When hunting down the best carry-on luggage for international travel, there are a few key things to keep in mind. Durability, dimensions and weight are the most important factors to consider if you want your trip to go as smoothly as the wheels attached to your new carry-on luggage.
Will your luggage be travelling through multiple airports (and multiple baggage systems)? What are the overhead bin and carry-on bag limits on your airplane? How much weight can you comfortably lug around with you, especially after a long day in transit?
Once you’ve got a handle on those parameters, it’s time to play with print, colour and those fun extra features that make sense to you and your travel style.
1. The Heavy Hitter
Drop it, lug it, toss it, smash it — whatever you throw at this lightweight, easy-to-maneuver bag, it can take it. The tough exterior of the Bigger Carry-On is made from 100 per cent polycarbonate shell, a super durable material designed to go the distance.
The Bigger Carry-On, Away, $390.
2. The Principessa
When a limited-edition terrazzo print — inspired by the ancient palazzos of Italy — pops up on an award-winning carry-on suitcase, globetrotting design lovers take note. And then they take flight, toting this sleek, stylish, superbly made carry-on case with them.
Terrazzo Carry-On, Monos, $325.
3. The Allrounder
Loaded with traveller-friendly features such as a water-resistant toiletries’ pocket and external USB A & C ports, Travelpro’s Platinum Elite lives up to its lofty name. Factor in the aluminum corner protectors, leather trim and a patented telescopic handle, and it’s clear why this is one of the best carry-on luggage options around.
Platinum Elite Carry-on Expandable Hardside Spinner, Travelpro, $500.
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4. The Light Weight
Weighing in at just 1.8KG, July’s Carry-On Light may be easy on the scales but is a heavyweight when it comes to the best carry-on luggage. With a 32L capacity, this small-but-mighty bag’s exterior is made from aerospace-grade German polycarbonate, YYK Japanese zippers and four sets of double wheels for smooth rolling.
Carry-On Light, July, $245.
5. The Golden Child
Sporting a newly developed, finely-brushed texture, this sophisticated gold-coloured carry-on case proudly takes its place atop the best carry-on luggage podium. Equipped with shock-absorbing wheels, double layered anti-theft zippers and an integrated TSA-approved lock, it’s clear why the Evoa Z Spinner is the gold standard.
Evoa Z Spinner Carry-On, Samsonite, $495.
6. The Eco Warrior
With its mega 42-L capacity, easy-to-lug 3KG weight and easy-on-the-eyes ombre design, Heritage Hardshell Large Carry-On already has a lot going for it. But its the company’s dedication to using post-consumer waste that deserves the added accolades. The hard-as-they-come exterior shell is made from 70 per cent recycled road barricade material, while the inner lining is completely made from recycled water bottles.
Heritage Hardshell Large Carry-On, Herschel, $300.
7. The Innovator
Active listening is an admirable skill, and one that Briggs & Riley has baked into its company’s ethos. The Torq International Carry-On Spinner is stuffed full of customer-requested features. The hinged, easy-to-access gusseted front compartment and the wrinkle-reducing, formal-wear foam roll bar are just two examples.
Briggs & Riley Torq International Carry-On Spinner, Amazon, $645.
8. The Health Nut
At first blush, this classic carry-on spinner is all about looks (hello, vintage-inspired leather details!) but look a little deeper and you’ll find a luggage collection with heart. The interior lining of each Chatelet Air 2.0 piece has been treated with antimicrobial technology to eliminate nasty bacteria that can not only kick up a stink but also make you sick.
Delsey Paris Chatelet Air 2.0 Spinner, Amazon, $410.
9. The Colour Lover
Béis cases are stacked with cool features one would expect to find on a list of the best carry-on luggage bets. There’s an exterior bag hook, a super cushy handle and a built-in over-weight indicator, to name a few. But what sets this luggage line apart from others is the size of the colour range and the fleet of matching accessories.
The Carry-On Roller in Maple, Béis, $319.
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10. The Quiet Luxury
Yes, the durable, all-over aluminum shell and chic “dark denim” metallic blue firmly put the Tumi 19 Degree Aluminum International Carry-On into the “luxury luggage” category. But it’s the leather-wrapped handles and monogramming option that march it right up to Business Class.
Tumi 19 Degree Aluminum International Carry-On, Amazon, $1,239.
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