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9 Best Airline Carry On Bag 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Amazon Basics Carry On Luggage, Hardside 20-inch Spinner with Scratch-Resistant Surface, Black

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,417
Size and Dimensions
Weight
Material and Durability

Most important from
2323 reviews

Size and Dimensions
This carry-on perfectly meets the strict size limits of European airlines such as Ryanair, Norwegian, and Wizz, making it ideal for avoiding checked baggage fees.
Weight
Despite the listed weight, the bag feels slightly heavier but remains lightweight enough for easy lifting and maneuvering through airports.
Material and Durability
The hardside shell offers durable protection with a scratch-resistant finish, providing confidence against rough handling during travel.
Wheels and Handles
The four double spinner wheels roll smoothly, and the telescoping handle operates sturdily, ensuring comfortable navigation in crowded terminals.
Compartments and Organization
The suitcase maximizes allowable carry-on space with a well-thought-out interior layout, including multiple zippered pockets and dividers for organized packing.

The Amazon Basics 20-inch hardside carry-on is a solid choice for travelers seeking a lightweight and durable bag. It weighs just 3.8 pounds, making it easy to lift into overhead compartments without adding extra strain. Its outer shell is made of thick ABS plastic with a scratch-resistant finish, which helps protect your belongings from bumps and rough handling during travel. The bag’s size (about 16 x 8 x 22 inches including wheels) fits most airline carry-on requirements, though it’s always good to double-check with your specific airline.

Moving the suitcase is smooth thanks to its four double spinner wheels and a telescoping handle, which allow easy navigation through crowded airports. Inside, the luggage offers 33 liters of space with an organized layout including dividers and three zippered pockets, helping keep your items neat and accessible. The interior is fully lined with durable polyester for extra protection.

This bag suits casual or occasional travelers looking for a straightforward, reliable carry-on that is budget-friendly and functional. Travelers who need advanced security features or expandable space may want to consider other options.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,417
Size and Dimensions
Weight
Material and Durability

Most important from
2323 reviews

Size and Dimensions
This carry-on perfectly meets the strict size limits of European airlines such as Ryanair, Norwegian, and Wizz, making it ideal for avoiding checked baggage fees.
Weight
Despite the listed weight, the bag feels slightly heavier but remains lightweight enough for easy lifting and maneuvering through airports.
Material and Durability
The hardside shell offers durable protection with a scratch-resistant finish, providing confidence against rough handling during travel.
Wheels and Handles
The four double spinner wheels roll smoothly, and the telescoping handle operates sturdily, ensuring comfortable navigation in crowded terminals.
Compartments and Organization
The suitcase maximizes allowable carry-on space with a well-thought-out interior layout, including multiple zippered pockets and dividers for organized packing.
#2

TUMI - Alpha International Dual Access 4-Wheeled Carry-on - Expandable, Durable and Compact Luggage with Removable Garment Bag - Black

Rating
9.6
Compartments and Organization

Most important from
87 reviews

Compartments and Organization
The interior hanging pocket is ideal for traveling with suits, making it a great choice for professional trips.

The TUMI International Dual Access 4-Wheeled Carry-on is a strong contender for travelers seeking durable and versatile luggage. Its compact size complies with international carry-on regulations for Europe and Asia, making it suitable for global travel. The use of TUMI's FXT ballistic nylon ensures the suitcase can withstand tough travel conditions, promising longevity and reliability. Its X-Brace 45 handle system adds stability during transit, while the dual-access feature, allowing entry from the front lid or via a split-case zip, increases convenience and security with its locked zippers.

Weighing about 11.88 pounds, the carry-on is slightly heavier than some competitors, which could be a consideration for those concerned about lifting and carry capacity. The suitcase comes equipped with a built-in USB-C charging port and a removable USB cable, appealing to tech-savvy users who need to keep their devices charged on-the-go. However, it's important to bear in mind that the power bank is not included, which could be an extra expense.

The removable garment sleeve adds versatility, making it ideal for business travelers needing to keep clothes wrinkle-free. However, the internal space may be limited due to this feature, which could pose challenges for packing bulkier items. The warranty coverage of up to five years is reassuring, adding an extra layer of trust in the purchase. In essence, this TUMI carry-on is well-suited for frequent flyers and business travelers who value durability and organization but may not be the best option for those seeking ultralight luggage.

Rating
9.6
Compartments and Organization

Most important from
87 reviews

Compartments and Organization
The interior hanging pocket is ideal for traveling with suits, making it a great choice for professional trips.

Buying Guide for the Best Airline Carry On Bag

Choosing the right airline carry-on bag is essential for a smooth travel experience. The perfect carry-on bag should be convenient, durable, and compliant with airline regulations. To make an informed decision, consider the following key specifications and how they align with your travel needs.
Size and DimensionsSize and dimensions are crucial because airlines have strict rules about the maximum size of carry-on bags. Typically, the allowed dimensions are around 22 x 14 x 9 inches, but this can vary. It's important to check the specific airline's requirements before purchasing. If you travel frequently with different airlines, opt for a bag that fits the most common size restrictions. For those who travel light, a smaller bag might be sufficient, while frequent travelers might prefer a larger bag that maximizes the allowed space.
WeightThe weight of the carry-on bag itself is important because airlines often have weight limits for carry-on luggage. A lighter bag allows you to pack more items without exceeding the limit. Look for bags made from lightweight materials like nylon or polycarbonate. If you tend to pack heavy, prioritize a bag with a lower weight to give you more leeway.
Material and DurabilityThe material and durability of the bag determine how well it will withstand the rigors of travel. Common materials include nylon, polyester, and polycarbonate. Nylon and polyester are lightweight and flexible, while polycarbonate is more rigid and durable. If you travel frequently or carry fragile items, choose a bag made from durable materials. For occasional travelers, a less expensive, lighter material might suffice.
Wheels and HandlesWheels and handles affect the ease of maneuverability. Bags can have two wheels or four spinner wheels. Spinner wheels offer better mobility and ease of movement in tight spaces, while two-wheel bags are more stable on uneven surfaces. Handles should be sturdy and comfortable to grip. If you often navigate crowded airports, a bag with spinner wheels and ergonomic handles will be more convenient. For simpler travel routes, two-wheel bags might be adequate.
Compartments and OrganizationCompartments and organization features help keep your belongings organized and easily accessible. Look for bags with multiple pockets, dividers, and compartments. Some bags offer specialized sections for electronics, toiletries, and documents. If you carry a variety of items, a bag with more organizational features will be beneficial. For minimalists, a simpler design with fewer compartments might be preferable.
Security FeaturesSecurity features such as locks, zippers, and RFID protection can keep your belongings safe. TSA-approved locks allow security personnel to open your bag without damaging it. RFID protection can prevent electronic theft of personal information. If you carry valuable items or travel to areas with higher theft risks, prioritize bags with robust security features. For less risky travel, basic security measures might be sufficient.
ExpandabilityExpandability allows you to increase the bag's capacity when needed. Some bags have zippers that can expand the main compartment. This feature is useful for travelers who might need extra space for souvenirs or additional items on the return trip. If you often find yourself needing more space, choose a bag with expandability. For those who pack consistently light, this feature might not be necessary.

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