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8 Best Airline Carry On Bag 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#2

TUMI Alpha Continental Dual Access 4-Wheeled Carry-on Luggage - Rolling, Lightweight Suitcase - Secure Suitcase with Lock - Anthracite

Rating
10.0
Wheels and Handles
Compartments and Organization
Expandability

Most important from
62 reviews

Wheels and Handles
Expands to a generous size, and the wheels roll as smooth as silk.
Compartments and Organization
The front-load feature allows you to pack boots and shoes along with a lot of clothes, making it perfect for longer trips.
Expandability
Expands to a generous size, and the wheels roll as smooth as silk.

The TUMI Alpha Continental Dual Access 4-Wheeled Carry-on Luggage is designed for efficient and secure travel. Measuring approximately 22 x 16 x 9 inches and weighing nearly 12 pounds, it fits within the size dimensions typically allowed for carry-on bags. The bag is made of 100% nylon, suggesting durability and resistance to wear and tear. The dual-access front-lid and split-case entry feature make packing and accessing your belongings more convenient, particularly for quick reach items.

The 4-wheel design, coupled with the X-Brace 45 Handle system, ensures smooth and easy maneuverability in various directions, which is a significant plus in crowded airports. This carry-on bag also caters to tech-savvy travelers, offering a built-in USB-C charging port and a hanging mesh zipper pocket with a USB cable, allowing you to stay connected on the go. Security is well-addressed with a built-in TSA combination lock and protective bumper rails, providing peace of mind that your belongings are protected.

TUMI's warranty also adds value, offering coverage for five years, which assures customers of the product’s quality and TUMI’s commitment to customer satisfaction. This suitcase is ideal for frequent travelers who value durability, security, and modern connectivity options in their carry-on luggage.

Rating
10.0
Wheels and Handles
Compartments and Organization
Expandability

Most important from
62 reviews

Wheels and Handles
Expands to a generous size, and the wheels roll as smooth as silk.
Compartments and Organization
The front-load feature allows you to pack boots and shoes along with a lot of clothes, making it perfect for longer trips.
Expandability
Expands to a generous size, and the wheels roll as smooth as silk.
#3

Briggs & Riley Underseat Duffle Bag - Personal Item Travel Bag for Women & Men, Carry On, Fits Under Airplane Seat, Weekender & Overnight Luggage, Lightweight - Baseline Collection, Olive

Rating
9.9
Size and Dimensions
Weight
Material and Durability

Most important from
222 reviews

Size and Dimensions
It comfortably fits three days' worth of clothes with ease, and in a pinch can hold up to a week’s outfits without extra shoes or bulky items.
Weight
The fully padded interior protects belongings without adding unnecessary bulk, making it feel lightweight despite its sturdiness.
Material and Durability
The bag's construction evenly distributes weight, preventing sagging and maintaining a sleek, structured appearance even when fully packed.
Wheels and Handles
The adjustable shoulder strap is perfectly positioned with a padded protector, ensuring comfortable carry and preventing the bag from swinging away in crowded spaces.
Compartments and Organization
A unique feature is the interior lining that functions like a large suit pocket, allowing wrinkle-free transport of formal wear by fully unzipping the duffle.
Expandability
The expandable design allows the bag to open fully clam-shell style, packing like a small suitcase with retention straps to keep clothes secure.

The Briggs & Riley Underseat Duffle Bag is a smart choice for travelers needing a compact and reliable personal item that fits under most airplane seats. Its dimensions (10.5 x 16.5 x 11.5 inches) make it compliant with airline carry-on size rules, and the slip-through back panel is a handy feature for sliding it over larger luggage handles, easing airport navigation. Made from durable ballistic nylon, this bag promises long-lasting use, backed by a lifetime repair service which is reassuring for frequent travelers.

The bag’s design includes two side compartments and a SpeedThru pocket, allowing organized storage and quick access to essentials during security checks. The adjustable shoulder strap and leather-trimmed top handle add comfort and a touch of style. However, it does not have wheels, which could be a drawback if you prefer wheeled carry-ons for easier maneuvering, especially when heavier.

It offers thoughtful security features like a hidden ID tag, though the lack of expandable space might limit packing flexibility for longer trips. This bag suits travelers who value durability, easy accessibility, and a compact design for short trips or as a personal item alongside checked luggage.

Rating
9.9
Size and Dimensions
Weight
Material and Durability

Most important from
222 reviews

Size and Dimensions
It comfortably fits three days' worth of clothes with ease, and in a pinch can hold up to a week’s outfits without extra shoes or bulky items.
Weight
The fully padded interior protects belongings without adding unnecessary bulk, making it feel lightweight despite its sturdiness.
Material and Durability
The bag's construction evenly distributes weight, preventing sagging and maintaining a sleek, structured appearance even when fully packed.
Wheels and Handles
The adjustable shoulder strap is perfectly positioned with a padded protector, ensuring comfortable carry and preventing the bag from swinging away in crowded spaces.
Compartments and Organization
A unique feature is the interior lining that functions like a large suit pocket, allowing wrinkle-free transport of formal wear by fully unzipping the duffle.
Expandability
The expandable design allows the bag to open fully clam-shell style, packing like a small suitcase with retention straps to keep clothes secure.

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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