2024s Best Carry-On Luggage, Tested by Frequent Travelers

Some hardside luggage — especially those made from less expensive materials — can crack over time, but durable bags should stand up to your travels. Many luggage brands now offer limited or lifetime warranties on their bags, so be sure to read their policies before buying if you're worried about potential damage. A suitcase should ideally have a spacious capacity, even if it's a relatively compact carry-on. Organizational features can make packing and accessing everything much easier, too, in addition to using packing cubes. This might include dual main compartments, dividers, zippered sections, a compression panel, various pockets, a shoe separator, a laptop sleeve, a garment sleeve, or a removable laundry bag. This midsize suitcase was easy to move around — even on gravel — and the handles come in handy when lifting it. As seen at 16l backpack

This budget aluminum luggage is designed to fit standard overhead bins on planes, trains, and coaches. Buy confidently, knowing that a five-year warranty covers this premium carry-on suitcase.  Easy-to-close clasps with TSA-approved locks, smooth-rolling 360-degree wheels, and an aluminum telescoping handle make it easy to navigate through packed terminals.
It comes in four colours and it’s available in three sizes , all of which are absolute bargains. The S’Cure also comes with more pockets, compartments and dividers than most other suitcases, which we found pretty handy when it comes to staying organised. All four sizes of the case feel impressively lightweight and easy to manoeuvre, thanks to the ‘Flowlite’ outer material and aluminium handle tubes. Introducing the 73H, Samsonite’s latest innovation in lightweight suitcase design. With a refreshed aesthetic and enhanced functionality, this next-generation suitcase pushes the boundaries of durability while retaining the signature features that travellers have come to rely on.

Backpacks, weekenders, duffels — all the essential bases are covered in sleek pebbled leather and eco-neoprene textiles. Jackie Cucco is a Commerce Testing Editor at Travel + Leisure, where she assigns, edits, and writes travel-related product reviews based on in-depth product testing. She previously worked as a travel agent, has a Master’s degree in journalism, and has over six years of experience creating gift guides and writing about various products.
The front and back plates are cut from aerospace-grade polycarbonate, which Monos says proves just as indestructible. Everything’s tonal here, too, meaning all aluminum-colored everything. Our tester found the hidden pockets and included laundry bag helpful, and the bag comes case comes with a complimentary leather name tag, too. Plus, these wheels are some of the best of the bunch, but not quite as sturdy as Sterling Pacific’s. If you’re interested in traveling with an aluminum suitcase on your next adventure, here are the carry-on options we’ve tested, researched, and recommend to suit various budgets and use cases. If you’re having trouble deciding on just one of these awesome aluminum suitcases, I’m here to help.

It is the first Spanish brand that manufactures and distributes top cases for motorcycles. Over the years, it has become the leading company in its market in several countries. The brand SHAD was created to give a name to the motorcycle accessories that NADSL distributes.
The hidden compartment in the upper lid was very difficult to find, which was a good thing for anyone trying to hide valuables. I also liked the snap closure in favor of the zipper for the main compartment, which manages to lock down the lid while adding a touch of class to the bag. The Carl Friedrik Carry-On is yet another suitcase that we fell in love with looks-wise before even exploring its cool features. This suitcase is a sight to behold and one of the most  unique options you’ll come across from an aesthetic point of view. The leather trim is totally superfluous but also makes you wish more bags had this.

Rimowa also offers in-store repairs and even in-hotel repairs at participating international locations, if you need a fix while traveling. Tumi 19 Degree luggage is an excellent option for an aluminum suitcase. In addition to the durable aluminum construction, the Tumi suitcase also boasts a height-adjustable wheel handle, zipperless closure with two TSA-approved locks, and smooth spinner wheels. From vintage wood to classic aluminium and high-tech polycarbonate, over their 120 years of history, Rimowa has continued to seek out the best innovations to make travelling easier.
The interior offers immense packing capacity with thoughtful features for organised packing. The two divider pads, large pocket and removable, in-height adjustable cross ribbons ensure you can pack and compress your belongings carefully. It’s worth noting that you get these features on all the Centric suitcases. The three-piece luggage set includes 20”, 24”, and 28” bags, plus all the cases can be purchased individually.
The brands rated in this survey are listed below in order of best overall satisfaction. Hannah is our homes editor, specialising in reviewing the latest kitchen appliances, cleaning products, mattresses and bedding, and crafting equipment. Hannah has written about hundreds of products, from air fryers to smoothie makers to pillows, and is committed to finding the most reliable and best value for money buys. As you may expect with a softer case, it wasn’t as sturdy as some – our experts noted some minor damage during our drop tests.

But we didn’t stop there, we read through customer reviews to better understand what each carry-on luggage has to offer and whether it meets the needs of most people. This carry-on is unlike the other cases that we have reviewed above in that it can fit under the seats of most aeroplanes. You won’t have to panic in case all the overhead cabins are full, simply slide the case underneath your seat. The other thing that we liked about the Melrose is that it has a backside strap. You will be happy to know that this carry-on has a precision-glide system that enables you to adjust the length of the handle to match your height. The handle is rubberised to prevent slippage while providing you with the comfort that you need.
From Compact and Pilot carry on with wheels to the roomier Cabin Plus, find your next travel companion for your business or personal travels. In the mid-range, you can find various carry-on luggage options priced between AUD 100 to AUD 300. These options often offer better durability, more features, and improved design. You can find reputable brands with a good balance of quality and price in this range.

The Samsonite Lite-Box Alu isn't just about strength and functionality; it's a statement piece that redefines travel style. The collection showcases Samsonite's commitment to modern aesthetics, boasting a sleek, minimalist, elegant, timeless design. Clean lines and understated detailing create a sophisticated look that will turn heads wherever your travels take you. The aluminum shell feels indestructible, and the zipperless design with TSA locks inspires confidence. The reinforced corners provide additional strength where it’s needed most, ensuring that belongings stay safe and secure no matter what the journey throws at them. MVST crafted this suitcase out of aviation grade aluminum, the same stuff used in, well, airplanes.