The Best Carry-On Bags for Every Traveler: 2025 Guide
Choosing the right carry-on bag can transform your travel experience, saving time at airports and eliminating checked baggage fees. Our comprehensive guide covers the top carry-on options for different needs and budgets, from sleek hard-shell rollers to versatile soft-sided bags and compact personal items. Whether you're a frequent business traveler or planning a weekend getaway, we've tested bags that meet airline size requirements while offering durability, organization, and style. Discover which carry-on will become your perfect travel companion.
In today's fast-paced travel environment, having the right carry-on bag can mean the difference between a smooth journey and airport frustration. After extensive testing of numerous options, we've identified the best carry-on bags that combine functionality, durability, and style while meeting airline size restrictions. From business trips to family vacations, the right carry-on can save you time, money, and stress by helping you avoid checked baggage fees and long waits at baggage claim.
Top Carry-On Recommendations
Based on our testing across multiple flights and travel scenarios, several carry-on bags stand out for their exceptional performance and features. Each bag has been evaluated for durability, wheel performance, handle comfort, and overall usability in real-world travel conditions.
Away Softside Carry-On
Currently our favorite suitcase, the Away Softside Carry-On offers a stylish, fuss-free option that works for both domestic and international travel. The bag features hidden exterior pockets and plenty of organizational options in the interior. The compression straps help keep contents secure, and the proprietary interior stabilizer maintains balance even when loaded with additional bags. With water-resistant nylon construction and three exterior handles for versatile carrying, this bag has proven reliable in various weather conditions and travel situations.
Peak Design Roller Pro
For travelers seeking maximum organization, the Peak Design Roller Pro stands out with its unique "drawbridge" opening system that allows the bag to open like a box rather than a traditional clamshell. This hybrid hardshell/softshell design features Peak Design's signature VersaPack fabric covering and a creative compression strap system with easy-to-use hooks. The bag is engineered to maximize interior storage with corner-positioned wheels and a smaller carbon-fiber handle that takes up less space.
Budget-Friendly Options
Not every quality carry-on requires a significant investment. Several options provide excellent value while maintaining durability and functionality for regular travel use.
Travelpro Maxlite 5
The Travelpro Maxlite 5 represents outstanding value at just over $100, weighing only 5.4 pounds. This bag is popular among flight crews for good reason—it's durable, lightweight, and functional. The exterior toiletry pocket is particularly useful for security checks, and the wheels perform well in both spinner and roll-aboard configurations. While there are some minor concerns about handle durability, this bag delivers exceptional performance in its price range.
Specialized Carry-On Solutions
Different travel scenarios call for specialized carry-on solutions, from compact personal items to bags designed for specific needs like business travel or family trips.
Take Off Personal Item 2.0
For budget airline travelers or those who prefer to travel light, the Take Off Personal Item 2.0 offers a unique solution with removable wheels that allow it to fit under airplane seats. This miniature suitcase maintains full functionality with sturdy grab handles and a standard-height telescoping handle. While it can be noisy on rough surfaces and may be challenging for taller travelers, it's ideal for saving money on budget airlines that charge for overhead bin access.
State Bags Logan Carry-On
Families traveling with children will appreciate the State Bags Logan Carry-On, designed specifically for younger travelers. Available in multiple sizes with child-friendly features like spacious front pockets for snacks and tablets, plus side straps for securing comfort items, this bag combines durability with appealing designs that children love. The carry-on size matches adult dimensions while remaining lightweight and manageable for kids.
Choosing the Right Carry-On
Selecting the perfect carry-on involves considering your specific travel needs, frequency, and preferences. Key factors include airline size requirements, material preferences (hardshell vs. softshell), organizational needs, and budget constraints. Always check your airline's specific size restrictions before purchasing, as requirements can vary significantly between carriers.
Quality hardware often matters more than the bag material itself. Higher-end suitcases with comprehensive warranties typically last longer than budget options, regardless of whether they're hardshell or softshell. Softshell bags generally offer more flexibility for squeezing into tight spaces and often include useful exterior pockets, while hardshell options tend to be lighter and more water-resistant.
Ultimately, the best carry-on bag is one that meets your specific travel needs while providing reliable performance trip after trip. Whether you prioritize organization, durability, style, or budget-friendliness, there's a carry-on solution that can enhance your travel experience and help you navigate airports with confidence and efficiency.
