18 Best Carry-On Luggage Bags of 2024 For Smoother Travels

The quest to find the best carry-on luggage shouldn’t be as onerous as your search for the perfect vacation destination—Instagrammable, but not, like, too Instagrammable—but it absolutely is. And though vacation destinations might feel beholden to your limited budget and even more limited OOO days, suitcase options abound at every price point. Let’s face it, we’re living in an age where trusting any airline with checked baggage is not only a risk, but an inconvenience. Who has time to wait at a luggage carousel when you have a (hopefully!) vacation to get to?

That said, finding the perfect piece of carry-on luggage can be a tall order. Not only are there plenty of established luggage brands to choose from, direct-to-consumer brands like Away and fashion-fueled juggernauts like Rimowa have entered — and, frankly, started dominating — the chat. Sure, they’ve diversified the market, but they’ve also made it a whole lot more difficult for those of us that just want a workhorse of a bag that’s as durable as it is versatile.

Gotta get to the airport ASAP? Don't run through the airport like a fool—our top picks for the best carry-on luggage are right here.

• The Best Softside Luggage: TravelPro MaxLite 5 Expandable Spinner, $170
• The Best Hard Shell Luggage: Away Bigger Carry-On, $295
• The Convertible Travel Bag: Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Bag, $159
• The Best Budget Carry-On Bag: Amazon Basics Hardside Spinner, $83
• The Best Splurge Carry-On Bag: Rimowa Classic Carry-On, $1,525
• The Best Customizable Carry-On Suitcase: Roam Carry On, $550
• The Best Travel Backpack: Topo Designs Global Travel Bag, $415
• The Best Do-Everything Duffel: Peak Design Travel Duffel, $140

With the goal of finding that perfect piece of luggage in mind, we’ve rounded up some of the most tried-and-true options that range from hardshell stunners to leather duffels. All of the specs are included so that you never have to worry about your luggage squeezing into the overhead bin—and we’ve even thrown in some photos from pieces that have stood the test of travel.

TravelPro

Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Spinner

$170 $145

Amazon

Big on practicality and low on cost, the Travelpro Maxlite 5 offers the best value of any softside bag out there. It's the brand's lightest four-wheel spinner suitcase at five pounds, maximizing on maneuverability for when you're sprinting to catch your flight. The cavernous, expandable interior includes tons of weird little zippered sections and mesh pockets for you to cordon off your toiletries, small items, dirty clothes, and shoes from your clothes without busting out the packing cubes. And after you've racked up plenty of miles on those wheels, the Platinum Elite comes with a limited lifetime warranty for repairs and replacements.

The only ding against the TravelPro is its humdrum looks, which evoke the dated carpeting of one of the airports it'll be dragged through. But that hasn’t kept it from becoming a favorite of frequent flyers. If the TravelPro logo looks familiar, it's probably because you’ve spotted it on the luggage of the flight attendants and pilots that spend most of their lives in the sky.

Away

The Bigger Carry-On

$295

Away

Away The Bigger Carry-on, tested and reviewed by Brittany Loggins Brittany Loggins

Away The Bigger Carry-on, tested and reviewed by Brittany Loggins Brittany Loggins

Away really took the luggage industry by storm when it launched in 2015. And while the brand has launched a lot of colorways and collabs since its early days, the streamlined hardshell design has stayed basically the same. We've had the Bigger Carry-On size since 2017, and it’s traveled with us on more than 50 flights in that time. While the light blue color makes scratches and marks somewhat inevitable, the structure, wheels and inside lining are truly as good as new. We also think the outside doesn’t look nearly as bad as it could given the amount of times it’s been used, and we suspect that it could be shined up a bit if I ever decide to take on such a task.

Now for the specifics: the bags have smooth Hinomoto spinner wheels, top and side handles, clothes straps, a mesh zip pocket, a laundry bag, and sturdy YKK zippers. They also have a built-in USB charger, which was a little more exciting before airlines started requiring them to be removed from the luggage itself before takeoff. While our tester took out the mesh insert long ago to maximize the amount of items they could cram in the bag, that’s also an option to use as a clothing compressor if you need it.

Monos

Carry-On

$255

Monos

Monos carry-on, tested and reviewed by Tyler Chin Tyler Chin

Monos carry-on, tested and reviewed by Tyler Chin Tyler Chin

In the war between direct-to-consumer suitcases, Away is the clear winner by sheer popularity. But for anyone trying hard to not cave into peer pressure, Monos makes a comparable hardside suitcase that doesn't scream Instagram-obsessive-millennial. It's built with nearly the same specs as Away's carry-on and features nearly all the same design details from the interior compression, included laundry bag, 360-degree spinner wheels, and ribbed exterior. It's a whole Andrew Jackson less than the Away if that's enough to sway you to shop a suitcase from a lesser-known brand. And there's less of a chance of someone else grabbing your bag from the overhead bin, which—joking or not—should be enough to get someone on the no-fly list for at least a year.

Rimowa

Classic Cabin Suitcase

$1,525

Rimowa

Rimowa, the storied German luggage company founded in the late 1800s, has been a powerhouse in the luggage space for over a century, with a litany of perks to its name: A single-stage telescoping handle, a hinged double latch lock by the main compartment, elastic compression straps with magnetic pull-release fastenings, its signature ridged exteriors, the works. Couple that with some choice collabs with the likes of Dior, Off-White, Moncler, and beyond, and you'll see why Rimowa's become a status symbol among elite travelers and celebs like Rihanna and LeBron James. Each bag will set you back at least a grand, but if you've ever been stuck traveling with a lackluster piece of luggage and thought, Man, I wish my suitcase could do that, chances are Rimowa's can, and masterfully. We fully love the aluminum model, but if you're balling on a budget (but still can afford to drop a few hundo), Rimowa makes this exact shaped suitcase in a polycarbonate option, which makes it more comparable to your typical DTC-style suitcase (ahem, like Away). We went deep on the legacy brand's signature bag here in case you want to hear more about the intricacies of how it maneuvers and exactly how it compares to something more pedestrian like the Away.

Roam

Carry-On

$550

Roam

Roam carry-on, tested and reviewed by Brittany Loggins Brittany Loggins

Roam carry-on, tested and reviewed by Brittany Loggins Brittany Loggins

For Roam luggage, customization really is key. Our tester opted for a model that featured different shades of pink, and that's because Roam's level customization is truly impressive, from the outside shell to the zipper lining and handles. If you want to keep it subtle, these cases look amazing with basic colors but a fun pop for the zipper lining and wheels. You can truly make it as loud and bright or as subdued as you want. No matter what colors you choose, the glossy or matte options for the hardshell, as well as the overall design and silhouette, are brought to you by the same team that built the iconic Tumi luggage, so it’s gonna look great.

Our tester had their carry-on for five years, lauding its small-but-mighty design. The brand recently added an expandable option, too, which offers 37% more space when activated. But even without the expansion, our tester has been able to fit a on of stuff, including bulky jackets and snow pants for a five-day ski trip and a tuxedo, suit, two pairs of shoes, and regular daily wear for an even longer Europe excursion.

Lotuff

No. 12 Weekender

$1,200

Lotuff

Lotuff's handsome, all-American No. 12 duffle bag is our favorite of the genre, with all the details that matter (or matter enough to justify this $1,200 price tag). Take the zipper closure for one, which runs from end to end for extra security, and a wide opening that allows you to shove in a glut of your equally fancy sweaters and toiletries without breaking a sweat. Unlike other cheaply-made and poorly-designed duffles, the vegetable-tanned leather also gives it a first-class patina that only gets better with every trip. But should the leather break or that zipper snag, Lotuff will repair it for a fee, so this bag will stay in your family for many, many flights to come. The interior of the bag features a zip pocket for corralling your loose miscellanea, and the bottom of the bag is also reinforced with double leather for durability. With this bag, you're looking at an investment piece that, if you're treating it right, won't ever need to be replaced.

Topo Designs

Global Travel Bag 40L

$229

Backcountry

Topo Design has built up a loyal following of rugged adventurers over its 16 years of business. The Colorado-based brand is making some of the best mountaineering, hiking, and travel packs and gear in the Mountain Standard Time zone, and we've found its Global Travel bag to be an excellent pack for doing exactly as the name implies. The bag actually offers three ways to carry it—whether you use it as a backpack, briefcase, or shoulder bag—but what it really has going for it is its plethora of pockets and U-shape entry, which means the bag unzips to fold in half.

That means no longer having to blindly and aimlessly rummage through your bag in the overhead compartment for one tiny thing before takeoff. Topo Designs put padding almost everywhere this bag touches your body, which also makes running through the airport with two minutes to board less torturous on your frame. Almost everything about the Global Travel bag has been configured to allow you to customize it with the brand's assortment of packing gear: The daisy chain lets you hook on accessory packs; the sizing of the compartments is perfectly measured to accommodate storage cubes; and attachment clips further turn you into a pack mule for even more baggage options.

Peak Design

Travel Duffel 35L

$140

Peak Design

Peak Design Travel Duffel, tested and reviewed by Tyler Chin

Peak Design Travel Duffel, tested and reviewed by Tyler Chin

If you have duffels reserved for specific purposes—travel, the gym, schlepping your everyday goods—then you have more space than us, friends. Peak Design, a brand that's become famous for its ingenious storage solutions for hauling camera and video gear, makes a travel duffel that fits the bill for every purpose. Available in 35- and 65-liter options (only the former can be used as a carry-on), the Travel duffel is one of the nicer bags we've seen in the sub-$150 price bracket.

There's also something every satisfying about the way the hand-carry straps snap together with a magnet, and if your arms are getting tired, those straps can be work on your back. The extra-wide zipper allows for great access to your goods, and some internal pockets make it easier to know where you've put your chargers, passports, and other miscellaneous travel goods. While the duffel doesn't fold into itself like the Patagonia bag below, it does fold down fairly flat. One of our staffers brings this duffel with him on his travels and stores it in his other carry-on in case the travel shopping bug bites him and one bag isn't enough to get his goodies home.

Patagonia

Black Hole Duffel Bag, 40L

$159

Patagonia

Patagonia Black Hole duffel bag, tested and reviewed by Timothy Beck Werth Courtesy of Timothy Beck Werth

Patagonia Black Hole duffel bag, tested and reviewed by Timothy Beck Werth Courtesy of Timothy Beck Werth

Remember that hapless kid in fifth grade the whole class mocked for showing up with a rolling backpack the first day of school? (People don't forget!) Well, if you still holding onto some secondhand trauma from the incident, Patagonia's streamlined duffel might be good enough to risk straining your back to carry. Late last year, Patagonia updated its popular line of Black Hole bags, swapping out the high-gloss finish for a new matte look that makes good on the eco-conscious brand's commitment to sustainable sourcing. Aside from the new 100% recycled thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) finish, essentially everything about this bag is the same. While we miss the look of the OG bags, we're happy to say the duffel loses none of the specs or details that made the originals so damn great.

The body fabric, lining, and webbing are all made out of water-resistant recycled materials designed to keep your valuables dry, while two padded straps make for an easy switch if you'd rather sling it over your shoulders like a carry-on backpack. The bag's handles are also specially reinforced to make for comfortable hand-carrying so your lower vertebrae will hold up fine no matter how far your terminal is from the gate. Best of all, the whole thing folds into itself for storage. With all due respect to your childhood classmate (who you definitely owe an apology), sometimes carrying your bag just looks cooler than wheeling it around.

Amazon Basics

20-Inch Hardside Spinner

$68

Amazon

We've all been there: You forgot to pack for your trip in two days, and wait, you don't have a suitcase. Take advantage of that Prime membership burning a monthly hole in your credit card statement, and scoop up the most popular carry-on Amazon from its namesake brand. With over 45,000 overwhelmingly positive reviews to its credit, this 20-inch hardside spinner has earned more than its fair share of compliments like “perfect for the price,” “light and sturdy,” and “great, all-around suitcase.” For an suitcase that costs less than a Benjamin, this spinner is built pretty well and features everything you'd want from a quality spinner: an expander, interior zippered pocket with additional storage, and smooth-rolling wheels for breezing through that moving walkway like you're The Flash.

Everlane

Renew Weekender

$95

Everlane

Sometimes, simplicity is key, and the Everlane Renew Weekender embodies just that. This versatile bag is perfect for minimalist travelers who prefer a sleek, unassuming carry-on over flashy, feature-heavy luggage. Crafted from 100% recycled polyester, the Renew Weekender champions sustainability while offering a highly functional design. Its roomy main compartment easily holds enough clothes for a weekend getaway, with additional exterior pockets for those grab-and-go essentials like your passport, phone, or wallet. Unlike traditional rolling luggage, the Renew Weekender is lightweight, compact, and designed to sling comfortably over your shoulder or hold by its sturdy handles. The bag’s understated aesthetic—clean lines, muted tones—makes it a smart, stylish companion whether you’re heading to a chic boutique hotel or staying with friends. While it lacks the wheels and hard shell you might need for heavier loads or longer trips, it makes up for it with convenience and a no-fuss vibe. Plus, its lightweight build means you’ll have no trouble navigating crowded train stations or tossing it into an overhead bin. Ultimately, the Everlane Renew Weekender is ideal for those who prioritize ease, sustainability, and functionality—proving you don’t need to sacrifice style for practicality. Dimensions: 20 x 10 x 11 inches Weight: 2.2 pounds Capacity: 31 liters Warranty: 1 year Shipping cost: Free Return policy: Accepted within 30 days of purchase Pros: Made from recycled materials Spacious yet lightweight design Simple, stylish aesthetic Cons: No wheels for easier transport Less suitable for longer trips

Sometimes, simplicity is key, and the Everlane Renew Weekender is the perfect example of how less can truly be more. As someone who’s logged countless hours navigating airports, I’ve come to appreciate the beauty of a well-designed personal item—and this bag nails it. Sleek and unassuming, the Renew Weekender is ideal for minimalist travelers looking for a practical, stylish piece to complement their rolling carry-on. It’s compact enough to fit under the seat in front of you yet spacious enough to stash all the essentials you want within arm’s reach during a flight.

Crafted from 100-percent recycled polyester, it’s a win for sustainability while offering thoughtful functionality. The roomy main compartment is perfect for layering in your in-flight must-haves—think headphones, a book, a laptop, and maybe even a change of clothes—while the exterior pockets are a lifesaver for easy access to your passport, phone, or snacks. Unlike bulkier bags that feel like a chore to carry, the Renew Weekender’s lightweight design makes it a breeze to sling over your shoulder or grab by its sturdy handles as you hustle through the terminal.

Its clean lines and muted tones mean you’ll look polished whether you’re heading to a business meeting straight off the plane or rolling up to a chic boutique hotel. While it might not replace your main carry-on for longer trips, it’s the ultimate companion piece—perfect for short getaways or as your go-to “personal item” when you need both convenience and a no-fuss aesthetic. It’s proof that traveling smart doesn’t have to mean sacrificing style.

The bag’s understated aesthetic—clean lines, muted tones—makes it a smart, stylish companion whether you’re heading to a chic boutique hotel or staying with friends. While it lacks the wheels and hard shell you might need for heavier loads or longer trips, it makes up for it with convenience and a no-fuss vibe. Plus, its lightweight build means you’ll have no trouble navigating crowded train stations or tossing it into an overhead bin. Ultimately, the Everlane Renew Weekender is ideal for those who prioritize ease, sustainability, and functionality—proving you don’t need to sacrifice style for practicality.

Dagne Dover

Seattle Carry-On Rolling Luggage

$625 $438

Dagne Dover

Dagne Dover’s Seattle Carry-On redefines what it means to travel organized. Known for their knack for blending form and function, Dagne Dover delivers a thoughtfully designed rolling carry-on that’s as practical as it is polished. With its sleek exterior and understated Dark Moss finish, this bag oozes sophistication without being flashy. But the real magic is inside: dedicated compartments for just about everything, including a padded laptop pocket, a shoe compartment, and even a space for your toiletries. If you’re the type who loves everything in its place, the Seattle Carry-On is your dream bag. The 360-degree spinner wheels are smooth and sturdy, making it a breeze to maneuver through crowded terminals or uneven streets. And with its durable, water-resistant build, you won’t have to worry about your belongings if you’re caught in a downpour. However, all this sophistication comes at a price, and while the Seattle Carry-On is undeniably high-quality, its cost may not be for everyone. Additionally, the limited color options might not appeal to travelers looking for something a bit more personalized. Whether you’re heading out on business or leisure, the Seattle Carry-On makes you feel like the most put-together person in the terminal. Dimensions: 22.5 x 14 x 9.5 inches Weight: 7.5 pounds Capacity: 42 liters Warranty: Limited lifetime Shipping cost: Free Return policy: Accepted within 30 days of purchase Pros: Highly organized interior compartments Smooth spinner wheels for effortless travel Sleek, professional exterior design Cons: Premium price point

Dagne Dover’s Seattle Carry-On redefines what it means to travel organized—and as someone who’s tested their fair share of travel gear, I can confidently say this bag strikes a rare balance between style and substance. Known for their knack for blending form and function, Dagne Dover delivers a thoughtfully designed rolling carry-on that’s as practical as it is polished. The sleek exterior and understated Dark Moss finish give off an air of quiet sophistication without veering into flashy territory, making it feel like a perfect match for both business trips and leisurely weekend getaways.

The real magic, though, is what’s inside. I was genuinely impressed by the bag’s ability to keep everything in its place, thanks to its dedicated compartments for just about everything—there’s a padded laptop pocket, a shoe compartment, and even a specific spot for your toiletries. It’s a deal-maker for travelers like me who hate the chaos of digging around for essentials mid-trip. Plus, the 360-degree spinner wheels glide so smoothly, they make navigating crowded terminals or cobblestone streets feel downright effortless. And let’s talk about peace of mind: The durable, water-resistant build means you won’t be sweating over sudden rainstorms or spilled coffee in the security line.

That said, the Seattle Carry-On isn’t for everyone. The price tag is a bit steep, and while I love the minimalist Dark Moss color, I get that the limited palette might not appeal to those looking for something more eye-catching. Still, if you’re after a carry-on that’s equal parts functional and stylish, and you appreciate a bag that helps you feel like the most put-together person in the terminal, this one’s a winner. It’s made for travelers who want to stay cool, calm, and impeccably organized on the go.

July

Carry-On Light Expandable

$265

July

The July Carry-On Light proves that traveling light doesn’t mean compromising on quality. Weighing in at an astonishingly low 3.9 pounds, this is one of the lightest hard-shell carry-ons you’ll find on the market. Don’t let its featherweight status fool you—it’s crafted from durable polycarbonate that can withstand everything from overhead bin jostles to rough baggage handling. This bag’s expandable compartment offers up to 20 percent more packing space, making it a lifesaver for last-minute souvenirs or over-packers. The minimalist design is clean and modern, with thoughtful touches like whisper-quiet spinner wheels and a TSA-approved lock for extra security. July’s attention to detail makes this bag a standout, from the interior compression system that keeps your items in place to its scratch-resistant finish that stays looking sharp. However, its smaller capacity compared to other carry-ons might be a dealbreaker for travelers who need extra room. The limited color options also mean it may not suit those looking to express their style. Still, for those seeking a lightweight, functional, and beautifully designed carry-on, the July Carry-On Light is an unbeatable choice for both quick trips and longer getaways. Dimensions: 21.25 x 14.17 x 8.66 inches Weight: 4.9 pounds Capacity: 35 liters (40L when expanded) Warranty: Lifetime Shipping cost: Free Return policy: Accepted within 100 days of purchase Pros: Incredibly lightweight for easy handling Expandable for added packing flexibility Sleek, modern, and scratch-resistant design Cons: Smaller capacity than some competitors Limited color options

The July Carry-On Light proves that traveling light doesn’t have to mean cutting corners—and after testing it, I’m thoroughly impressed. At just 3.9 pounds, this bag is so lightweight I actually did a double-take when I picked it up for the first time. Yet despite its featherweight feel, it’s made from tough polycarbonate that easily stood up to being tossed into overhead bins and handled with less-than-gentle care. It’s also surprisingly roomy for its size, with an expandable compartment that adds up to 20 percent more packing space—a feature that saved me during a trip when I couldn’t resist adding just one more jacket (and an extra pair of shoes I inevitably never wound up wearing).

The design is minimal, modern, and refreshingly fuss-free. I especially appreciated the whisper-quiet spinner wheels that made power-walking from terminal to terminal as smooth as possible, and the built-in TSA-approved lock gave me peace of mind on-the-go. The interior compression system is another thoughtful touch that kept my clothes in place, even after hours of transit. Plus, the scratch-resistant finish kept the bag looking as sleek at the end of the trip as it did at the start.

That said, this bag is on the smaller side compared to other carry-ons, so if you’re someone who likes to pack everything and the kitchen sink, you might find it a bit limiting. And while I personally love the clean and classic color options, they might not appeal to those looking for something more vibrant or unique.

Still, for travelers like me who value lightweight functionality without sacrificing durability or design, the July Carry-On Light is a standout. Whether you’re heading out for a quick weekend escape or packing smart for a longer getaway, this bag makes traveling feel seamless—and a little more stylish.

Lipault

Plume Foldable Mini Cabin

$200 $100

Lipault

The Lipault Plume Foldable Mini Cabin bag is the epitome of convenience paired with European elegance. Designed with urban travelers in mind, this soft-sided carry-on is perfect for those quick weekend trips or overnight business stays. The water-resistant nylon exterior is as lightweight as it is durable, ensuring your belongings stay safe from unexpected spills or weather. Its most impressive feature? It folds completely flat when not in use, making storage in your tiny apartment or crammed closet refreshingly hassle-free. The interior is roomy enough for a few days’ worth of outfits, and the streamlined design makes it easy to carry by hand or over your shoulder. However, the lack of spinner wheels might be a downside for those who prefer rolling their luggage through airports. Similarly, its soft-sided structure, while flexible and light, doesn’t offer the same level of protection as a hard-shell suitcase. What truly sets the Plume Mini Cabin apart is its vibrant color options, adding a touch of personality to your travels. It’s a stylish, practical, and travel-friendly solution for anyone who values simplicity and charm over bells and whistles. Dimensions: 17.7 x 12.6 x 7.9 inches Weight: 4.6 pounds Capacity: 25 liters Warranty: 3 years Shipping cost: Free Return policy: Accepted within 60 days of shipped date Pros: Folds flat for easy storage Lightweight, water-resistant nylon design Available in vibrant and chic colors Cons: No spinner wheels for easy mobility Less protection compared to hard-shell luggage

The Lipault Plume Foldable Mini Cabin Bag immediately caught my attention because I’ve tried one of their larger foldable bags, and let me tell you—this line delivers on functionality. Just like its bigger sibling, this mini version folds completely flat when not in use, which is a game-changer for anyone short on storage space. After experiencing how convenient the fold-flat design is with the larger bag, I had no doubt the Mini Cabin would offer the same hassle-free storage and sleek practicality.

True to Lipault’s design philosophy, the Mini Cabin Bag combines lightweight durability with a polished, European aesthetic. The water-resistant nylon exterior feels just as sturdy as the larger version, and I know from experience that it can withstand unpredictable weather and the occasional spill without batting an eye. The streamlined interior offers just enough room for a few days’ worth of essentials, and while it doesn’t have spinner wheels like more traditional luggage, I didn’t find relying on just a pair of back wheels to be an issue, even on a full-sized suitcase packed for two weeks in Europe this past fall—so the mini cabin doesn’t get a ding from me for that reason.

The soft-sided structure is perfect for packing flexibility—it slides into tight spaces with ease—but, as I found with the bigger version, you’ll need to be mindful if you’re packing fragile items, since it lacks the protection of a hard shell. And just like the rest of Lipault’s lineup, the Mini Cabin comes in vibrant colors that add a playful touch to your travels. If you’re a fan of simplicity and space-saving design like I am, this smaller version is every bit as functional and stylish as its larger counterpart.

We've also assembled a number of other worthy alternatives that'll help you jet off in style, even if you're on a Frontier budget. These may be slightly less accessible or less well-rounded than our top picks—and some of these we haven't had the luxury of testing ourselves—but they boast many of the same features you'd hope for in a well-traveled suitcase, from easy-gripping telescoping handles to a roomy, organized interior.

Tumi

22-Inch 19 Degrees International Expandable Spinner Carry-On

$750

Nordstrom

Perhaps no other suitcase brand on the planet has the same name recognition as a Tumi, the workhorse luggage of choice for business travelers, and plenty of celebrities, since it first came on the scene in the ‘70s. Beyond the absolute basics—trustworthy zippers, a bevy of pockets and dividers, and locks for keeping everyone else out except the TSA—this shellacked spinner has style in spades. Add to that a Lever Lock system that fully enables your overpacking tendencies, and Tumi's tracing system (in case you ever lose sight of your bag), and you have hardly any reasons not to scoop one. The polished diagonal ridges on this spinner give it some subtle Rimowa vibes, too, without entreating you spend more than $1,000.

The North Face

Base Camp Duffel

$129

The North Face

Upgrading from the $30 Carhartt duffel you've had since college to something slightly more distinguished? North Face's base camp bag is the next logical progression, with a similar rugged style for outdoorsy folks, plus a water-resistant, recycled exterior that can handle a little dirt and distressing. It's extremely generous with a 50 liter capacity for tucking in gear, clothes, and beyond. Plus, the price point at under $150 is just right. It's probably the next best thing if for some reason Patagonia's high-vis logos aren't to your liking and you'd prefer something stealthier to haul your stuff into the great outdoors or onto the main cabin.

Floyd

Cabin Luggage

$546

Floyd

Help your suitcase stand out in a sea of black nylon by copping a polycarbonate spinner in robin's egg blue. Floyd's retro carry-on spinners are inspired by ‘70s skating culture (peep the wheels!), with a breezy, laid-back sensibility that’ll help ease you into the vacation mindset. The glaringly orange, well-apportioned storage section inside only amplifies the brand's ethos of good vibes and great design. If you want swervier luggage that doesn’t look like everyone else's in the terminal, this one's a solid bet that perfectly blends high-vis colorblocking and design chops.

Hardside luggage used to be a bit of a novelty. If you had any 15 years ago, you might have been one of the few people in the airport hauling around their characteristic sleek shells—which made finding your bag at the luggage carousel a lot easier. But as these models started to become available in polycarbonate plastics, hardside options become just as ubiquitous as their soft shell counterparts.

On the other hand, the main advantage of soft fabric luggage is its durability. That might seem counterintuitive because shouldn't something with a hard protective shell last longer? But in our experience, after the same amount of use, softside luggage looks more or less like it did when you bought it. Think about it: If you toss a soft fabric cube back and forth against a wall for a year, it might look a little bit busted on the corners, but its stretchy-soft surface would probably absorb much of the impact. But if that cube was made out of a thin, hard substance, you'd probably see a dent or nick in the paint basically anywhere it hit the wall.

That said, a bunch of fabric luggage options (save for the super expensive models) leave a lot to be desired aesthetically. Even when they're new, pulling a fabric suitcase behind you makes you look, at best, like someone who knows their way around a day planner. At worst, especially when they're covered in all sorts of metal rivets and extra zippers, they can look dinky—the tuxedo T-shirt of things to put your clothes in. So it makes sense that hard shell luggage almost always looks much better. Their glossy shells catch the light nicely as they float alongside you. And in recent years, companies have gotten a lot better at making them as durable as can be.

Fabric luggage does have one other advantage over hard shells, though. Thanks to their stretchiness, soft suitcases tend to be a little bit more accommodating to over-packers, while still maintaining the same carry-on size. You'll find it a little bit easier to actually zip them shut, even when they're filled to the brim with extra pairs of clothes. Hard shell suitcases offer a lot less give in terms of packing space, which makes them less than ideal if you tend to accumulate endless tchotchkes while you're traveling. It might not be a dealbreaker, but still something to consider.

Size: According to the TSA, carry-on size restrictions vary by airline, but generally, the dimensions max out at 22 by 14 by 9 inches. Another important number to note regarding carry-on sizes is the capacity, usually denoted in liters. Considering size restrictions, the most capacity you'll have is around 40 liters, which is good for a week-long trip, but we did find one duffel bag that has a 50-liter capacity but can fly under the size restrictions because of its shape.

Style: Rolling bags, suitcases, luggage—those are probably the most popular style of carry-on bag. They easy to move around and don't require a rock-hard body to transport around the airport. However, some folks might prefer a lighter-weight duffel bag or backpack to trek into the great outdoors or keep close at home for short weekend sojourns. It all depends on where you're traveling, how much you're hauling, and

Two wheels vs. four wheels: Generally, four wheels have become the norm and that’s because they can be both pushed and pulled. It also makes it easier on all four wheels to manage the weight of the luggage, which can ensure that they’re still running smoothly for years.

With two-wheeled luggage, you have to pull it, however it does have pegs on the front so that it can stand upright on its own. It used to be the case that larger suitcases would be two-wheeled because it was assumed that it would have to be pulled along. That said, today even larger pieces like trunks and checked bags tend to have four wheels.

We here at GQ have been scanning the wild world of luggage retailers to find the carry-on bags you can comfortably roll up the cobblestone steps of Lisbon, zip-line with through the canopies of Belize, or begrudgingly leave at the gate on the way home for your nephew’s “graduation” from elementary school. We’ve combined our knowledge of the best luggage across a range of prices, styles, and construction types—ones that we've taken on planes, trains, and automobiles—to figure out which offer the best combination of solid construction, useful features, and magnificent looks.

We also added some runner-ups that we haven't had the pleasure of testing, but think combine the right features, price point, and reputation to go toe-to-toe with other contenders in their price range. Not so into the Away? Spring for a slightly more innocuous Monos. Want a heritage bag without blowing more than a grand? Tumi's got your back. After all that, here are our top picks that we’d be happy to drag behind and beside us on every single one of our upcoming trips.