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10 Best Cheap Carry On 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 by1,294
Size and Dimensions
Compartments and Organization
Durability

Most important from
2249 reviews

Size and Dimensions
The blue version is perfect for European low-cost airlines, fitting their specific size requirements.
Compartments and Organization
Although compact, the two compartments and cheap packing cubes allowed for packing up to 1.5 weeks of travel essentials.
Durability
Durability is decent for the price, though the zipper may not last beyond a dozen trips.

The Amazon Basics Carry On Luggage is a budget-friendly option for travelers seeking a reliable carry-on. Its compact size (15 x 10.6 x 21.7 inches) makes it suitable for most airline overhead compartments. Weighing only 3.8 pounds, it's easy to carry and maneuver. The hard shell, made of extra-thick ABS material, provides durability and a scratch-resistant surface that protects your belongings from travel wear and tear.

The four multi-directional double spinner wheels and telescoping handle make it easy to navigate crowded airports and terminals. Inside, the luggage offers organized storage with dividers and three zippered pockets, giving you ample space for personal items. However, while the 33-liter capacity is adequate for short trips, it may feel limiting for longer travels.

The 150D polyester lining adds an extra layer of protection, though it may not be as robust as higher-end models. This carry-on is an excellent choice for cost-conscious travelers who value lightweight convenience and basic organizational features.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,294
Size and Dimensions
Compartments and Organization
Durability

Most important from
2249 reviews

Size and Dimensions
The blue version is perfect for European low-cost airlines, fitting their specific size requirements.
Compartments and Organization
Although compact, the two compartments and cheap packing cubes allowed for packing up to 1.5 weeks of travel essentials.
Durability
Durability is decent for the price, though the zipper may not last beyond a dozen trips.
#2

SwissGear 7895 Premium Rolling Garment Bag, Bonus Hanging Feature, Men's and Women's, Carry-on Luggage - Grey Heather

Rating
9.6
Weight
Wheels
Compartments and Organization

Most important from
1470 reviews

Weight
Its sturdy yet lightweight design helps avoid overweight issues at airport check-in while maintaining durability.
Wheels
Smooth rolling wheels and easy maneuverability make traveling with this garment bag effortless.
Compartments and Organization
The bag offers impressive capacity and organization, comfortably fitting formal wear and casual clothes for trips up to a week or more.
Durability
Its sturdy yet lightweight design helps avoid overweight issues at airport check-in while maintaining durability.

The SwissGear 7895 Premium Rolling Garment Bag is an excellent option for travelers who need a carry-on capable of handling formal clothing without wrinkles. It opens into four compartments equipped with tie-down straps and pockets, including two shoe pockets and a wet bag, allowing for organized packing. The hanging feature with removable hooks is useful for keeping suits or dresses neat in hotel closets.

Equipped with inline wheels and a retractable handle, the bag rolls quietly and smoothly even over rough surfaces. Its durable construction is beneficial for frequent travelers. The bag weighs 11.6 pounds, which is heavier than typical carry-ons and may feel bulky when lifting or storing in overhead bins. Its packed size (24” x 23” x 9.5”) is relatively large and could approach or slightly exceed some airline carry-on limits.

The material and build quality are suitable for the price, although it is not the lightest or most compact option available. For those prioritizing wrinkle-free clothing and good organization combined with smooth rolling wheels, this bag performs well. However, travelers seeking ultra-light or smaller carry-ons may want to consider alternative options.

Rating
9.6
Weight
Wheels
Compartments and Organization

Most important from
1470 reviews

Weight
Its sturdy yet lightweight design helps avoid overweight issues at airport check-in while maintaining durability.
Wheels
Smooth rolling wheels and easy maneuverability make traveling with this garment bag effortless.
Compartments and Organization
The bag offers impressive capacity and organization, comfortably fitting formal wear and casual clothes for trips up to a week or more.
Durability
Its sturdy yet lightweight design helps avoid overweight issues at airport check-in while maintaining durability.
#3

Kenneth Cole REACTION Duff Guy Colombian Leather 20" Single Compartment Top Load Travel Duffel Bag, Black

Rating
9.3
Size and Dimensions
Material
Compartments and Organization

Most important from
375 reviews

Size and Dimensions
The bag offers an ideal size for weekend trips, allowing quick packing and easy handling without hassle.
Material
This leather travel bag combines style and functionality perfectly, with top-notch leather quality that looks and feels luxurious.
Compartments and Organization
It features the perfect number of compartments and zippers for organizing essentials efficiently.
Durability
The bag’s craftsmanship is impressive, promising long-lasting durability that stands up to frequent travel.

The Kenneth Cole REACTION Duff Guy Colombian Leather 20" Duffel Bag is a stylish and durable option for travelers looking for a carry-on that stands out. Made from full-grain Colombian leather, it not only looks elegant but also ages well over time, giving it a unique character. The bag is a bit heavier than many soft-sided carry-ons, weighing about 4.1 pounds, which is something to consider if you want to keep your luggage light. It fits within most U.S. airline carry-on size limits (20" x 12" x 10"), so it should slide easily into overhead compartments.

This duffel doesn’t have wheels, which means you'll carry it by hand or over the shoulder. Thankfully, it has comfortable top handles with a padded wrap and an adjustable shoulder strap with a non-slip pad, making it easier to carry, especially for short distances. The bag offers good organization: a roomy main compartment with two open pockets, plus multiple zippered exterior pockets ideal for shoes and smaller items. However, the lack of internal compartments might make organizing some items a bit tricky.

The leather is strong and tear-resistant, and the bottom has protective feet to avoid damage from rough surfaces. This makes it quite durable, but as leather, it will require some care to keep it looking good. Since it lacks wheels and has a heavier build, it's better suited for travelers who prefer a carry-on bag with classic style and solid materials rather than maximum lightweight convenience or wheeled mobility. This duffel is a great pick for those who want a sleek, durable leather carry-on that meets airline size rules and provides decent organization, but it may not be the ideal choice if you need a very lightweight or wheeled option.

Rating
9.3
Size and Dimensions
Material
Compartments and Organization

Most important from
375 reviews

Size and Dimensions
The bag offers an ideal size for weekend trips, allowing quick packing and easy handling without hassle.
Material
This leather travel bag combines style and functionality perfectly, with top-notch leather quality that looks and feels luxurious.
Compartments and Organization
It features the perfect number of compartments and zippers for organizing essentials efficiently.
Durability
The bag’s craftsmanship is impressive, promising long-lasting durability that stands up to frequent travel.

Buying Guide for the Best Cheap Carry On

Choosing the right carry-on luggage is essential for any traveler. A good carry-on should be lightweight, durable, and meet airline size requirements. It should also have enough space to fit your essentials and be easy to maneuver. Here are some key specifications to consider when selecting a carry-on that fits your needs.
Size and DimensionsSize and dimensions are crucial because airlines have specific requirements for carry-on luggage. Typically, the maximum size allowed is around 22 x 14 x 9 inches, including handles and wheels. It's important to check the airline's guidelines before purchasing. If you travel frequently with different airlines, opt for a carry-on that meets the most restrictive size limits to avoid any issues.
WeightThe weight of the carry-on is important because you want to maximize the amount of personal items you can bring without exceeding airline weight limits. Lightweight carry-ons usually weigh between 4 to 7 pounds. If you tend to pack heavy, choose a lighter carry-on to save weight for your belongings. If you pack light, a slightly heavier but more durable carry-on might be a better choice.
MaterialThe material of the carry-on affects its durability and weight. Common materials include hard-shell plastics like polycarbonate and soft fabrics like nylon or polyester. Hard-shell carry-ons offer better protection for fragile items but can be heavier. Soft-shell carry-ons are lighter and more flexible, making them easier to fit into tight spaces. Choose a material based on your packing habits and the level of protection you need.
WheelsWheels are important for maneuverability. Carry-ons typically come with either two wheels or four spinner wheels. Two-wheel designs are more stable on uneven surfaces but require tilting to roll. Four-wheel spinners offer 360-degree movement, making them easier to navigate through crowded spaces. If you often travel through airports or urban areas, four-wheel spinners might be more convenient. For rougher terrains, two-wheel designs could be more practical.
HandlesHandles affect the ease of carrying and maneuvering your carry-on. Look for a telescoping handle that can be adjusted to different heights for comfort. Additionally, side and top handles are useful for lifting the carry-on into overhead bins. Ensure the handles are sturdy and comfortable to grip. If you have back or shoulder issues, prioritize a carry-on with ergonomic handles.
Compartments and OrganizationCompartments and organization features help keep your belongings sorted and easily accessible. Look for carry-ons with multiple pockets, dividers, and compression straps. Some carry-ons have dedicated compartments for laptops or toiletries. If you like to keep things organized, choose a carry-on with plenty of compartments. If you prefer a more open space for flexible packing, a simpler design might be better.
DurabilityDurability ensures that your carry-on can withstand the rigors of travel. Check for reinforced corners, strong zippers, and high-quality stitching. Read reviews to see how well the carry-on holds up over time. If you travel frequently or carry valuable items, invest in a more durable carry-on. For occasional travel, a less robust but still reliable option might suffice.

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