti Crossroads 35L Read more

Best Bag for a Lifetime Briggs & Riley Baseline CX Read more

Whew! You've made it all the way across the globe. But have your toothbrush, pajamas, and running shoes made it, too? If you're a frequent traveler, it's easy to obsess over the logistics of getting your stuff clean, organized, and in good working condition upon arrival. Paying for a decent travel bag and a few useful accessories means buying a little peace of mind, especially when a few yards of zippers and some nylon are the only barriers between your precious belongings and the belly of an airliner.

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 and the Best Recycled Bags , for more picks.

Updated April 2024: We reorganized this guide and added new picks, such as the Yeti Crossroads, Tom Bihn Aeronaut and Trinity, the Frame Carry-On Max, the Lo & Sons O.G. 2, the Camelbak A.T.P. 20, the Calpak Luka Duffel, and the Rux 70. We also updated the information on sizing and checked links and prices.

Special offer for Gear readers: Get a 1-year subscription to WIRED for $5 ($25 off) . This includes unlimited access to WIRED. com. Subscriptions help fund the work we do every day.

Best Carry-On for Most People

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 Hard-Shell Carry-On

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.

Hard-shell suitcases tend to be heavier. There's also not as much give in the case, so you may find it hard to squeeze in more items than in a soft-shell bag, bu they 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: So many companies now offer a direct-to-consumer, stylish, hard-shell carry-on similar to the Away's. We've tried ones by Monos ($255) and July ($295) . Besides price, the differences are mostly negligible. I like July's aluminum bumpers, 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. Both have survived multiple cross-country trips, being checked as baggage, and being ridden on by two small children with no damage.

Paravel also offers an Aviator carry-on ($395) 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. Product reviewer Jaina Grey fell in love with its roomy interior and durable, anti-scuff hard-shell exterior.

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 Bag for a Lifetime

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 Backpack

When I reviewed the Cotopaxi Allpa in 2018 ( 9/10, WIRED Recommends ), it had only recently launched. Now, a half-dozen years later, it is one of the most popular travel backpacks that I see online and in airports all over the world. It's a combination of a camping backpack, a suitcase, and a soft, frameless duffel. You can splay it open like a sandwich to pack it easily; access items through a side zip; put it on your backpack and secure its weight with a sternum strap; or squash or stomp it into any overhead compartment or corner of your car trunk. The use case for this bag is extremely specific—the same people who are bopping around Thailand for several weeks in one backpack are not the same people trying to look professional at a work conference. But it is sturdy and comfortable.

★ Alternative: I took the Ekster Packable Duffel ($250) on several weekend trips this spring, and found that it more than upheld its claims of being built for “smoother journeys, on and off the grid.” This travel bag converts from a backpack to a duffel, with two separate compartments that also splay open for easier packing. The 600-denier exterior and water-resistant zippers are so sturdy that when we ran out of space in the car, we lashed it to the roof rack with surf straps and drove for hours in the rain. It, and its contents, remained pristine.

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 Personal Item

Some airlines are not content with charging you extra for checking a bag and now charge you for overhead bin space . The Tom Bihn Trinity ( 7/10, WIRED Recommends ) addresses that problem by providing a space for you to pack everything you need while still fitting underneath the seat in front of you. As the name suggests, it has three main compartments and three ways to carry—either as a briefcase with padded grab handles, a backpack, or as a shoulder bag with two attachment points.

It has three main compartments which can be arranged to your liking; for example, on one of the side compartments, you can zip a water bottle holder into place or unzip it for more room. It wasn't quite as versatile as I expected; I found that I prefer a small duffel with one main compartment that I can organize as I like. However, it does fit under the seat in front of me, even with clothes, laptop, and four (four!) hardcover books that I somehow stuffed inside it.

Best Work Bag

I've been traveling a lot for work and for family reasons in the past few months, and the bag I prefer for my personal item 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 , but we love Lo & Sons. The Catalina Supreme Tote ($338) is also great for weekend trips. Again, there's also a bottom compartment for a pair of shoes, or anything else you need to keep separate.

The Best Hiking Daypack

The Camelbak A.T.P. is so useful that I’m always startled to realize it only has a 20-liter capacity. I have it in the 100 percent recycled white color, which saves water and only emits half the greenhouse gas emissions by eliminating the dying process. It’s a panel loader, which means you can unzip the top and see exactly where everything goes, like a duffel. This is convenient when packing for trips—I was able to fit clothes, a Dopp kit, and electronics for an overnight trip. (I know these types of zippers fail more often than top loaders, but it does make it easier to arrange and sort items near the bottom of the pack.)

I particularly like how narrow it is. It fits my back and goes under airplane seats that even my children’s backpacks can’t. The bottle pocket has a zipper that makes it expandable so it can fit a little coffee thermos or my giant Yeti water bottle . Exterior compression straps also help squeeze my clothes even smaller. This is a great backpack if you want something that looks sleek enough for a work bag but is durable enough to take on a weekend trip to Yosemite.

★ Alternative: I also love the Patagonia Black Hole Backpack ($149) . This 25-liter bag is the perfect combination work/adventure bag. The suspended 15-inch laptop pocket clips shut, and the rest of the pockets are thoughtfully placed. It’s extremely light (a little over a pound) and is made from 100 percent recycled ripstop fabric.

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.

The Best Expedition Bag

If you like outdoor sports, you probably need a good expedition bag—that is, a huge, burly duffel that you can just throw all your pointy ice axes, trekking poles, or camp chairs into that you can take anywhere and everywhere. Reviewer Matt Jancer's expedition bag of choice is the Red Oxx PR5. He's used it for whitewater paddling trips and to lug mountain climbing equipment from coast to coast without a single frayed thread. Everything about Red Oxx is overbuilt. The zippers are huge, its thick pieces of nylon webbing are robustly sewn, and chunky metal rings hang the detachable carrying strap. All that said, it's not abominably heavy. At 3.4 pounds it's still lighter than many wheeled bags.

★ Alternative: 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; I also have a Mountain Hardware duffel ($180) and after 20 years, the coating has finally started to peel.

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.

The Best Aluminum Suitcase

Perhaps you've seen those Instagram-friendly, shiny aluminum suitcases and wonder whether it's worth the investment. Aluminum is extremely durable and can be machined with precision. That means it will protect your belongings better, and you can close them with latches instead of zippers. Your suitcase will last longer and be more secure— zippers are pretty easy to break into —and generally have fewer points of failure.

In my opinion, the cost-benefit analysis generally weighs against them. Aluminum suitcases are usually heavier and won't flex as much if you have overpacking tendencies, and I find them painfully conspicuous. Any suitcase with a decent warranty policy will painlessly cover any repairs. If you must have one, we like Arlo Skye's the Frame. Arlo Skye was founded by alumni from Louis Vuitton and Tumi, and reviewer Matt Jancer says that everything about the Frame screams robust quality, from the leather grab handles to the combination-lock latches. It also comes with a removable battery bank and has a few more liters of carrying capacity than the similarly-sized Away. The main disadvantage is that the interior organization is a bit lacking.

★ Alternative: Do you want the benefits of an aluminum suitcase without the drawbacks? You might want to consider Monos's Hybrid Carry-On ($325) . You won't fool anyone into thinking you've shelled out for a 100 percent aluminum suitcase, but Jancer notes that it's only a pound or so heavier than the competition and the aluminum frame offered better protection than any 100 percent polycarbonate suitcase that he tried.

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.

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 $149 : 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 $160 : 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 $345 : 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.

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.

Adidas Defender Duffel for $40 : If you're looking for an inexpensive duffel that'll handle some light-duty traveling, this is a good way to save $100. The fabric is significantly thinner and less sturdy than that of other duffels in this guide, and it lacks backpack straps. But for taking on the train or tossing into a car trunk, it'll do the trick.

Bags We Don’t Like

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

Peugeot Voyages Carry-On Spinner for $595 : What a price tag for a plastic-case suitcase. You can see where Peugeot tried to imbue the Voyages with some luxury, such as the metal riveting and built-in travel locks, but the case felt no more solid than a budget hard-sided bag, and the USB charging port felt cheap, like an outlet you'd find built into a seat in an airport terminal.

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.

Ebags CTS Carry-On Spinner for $200 : This one wasn't awful, but there are much better options for the money. Its hard plastic sides felt more brittle than the hard-sided plastic Away suitcases. The handle rattles a lot and it didn't roll quite as smoothly as other bags.

A Few Travel Accessories

Once you've got your bag, you'll want to pack it with a few more useful items:

Apple AirTag for $24 : If you have an iPhone, it's one of the best ways to keep a digital eye on your bags. 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 allowing you to separate it into different cubes, so you won't ever have to hunt through seven pairs of socks to find your bathing suit again.

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.

Samsonite Manual Luggage Scale for $15 is handy when you're packing a heavy bag for an upcoming trip. Use it to weigh your luggage and make sure it's within the weight limits. International airlines are sticklers for carry-on weight, and even American airlines will be unforgiving about weight for checked bags.

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.

How to Pick the Right Size Bag

Every airline sets its own dimensional requirements for carry-on baggage, so if you want to be safe, you should check your airline's requirements before packing. But broadly, they're split into two categories: domestic and international.

Domestic flights by US airlines (and a few others) have standardized on 22 x 14 x 9 inches.

International carry-on bag sizes tend to be about 21 inches tall and a bit narrower, but they're all over the place. It's tough, because many international airlines will measure your bags at the airport and reject anything even slightly bigger than the allowed size. If you fly outside the US a lot, you may as well buy a bag sized for international flights.

You'll also want to check each airline's weight limits. They vary wildly, but some international airlines restrict you to 15 or 20 pounds, including the weight of the bag itself. For example, there are some East Asian airlines that limit carry-on bags to 11 pounds. Once you subtract 6 or more pounds for the bag, you're not left with much wiggle room to put stuff inside.

When to Remove Battery Banks

Battery banks, also known as power banks, are a travel must-have. Whether you're using a tablet to watch movies on your flight or relying on your phone to coordinate rideshares, hotel check-in, and handle your boarding passes, you've got to keep those devices charged and topped up. Many bags offer a removable battery bank that slides into a special pocket or notch of the suitcase.

For carry-on luggage on a flight in the US, you're allowed to bring a lithium-ion battery of 100 watt-hours or less. You don't need to remove it from the suitcase's pocket if you're storing your bag in the overhead bin.

Lithium-ion battery banks are not allowed in checked luggage. If you check your bag or have to gate-check it, make sure to remove the battery bank before you give your suitcase to the gate agent. Slip the battery bank into your purse, backpack, or pocket for the duration of the flight.

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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

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 436 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.

Earning perfect scores in all tests, this all-star carry-on has a spacious capacity, a super-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. Exceeding expectations in all our tests, it's easy to maneuver on two or four wheels and rolls smoothly on various surfaces, including carpet and hard flooring. 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 12 hues ranging from white to mint to merlot. After hitting it with a baseball bat, 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, 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 | 4 spinner wheels | 10-year limited warranty

Travel + Leisure / Tamara Staples

Travel + Leisure / 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 | 4 dual spinner wheels | 5-year warranty

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 | 4 spinner wheels | Limited lifetime warranty

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

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 | 4 spinner wheels | Limited lifetime warranty

Travel + Leisure/Joy Kim

• Travel + Leisure/Jhett Thompson

Best Lightweight

Delsey paris hardside expandable luggage with spinner wheels.

At just over five pounds, this hardside suitcase is lightweight and compact while still fitting an impressive amount of clothes.

It sustained minor denting during testing, and the handle is somewhat short and felt a little loose.

The carry-ons we tested ranged in weight from about 13 pounds down to 4.36 pounds. Weighing just over five pounds, the Delsey Clavel was the best lightweight options we tried . This hardside spinner has a polypropylene (thermoplastic) shell that held up pretty well during our tests, though a particularly hard bat swing did dent it slightly. After traveling with the bag for six months, it only has minor scuffs — even after it was checked. While it looks small, it holds a surprising amount of clothes, even without the expander, and should fit into an overhead bin without any issues.

This carry-on maneuvers well over cracks and bumps. However, the handle is somewhat short and feels slightly loose. Still, we think the price is fair and would recommend it to anyone in the market for lightweight, fuss-free baggage for shorter trips.

The Details: Hardside | 22 x 14 x 10 inches | 5.3 pounds | 43-liter capacity | Expandable | 4 spinner wheels | 5-year limited warranty

Best Budget

Amazon basics hardside 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 handles turn like a champ. Not only that, but the scratch-resistant shell held up surprisingly well through our bat and drop tests. 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. 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 | 4 spinner wheels

Travel + Leisure / Vicky Wasik

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 | 4 dual spinner wheels | Limited 10-year warranty

Best Softside

L.l.bean medium carryall pullman.

This rugged softside bag has plenty of pockets for organization, including one for shoes.

The main handle only has one height setting, and the additional grab handle is located on the left side of the suitcase, which is more convenient for lefties.

The L.L.Bean Carryall Spinner Pullman is a redesign from L.L.Bean’s luggage collection, made with a new fabric and style that we love for a softside carry-on. The rugged, abrasion-resistant material on the outside of the suitcase feels like it can stand up to rough handling, and the shell of the bag has some rigidity that makes it feel extra sturdy for a softside bag. We also loved this carry-on for its unique outer pockets that you just can’t find on a hardside bag, like a shoe pocket that keeps your dirty boots or sneakers separate from the clean clothing inside. We packed socks and underwear in the zipper compartment on the lid of the suitcase, which saved interior space for the rest of our clothing. While the carry-on rolled smoothly on the concrete and linoleum floor of our obstacle course, it was a little harder to maneuver over carpet. It also caught our attention that the side handle is located on the left side of the bag, which made it a little awkward for our righties to hoist the carry-on into the overhead bins on our airplane set — although this would be a plus for left-handed travelers.

The Details: Softside | 22 x 14 x 9 inches | 7.9 pounds | 40.7-liter capacity | 4 spinner wheels | 1-year return policy

People / Joy Kim

Most Spacious

Travelpro x travel + leisure carry-on spinner.

This 45-liter carry-on has plenty of room, a two-inch expander, and tons of interior organization.

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

Spaciousness is key when it comes to a carry-on, especially if you’re using it as your main suitcase. This 45-liter Travelpro carry-on had an impressive amount of space for our packing list during testing, and it also 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. Despite being slightly flexible, it proved to be rock-solid when it comes 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. 

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

Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

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 | 4 dual spinner wheels | 5-year warranty

Most Durable

Briggs & riley sympatico domestic carry-on expandable spinner 22-inch.

The shock-absorbing Makrolon polycarbonate stands up to dents and scratches, and the wheels glide with ease over bumps and around corners.

The expander is located on the inside, which is a little counterintuitive.

Fans of Briggs & Riley luggage won't be surprised that the Sympatico Domestic Spinner was the most durable carry-on we tested. This compact suitcase is a little expensive, but hear us out. The exceedingly robust, shock-absorbing Makrolon polycarbonate shell sustained exactly zero dents or scratches during our bat and drop tests and still looks brand new after six months of frequent travel.

Durability aside, this carry-on was easy to maneuver on hard floors and carpet, around tight corners, and even over bumps. It also has a good amount of packing space with plenty of organizational features. We like how thoughtfully designed its features are, with elements like pockets, dividers, and expanding sides that really help you maximize the space in this smaller carry-on bag. One thing to note is that the expander is on the inside, which isn't the most intuitive. Other than that, we loved the look of the glossy exterior and think it definitely reflects the premium price tag.

The Details: Hardside | 22 x 14 x 9 inches | 8.8 pounds | Expandable | USB port | 4 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 | 8 pounds | 44-liter capacity | USB port | 4 dual spinner wheels | 10-year limited warranty

• Leticia Almeida

Travel + Leisure / Leticia Almeida

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 | 4 spinner wheels | USB port | 10-year limited warranty

Best Underseat

Calpak hue mini carry-on luggage.

It's conveniently compact, but still spacious enough to hold multiple outfits.

There's no outer zipper pocket, and it's definitely not as spacious as some others.

Looking for something you can stash underneath the seat in front of you? This 29-liter underseater from Calpak might be just the thing. Measuring 16 x 14 x 8 inches, it's conveniently compact but still spacious enough to fit a couple days' worth of outfits. There's also a laptop sleeve, making it a top choice for short business trips. Despite the mini design, the sophisticated color options and modish silhouette will leave no confusion over whether it's for an adult or a child. The four spinner wheels offer excellent maneuverability, too, and there's even a TSA-approved lock if you ever decide to check it. If we could change one thing, we'd add an outer pocket for easy access in-flight. But other than that, we think the price is more than fair for the quality, features, and durability.

The Details: Hardside | 16 x 14 x 8 inches | 6 pounds | 29-liter capacity | 4 spinner wheels | 2-year limited warranty

Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph

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.

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.

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.

The Travel + Leisure 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.

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 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. 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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Text Callout : Key Takeaways - Carry-on Luggage Sizes

If you're traveling with carry-on luggage and/or a personal item , you'll need to adhere to size restrictions in the same way you do with checked bags . These rules include the dimensions of your carry-on bag and, in some scenarios, even the weight.

What size luggage is a carry-on?

While carry-on luggage sizes can vary by airline, several major carriers go by these dimensions.

Airlines calculate carry-on luggage size measurements using two methods:

• Height by width by depth:  Most – but not all – airlines measure bags by inches or centimeters using this formula: height by width by depth, such as 22 x 14 x 9 inches. (Note: The dimensions listed below, which are given according to that formula, may differ slightly from the way each individual airline formats its size requirements.)
• Linear inches:  A few airlines have linear inch restrictions for carry-on baggage, meaning the airline gives one number for the total of all three dimensions. As long as the combined height, width and depth don't exceed that number, you're in the clear.

Can a 24-inch bag be a carry-on?

Yes, a 24-inch bag can be used as a carry-on suitcase when flying with the following airlines: Frontier, Southwest and Sun Country . However, if you're shopping for new carry-on luggage, it's best to opt for something that meets the requirements for most major airlines (22 x 14 x 9 inches or smaller).

Is there a weight limit for carry-on bags?

Most major domestic airlines do not impose a weight limit on carry-on bags; however, several international airlines have weight restrictions for carry-on luggage and, in some cases, personal items.

Carry-on vs. personal item: What's the difference?

A carry-on bag is typically stored in a plane's overhead bin, while a personal item should fit under the seat in front of you. Most airlines allow economy passengers to bring one carry-on and one personal item – such as an underseat bag – at no extra cost.

Carry-on luggage sizes by airline

Click on the major domestic and international airlines below to see their carry-on luggage size restrictions in inches for economy passengers – and note that any handles and wheels on your bags count toward size limits as well.

Category Navigation Box Enhancement : Table of Contents - Travel - Carry-on Luggage Sizes

Alaska Airlines

See all Alaska Airlines carry-on policies.

Allegiant Air

The fee is often around $20 if you pay for your carry-on baggage at the time of booking; it costs a hefty $45 if you add a carry-on bag later – and up to $75 at the gate.

See all Allegiant Air carry-on policies.

American Airlines

The above rules also apply to basic economy tickets.

See all American Airlines carry-on policies.

Delta Air Lines

Note that if you're flying to or from Beijing or Shanghai, there is a 22-pound weight limit for a carry-on; for Singapore, there is a 15-pound limit.

See all Delta Airlines carry-on policies.

Frontier Airlines

There are two instances where the carry-on bag fee is waived:

• You're an elite member of the  FRONTIER Miles rewards program .
• You bought a specialty ticket like the WORKS bundle.

Also note that carry-on bag fees, which typically start at around $30, depend on your destination, and that prices are cheapest if you add baggage when you make your booking. You'll pay more to add it later, especially if you do so at the airport. Sometimes it's actually cheaper to purchase a checked bag instead of a carry-on.

See all Frontier Airlines carry-on policies.

Hawaiian Airlines

See all Hawaiian Airlines carry-on policies.

If you booked a Blue Basic ticket, you're only permitted to bring a personal item that fits under the seat in front of you. If you bring a carry-on bag, you must pay $65 to check it at the gate (or up to $180 if you've already checked two other bags). This will change on Sept. 6, 2024, when JetBlue will begin offering one free carry-on bag to all Blue Basic customers, regardless of purchase date.

Currently, select customers with Blue Basic fares can bring carry-on bags for free. These include:

• Active U.S. military personnel
• Unaccompanied minors
• Customers flying to London

If you purchase a higher-class seat or if you reach Mosaic status on JetBlue's TrueBlue rewards program , you can also bring a carry-on bag for free on a Blue Basic ticket.

See all JetBlue carry-on policies.

Southwest Airlines

See all Southwest Airlines carry-on policies.

Spirit Airlines

Spirit's carry-on bag fees vary between flights, but they tend to start at around $25 to $30 for U.S. domestic flights. If you need to bring carry-on luggage, it's always cheapest to pay for it when you first book your flight. It will cost you more to add a bag afterward – and at least double the initial fee if you do it at the airport.

See all Spirit Airlines carry-on policies.

Sun Country Airlines

The Sun Country Airlines fee for a carry-on bag is around $30 if you pay for it when booking, or more if you add it later.

See all Sun Country carry-on policies.

United Airlines

There's one notable exception for carry-on baggage with United: Passengers with a basic economy ticket can only take one personal item on board – no carry-on bag. This policy applies to travelers flying basic economy domestically or between the U.S. and Canada. If you have a basic economy ticket and are going to Central or South America (including Mexico) or taking trans-Atlantic or trans-Pacific flights, you can bring a full-size carry-on bag.

See all United Airlines carry-on policies.

Aer Lingus' carry-on policy depends on where you're flying. For trans-Atlantic flights, you can bring one carry-on bag within the dimensions above, plus a small personal item for free. If you're flying within Europe on Aer Lingus, the rules are a bit different: You'll have to pay a fee to bring a carry-on with you on board, starting at 5.99 euros. However, you can check that same bag for free.

If you're flying Aer Lingus Regional (a service with smaller planes, flying mostly around Ireland and the U.K.), a smaller carry-on limit applies: 18.5 x 13 x 8 inches, with a weight limit of 15 pounds.

See all Aer Lingus carry-on policies.

All Aeroméxico customers can bring a standard carry-on bag and a personal item on board. Be careful with the weight limit, though: For international flights or basic fare flights within Mexico, these two items combined cannot weigh more than 22 pounds. So, if your carry-on bag weighs 15 pounds, for example, your personal item cannot be more than 7 pounds.

See all Aeroméxico carry-on policies.

While there's no weight limit for carry-on luggage, Air Canada says your carry-on bag should be light enough that it can easily be lifted into the overhead bin. Also note that airport purchases (for example, larger duty-free items) count toward your baggage limit.

See all Air Canada carry-on policies.

Note that both your personal item and carry-on bag (referred to as "hand baggage") combined must not weigh more than 26 pounds if you're traveling economy. The weight limit is 40 pounds for premium economy and other higher-class cabins.

See all Air France carry-on policies.

All Nippon Airways

A variety of personal items (think a handbag and umbrella) are permitted as long as they fit under the seat in front of you; this includes any items purchased at the airport.

See all All Nippon Airways carry-on policies.

British Airways

If airline staff put a yellow tag on your bag, it should be stored under the seat in front of you.

See all British Airways carry-on policies.

Cathay Pacific

Cathay Pacific has shifted from a weight allowance to a piece allowance, and this policy varies by itinerary. Passengers are generally permitted to bring one carry-on bag plus a small personal item (and assistive devices like a walking stick), but it's best to check your booking carefully to confirm the exact allowance. You're asked to check in any baggage that's too heavy to lift into the overhead compartment.

See all Cathay Pacific carry-on policies.

Since easyJet is a budget airline, standard fares only allow customers to bring one personal item (called a "small cabin bag") aboard for free. Fees for standard carry-on bags are between 5.99 and 32.99 British pounds, depending on your destination and when you add an extra bag to your reservation.

See all easyJet carry-on policies.

The above rules apply to all economy passengers except those traveling from Brazil, whose carry-on luggage can weigh up to 22 pounds. Emirates only allows economy passengers to bring one item on board; whether you bring a carry-on bag for the overhead bin or a personal item to tuck under the seat, this bag must comply with the size limits.

See all Emirates carry-on policies.

Be aware that the 22-pound weight limit applies to both your personal item and carry-on combined. If your flight was booked through Iberia but is operated by Vueling, similar rules apply, but the size limits for your carry-on bags are slightly smaller.

See all Iberia carry-on policies.

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines

If you're traveling on the cheaper Light ticket, you may be asked to check your carry-on bag for no extra cost, if space is limited.

See all KLM Royal Dutch Airlines carry-on policies.

See all Lufthansa carry-on policies.

The above rules apply to LowFare+ customers. Passengers who fly LowFare (comparable to Basic Economy fare) can only bring a personal item (underseat bag) measuring 15 x 11.5 x 7.5 inches.

See all Norwegian carry-on policies.

Qantas 

Economy passengers can opt to bring a nonrigid garment bag measuring 45 x 24 x 4 inches (or 73 linear inches) instead of a standard 22 x 14 x 9-inch carry-on bag. The above rules apply to all economy tickets and vary for higher classes on international and domestic flights with Qantas.

See all Qantas carry-on luggage policies.

Qatar Airways

Qatar Airways allows passengers to bring multiple personal items provided they fit under the seat in front of you. Unlike with other airlines, laptops and laptop bags do not count as personal items and must fit within your main hand baggage allowance. For tickets issued in Brazil, the carry-on weight limit is 22 pounds.

Be careful: Qatar doesn't accept carry-ons longer than 20 inches, which is shorter than many other airlines.

See all Qatar Airways carry-on policies.

Ryanair is a low-cost carrier, so unless you pay extra, you can only bring one small bag that fits under the seat in front of you, per the personal item guidelines above. To bring a larger carry-on bag, travelers need to purchase Ryanair's Priority & 2 Cabin Bags option, which typically costs between 6 and 32 euros depending on your destination.

See all Ryanair carry-on policies.

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Scandinavian Airlines

Most (but not all) Scandinavian Airlines fares allow you to bring one traditional carry-on bag, plus a personal item, which SAS calls an "underseat bag." There's one exception: Passengers traveling within Europe on the Go Light fare must pay for a larger carry-on bag. If you booked a Go Light ticket for intercontinental flights, a carry-on bag is included.

See all Scandinavian Airlines carry-on policies.

Singapore Airlines

Singapore Airlines has an unusual method for measuring carry-on bags – the dimensions of the bag must not add up to more than 45 linear inches total. For example, a bag measuring 15 x 15 x 15 inches would be suitable. All passengers can bring one bag of this size, plus a smaller personal item. The personal item, whose dimensions are specified above, does not count toward the 15-pound carry-on limit.

See all Singapore Airlines carry-on policies.

Turkish Airlines

See all Turkish Airlines carry-on policies.

Virgin Atlantic

Virgin Atlantic lets every passenger bring a carry-on bag, including children younger than age 2. You can bring a bag weighing no more than 13 pounds for your child, in addition to a collapsible stroller and/or car seat. Each passenger is also allowed to bring a handbag or small backpack, an umbrella, a walking stick and airport purchases. Take note: Laptops do not count as personal items on Virgin Atlantic and should fit into your main carry-on bag. There's no specific size limit on the other personal items, but bags or airport purchases should fit under the seat in front of you.

See all Virgin Atlantic carry-on policies.

Note that the above rules apply to passengers who book a TimeFlex or Premium Fare, as well as anyone traveling with a child under age 2 and/or requiring special assistance at the airport.

See all Vueling carry-on policies.

If you purchase an UltraBasic fare, you are limited to a personal item that fits under the seat in front of you.

See all WestJet carry-on policies.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Amanda Norcross is a seasoned traveler who packs just one carry-on bag and a personal item – even when adventuring with her toddler . She used her personal experience and research skills to put together this guide, and notes that even if your carry-on bag meets size restrictions, you may still need to check it at the gate because of limited space in the overhead bin. Luckily, it's still free.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Carry-on Backpacks
• What Is Allowed in a Carry-on?
• What to Pack in a Carry-on Bag
• The Best Travel Insurance Companies

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The 13 best carry-on backpacks of 2024, tested & reviewed.

Enjoy hands-free travel with a versatile carry-on backpack.

The Best Carry-on Backpacks

Leilani Osmundson | U.S. News

Not sure whether to take a rolling suitcase or a travel backpack on the plane? Both types of carry-on luggage certainly have their merits, but if you like keeping your arms and hands free when traveling, a backpack is the right choice for you. Furthermore, compared to a hard-sided suitcase , it's easier to squeeze a malleable backpack into an overhead bin or under the seat. And if your vacation is focused on adventure travel, you might value a durable pack on your back over wheels on the ground.

U.S. News compiled this list from extensive research and testing along with consumer reviews. Whatever your reason for choosing a backpack, there are plenty on the market to satisfy your needs. Read on for the best carry-on travel backpacks.

Best Overall: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack

• Jump to features and expert insights ↓

Best Budget: ZOMAKE Ultra Lightweight Hiking Backpack 20L

Best lightweight: mz wallace metro utility backpack.

• Best for Business Travel (tie): Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack – Large
• Best for Business Travel (tie): Aer Travel Pack 3

Best for International Travel: Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Pack

Best for weekend getaways: solo grand travel tsa backpack, best for women: tumi voyageur celina backpack, best for men: peak design travel backpack 45l, best for adventure travel: kelty redwing 36, best with wheels: samsonite tectonic nutech wheeled backpack, best organization: augustnoa classic noa, best leather: monos metro backpack in vegan leather.

(Note: Prices and availability were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to demand and other factors. Dimensions of backpacks are height by width by depth.)

Price: $200 or less

When it comes to bag travel, the Cotopaxi Allpa packs a serious punch. The carry-on backpack is available in three sizes – 42L, 35L and 28L – and a variety of colors, including the vibrant multicolor Del Día style. The 35L size not only fits everything you need for your next getaway, but it's also TSA-compliant as a carry-on item . On the outside, the Allpa features a removable waist belt, a padded laptop sleeve on the side, anti-theft zippers, carabiner lash loops for extra gear, a sternum strap and a front zippered pocket. The backpack straps can be tucked away if you're looking to save more room in the overhead bin or you want to carry the bag via its grab handles.

The bag opens suitcase-style; inside, you'll find one large zippered mesh compartment on the right and a subdivided zippered mesh compartment on the left, providing ample space for all your clothes, shoes and accessories. What's more, the bag comes with a rain cover (though it's already water-resistant).

What our editors say:

I've taken my Cotopaxi Allpa on countless adventures, from a road trip around Iceland to camping all over Colorado. It fits more than expected, is comfortable to wear (especially if using the waist belt) and is extremely durable. I just wish the 35L had an exterior water bottle pocket like the 42L does! – Leilani Osmundson, Senior Digital Producer

Erin Evans | U.S. News

Price: $15.99 or less

This backpack has three excellent things going for it: It's affordable, lightweight and durable. It's a great option for a weekend getaway bag and is an excellent little backpack to have on hand for tours and day trips once you make it to your destination. If you're planning to hike or kayak on your next getaway, you'll definitely want to have the ZOMAKE Ultra Lightweight Backpack in your back pocket – literally. It can be folded into a compact pouch and tucked away in a larger carry-on bag if you're planning to only use it as a daypack.

The lightweight travel bag is both tear- and water-resistant. With all of its pockets – including one on each side for water bottles or umbrellas – you'll be able to fit everything you need for an adventure-filled trip.

It can fit enough for a weekend trip, plus it's super useful for hiking, boat excursions and more once you're in your destination because it's so light and water-resistant. I've used it for years and it has held up incredibly well; it comes in so many fun colors, too. I love it so much, I bought two so my husband has one he can use as well. – Erin Evans, Managing Editor

Rachael Hood | U.S. News

Price: $345 or less

Constructed with recycled bluesign-approved quilted nylon, this chic bag is packed with pockets and organizational details. The interior has a padded 15-inch laptop sleeve, a large zip pocket with two slip pockets, two water bottle pockets and two removable pouches. On the front of the bag there's a deep phone pocket and multiple zippered pockets of various sizes, including a small one that's ideal for a boarding pass, earbuds or wipes.

A water bottle pocket sits on each side of the bag, and the back of the bag has a luggage trolley sleeve that can be zipped shut on the bottom to be a pocket when not attached to your suitcase. This backpack has a top-zip design, and can be carried by the two top handles or the adjustable padded backpack straps.

This bag has completely changed my mind about backpacks. It's extremely spacious and works so well for my laptop, change of clothes, toiletry bag and other carry-on essentials. I love all of the pockets and that I can carry this like a north-south tote in addition to using the trolley sleeve or backpack straps. But what truly sets this apart is the beautiful fabrication that is so soft and the luxurious Italian leather details. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

Best for Business Travel: Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack and Aer Travel Pack 3 (tie)

Dagne dover dakota neoprene backpack – large.

Catriona Kendall | U.S. News

Price: $215 or less

This sleek, professional backpack by Dagne Dover is perfect for professional and casual settings alike, with a vast array of organizational features and a 20-liter capacity for the large size. On the outside, you'll find a zippered padded pocket for up to 16-inch laptops and a slip pocket for your phone, while an interior sleeve can fit a tablet or a second laptop, allowing you to travel with multiple devices. The inside of the bag has two mesh slip pockets and a zip-top pouch attached with a leash, as well as three zippered pockets in the front panel.

To help you stay even more organized, the exterior also features a zippered front pocket with pen loops and a key clip; two zippered side pockets; two slip side pockets; and straps to secure a small bottle. The water-resistant bag comes with adjustable shoulder straps, a luggage sleeve and a separate shoe bag.

I adore bringing this bag to work and using it as a personal item on flights. I don't think I've ever used a backpack with better organization than this one – there's a dedicated place for every little thing, from keys to pens to my devices. I also love that the neoprene material is extremely lightweight and water-resistant. – Catriona Kendall, Editor

Aer Travel Pack 3

Price: $249 or less

With a pocket for everything, the clamshell-style Aer Travel Pack 3 keeps you organized to the max on business trips. Keep your laptop (up to 16 inches) safe in the padded, zippered laptop sleeve, and stow your passport in the quick-access side pocket. The front compartment features several sizes of pockets perfect for chargers, notepads, pens and more. Along with the lay-flat main compartment for clothes, there's also an interior pocket for small accessories as well as a hidden luggage tracker pocket.

Designed for one-bag travel, the durable Aer Travel Pack 3 also features a water-resistant nylon exterior along with load lifters for a more comfortable fit. You can purchase a hip belt separately.

The Aer Travel Pack 3 has one of the sleekest designs when it comes to carry-on backpacks. I also appreciate all the pockets: The sizable laptop pocket is perfect for someone like me who uses a huge laptop; the eight pockets in just the front compartment are so handy for everything you could need while traveling; and the bag even comes with a zippered water bottle pocket on the side. – Leilani Osmundson

Price: $185 or less

The Osprey Farpoint is truly an all-in-one travel pack that combines quality with minimal weight. The clamshell-style carry-on bag features a substantial main compartment across from a large mesh pocket. There's an easy-to-access zippered laptop sleeve on the side for devices up to 16 inches.

For extra support and comfort, the backpack includes a sternum strap, back panel, harness and hip belt; the latter three can be zipped up for fully streamlined travel, and compression straps help slim the bag down even more. The Osprey Farpoint 40 meets most domestic carry-on size requirements and is compatible with the Farpoint/Fairview Travel Daypack , which can be brought onto the plane as a personal item .

This is one of my favorite backpacks. I love how the back can be zipped up so the bag more resembles a duffel; this makes it easy to stow away without having to deal with a lot of straps. Additionally, the interior compression straps can really help cinch down belongings, especially if you're using packing cubes . – Leilani Osmundson

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Amanda Norcross | U.S. News

Price: $117.99 or less

Perfect for weekend getaways , the Solo Grand TSA Travel Backpack opens like a regular suitcase. In the main compartment, you can secure several outfits with compression straps and store accessories and toiletries in two zippered mesh pockets. In the back, a padded compartment protects laptops up to 17.3 inches in size, and on the front there are a variety of pockets – even pockets within pockets – for your phone and other essentials. This backpack is also equipped with two side mesh pockets, a trolley sleeve, and side and top carry handles.

This backpack is flawless. It's big without the bulk and has plenty of pockets, which not only makes it ideal for weekend getaways but also prevents me from having to awkwardly rummage through my bag when I need something on the plane. – Amanda Norcross, Senior Content & SEO Strategist

Price: $475 or less

This backpack blends function and fashion with a compact design. On the front of the bag are two zip compartments and a U-zip pocket with a card slot, a slip pocket and a pen holder. The interior of the bag is divided into two separate compartments: one zippered section with a padded laptop compartment (holds up to a 15-inch PC or 16-inch MacBook), and another large compartment with a zippered pocket and two slip pockets (ideal for glasses or charging cords).

There is also a zippered compartment on each side of the bag, one of which has a water-resistant lining for a water bottle. On the back of the bag you'll find a hidden phone compartment and a trolley sleeve to attach to a roller bag.

This style oozes sophistication, especially the black with the gold hardware. From its sleek material to its many pockets and details, this backpack looks and feels like a chic handbag that can go from the office to a beach resort with ease. I especially like that there are two places you can access the front compartment of the bag, and I like that the laptop section is separate from the rest of the backpack so it's easier to take out my computer and go through airport security (which makes me less likely to drop something from inside my bag). – Rachael Hood

Price: $299.95 or less

The Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is a solid, rugged choice that will last. The nylon canvas shell of the backpack is weatherproof and water-resistant, with a waterproof bottom liner as well. You can unzip the back panel to access the main packing compartment, which is also accessible via zippers along each side of the bag and can be divided in two by a mesh sleeve. To keep you organized, this backpack has quick-access pockets for small items like passports and glasses, plus expandable side pockets for water bottles, tripods or umbrellas.

The bag meets carry-on size requirements but can expand by 1.5 inches if you need the extra room; the shoulder straps and hip belt tuck away if you plan to check it instead. If you prefer a smaller bag, the Peak Design Travel Backpack also comes in a 30-liter size .

If you only want to bring one bag on a short trip, you can't go wrong with this backpack. It's sturdy, reliable and able to fit a ton while still being carry-on-sized. It served me well on a recent trip to New Zealand, and I'd definitely recommend it for travelers who like hands-free luggage. – Catriona Kendall

Price: $134.95 or less

If you'll be adventuring in the great outdoors for your next trip, consider purchasing the Kelty Redwing 36 backpack. You'll find two exterior water bottle pockets as well as a hydration-friendly inner pocket (for storing a water bladder). Tool loops can hold hiking poles, fishing poles, ice axes or other adventure gear. Organization is made easy with plenty of zippered pockets, including one on each side of the bag, a large one on the front and one on top that's perfect for storing travel documents such as a passport. Plus, a ventilated back panel helps keep you cool when you're hurrying through airports or hiking up a mountain.

If you need a bigger backpack, the Kelty Redwing 50 Tactical is a great checked bag option and has many of the same features as the Redwing 36 along with more straps and pockets.

The Kelty Redwing 36 can be cinched down quite a bit for truly streamlined travel and to better meet carry-on size guidelines. However, I'll caution that the waist belt is difficult to remove. – Leilani Osmundson

Price: $159.99 or less

If you want the flexibility to either carry or wheel your luggage, a wheeled backpack style may work best for you. The Samsonite Tectonic NuTech Wheeled Backpack transforms from a rolling bag into a backpack by just tucking in the handle, pulling out the stowed straps and using the wheel cover. The durable polyester material is water-repellent and has red accents.

There are three sections to this bag: a main compartment with space to pack for a weekend trip, a dedicated sleeve for both a laptop up to 15.6 inches and a tablet up to 11 inches, and a front pocket equipped with various organizational features. There are various small pockets, pen sleeves, card slots and a key leash within. You can tuck a water bottle and umbrella into the exterior pockets on either side of the bag. Just keep in mind that this bag may slightly exceed carry-on size restrictions on some airlines with stricter rules.

I expected a wheeled backpack to be uncomfortable to carry, but this convertible bag has proved surprisingly convenient. I like having both the rolling and hands-free options for different circumstances, and it has ample packing space. – Catriona Kendall

Price: $148 or less

This sustainable water-resistant backpack is constructed with 100% recycled materials and has 10 pockets to organize everything. The spacious interior compartment has a 17-inch padded laptop sleeve and a tablet sleeve with a strap to secure it in place, as well as an interior mesh pocket for small items or charging cords and a removable shoe bag.

On the exterior, the front pocket has a built-in mesh organizer for pens, and there are mesh water bottle holders on each side of the backpack. The back of the bag has two adjustable padded straps, each with a built-in zippered compartment ideal for keys, ID or tickets. A hidden zip pocket makes for a secure space for a wallet or passport, and the trolley sleeve provides added versatility.

This backpack is great for travel or everyday use. I especially appreciate the comfortable backpack straps with the small zip pockets. They are easy to reach and perfect for small items like lip gloss, cash or a transit card. Durably constructed, the water-resistant exterior performs well in any weather, and I love that there's a padded space for both my laptop and iPad. – Rachael Hood

Price: $230 or less

For an upscale backpack that can be dressed up or down, this Monos style is an ideal choice. Constructed with sustainable vegan leather (there's also a nylon version with vegan leather accents), this structured style is both water- and scratch-resistant. The 15-inch laptop sleeve is separate from the main packing compartment so you can access your device easily. The brand's QuickSnap Modular Kit System means you'll have a detachable Metro Kit for small items that attaches magnetically to the front of the bag; this kit is interchangeable between Metro bags and can be swapped out for a different kit or removed entirely, depending on your needs.

The backpack's main compartment is designed for maximum functionality with a felt-lined document sleeve, a large zippered pocket, two slip pockets, and a waterproof zippered privacy compartment for a rain jacket or gym clothes. On the back, you can make use of a hidden slip pocket for your phone, a trolley sleeve and adjustable padded straps. There's also two top carry handles if you'd prefer to carry this backpack like a tote.

I really like the elevated styling and durability of this vegan leather bag. But what sets it apart is the separate laptop compartment (I don't like to have to open my entire bag to get out my laptop while on the go), and the modular Metro Kit system that can be removed when it's not needed. It's full of value-added design elements, and the material looks classic and appropriate with any attire. – Rachael Hood

Frequently Asked Questions

Depending on its size, a backpack is considered a carry-on item. To be able to put it in the overhead bin, you generally don't want it to exceed 22 x 14 x 9 inches, but that sizing varies by airline, and since backpacks are soft-sided, the dimensions can be somewhat malleable. If it fits under the seat in front of you on the plane ( check your airline's specific size requirements ), it is typically considered a personal item. If the backpack can fit under the seat, then you can often bring it in addition to a larger carry-on bag (based on your airline ticket type and inclusions).

For a backpack to be a carry-on for most domestic airlines, it should not exceed 22 x 14 x 9 inches (or should be able to be squished to approximately those dimensions). To be considered a personal item, it must fit under the seat in front of you. Underseat size and space varies by airline and airplane type, so it's best to check with your airline's size restrictions.

How We Tested

From the comfort of the straps to the capacity of each bag, our team tested more than 20 carry-on backpacks from a variety of brands at a range of price points. We tested to see how the overall structure of the bag works for travel needs, along with the durability and details that make a difference. After taking these backpacks on a variety of adventures, we've selected these carry-on backpacks as the best for 2024.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Luggage Sets
• The Best Rolling Duffel Bags
• The Best Toiletry Bags
• The Best Fanny Packs
• The Best Travel Insurance

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NBC Select Travel Awards 2024: The best duffels, backpacks and weekenders

At NBC Select, we spend hours researching and testing products so you can be more selective with your purchases. For our first-ever NBC Select Travel Awards, we spent months thoroughly testing numerous products covering a variety of travel categories.

We flew across the globe to Japan and Paris with suitcases , took train rides around New York City with weekenders and duffels in tow and packed bags full of packing cubes , toiletry bags and noise-canceling headphones to road trip across the East Coast. After all that testing, our editors sat down to choose products deserving of NBC Select’s stamp of approval.

Below are our award-winning duffels, weekenders and backpacks , plus information about how we evaluated each product.

SKIP AHEAD How we picked the best bags | Best duffel bags | Best backpacks | Best weekender bags

select We tested over 50 travel accessories for our first ever Travel Awards — these are our favorites

How we picked the best travel bags .

The backpack, the weekender and the duffel are all bags that need to serve multiple functions while on a trip. We fill them with whatever we can’t fit in our suitcases, throw our essentials inside them for overnight getaways and use them to carry our laptops and water bottles on planes, trains, and automobiles. They are versatile and multipurpose, making it useful to keep at least one at home when traveling. Here’s how we evaluated travel bags to find NBC Select’s 2024 Travel Award winners.

• Zippers, handles and straps : To ensure zippers glide smoothly and don’t get stuck at any point, we opened and closed each bag numerous times when it was empty and full. We also considered how strong the bags’ handles and straps were, including how they felt when we held or wore them on our bodies.
• Structure and organization : We assessed how each bag’s structure impacted our ability to pack it easily — for example, whether it stayed open while we added clothing or flopped over and whether it was too stiff to overstuff or just flexible enough. We counted how many outfits (and, if applicable, how many pairs of shoes) fit inside the bags, plus what type of organizational features they offer, including built-in dividers, pockets, and pouches.
• Comfortability : After filling our bags to the brim, we ensured they felt comfortable carrying for long and short periods. We carried them as the brand intended: on our backs or over our shoulders.
• Durability : We noted the material each bag is made from and how well it withstands being tossed around during travel. We also considered water resistance.

The best duffel bags

Best overall: calpak luka duffel.

Calpak Luka Duffel

With its spacious main compartment, exterior and interior pockets, exterior shoe compartment and trolley sleeve, this bag makes for the perfect travel and daily duffel. “I love that I can use this bag for trips as well as in my everyday life as a gym bag. I didn’t find that with the other duffels I tested, so I appreciated this,” says Zoe Malin , NBC Select associate updates editor. “The size of this bag and how lightweight it is makes it a perfect workout bag for me. I put my sneakers, a change of clothes, weights, a towel, toiletries and a water bottle inside it to go to yoga after work.”

The soft and puffy polyester bag is also durable, easy to clean and water-resistant. “I had to walk to the train in the rain with this bag and everything inside was totally dry,” says Malin. “I just wiped water off the bag in the bathroom of the train station with paper towels.”

Best large capacity: Patagonia Black Hole Duffel

Patagonia Black Hole Duffel

Patagonia’s Black Hole Duffel comes in four sizes — 40L, 55L, 70L and 100L — so you can choose the capacity that’s best for your travels. The duffel is made from 100% recycled fabrics, plus it has a durable and weather-resistant exterior.

On the inside, this spacious bag has interior pockets that are similar to a carry-on suitcase. It also closes and opens easily since the zippers glide easily, says Mili Godio , NBC Select updates editor. “The only thing I wish is that it had more pockets, especially for smaller items like my wallet and keys, but the ones it does have are super spacious.”

The best backpacks

Best overall: calpak laptop backpack.

Calpak Laptop Backpack

This Calpak backpack is great for frequent travelers looking for a large, durable bag to hold essentials of all sizes, as well as a laptop. The backpack has exterior and interior pockets, a water bottle holder and a trolley sleeve so you can slide it onto your luggage. “Calpak’s backpack has completely changed how I travel,” says Bianca Alvarez , an NBC Select associate reporter who’s a super commuter . She travels from Virginia to New York City every week for work. “I tossed my old backpacks after using this one because it makes my travel days easier,” she says.

Alvarez says storage and space are a guarantee with this bag due to its plethora of organizational features. She especially loves its interior pockets. They’re located near the top of the bag rather than the bottom, which prevents her from having to rummage through everything packed inside to find what she’s looking for.  Alvarez says the bag’s main compartment can easily fit clothes, shoes and cosmetics bags, and there’s a separate compartment for her laptop and notebooks.

Best for commuting: Dagne Dover Dakota Backpack

Dagne Dover Dakota Backpack

Dagne Dover’s Dakota Backpack is ideal for commuters, like NBC Select staff who brought it back and forth to the office. “I’ve been using this backpack for two months as my work bag and it’s been a major upgrade from my last situation,” says Rebecca Rodriguez , NBC Select editorial projects manager. The backpack has padded straps, making it comfortable to wear for long periods of time, and it has compartments and pockets to store whatever you’re traveling with.

Whether you’re commuting in the rain or accidentally spilled your morning coffee , no worries — this backpack will keep your items protected. “The backpack got dirty a couple of times while I used it, but the neoprene material was super easy to clean with soap and warm water,” says Rodriguez.

Best outdoors: Orvis Trekkage LT Adventure

Orvis Trekkage LT Adventure

While the Orvis Trekkage backpack is specifically designed for outdoor adventures like hiking and camping, it has features that allow you to use it in everyday life, including a laptop pocket and a hidden security pocket for valuables. The bag is made from heavy-duty recycled, water-repellent fabric, and its main pocket is lockable making it easier to protect your items while outdoors camping or just traveling. There are also expandable side pockets and a built-in hydration reservoir.

“This bag is big without looking like it belongs on the 'Amazing Race,'” says Rosalie Sparaco, NBC senior social media editor. “It has a ton of space, although it could potentially use more internal pockets since it was easy to lose stuff.” She also says the backpack is comfortable to carry thanks to its padded back panel and curved ergonomic shoulder straps. If you need extra support, you can use the bag’s adjustable sternum strap and adjustable, removable waist strap. The backpack also fits under the seat of a plane.

The best weekenders

Best overall: dagne dover landon carryall.

Dagne Dover Landon Carryall

The magic behind Dagne Dover’s Landon Carryall lies in its structure, says Malin: “It has shape, so it stays open while I’m packing and never flops over, yet it’s flexible and soft, so I can overstuff it without any issues.”  The bag is also expandable. “You can unsnap the sides of the bag to make it bigger, which is such a great option,” says Malin. “I expand it for longer trips, but leave it snapped for overnight trips when I don’t need a ton of space.”

The organizational features this bag offers vary by size. It’s available in extra small, small, medium, large and extra large options — the bigger the bag, the more extensive its organization features are. Because of this, we recommend the medium, large and extra large options for traveling (the extra small and small Carryalls function more as everyday handbags, based on our testers’ experiences). They’re designed with a laptop carrier, an exterior phone pocket, interior side pockets, a key leash and an attached zip-top pouch. The larger bags also come with a shoe bag and a detachable adjustable crossbody strap.

Best for a long weekend: July Carry All Weekender Plus

July Carry All Weekender Plus

If you need a weekender bag that fits enough clothes and toiletries to last you a few days, this one from July is exactly what you’re looking for. “I’m very impressed by how incredibly spacious this bag is,” says Ari Night, NBC Select editorial assistant. “Not only does it fit multiple outfits, but it also has segmented pockets that keep everything organized inside.” The bag’s clamshell opening allows it to lie flat making it  easier for packing, and there’s a padded pocket in the center to put delicate items like a laptop or tablet . This weekender also has a hidden internal pocket with a magnetic opening for valuables like jewelry, an exterior zip pocket and a luggage sleeve. It also  comes with a detachable adjustable shoulder strap.

Why trust NBC Select?

Products underwent an eight-week trial before being selected as our favorite in their respective categories. We utilized our editors as shopping and trying experts. Each editor was given the same criteria during the testing period to ensure each item was held to the same standards and procedures. We looked at spaciousness, durability, comfort, zippers and much more. You can read more about our process here .

What our badge means

When a product carries the NBC Select badge, you can trust that our team of editors as shopping experts and professionals vetted the item thoroughly. First and foremost, we are journalists, so we will always do our research and reporting.

Catch up on NBC Select’s in-depth coverage of personal finance , tech and tools , wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook , Instagram , Twitter and TikTok to stay up to date.

Select Staff on NBC News

Every product was carefully curated by an Esquire editor. We may earn a commission from these links.

12 Best Personal Item Bags, Tested and Reviewed

Skip the fight for overhead space this time around.

We've tried bags, scoured reviews, and rounded up real user feedback to bring you the 12 best personal item bags that have proven their worth on countless journeys. These bags are not only stylish and compact but also surprisingly spacious. So whether you're a minimalist traveler trying to avoid baggage claim or someone who likes their essentials within arm's reach, this list is your ticket to packing like a pro. You might even earn a nod from the flight attendants.

Best Overall Personal Item Bag

Away the everywhere bag.

Best Personal Bag for Every Day

Calpak luka duffel.

Best for Adventure Travel

Cotopaxi allpa 28l.

The Everywhere Bag really lives up to its name, perfect for just about anywhere you end up. It's designed with a clever wraparound zip that opens wide, giving easy access to a surprisingly spacious main compartment. There's a trolley sleeve for the airport and a padded strap for a weekend away.

It also has a padded 15-inch laptop pocket, which is a game changer for days when you need to go straight from the office to the gym or catch a flight right after a meeting. Plus, the detachable key clip? Total lifesaver for keeping your keys handy and not lost at the bottom of your bag. It's functional, stylish, and versatile—an all-around winner for any routine.

The Luka duffel bag is a do-it-all companion. It's perfect whether you're hitting the gym, heading out on a weekend getaway, or just looking for a day-to-day bag.

What makes it so great? Well, we love the nine different pockets to keep everything organized—from your keys and wallet to your travel documents and gadgets. Plus, the shoe compartment keeps your sneakers separate from everything else, which makes it an incredible gym bag.

The best part? That polyester material is built to last. Truthfully, we didn't expect that, but Calpak has made a functional, surprisingly sturdy little personal bag.

Perfect for quick getaways and weekend exploring, beloved by consultants going to their once-a-quarter in-office work days, the Allpa 28L travel pack is a great backpack. It’s built with both durability and lightness in mind, making it suitable for everything from alpine adventures to urban excursions.

This backpack is designed for easy carrying, thanks to its weight-distributing harness system. It fits comfortably as a carry-on on any flight, and it works under-seat on most. The full-wrap zipper opening mimics a suitcase for simple packing and organization, while separate mesh compartments keep your gear neatly arranged.

It also includes a padded sleeve to protect your laptop or tablet, secure anti-theft zippers, and handy tuck-away straps for when you need to stow it. Practical touches like multiple grab handles and an included rain cover make it well suited for whatever type of travel you digital-nomad types are doing these days.

July Carry All Weekender

Though it's more weekender, less personal item, this bag perfectly blends spaciousness and style. It's great for tossing in the back seat, serving as a carry-on, or even sneaking under the seat in front of you.

The July Weekender features a minimalist design with ample storage, including a hidden pocket and a 16-inch padded laptop sleeve. Practical for travel, it attaches easily to rolling luggage and offers two comfortable carrying options with soft leather handles and a cushioned shoulder strap. Water-resistant and crafted from durable twill nylon with gunmetal hardware and premium leather trims, this bag is as functional as it is sophisticated.

It’s equipped with organized compartments for easy access to essentials, making it a perfect choice for both business trips and casual getaways.

Travelpro Crew UnderSeat

If your definition of "travel hacking" is looking like a commercial pilot, the Travelpro Crew Classic UnderSeat is your perfect little travel sidekick. It’s built tough with a fabric that can handle the hustle of travel and has a cool lining made from recycled plastic bottles. This bag is just the right size to tuck under most airline seats to keep all your essentials close. And it screams "frequent flyer," so the attendants might even hold it for you in a closet.

It’s super organized, too, with a padded sleeve for your laptop or tablet, handy side pockets for things like your water bottle, and a removable organizer perfect for keeping your toiletries tidy. Rolling through the airport is a breeze with its smooth wheels, and you can even strap it onto your larger luggage when you need to be hands-free.

Solo New York Re:Define Laptop Backpack

This laptop backpack is a commuter's dream and a traveler's must-have. Crafted from recycled PET bottles, this backpack looks good in black or heathered gray. Not amazing, but we're talking budget here. It's super easy to keep clean—just a quick wipe with a damp cloth and you're good to go.

One of its standout features is the checkpoint-friendly design, which means you can breeze through airport security without a hitch. There's an external USB port to keep your devices charged, and a headphone port allows for a tangle-free listening experience. And if you're over carrying it on your back, slide it onto your suitcase handle with the handy external strap.

Béis The Mini Weekender in Slate

This bag has gotten plenty of shine on TikTok, but we can say it holds up in real life as well. It's a compact bag that's perfect for minimalists and efficient packers. Whether it's for an overnight stay or a weekend getaway, this bag toes the line with a manageable size and plenty of useful compartments.

It features a wide, easy-access opening that simplifies packing and includes a built-in padded laptop sleeve to keep gadgets secure. Additionally, it boasts a separate bottom compartment, perfect for shoes, toiletries, or segregating dirty laundry from clean. When it's time to move, the trolley pass-through pocket allows for easy attachment to suitcase handles, making it an ideal travel companion for those who prize both style and practicality.

As for the design, we know this is Esquire dot com, so we do have to acknowledge that Béis has more of a lock on the femme market with this purse-looking bag. That said, we've seen guys pull off a Béis bag in black, so if you're really into the functionality—we very much are—there's no reason to hold back on this one.

Dagne Dover Landon Neoprene Carryall Bag

The large Landon carryall ticks all the right boxes for a weekend getaway or as a handy carry-on. This bag is lightweight and adaptable to both wilderness retreats and city breaks. The sides unsnap to offer more packing space. Though that takes it out of personal-item and into carry-on territory, it's perfect for those souvenirs you're bringing back.

Other key features include a padded laptop sleeve for up to 16-inch laptops, an air-mesh pouch for essentials, and a dedicated water-bottle pocket to keep you hydrated. Organization is a breeze with a stretch key leash, a shoe duster, and additional interior pockets, while a secure pocket on the back makes accessing your passport or phone easy. Crafted from premium neoprene, it's water-resistant, shock absorbent, and relatively easy to clean.

Nomad Lane V4 Bento Bag

The Bento Bag by Nomad Lane is as classic as it gets, ideal for savvy travelers looking for best-in-class organization. As a travel expert, I can't tell you how valuable it is to have a reliable under-seat bag. You'll never be asked to pull this one out to go in the overhead.

It’s like a mini suitcase that opens flat so that you can pack and unpack in a snap. Inside, there’s a spot for everything—your laptop, gadgets, and even your toiletries. It’s made from tough stuff that stands up to the rigors of travel, so it’ll look sharp trip after trip.

Whether you’re a frequent flyer or an occasional jet-setter, this bag keeps you organized and ready to roll right from the gate.

Samsonite Upright Wheeled Underseater

Just looking for a travel bag that ticks all the boxes? This personal item bag from Amazon favorite Samsonite is a fantastic pick, especially if you prefer keeping your essentials within reach. It's sized to fit under most airline seats—just double-check with your airline for specifics.

What sets it apart? The inline skate wheels. (This is one for my fellow travel nerds.) They're crafted from polyurethane with ball bearings, minimizing friction for that silky-smooth roll through terminals. The ergonomic handle with a push-button locking system is a nice touch, making it comfy to maneuver. There's even a Wetpak zippered compartment for those damp swimsuits or muddy shoes, keeping the rest of your gear clean and dry.

Plus, quick-stash exterior pockets are perfect for organizing all your smaller go-tos, like snacks or your passport. And the smart sleeve on the back? It slides right over the handle of your larger luggage, making it a breeze to navigate through busy airports.

Monos Metro Duffel

The Metro duffel combines style and practicality, making it a stellar choice for everything from your daily commute to weekend adventures. Crafted from water-resistant nylon twill and accented with vegan leather, this bag looks good and keeps your belongings dry through drizzles and spills.

The standout feature? Its innovative modular system allows you to customize the bag with different inserts depending on your day's needs.

Inside, there's plenty of space to keep things organized, including a sleeve that can handle a 15-inch laptop and side pockets perfect for a water bottle or an umbrella. Plus, the built-in trolley sleeve hooks on to any Monos suitcase for easy travel integration—or doubles as an extra pocket when you're not jet-setting.

Delsey Paris Chatelet 2.0 Softside Under-Seater

This two-wheel under-seater is perfect for your next overnight or weekend trip. Crafted from durable recycled poly and trimmed with vegan leather, it embodies the iconic Chatelet design. Not only is it designed to fit snugly under airplane seats, but it also features a hidden front pocket that provides quick access to your essentials like your phone, passport, or snacks.

The smart band on the back is a handy addition that allows you to slide the bag over the handle of your rolling luggage for easier movement through crowded terminals. Its lining is treated with Silvadur technology for effective odor control. And with its ergonomic handle and soft-grip top carrying handle, this bag is a breeze to maneuver. It's worth the investment.

PAK Rêve Transit PAK Weekender Tote : The large nylon Weekender Tote is perfect for anyone with a busy lifestyle, thanks to its durable design and parent-friendly features like built-in water-bottle holders, a laptop compartment, and a luggage sleeve. It's ideal for everything from office days to family adventures, making it a dynamic and indispensable accessory.

Bellroy Lite Duffel : The Lite bag is crafted from ultralight Diamond Ripstop, making it perfect for active lifestyles, as it can be easily folded or rolled for travel. It features a unique double-ended zipper for wide access, a spacious main compartment, and multiple pockets for organization, all backed by a three-year warranty.

Tips for Buying a Personal Item Bag

Size Matters: Always check the dimensions your airline allows for personal items. The most common personal item size limit is 18 x 14 x 8 inches. Look for bags that maximize this space without going over the limit.

Compartments Are Key: Opt for a bag with multiple compartments and pockets. This will help organize your essentials and make them easily accessible during your flight.

Material Magic: Durability is crucial, so select materials that can withstand the wear and tear of travel. Waterproof fabrics are a bonus for those unexpected spills or rain.

Comfort Counts: If your personal item doubles as a shoulder bag or backpack, ensure the straps are comfortable and adjustable. Remember, you'll end up carrying it through long airport corridors.

Style Sync: Choose a design that fits your style and travel needs. A bag that looks great and functions well can boost your travel experience.

Q: Can a personal item bag have wheels?

A: Yes, some wheeled bags are designed to fit under airplane seats. However, always verify the dimensions with your specific airline.

Q: How heavy can my personal item be?

A: Weight limits for personal items vary by airline. It's generally a good idea to keep it light since you'll be carrying it throughout your journey.

Q: Are backpacks considered personal items?

A: Absolutely. Many travelers use backpacks as their personal items. Just make sure it fits under the seat in front of you.

Q: Can I bring a personal item and a carry-on?

A: Most airlines allow one carry-on and one personal item. Check your airline's policy ahead of time to avoid any surprises.

Why Trust Esquire?

Our recommendations for the best personal item bags are drawn from a combination of thorough expert opinions, user reviews, and real-world experiences. We've sifted through countless user testimonials and tried a million bags ourselves to provide you with a selection that offers reliability, style, and functionality. Our goal is to help you find a bag that not only fits under the seat but also meets all your travel needs, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable journey. Trust us to help you travel smarter, not harder.

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Watch CBS News

Best luggage for families in 2024

By Leah Groth , Meredith Gordon , Kaylyn McKenna

Edited By Fox Van Allen

Updated on: June 24, 2024 / 11:40 AM EDT / Essentials

CBS Essentials is created independently of the CBS News editorial staff. We may receive commissions from some links to products on this page. Promotions are subject to availability and retailer terms.

If you've ever ventured on a meticulously planned vacation only to have the fun ruined by a broken suitcase, or luggage that didn't suit your needs, you know firsthand that the right luggage can make or break a family trip. Packing for yourself and your family requires precision and organization, making sure all your travel essentials find their place while saving room for the treasures you may purchase along the way. Nothing can simplify travel better than the perfect suitcase.

However you like to travel, you'll want to dive into our list of best luggage for families in 2024. From triple-tasking ride-on carry-on bags and kid-sized suitcases  to luggage sets and large trunks, you're going places this summer.

The best luggage for families in 2024

We've compiled luggage selections for all types of families and travel styles. Whether your kids prefer their own carry-ons or you need a large checked bag to hold all of the family's travel essentials, we've found the best luggage for your summer family vacation.

Best summer luggage sale: Save 30% on Samsonite this summer

• For the family that likes to stay organized on vacation : Royce & Rocket The Castle
• For the family with a toddler : JetKids by Stokke Bedbox ride-on carry-on suitcase
• For the family that tends to overpack : Travelpro Platinum Elite 
• For the parent that needs a roomy check-in : Away The Large Flex
• For the family that likes to travel in style : Monos Check-In Large
• For the family that loves to match : Coolife luggage set
• Best luggage for kids : Disney hardside spinner carry-on

Keep reading to learn more about our top picks and find the right luggage for your family. If you need more ideas, check out our full roundup of the best luggage in 2024 .

Samsonite is one of the top names in luggage. Known for lightweight, durable pieces designed to endure many summer family vacations, the brand is currently offering 30% off sitewide, with free shipping.

That means you can pack with confidence this summer with Samsonite's standout pieces, including the Freeform Medium Spinner (pictured here) now $168, reduced from $240; the 4.2-star rated Voltage two-piece se t now $240, reduced from $400; and the brand's terrific Carrier GSD travel backpack now $50, reduced from $90. 

Why we like Samsonite luggage :

• The luggage is lightweight, yet durable.
• Larger piece suitcases feature wheels that spin in any direction, making the bags easier to maneuver in transit.

For the family that likes to stay organized on vacation: Royce & Rocket The Castle

Anyone who struggles to stay organized while temporarily living out of a suitcase will appreciate the clever built-in shelving of this super-sized 31-inch piece of checked luggage from Royce & Rocket. 

Keep all of your family's items neatly organized by stacking everything on the two-tier shelves that fold down when the suitcase opens. Available in burgundy, silver and black exterior colors with the option of a pink or tobacco interior. 

Why we like the Royce & Rocket The Castle checked luggage:

• The included compression system and castle shelves help you fit everything your family needs and stay organized throughout your trip.
• It includes a mesh zip and lots of internal pockets for easy organization.
• It features a TSA-approved lock .

For the family with a toddler: JetKids by Stokke Bedbox ride-on carry-on suitcase

This 19-inch carry-on serves multiple purposes. It's a suitcase, ride-on transportation for little ones up to 77 pounds, a foot rest and it provides an in-air sleeping surface for kids age 2 and up. It's an excellent starter option for kids who want their own luggage but may get tired of walking or holding onto their suitcase in the airport. 

The case comes with an extendable lid elongating the seat, making it a great place to rest feet. During the flight, a built-in mattress helps this suitcase transform any airplane seat into a comfy makeshift bed. 

"I dragged my feet on this purchase because of the price tag, but I have zero regrets after traveling solo with my two-year-old and five-year-old,"  one parent who purchased the suitcase  says. "This thing was so easy to maneuver through the airport and through the plane aisles that my two-year-old pulled it herself for most of the trip. The bed feature was super easy to set up and we used it to and from our destination." 

Why we like the JetKids ride-on carry-on suitcase:

• It has a versatile design that allows kids to pull or ride on the suitcase. 
• It has a fun kid-friendly design. 
• It offers ample storage to fit all of your child's travel essentials. 

For the family that tends to overpack:  Travelpro Platinum Elite  

The roomiest of the popular Travelpro Platinum Elite collection, the 29-inch check-in size offers 143.5 liters of packing space for families. Constructed out of a stain-resistant fabric with stylish leather accents, the softside suitcase offers durability and protection for your family's items. Keep clothes organized with the internal tie-down system, integrated accessory products, a built-in, foldable suiter and a removable, TSA-compliant wet pocket for toiletries.

Need more room? The suitcase also boasts a tapered expansion, offering an extra 2 inches when needed. Prices vary by color. 

Why we like the Travelpro Platinum Elite spinner:

• It's expandable up to an extra two inches in case your family overpacks or ends up buying a few too many souvenirs on your trip
• It features eight self-aligning spinner wheels for a smooth glide.
• It comes with a TSA-approved lock to keep your family's belongings secure.

For the parent that needs a roomy check-in:  Away The Large Flex

Away Travel's hard-sided polycarbonate bags offer great protection for all your family's belongings. At 29 inches (plus 1.75 inches of expandable flex space) and 99 liters of interior space, The Large Flex serves as a great option. 

Features of this popular suitcase include 360-degree spinner wheels, a removable, washable liner and TSA-approved locks. If you don't like it, return it within 100 days for a full refund. 

Why we like the Away The Large Flex suitcase:

• It provides plenty of space for parents who are packing for themselves and their children.
• It's designed to hold enough for a two-week trip, or enough for a parent and child on a shorter trip if sharing luggage.
• It's durable, but still relatively lightweight.

For the family that likes to travel in style:  Monos Check-In Large

Available in a bunch of great colors and with features like an effortless telescopic handle, lots of pockets and compartments with zippers and an easy-to-use lock, this large check-in bag is worth considering. 

The 30-inch, 99-liter Monos Check-In costs $100 less than the similar style from Away, with many of the same features plus a 100-day trial period and lifetime warranty . You can also pack smaller suitcases like the Monos carry-on into the large check-in for storage when not in use

Why we like the Monos Check-in Large suitcase:

• It offers a spacious interior for your items.
• This luggage is made with a high-quality polycarbonate shell.
• It comes in thirteen color options and offers a sleek, stylish design.

For the family that loves to match: Coolife luggage set

Keep your family in coordinating style with a matching set of luggage. This top-selling polycarbonate hardshell luggage set from Coolife comes in sets of three (one carry-on and two check-ins) or four (two carry-on pieces and two check-ins) and costs less than a single suitcase from the competition.

Each suitcase comes equipped with quiet, multidirectional spinner wheels, an aluminum telescopic handle and interior mesh pockets for organizational purposes. Another cool feature? The suitcases fit inside one another for storage. Available in multiple colors. 

Why we like the Coolife luggage sets:

• Having matching luggage for the whole family makes it easier to keep track of your bags or find them at baggage claim.
• The bags are lightweight, making them easier for younger family members to roll.
• Each luggage piece features interior mesh pockets for organization.

Get a three- or four-piece set at Amazon by clicking the buttons below.

Best luggage for kids: Disney hardside spinner carry-on

Kids determined to carry their own luggage  will like the Disney-themed collection from Target. Available in a variety of sizes and themes, including Disney Princess, Mickey and Minnie Mouse and "Frozen," the bag rolls on side-mounted skate wheels and has dual handles for maneuverability.  

The carry-on has earned an impressive 4.5-star rating with 62% of Target buyers stating they'd recommend it. Target is home to a variety of Disney-themed luggage in various sizes and color options. We've linked to them all.

Why we like the Disney hardside carry-on:

• You can buy this suitcase in a variety of design options featuring popular characters. 
• Reviewers report that it's durable enough to stand up to drops, scraps and kicking from little ones. 
• It's made with a lightweight polycarbonate shell.

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Our favorite is the Out Of The Woods KeepCool Nairobi Jute Market Cooler.

Best Beach Bags

Best Overall Beach Bag

Out of the woods keepcool nairobi jute market cooler.

Best Cooler Beach Bag

Cotopaxi hielo 12l cooler bag.

Best Tote Beach Bag

Charles & keith large kay canvas tote bag.

Yes, you can easily find an affordable beach bag on Amazon. However, after testing many different options, we discovered that spending a bit more money means getting better durability, which is essential for a beach bag (you want it to last through anything, right?). We have a solid mix of affordable and splurge-worthy options on this list, but we're recommending our absolute favorites that have stood the test of time. Keep reading to discover our nine picks as well as what to look for when shopping.

What to consider

Above all, we found that one of the most important things to look for in a beach bag is that it's water-resistant. After all, you will be by the water all day, so you want some extra protection just in case. While we found that few bags are totally waterproof, many on this list are water-resistant, including the Calpak Terra 35L Water Resistant Zippered Tote Bag and the Cotopaxi Cooler Bag , which is made with a fully waterproof lining that's 100 percent polyester. This helps make sure the interior doesn't get damaged if your liquids spill en route to the beach.

If you want to bring snacks to the beach, interior insulation, which is usually made of polyethylene, is also important so your drinks and food stay chilled throughout the day. Even though a bag is water-resistant doesn't mean it has insulation. We've outlined which bags are insulated, below.

Many bags on this list have a nylon exterior, which is also a great material for keeping your belongings dry. Nylon is super durable and strong, so opt for this material if you want your bag to last through anything. Polyester is also a great option if you're looking for durability. A few nylon bags on this list are the Baggu Crescent Bag , the State Bags Wellington Cabana Tote , and the Cotopaxi Cooler Bag , which has that waterproof lining for double protection from the outside-in.

Another key to a solid beach bag is size. During testing, we found that larger bags (around 20-plus liters) were the most convenient, as they can fit a lot. We also found that the bigger the bag, the more organization compartments there are, which is essential for those of you who like to bring a lot with you to the beach. There is one smaller option on this list, the Baggu Crescent Bag , which is perfect for the minimalists of the group. Despiteits smaller size, it's actually super roomie.

How we chose

For the past few months, style & commerce editor Lily Wohlner has vetted the bestselling, top-rated beach bags for women. Then, I tried them all during pool and beach days. I looked for bags that are big, have a lot of pockets, look and feel durable, and have a structured thickness. These bags made the cut across materials and size.

So, are you ready to finally discover the perfect beach bag that you can wear easily and effortlessly this summer? We've got you with this tried-and-tested list.

We tested many beach bags, but the KeepCool Market Cooler from Out Of The Woods won us over on the design front. It looks super cute with its jute weaving, but it also has an insulated interior. This addition comes in handy when you want to bring snacks, drinks, and other warm weather cravings to the beach. Even the outer pocket is insulated, which provides extra storage for snacks and beverages.

During testing, we found that this bag keeps our hot food feeling warm for about thirty minutes. And, we felt like our cold foods stayed chilled for many hours if our bag was kept out of the sun. We didn't even have to use ice packs! However, if you want your beverages to be extra cold, you can def throw an ice pack or two into the bag. Note: The brand does not recommend using ice cubes inside the bag, unless they're sealed inside a Ziplock bag.

We do wish this bag was easier to buy—the only way you can purchase it is through the website itself. Plus, there is no information on the materials and care for this bag on the website, besides the fact that it's made from recycled paper. Lastly, we wish this bag was water-resistant on the outside, as that's much easier to deal with at the beach. However, upon receiving this bag, we were impressed by the quality and how long it keeps our food cold.

Read More: Best Foods To Bring To The Beach

Another option if you're in need of a cooler at the beach, this bag las a longer crossbody strap than the Out Of The Woods option, but it's def on the smaller side if you don't need something as large. We like this bag for solo trips to the beach, long hikes, or even long drives where you need something to keep your food insulated for longer periods of time. Another pro? The lining is waterproof.

Although this bag is on the smaller side, it's def mighty. It features a side pocket for your water bottle, a side carry strap, and a roll top with buckle closure. And you don't only have to use it for insulation. One of our testers actually used this bag as their carry on when flying to a beach vacation and said it held all their in-flight essentials, but also worked great for insulating snacks on the beach.

Another fun aspect of this bag is that each pack in this collection is one of a kind, so you don't know which color pattern you're going to get. While we like to pick out our own colors, this was a nice little surprise.

FYI, one of our testers found that this bag tends to sweat at the bottom when used with ice packs, which knocked its score down a bit.

Charles & Keith Large Kay Canvas Tote Bag

This bag feels a bit more upscale than most picks on this list, and we attribute that to its tote-like feel. It's made from a lightweight canvas material, which feels super sturdy and durable, but also complements any vacation style (I mean, how cute is this colorway?).

Most beach bags we tested don't include a zipper, but we love that this one does. Not only does it keep our belongings safe and protected during travel or at the beach, but it also helps keep cold snacks chilled. However, this bag is not insulated like the Cotopaxi or Out Of The Woods ones.

Another pro is that this bag has a detachable crossbody strap, so you can wear it on your shoulder, sling it across your chest, or simply hold it.

We were most surprised when we opened this bag and discovered how big it was inside. It's not huge when you look at it, but when you open it up, you can immediately tell that this bag holds a lot . We packed a towel, a handful of skincare products, and snacks and found that we had plenty of room to spare.

This bag is not waterproof, so it shouldn't go in the water. However, it def sits pretty on your pool or beach chair.

Calpak Terra 35L Water Resistant Zippered Tote Bag

Everyone needs a water-resistant bag for the beach, and this one from Calpak is our favorite option. While it's not insulated like the first two options, a spill, some sand, or ocean water stands no chance against this bag.

Its larger size accommodates exterior side pockets for large water bottles, a front organization pocket, and even a phone pocket. It has a large interior, along with a side pocket that's big enough to fit a laptop.

We love that this bag is super sturdy, so it holds its shape and stands on its own. This makes it perfect for travel, too. Although it's on the bigger side, we find that it fits under the plane seat, even when stuffed to the brim. Take this with you on your next beach vacay and trust me when I say you'll fall in love with one use.

Our one qualm is that the shoulder straps are a bit uncomfortable. So, if this bag is totally full, the rough straps make it painful to carry longer distances.

Keep Reading: Best Gym Bags

Bagsmart Foldable Tote Bag with Drawstring Storage Bag

There are many other bags on this list that are awesome for travel, like the Calpak option and the Cotopaxi one. However, this water-resistant one comes out on top if you're looking for a beach bag that doubles as a take-with-you-anywhere bag.

I own a few travel bags from Bagsmart, and I'll be the first to tell you that they're some of the most coveted items in my closet. And, this one is no different. First of all, the design is so simple and cute. SecondLY, it never creases or gets wrinkly after being stored for long periods of time. The durable polyester fabric makes it bounce back into shape each time I prepare it for travel. Just when you thought it couldn't get any better, it’s packable and folds into a small pouch, making it easy to bring along as your beach bag without taking up extra space on the plane.

It's also super roomy with its 20L capacity, and features four separate pockets and a drawstring storage bag. The main zipper compartment can easily hold a laptop, beach necessities, and all the extra clothes you need, and the front pocket makes access to all your smaller necessities so easy.

For all of these amazing qualities, it's extremely affordable, making it an awesome gift that packs a punch. Before you buy it, though, know that this bag isn't as sturdy as others on this list.

Baggu Medium Nylon Crescent Bag

If I could own this bag in every color, I would. As a city dweller, it comes in handy during long days out and about because it's so compact, but its also large enough to hold more than just the essentials. Plus, it has two interior pockets to keep things organized.

I'll be the first to admit that this bag isn’t packed with extras (I mean, it is only 13 inches long) but we love having a smaller bag for the beach when we don't need a ton of stuff or if we're just stopping by the beach for a few hours.

It’s incredibly easy to clean due to its nylon material. It’s machine washable, making it perfect for sandy beach days, and it has an adjustable strap, allowing you to wear it over your shoulder or crossbody. While we wish there were a few more pockets on the inside of the bag to keep things organized, we love how simple it is.

Lands End Packable Beach Tote

Don't want a bulky beach bag? Opt for this Packable tote, which is super compact and fits in your car, suitcase, or duffle without a problem. We love how oversized this bag is, making it easy for us to fit all of our belongings. Plus, the inside has mesh pockets and zippered pockets, which helps with organization.

Our fave part about this bag is that it's packable, so it zips up into an easy-to-carry bundle, making it perfect for travel. And, when it needs a clean, just throw it right into the wash. However, it shouldn't need a clean too often, as it's sand- and water-resistant.

One downside is that the bag's raincoat-like material can be a bit loud and crinkly instead of soft. Additionally, it only comes in patterns or bright colors, which might clash with some of your fits, so we wish the brand offered more neutral tones.

State Bags Wellington Cabana Tote

Finding a pool or beach bag that's discreet and doesn't scream "mom bag" is no easy feat, but this sheer option from State Bags is different. Not only is it chic and stylish, it's also super durable, easy to clean (yay!), and can hold just about anything you need. It fits everything from a portable speaker and beach towels to sunscreen and beach toys.

Made of water-resistant fabric, you never have to worry about it getting wet, because that's the last thing you want to stress about during a day in the sun. If you have certain valuables you want to keep safe and sound, the bag comes with a detachable pouch that keeps your them safe and sound.

After testing, we found that this bag is also super comfortable to carry, thanks to its webbing straps. If you don't want to carry such a large bag, it also comes in an adorable mini version .

We do wish this bag had a few more interior pockets for better organization.

Mark & Graham Oversized Ribbon Straw Beach Tote

Mark & Graham's Oversized Straw Beach Tote is exactly what comes to mind when you think of a beach bag: woven and cute with pops of color. But this one also has the option to add a custom monogram of your choice, which is a welcome twist to the classic tote. Plus, the straps and monogram font come in tons of different colors.

And we don't only love this for the beach—it's awesome to throw over your shoulder for a casual farmer's market outing, a trip to the park, and more.

Like many other bags on this list, we wish there were more interior pockets, but we do love the interior size of this bag.

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Lily Wohlner is the Associate E-Commerce Editor of Women’s Health. An expert in recommending the best products to add-to-cart, she knows what it takes for a product to receive a solid five stars (especially when it comes to beauty!). Starting her career as a freelance makeup artist, Lily has since moved to the editorial world, where she has generated content for brands including Oribe, NewBeauty, Dermstore, SkinStore, and LOOKFANTASTIC. When she’s not zenning out with a pore-clearing mask, the Lower East Side dweller is cheffing up a new recipe with her roommate or thrifting for the perfect pair of blue jeans. Follow her on Instagram . 

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• Musical Instruments
• Acoustic Guitars
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Enya Nova Go Mini Carbon Fiber Acoustic Guitar 1/4 Size Travel Acustica Guitarra w/Beginner Kids Starter Bundle Kit of Thickened Gig Bag, Adjusting Wrench(Black)

Purchase options and add-ons

About this item.

• ♫ CARBON FIBER IS A THING NOW - Carbon Fiber has been there for some time in the guitar community. Carbon fiber guitars definitely has their own scenarios. You may be intrigued. But the high price of may throw you off a bit. Then you discover this Nova Go Mini. The price is quite accessible. You are seriously thinking about getting one, right? This is what we intended: bringing quality carbon fiber acoustic guitar, that’s of great value.
• ♫ BUILT FOR TRAVEL - Nova Go Mini is made of carbon fiber composite material, which means it's impervious to temperature and humidity change. Taking it to chill on a beach with the hot bright sun up above, or to a hiking trip deep in a mountain, or even further to shoot some beautiful Instagram posts in a snow land, Nova Go Mini would stay stable, with no warp nor cracks. The 1/4 size makes it super easy to carry around to anywhere. Just take it out on the road.
• ♫ FEELS REAL - We've been dedicated to bringing that wooden flavor into the tonal spectrum of carbon fiber acoustic guitars. Days and nights were poured into tweaking the bracing design of this Nova Go Mini acoustic guitar. Gladly, it paid off in the end. The sound is quite surprising for such thin-body-designed acoustic guitars. The sideway sound hole can amplify the volume that the player perceives when playing.
• ♫ SOLID BUILD & EASY TO PLAY - The body of Nova Go Mini is 1/4 sized (32 in"), molded all in one piece, meaning that the bridge is a cohesive part of the top, not glued upon like traditional acoustic guitars. It would never snap or fall off. Meanwhile, we've put a truss rod into the neck, giving your more adjustability for the string action, even though the factory setup is already optimum. Also, the "Zero Fret" feature is added to this acoustic guitar for smoother tuning.
• ♫ WHAT’S MORE - Also, the "Zero Fret" feature is added to this acoustic guitar for smoother tuning, and fret ends are polished to round edges for a more comfortable hand feel. 3 colors available: black, white, pink. Nova Go Mini comes with a custom thickened gig bag, and a hexagon wrench for adjusting string actions.

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Enya Nova Go SP1 Carbon Fiber Acoustic Guitar Full Review

🌟 Joost Nusselder

Enya NOVA GO Guitar-Performance Demo

Enya Musical

Singing with students, using Enya NOVA GO Guitar.

Product description, enya nova go mini guitar-take it 0ut 0n the road.

Nova Go Mini is an ultra-lightweight and compact travel guitar. The carbon fiber composite material makes it impervious to temperature and humidity changes. Taking it to chill on a beach, or to hike in a mountain, or play in a snow land, It would stay stable, with no warp nor cracks.

Zero Fret And Round Edge Polishing.

For this little Nova Go Mini travel acoustic guitar, the "Zero Fret" feature is included for smoother tuning. Meanwhile, all fret ends are polished to round edges for a more comfortable hand feel. It will not scratch your hands as it moves up and down the neck.

The Guitar Looks Small, But Doesn’t Sound Small.

The 1/4 size of this Nova Go Mini acoustic guitar may make wonder, whether the sound would compromise due to the small body-size. The Side Sound Port answers to that question. By projecting the sound directly to the player, this little travel guitar doesn’t sound small at all. Besides, we’ve also build an arched back for it, which would make the sound projection more consisted and with a balanced harmonic structure.

Smooth To Hold, Smooth To Play.

The ergonomic curve is a must-have for our entire Nova Go line. The backside edged of this travel acoustic guitar designed in a really smooth fashion. Holding it in your arm, you’ll surely be enjoying that comfort. The cutaway is also designed ergonomically, which makes it super easy for you to access those higher notes. It’s a bless for LP-styled guitars.

The body of this Nova Go Mini is 1/4 sized, molded all in one piece, meaning that the bridge is a cohesive part of the top, not glued upon like traditional acoustic guitars. It would never pop off. We've also put a truss rod into the neck, giving more adjustability for the string action.

Enya NOVA GO Guitar Series

From the brand.

Enya Music, distinct from the singer, embraces a rich history that commences with the significance of our name. "En" symbolizes perpetual humility and gratitude, while "Ya" embodies elegance. Our ultimate objective is to provide the utmost value in Ukuleles & Guitars, accompanied by a customer experience that wholeheartedly expresses our sincere appreciation for those who engage with our instruments.

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Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers like the value, appearance, quality, sturdiness, and ease of use of the guitar. For example, they mention it's easy to play, has a cool looks, and is well built. That said, some complain about the action and intonation.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers like the sound quality of the guitar. They say it has great sound, sustain, and volume. Some say the volume is a bit soft, but loud enough for kids. They also say the tone is surprisingly rich and deep for such a small guitar and it projects nicely. Customers also say it's easy to play and has a pleasant voice.

"...Quite versatile, robust, looks and sounds great , and it's great fun and affordable. Thank you Enya! Sail Away!" Read more

"...As far as the sound, it is louder than you might expect for something so small, but don't expect it to compare with a full-size or even like a..." Read more

"...-the sound quality , sustain, and volume are all very nice and, frankly, much better than expected for a guitar of this size and price point; the..." Read more

"...It also has excellent sound quaility , not like a spruce topped guitar, but lots of deep rich tones...." Read more

Customers like the quality of the guitar. They say it's a great, durable, and playable instrument with decent tuners and intonation. They also say it is a good beginner guitar or for kids and good for travel. Overall, customers are impressed with the quality and value of the product.

"...To me this is a really good , totally playable and durable great sounding guitar. I love it." Read more

"...-not really a performance instrument; this is a great guitar for practice , travel, songwriting, etc but is not loud enough to perform in most venues..." Read more

"... This guitar is amazing , it is an adult size, but smaller for travel. The neck is a good size with neck width for finger-picking and easy to play...." Read more

"... It plays great , and the small size frequently makes me reach for it above other guitars because I can play it in an armchair and grab it with one..." Read more

Customers like the sturdiness of the guitar. They say it's well built, durable, and great sounding. Customers are also surprised at the quality based on the price point. They mention the guitar is light yet carbon fiber is stronger than steel.

"First the pros: Well made , sturdy, compact, looks nice (if you like Les Paul shape guitars), very light, stays in tune extremely well,..." Read more

"...To me this is a really good, totally playable and durable great sounding guitar . I love it." Read more

"...than soft neoprene cloth (or similar), it's soft shell and maintains shape very well , has a nice soft interior with a compartment for storing items..." Read more

"...it would be more like a shiny plastic bag; however the case is a sturdy material , like a backpack, with padding all around and even a neck brace...." Read more

Customers find the guitar very playable, with decent playability out of the box. They also say the shape and size just make it easy to play. Some mention that the action is very play able, the frets are smooth, and the guitar is fun to play for an acoustic. Overall, most are happy with the ease of use and recommend it for kids to learn on.

"...This is a blast to play and get some seriously dark and even sinister chords with or play bass. I'm no "chugger" but I am now, haha!..." Read more

"...It has very low action with absolutely no fret buzz, extremely easy to play for an acoustic ...." Read more

"... Playability is much better than those if the cramped size doesn't bother you--the frets, nut (well, string guide in this case), saddle, etc, are..." Read more

"...-the guitar is very playable . The fret wires are all smooth and the fretboard surface is comfortable...." Read more

Customers like the value of the guitar. They say it's easy on the budget, has a lot of fun for little money, and has an acceptable tone quality. Some mention that it'd be a well-thought-out purchase and not too bad for a beginner.

"...excellent my materials (carbon fiber), nice thin D shaped neck, great price (got mine on sale, around half retail), comes with a gig-bag and strap..." Read more

"...temperature and humidity than a wood guitar, so I'm hoping what is a good value and a pretty good beater/travel guitar will really stand out in..." Read more

"...PROS: -excellent budget value , including a gig bag, good strings (D'Addario) with additional set, included strap..." Read more

"...Bottom line--This is sold as an inexpensive travel guitar . It is definitely that...." Read more

Customers like the appearance of the guitar. They mention it has a cool look, the construction is nice, and the case is semi-rigid. Some appreciate the original design and the bag strap design. Overall, most are happy with the appearance and sound of the product.

"First the pros:Well made, sturdy, compact, looks nice (if you like Les Paul shape guitars), very light, stays in tune extremely well,..." Read more

"...Mine came with a soft shell case with a zipper, the case is pretty nice ...." Read more

"...- comes in a number of fun colors (I bought charcoal gray), which would be attractive especially I think to child and adolescent beginners..." Read more

"...Yes. The fit and finish are quite good. Finish on the fret ends is particularly impressive ...." Read more

Customers find the guitar well suited for travel, easy to carry, and perfect for practice and travel. They also say it stays in tune well and is a great all-around travel guitar.

"...or the mild awkwardness of the small body, it seems like a great couch or travel guitar and maybe a great starter guitar..." Read more

"...This guitar is amazing, it is an adult size, but smaller for travel . The neck is a good size with neck width for finger-picking and easy to play...." Read more

"...that I just wouldn't do with a "better" guitar makes it a great travel instrument . Especially combined with its low cost...." Read more

"...Pros:-Small and feels light to me, so it’s easy to travel with..." Read more

Customers are mixed about the size of the guitar. Some mention that it's small like an electric, very lightweight, and easy to support. They also say the sound is amazing and the size is great. Others however, say that it is heavy for its size, a little like a toy, and decreased portability. The neck is heavier than the body, so it doesn't balance well in the lap.

"...tune extremely well, excellent my materials (carbon fiber), nice thin D shaped neck , great price (got mine on sale, around half retail), comes with..." Read more

"...It is perfect for me, an acoustic guitar that is small like an electric , very lightweight, can be left in a hot automobile with no problems...." Read more

"...It does look and feel a little like a toy--the body is so small that it suffers from just a little bit of what the Martin Backpacker suffers from..." Read more

"...This guitar is amazing, it is an adult size , but smaller for travel. The neck is a good size with neck width for finger-picking and easy to play...." Read more

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• Take all prohibited items out of your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, put them in your checked suitcase. They won’t be allowed in the cabin.

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