In the days when we have strict airline luggage rules and are always on the go, traveling light & smart has never been so important. Whilst carry-on luggage may not be the most exciting topic for which to search online, it is an aspect of travel that – at least in our opinion! The 5 Best Carry-on Luggage Bags For 2024-2025, a post discussing the top five carry-ons now available (as of June/July in time for your summer travels), showcasing features perfect depending on everyone’s needs – from strength and value to style. From Away to Travelpro, Samsonite and Antler – or even Basics if that works better for you – this roundup of luggage brands is perfect whether you are a frequent flier or only travel once in few years.
1. Away Expandable Carry on
Are you in search of a versatile suitcase for any journey? Look no further than the AWAY Expandable Carry-On. Made from water-resistant nylon, this carry-on is known for its versatility and durability. The travel system of spinner wheels creates a smooth journey, and the interior compression keeps all your clothes in one place. An asymmetric front-pocket design provides easier pocket access. It also comes with a black leather luggage tag and laundry bag for your dirty clothes.
This suitcase gives you a little more room since it opens 1.75 inches. It conforms to most airline carry-on sizes, making it a great option for air travel. Available in four colors — black, green, navy, and asphalt, this carry-on is a good choice for any modern explorer who values being at the top of their game both fashionably and functionally. The AWAY Expandable Carry-On is built for whatever kind of trip you’re taking, whether it’s a short one or a longer adventure.
Detail:
Dimensions: 21.7 x 13.7 x 9.2 inches
Weight: 9.2 Pounds
2. Travelpro Maxlite 5
Whether you fly a lot or not, you have definitely seen flight attendants and even pilots walking around with Travelpro luggage. The same exact suitcase is double the cost at Macys because TravelPro brand suitcases are great quality, heavy-duty, and well-priced.
Travelpro Maxlite 5 The cheapest from Travelpro, priced slightly above $100 It also happens to be extremely lightweight at 5.4 pounds A handy attribute will be the outside pocket, which can help you pull out liquids during basic safety checks. On top of that, the zippers are durable and work well with no snagging. Both the spinner and roll-aboard versions whiz along on their wheels with ease. So far, reviewer Matt Jancer reports that he has not experienced any issues with the aluminum handle extensions sticking; nor is there a problem yet from single-stitching on the main grab handle (the long-term durability of which could present as an issue). This is likely the best suitcase you can get in this price range, which pretty much covers it for $100-150.
Detail:
Dimensions: 9 x 14.5 x 23 inches
Weight: 5.4 Pounds
3. Samsonite Freeform Carry-On
Best-budget suitcase Samsonite Freeform Carry-On Samsonite has been producing superior luggage options since 1910, and their carry-on expandable spinner is a perfect compact version that expands an extra inch for added packing space. It might not have the cool factor of Monos or Away suitcases, but then this is a highly functional piece. The breathable polypropylene shell (a bit too much for me on a cold New York tape night) lacks the impact resistance of pricier polycarbonate or aluminum alternatives. For more size options see our Best Samsonite Luggage guide for larger checked bags as well as weekender style, carry-ons that might better suit your travel.
Detail:
Dimensions: 10 x 15.25 x 21.25 inches
Weight: 6.5 pounds
Colors: 15 total
4. Antler Clifton Cabin in Sycamore
Designed for regular flyers looking for durable hard-sided luggage, none makes more fashion-friendly cases than Antler and its highly polished polycarbonate shell options. Constructed in durable yet feather-light polycarbonate, it is fitted with a twist-grip telescopic handle for easy airport navigation. This suitcase not only sports an excellent size and quality, but also an eye-catching appearance available in seven contemporary colours. Its fast-acting scrolling design places it fully practical and at the same time as much more upscale for a perfectly portable touring car.
Detail:
Dimensions: 55 x 40 x 20 cm
Weight: 6.1 Pounds
Colors: 8 total
5. Basics Hardside Carry-on Spinner Suitcase
Writer Robin Reetz is willing to write her college graduate son out of the will for thinking she should travel with a diaper bag made expensive enough only because Nordstrom carries it—a dollar figure not nested anywhere in reality. While cheaper than premium models, it is also made from ABS plastic, which isn’t as durable as polycarbonate. But when Griffiths got her hands on it, she was impressed by just how sturdy that shell is—thumping on it with a few punches only produced satisfying dull thuds.
According to Reetz and Griffiths, its compartments perform well alongside those of our top pick; however, this bag is made from cheaper materials that showed wear after a few washes. Reetz adds, “It’s perfect for a weekend road loop or multi-day four- to five-night trip. Recently traveled with friends who own Away and Delsey luggage, now they’re looking at getting this bag. Though smaller, she struggled to get her boots into the sixes, reminding herself of how much more roomier for them packed in an Away suitcase.”
Detail:
Dimensions: 14.84 x 11.06 x 40.87 inches
Weight: 7.3 Pounds
Colors: 4 total
