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10 Best Carry On Luggage Size 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

TUMI - Alpha Continental Expandable 4-Wheeled Carry-On Luggage - Compact Travel Suitcase - TSA Lock Tracer - Black

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,481
Compartments and Organization

Most important from
59 reviews

Compartments and Organization
Exceptional organization inside makes packing and accessing items hassle-free.

The TUMI Alpha Continental Expandable Carry-On is a solid choice for travelers looking for a durable and stylish suitcase that fits most airline carry-on size limits. Measuring 22 x 16 x 9 inches, it offers a compact base size and can expand up to 11 inches deep to hold extra items when needed, which is handy for longer trips or last-minute packing. The suitcase weighs 11.7 pounds, which is a bit on the heavier side compared to some lightweight carry-ons, so it might add to your load when fully packed. With a 54-liter capacity, it provides enough space for a weekend or short business trip.

TUMI suitcases have a reputation for good organization inside with well-thought-out compartments. The 4-wheel spinner system ensures smooth maneuvering through airports. Additional perks include a TSA-approved lock for security and a built-in USB-C port to charge devices on the go, which adds convenience for tech-savvy travelers. The FXT ballistic nylon material stands out for durability, able to handle rough handling on trips.

This suitcase suits frequent travelers who value durability, security, and a bit of tech integration, though those prioritizing lightweight options might find it a little heavy. The relatively high price point often associated with TUMI bags is balanced by a 5-year warranty that offers peace of mind.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,481
Compartments and Organization

Most important from
59 reviews

Compartments and Organization
Exceptional organization inside makes packing and accessing items hassle-free.
#2

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

Rating
10.0
Dimensions
Capacity

Most important from
88 reviews

Dimensions
The suitcase's size perfectly fits carry-on requirements for all major airlines, making it an ideal travel companion.
Capacity
This compact bag surprisingly holds enough for a week-long trip to warm climates without struggling to close.

The TUMI Alpha International Dual Access Carry-on is designed with travelers who need reliable, compact luggage that meets international carry-on size rules, especially for Europe and Asia. It measures just under 20 x 15 x 9 inches and weighs about 12 pounds, which is a bit on the heavier side compared to some lightweight models. One standout feature is its expandability by up to 11 inches, offering extra packing space when needed without sacrificing compactness. Crafted from durable FXT ballistic nylon, it can handle rough travel conditions, while the X-Brace 45 handle system adds stability and ease of maneuvering.

The dual-access design lets you open the suitcase from the front or split it open like a clamshell, providing flexible packing options and better organization. Inside, there’s a removable garment sleeve and a hanging mesh pocket with a USB-C charging port and cable, which is handy for keeping devices powered on the go. Its 4-wheel system makes it easy to roll through busy airports.

The suitcase’s weight might be a concern if you prefer ultra-light luggage, and the price point tends to be higher given its premium build. This carry-on is suited for frequent travelers who value durability, smart organization, and tech-friendly features in a compact suitcase.

Rating
10.0
Dimensions
Capacity

Most important from
88 reviews

Dimensions
The suitcase's size perfectly fits carry-on requirements for all major airlines, making it an ideal travel companion.
Capacity
This compact bag surprisingly holds enough for a week-long trip to warm climates without struggling to close.
#3

LUGGEX Carry On Luggage with Spinner Wheels, 20 Inch Aluminum Frame Zipperless Polycarbonate Hard Shell Suitcase, Charcoal Metallic

Rating
9.7
Dimensions
Weight
Compartments and Organization

Most important from
651 reviews

Dimensions
The suitcase easily fits in most airline carry-on compartments, making it ideal for frequent travel.
Weight
Its lightweight design makes it easy to carry over rough areas, enhancing longevity.
Compartments and Organization
The interior organization is practical with thoughtful compartments, including water-resistant liners for liquids.

The LUGGEX Zipperless Carry-On Luggage stands out with its robust polycarbonate aluminum hard shell and sleek charcoal metallic finish. Its external dimensions (22 x 14.6 x 9.6 inches) comply with most airline size restrictions, making it a suitable choice for air travel. Weighing 8.6 pounds, it is relatively lightweight for its build and materials.

With a 36-liter capacity, it offers sufficient space for short trips, though frequent travelers seeking more room might find it slightly limiting. This suitcase does not seem to feature expandability, which could be a drawback if additional space is needed for souvenirs or extra items during travel. However, its interior organization is practical, with well-thought-out compartments to keep belongings orderly.

A notable feature is its zipperless design with TSA-approved latches, offering quick and secure access while eliminating the common issue of broken zippers. The smooth-rolling spinner wheels with built-in springs enhance maneuverability across various surfaces, reducing travel fatigue. Additionally, the reinforced aluminum frame and durable corner protectors provide extra protection against impacts and harsh conditions. The 3-year protection plan and responsive customer service add to the product's reliability. This carry-on luggage is ideal for those who prioritize durability and security in their travel gear.

Rating
9.7
Dimensions
Weight
Compartments and Organization

Most important from
651 reviews

Dimensions
The suitcase easily fits in most airline carry-on compartments, making it ideal for frequent travel.
Weight
Its lightweight design makes it easy to carry over rough areas, enhancing longevity.
Compartments and Organization
The interior organization is practical with thoughtful compartments, including water-resistant liners for liquids.

Buying Guide for the Best Carry On Luggage Size

Choosing the right carry-on luggage size is crucial for ensuring a smooth travel experience. The right size will help you avoid extra fees, ensure your bag fits in the overhead compartment, and make it easier to navigate through airports. When selecting carry-on luggage, consider the airline's size restrictions, your travel needs, and the type of items you typically pack. Here are some key specifications to consider when choosing carry-on luggage size.
DimensionsDimensions refer to the length, width, and height of the luggage. This spec is important because airlines have specific size limits for carry-on bags, usually around 22 x 14 x 9 inches. To navigate this, check the size restrictions of the airlines you frequently fly with. If you travel with multiple airlines, choose a bag that meets the most restrictive size limit. For short trips, a smaller bag may suffice, while longer trips might require a slightly larger carry-on within the allowed dimensions.
WeightWeight refers to how heavy the luggage is when empty. This is important because airlines also have weight limits for carry-on bags, typically around 15-22 pounds. To navigate this, look for lightweight materials like polycarbonate or aluminum. If you tend to pack heavy items, opt for a lighter bag to maximize the weight allowance for your belongings. For those who pack light, the weight of the luggage may be less of a concern.
CapacityCapacity is the amount of space inside the luggage, usually measured in liters. This spec is important because it determines how much you can pack. To navigate this, consider your packing habits and the duration of your trips. For weekend getaways, a carry-on with a capacity of 30-40 liters may be sufficient. For longer trips, you might need a bag with a capacity of 40-50 liters. Choose a capacity that aligns with your typical travel needs.
ExpandabilityExpandability refers to the ability of the luggage to increase its capacity by unzipping an extra compartment. This is important for flexibility in packing. To navigate this, consider if you often return with more items than you left with. If so, an expandable carry-on can be very useful. For those who pack consistently, a non-expandable bag might be more streamlined and easier to manage.
Compartments and OrganizationCompartments and organization refer to the internal and external pockets and dividers within the luggage. This is important for keeping your items organized and easily accessible. To navigate this, think about how you like to pack. If you prefer everything to have its own place, look for luggage with multiple compartments and pockets. If you pack more freely, a simpler interior might be sufficient. Choose based on your organizational preferences.

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