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The Best Carry-On Luggage for Every Budget And Destination

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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.

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.

The Best Carry-on Luggage, According to GQ

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

Jump To : What's the Difference Between Hardside and Softside Luggage? | What Makes a Good Carry-On Bag? | How We Tested

The Best Softside Luggage: TravelPro MaxLite 5 Expandable Spinner

Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Spinner

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.

The Best Hard-Shell Luggage: Away The Bigger Carry-On

The Bigger Carry-On

Away The Bigger Carry-on, tested and reviewed by 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.

Another Solid Hardside Carry-On Suitcase: Monos Carry-On

Monos carry-on, tested and reviewed by 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.

The Ultimate Travel Flex: Rimowa Classic Carry-On

Classic Cabin Suitcase

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.

The Best Customizable Carry-On Suitcase: Roam Carry On

Roam carry-on, tested and reviewed by 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.

The Best Luxury Duffle Bag: Lotuff No.12 Weekender

No. 12 Weekender

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.

The Best Travel Backpack: Topo Designs Global Travel Bag

Topo Designs

Global Travel Bag 40L

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.

The Best Do-Everything Duffel: Peak Design Travel Duffel

Peak Design

Travel Duffel 35L

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.

The Best Convertible Travel Bag: Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Bag

Black Hole Duffel Bag, 40L

Patagonia Black Hole duffel bag, tested and reviewed by 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.

The Best Truly Budget Carry-On: Amazon Basics Hardside Spinner

Amazon Basics

20-Inch Hardside Spinner

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.

3 More Carry-Ons We Like

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.

22-Inch 19 Degrees International Expandable Spinner Carry-On

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

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.

Cabin Luggage

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.

What's the Difference Between Soft and Hardside Carry-On Bags?

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.

What Makes a Good Carry-On Bag?

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.

How We Tested

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.

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The Best Carry-On Luggage

By Kit Dillon

Kit Dillon is a writer focused on bags and travel gear. He has worked for Wirecutter for a decade and lost count of the number of bags he has tested.

Traveling well is not always easy. Keeping your suitcase with you when you fly not only protects your belongings from loss or damage but may help you avoid extra fees as well.

If you decide to do so, you need a good carry-on bag.

Over the past 10 years, we’ve handled, tested, and traveled with 67 bags from more than 35 brands, and we remain convinced that the Travelpro Platinum Elite offers the best balance of value and quality for most travelers.

It packs five days’ worth of clothes into standard US carry-on dimensions 1 and has premium touches you might expect from a $600 bag at about half the price.

It’s a bag that you can rely on for life, even if it’s damaged by airlines —a rarity at any price.

Everything we recommend

Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Carry-On Spinner

The best soft-sided carry-on.

This spinner carry-on offers the best balance of size, value, reliability, and durability, plus high-end details. It’s backed by a lifetime warranty.

Buying Options

Travelpro Platinum Elite 22″ Carry-On Rollaboard

A bit more capacity and extra wheel durability.

This two-wheeled carry-on bag isn’t as maneuverable, but it offers slightly more space, a garment folder, and larger, more durable wheels.

Away The Carry-On

The best hard-sided carry-on.

This great-looking and relatively resilient piece of hard-sided luggage has top-of-the-line components—including wheels as smooth-rolling as any we’ve tested.

Away The Bigger Carry-On

Slightly more room, but you might get checked.

With more capacity than Away’s standard carry-on, this suitcase is sized appropriately for most flights. On smaller planes, though, you may get gate-checked.

Budget pick

Travelpro Maxlite 5 21″ Carry-On Spinner

Lightweight and appealingly inexpensive.

Remarkably well priced for a reputable brand, this is an ideal lightweight pick and provides many features of luggage costing nearly twice as much.

Upgrade pick

Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential 22″ Carry-On Expandable Spinner

A soft-sided carry-on that fits more in less.

This carry-on bag offers superlative build quality, plenty of expandable room, and a uniquely effective compression system. It’s a buy-it-for-life suitcase.

Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential 22″ 2-Wheel Expandable Carry-On

More room, bigger wheels, less maneuverability.

If you’re willing to give up maneuverability for more space and bigger wheels, this is also a great option.

Carl Friedrik The Carry-On

A more luxe hard-sided carry-on.

Luxury touches and a strong polycarbonate and aluminum design give this bag a standout look with exceptional feel and performance. It does cost nearly $200 more than the comparably sized Away bag, though.

Yeti Crossroads 22″/35L Wheeled Luggage

A bag built for tough conditions.

A polycarbonate back and rugged wheels make this design suited for rougher travel over difficult surfaces. However, it has a limited warranty, and it’s somewhat unwieldy to handle.

What to consider

Four-wheel bags, aka spinners, are easier to maneuver down tight airplane aisles, but two-wheel bags will always be more durable .

Hard-sided looks better to most people, but soft-sided luggage withstands the bumps and knocks of travel for longer .

Plenty of reputable brands offer lifetime warranties; it’s generally worth paying a little extra for the peace of mind .

Depending on where you travel, you might need to look for specialty luggage sizes .

We’ve also included picks that stood out for their form and individual functionality: an upgrade with best-in-class compression, a pick made of polycarbonate , an upgraded hard-sided case with latch closures and an aluminum frame, a rolling soft-top hybrid , and a budget pick that’s also the best ultra-light suitcase we can find.

Travelpro’s Platinum Elite line of luggage is still our top pick after 10 years of testing. It addresses the concerns of most travelers for an affordable price while offering the best warranty against potential airline damage in the industry (as long as you register the luggage within 120 days of purchase, which you can do in minutes).

The Platinum Elite features smooth-rolling, replaceable wheels, as well as solid and comfortable telescoping handles and a hard-wearing nylon exterior propped up by a solid internal chassis. Instead of chasing the smart-bag moment, Travelpro added an exterior pocket with a USB pass-through extension that lets you insert your own battery pack for charging your phone. And weighing less than 8 pounds when empty, the Platinum Elite is dead in the center of average weight for bags this size.

In our view, soft-sided luggage lasts longer and shows less wear, but if you prefer the look of a hard-sided bag, Away’s The Carry-On is our choice. Like our other picks, this bag stands out for its high-end components: YKK zippers, smooth-running wheels, and a well-braced handle. Its strong but flexible polycarbonate shell shows scratches—however, after seven years of using the Away Carry-On, our testers have found that it is capable of enduring most of the trials of travel with fewer knocks than other similar models we’ve tested.

Away also makes a slightly larger version of the same model: The Bigger Carry-On . It conforms to carry-on size for most major airliners, but you might be asked to gate-check it on smaller planes.

Similar to our soft-sided picks, this Away bag is backed by a limited lifetime warranty. And though the coverage doesn’t explicitly protect against airline damage, it does apply to any damage that an airline could possibly dish out—specifically, but not limited to, the shell cracking or wheels breaking off.

Some companies have tried to shave off a few pounds from their standard luggage designs to make so-called ultra-light luggage. The Travelpro Maxlite 5 21″ Carry-On Spinner is the best of these bags we’ve seen, and it comes with the pedigree of our top pick but not quite as strong a warranty.

The Maxlite 5 is just over 2 pounds lighter than our top pick—that’s the weight of two or three pairs of jeans. It’s not a huge difference, but if you have trouble lifting luggage over your head and prefer an easier-to-manage suitcase, the Maxlite 5 may be your choice. This bag is also the best one we’ve found under $200, with almost all the benefits of luggage nearly twice the price.

For the more frequent flyer who is willing to invest in a higher-quality bag, we recommend the Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential Carry-On . Every detail of this bag, from the zippers to the wheels to the wrinkle-resistant suit compartment, is made to the highest standards, and it has a higher proportion of usable space than any other spinner bag we tested.

Briggs & Riley boosts this extra capacity with a ratcheting compression system that easily presses an entire extra outfit (if not more) into the same external dimensions as most other carry-ons. It’s simple, impressive, and unmatched by any other brand’s compression system.

The Expandable Spinner version is also the only spinner luggage model we tested with a built-in garment folder, which helps shirts and pants stay wrinkle-free if you pack them well. If things go awry, Briggs & Riley has a catalog of replaceable parts and a global network of repair centers , as well as a reliable lifetime warranty covering repairs for airline damage.

For some people, Carl Friedrik’s The Carry-On may be worth the extra cost. Behind the maturity of Italian leather accents and polish of higher-end Hinomoto wheels, the Carl Friedrik Carry-On bypasses the biggest compromise in most polycarbonate designs: the stitched-in zipper. Incorporating an aluminum frame around the center of the case and two latch locks, it feels comfortingly secure and well structured where other luggage tends to sag or bend away.

There’s a potential catch, however: The flex in a polycarbonate design (and most luggage, incidentally) is its strength. The more robust a piece of luggage becomes—by replacing, for instance, a zipper with an aluminum frame—the greater the chance that if something hits the case hard enough, the frame can bend or break. That said, you need to hit a frame like this with an extreme amount of focused force for that to happen. And Carl Friedrik provides a lifetime warranty that appears to cover airline damage in the event that an airline doesn’t compensate you within 14 days.

The Yeti Crossroads 22”/35L Wheeled Luggage represents the best of a relatively niche type of luggage design. Call it a hybrid model—a blend of a soft-sided luggage on top and hard-sided luggage on the back—that lends itself to fairly specific circumstances. It’s ideal for tough roads, broken streets, and slamming your luggage into uneven curbs with abandon. Do most people need this kind of luggage for their day-to-day travel? Absolutely not, and it can feel heavier than it really is. But if you do, this is the best there is—at least for the moment.

The Yeti Crossroads has everything you might expect from a brand that has built its reputation for over-the-top toughness and durability. The two heavy-duty wheels are among the largest and broadest that we’ve seen. Externally, Yeti blends a polycarbonate shell back with a water-resistant 700-denier nylon front and waterproof zippers. However, Yeti backs its luggage with only a three-year warranty and no mention of airline damage. That’s very limited protection, especially for the conditions this bag was designed for and definitely in comparison with the standards that our other picks set.

The research

Why you should trust us, how we picked and tested, our pick for the best carry-on luggage: travelpro platinum elite, our pick for the best hard-sided carry-on luggage: away the carry-on, budget pick: travelpro maxlite 5 carry-on spinner, upgrade pick for the best carry-on: briggs & riley baseline essential, upgrade pick for the best hard-sided carry-on: carl friedrik the carry-on, also great for tough conditions: yeti crossroads 35l wheeled luggage, other good carry-on luggage, what to look forward to, the competition.

I’ m a senior staff writer at Wirecutter, and ha ve been covering luggage and travel bag design here for about a decade. I’ve written guides to everything from packing cubes and checked luggage to duffle bags and underseat luggage .

For this guide, I’ve done the following over the years:

• I have personally researched, tested, and compared hundreds of bags.
• I’ve spoken with plenty of experts: flight attendants for major airlines, product designers and creative directors for luggage and gear companies, and travel and gear writers. My conversations with these people have helped shape our coverage, and we owe much to their collective knowledge.
• Like all Wirecutter journalists, I review and test products with complete editorial independence. I’m never made aware of any business implications of my editorial recommendations. Read more about our editorial standards .
• In accordance with Wirecutter standards and to avoid any conflict of interest, I don’t own stock or have any other financial interest in a company or industry that I cover or am likely to cover.

In the 10 years we’ve been covering this category, luggage has evolved, and so has our thinking about what makes the best carry-on for most people. After spending well over 200 hours doing research and interviews and easily twice that time conducting hands-on testing, we’ve seen a few truths become clear.

First, at a certain threshold—roughly over $200—most luggage is fine. It will more than likely get you from point A to point B without incident many times a year for many years. What distinguishes great luggage from everything else is mostly an attention to detail—the quality of a bag’s handle, its wheels, the frame, and stitching—and a company’s guarantee that it will stand behind its product.

Every year we try to refine our testing and find new ways to consider what it means to be the best luggage. We’ve weighed and measured suitcases, comparing our results with company claims. We’ve calculated true internal capacity with hundreds of Ping-Pong balls 2 and some decently complex math for a writer to scratch out. We’ve packed and unpacked more bags than I care to remember. We’ve studied and compared wheel bearings, wheel sizes, pocket counts, pocket quality, the curious subtleties of garment bags that will (or more often won’t) keep your clothes wrinkle-free, the strength of warranties, and repairability.

We believe that any maximally sized carry-on should be capable of holding enough clothes to last you five days with room to spare for miscellaneous necessities. Most years we aim to have two testers, one male and one female, pack two bags individually as if headed to the same wedding. 3 What we included isn’t representative of a family traveling or a couple splitting a bag, but we erred on the side of bulky, and we hope it gives you a clear idea of how much of your own stuff these bags will hold.

We looked at how each bag loaded. Was there an easy way to keep smaller items (such as socks and underwear) organized? Did it have compression straps to keep things in place? Were the straps thick enough to avoid creasing the clothes? Just how much would the bag compress? How much room was left over? Once packed, was the bag prone to tipping over?

Over the years I’ve torn bags apart to see how the frames were put together, taken apart wheels, dismantled handles, and more or less treated luggage as poorly as one person could. I’ve wheeled loaded bags around many neighborhoods, looking at how well each bag rolled and how well it handled broken sidewalks, uneven pavement, grass, bricks, dirt, and curbs. I’ve dragged bags up and down two flights of concrete stairs, noting how easy this task was and how much damage the bags sustained. For our finalists, I’ve repeated the torture test along a second, even rougher route because I like the sound that polycarbonate luggage makes when it bounces down cavernous stairwells.

In fall 2023, we asked a panel of paid testers with a wide range of body types, dexterities, and mobilities to examine our picks and share their perspectives. We’ve incorporated their feedback in this review.

The Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Carry-On Spinner is our pick for a soft-sided carry-on; if you need a little more room, we also recommend the Travelpro Platinum Elite 22″ Carry-On Rollaboard .

It has a history of great performance. Travelpro’s Platinum Elite line has been our top pick for almost every iteration of this guide because it addresses the concerns of most travelers for an affordable price: In addition to smooth-rolling, replaceable wheels, it features solid and comfortable telescoping handles and a hard-wearing nylon exterior propped up by a solid 7.8-pound internal chassis. Travelpro backs it all with a lifetime warranty that covers airline damage and shipping to the repair facility (as long as you register the luggage within 120 days of purchase).

It’s sized to maximize your space, but you do have options. Officially, the Platinum Elite measures 23 by 13.5 by 9 inches. Some sharp-eyed readers will notice that these actual dimensions, which include the handle height, exceed the 22-inch height limit for carry-ons on most domestic airlines. In reality, any luggage manufacturer maximizing its overhead allowances will push handles into the gray area between a case’s stated dimensions and its true overall dimensions. Travelpro, if anything, is being more honest in reporting the bag’s true 23.5-inch height than many other brands. As you can see in the photo below, the Travelpro’s frame fits into the American Airlines baggage caddy located at check-in, as it does in most standard-size caddies.

I’ve personally traveled with Travelpro carry-ons this size for more than 45,000 miles spread across 50 flights, from regional to long-haul to international routes, and I’ve never had an issue fitting within gate-side luggage sizers. If you’re nervous about getting caught at the gate or often fly in very small regional planes, Travelpro makes a 20-inch Platinum Elite as well as a slimmer international size, but they hold less (naturally) and lack a suiter insert.

It moves well across most surfaces and through most situations. The spinner bag’s configuration stands out in particular because of its MagnaTrac wheels, which magnetically snap into a forward position when the bag is moving. The small tracking assistance makes a large difference when you’re navigating the Platinum Elite through a crowded airport or down a busy street. It also has an easy-to-use, removable garment bag. After years of testing, we think the superior maneuverability of spinner luggage, along with improvements in manufacturing processes, makes four-wheel bags a better choice for most people. However, if you prefer slightly more packing capacity (the equivalent of squeezing in two more sweatshirts), larger wheels that run more smoothly over rough terrain, and a more protective built-in garment folder, 4 you may appreciate the two-wheeled 22-inch version of the Platinum Elite. One of our paid testers, who’s 6-foot-6, told us that although he could see the appeal of a spinner, “I would still choose the two-wheeler. It has a little more space, and when you’re my size, packing is just so horrible.”

It keeps clothes compacted but not creased. Inside, the Platinum Elite has a pair of tie-down straps and two broad panels with pockets that cinch down, similar in design and function to what you’d find in much more expensive Briggs & Riley luggage . Compared with the simple tie-down straps you often find in cheaper luggage, the panels do a great job of keeping things compacted without creasing clothes—a problem we’ve encountered in numerous other bags we’ve tested. Beyond that, the Platinum Elite’s internal organization system is about average. It will be familiar to anyone who has used a suitcase before, which means there’s no learning curve for optimizing the storage capacity. One long mesh pocket sits on one of the bag’s sides, and a smaller removable transparent plastic bag sits on the other side for easy TSA inspection of toiletries.

It’s tough yet flexible. The exterior is made of a hard-wearing nylon fabric, a key feature of all the bags we’ve tested. It hides scuffs and scratches, and it’s much more versatile than hard-sided bags. An expansion zipper lets you increase storage by about 30% in a pinch—although the bag is no longer carry-on compliant at that point. We prefer to use the expansion zipper as something of an ad-hoc compression system: We unzip the expansion zipper while packing the bag and then zip it at the end, tamping everything down tight. The Platinum Elite carry-on also has a variety of convenient exterior pockets, including two in the front, suitable for a sleep mask and other small miscellaneous items, and one on the side for a battery, though it can fit a bit more if necessary. It also has an accordion pocket on the front for magazines and electronic tablets.

In total, the Platinum Elite has an 1,856-cubic-inch interior, which we measured using hundreds of Ping-Pong balls . In real-world terms (the needs of Ping-Pong champions notwithstanding), the Platinum Elite swallowed up five days’ worth of clothes with no problem and had a good deal of room to spare—and that’s without our resorting to the expansion zipper.

It has an excellent warranty. Should anything go wrong, you can take advantage of Travelpro’s generous lifetime warranty, which covers airline damage  and shipping to the repair facility (as long as you register the bag within 120 days of purchase). The sole other company we’ve seen offering this extensive a warranty is Briggs & Riley, whose carry-on suitcases start at about $500. Travelpro has multiple repair centers . To get repair service, you can either drop the bag off at a repair center or ship the bag to Travelpro, the cost of which the company will cover. Keep in mind that the warranty doesn’t cover cosmetic wear.

It’s important to note that the Platinum Elite’s warranty coverage is “better” than the standard Travelpro warranty (including the one offered on our other pick from Travelpro, the Maxlite ) and most forum discussions we’ve read covering the subject over the years seem to agree that Travelpro’s service was prompt and painless. Of course, it’s better if nothing breaks in the first place.

Travelpro has a history of fixing production errors remarkably quickly. In 2019, we noticed a small uptick in Wirecutter reader complaints about zipper tabs breaking. We reached out to Travelpro, and a representative told us that a production error expanded the capacity of the front pocket of the Platinum Elite; this allowed travelers to overpack the pocket, which put excessive strain on the zipper. Travelpro identified and fixed the issue before it had reached the threshold of more than a few comments online.

Dimensions: 23.5 by 14.5 by 9 inches (HWD) Weight: 7.8 pounds Volume: 46 liters

How the Platinum Elite has held up

After nearly a decade of testing the Platinum Elite line of bags from Travelpro, we have yet to encounter a single serious issue. The fabric exterior brushes off scrapes and is easy enough to clean. Simply, it is a remarkably built bag that continues to travel well, year after year.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• Though the Platinum Elite rolled well in general, we are still concerned when dragging the bag up stairs. Some of the other bags we tested had long plastic bumper strips running most of the way up the length of the bag; this Travelpro model’s skid plate isn’t as big or as protective. I haven’t had an issue, but if you’re particularly rough on your luggage or uncomfortable lifting the bag over curbs or up stairs, it’s something to be aware of.

• In 2018, Travelpro added a USB-A pass-through cable to the Platinum Elite as a way to compete with so-called smart bags. We like the battery pocket, but the built-in cable itself, which routes from the pocket to a USB port less than 6 inches away, is an unnecessary item, which at best adds a potential point of failure to the bag—USB cables do not last forever. Does it ruin the bag? No. Is it a feature? Not really.
• Some vegan readers may dislike the leather accents.

If you prefer the look of hard-sided luggage or the security of knowing that you can’t overpack your suitcase, Away’s The Carry-On is the carry-on we recommend. If you want to maximize your available carry-on space, it also comes in a slightly larger size: The Bigger Carry-On .

It can take wear and tear. Most travelers are still better off with one of our soft-sided picks than a hard-sided carry-on; soft-sided luggage shows less wear and typically lasts longer than hard-sided luggage. But the Away Carry-On’s wheels and zipper are as well made as those of our soft-sided picks, and its polycarbonate showed fewer scratches than that of hard-sided competitors.

We’ve tested the Away Carry-On for six years, traveling with it ourselves across the country and lending several units to testers and frequent travelers to see how they enjoyed using the bag. Its polycarbonate feels similar to that used on more high-end (and significantly pricier) suitcases such as the Rimowa Essential Cabin , which is more than three times as expensive.

You have options if you need extra space. Away makes a similar model of suitcase with an expandable zipper, The Carry-On Flex . The Flex is the same bag as the standard Carry-On except for the expanding center zipper and the price (it’s about $50 more). Personally, I’m not a fan of expanding zippers on suitcases. It feels like just one more thing to break. But some people may prefer having the extra flexibility.

It feels great to use. The bag itself feels good in the hands, and the wheels are noticeably better than those on any of the hard-sided competitors we tried. Away also uses YKK zippers, outclassing our top pick in that regard (Travelpro moved to Supra zippers in 2015). At this point, we’re pretty comfortable saying that years of debate over the best zipper are largely redundant, but YKK still sets the standard.

Imitation is the greatest form of flattery. Away has sparked more imitators and outright duplicates than any other brand in the past decade, in part due to its appeal with younger travelers. I’ve thought about why, and as best as I can guess, a simple polycarbonate cube dripped in limited-edition soft hues does exude a certain calm; the fact that some of those same colors also coat the exteriors of pills ending in suffixes -ax and -il is not, one assumes, accidental.

It has a great warranty. The Away Carry-On is backed by a limited lifetime warranty that protects against defects and parts breaking. Though the warranty doesn’t specifically mention airline damage, the damages it does list—cracks or breaks in the shell, wheels or handles becoming unusable, zippers that don’t work, fabric tears that render any pocket unusable—basically outline anything an airline could possibly dish out. For the most part, our online searches looking for user experiences with Away’s warranty have turned up overwhelmingly positive results.

Dimensions (for The Carry-On): 21.7 by 14.4 by 9 inches (HWD) Weight: 7.5 pounds Volume: 40 liters

• The Carry-On’s sleek style comes at a cost: Its polycarbonate shell is ultimately more likely to break than the nylon fabric of our other picks.
• It lacks certain amenities, such as external pockets and a suiter, that our top picks have.
• The clamshell design, which splits down the middle and opens into two parts, can make the bag frustrating to pack and unpack. Packing cubes help, but after years of packing and unpacking soft-sided luggage with a single lid, I personally find a clamshell design to be more finicky when packing.
• Crain’s New York Business reported last year that Away is possibly exploring “strategic options including a sale,” which may muddy the waters around the brand’s overall future somewhat.

The Travelpro Maxlite 5 21″ Carry-On Spinner is one of the lightest pieces of luggage we’ve tested, at a great price.

It’s lightweight. We have a hard time imagining how anyone could make a suitcase much lighter than this without breaking certain laws of physics. A few years ago, I took apart a Maxlite suitcase to see how the internal frame was built. What I found beneath the fabric was a clever lattice of plastic supporting the frame, which offered the best balance between weight-saving and structure.

For some people, especially those with limited upper-body strength, a lighter bag—even by just a few pounds—may be easier to lift or manage. That said, most people don’t need extremely light luggage, but just to pack less. For all the innovative design, the Maxlite 5 shaves only 2.4 pounds off the weight of our top pick. That’s the equivalent of a couple of pairs of jeans.

It’s inexpensive. My general advice to friends is to spend more than $200 but less than $500 to get good, if not great, luggage. The Maxlite 5 is the one piece of luggage I’ve found that breaks that rule. You can usually find it for about $150 or less, which is a remarkable price considering the bag’s quality.

Simple is good. This model doesn’t have any real bells or whistles—no battery pass-throughs or magnetically tracked wheels, as with our other Travelpro picks. Instead you’ll find two simple front pockets, a few well-placed handles, and a cavernous main compartment with a couple of pockets and two light straps to hold your stuff in place.

It comes from a trusted brand. We haven’t covered, examined, and interrogated a single luggage brand at Wirecutter for as long as we have Travelpro. For a decade, Travelpro has done a premier job of maintaining trust with its customers and with us—we’ve watched the company make small changes in design, catch flaws quickly, and address warranty concerns promptly. This is not something we say lightly: Travelpro is a name you can trust.

Dimensions: 23 by 14.5 by 9 inches (HWD) Weight: 5.4 pounds Volume: 46 liters

• The Maxlite 5’s warranty isn’t as robust as that of our top pick: Manufacturing defects in the wheels, zippers, and handles are covered for as long as you own the bag, but airline damage and shipping to a Travelpro repair center are covered only for the first year. (And you do need to register the bag.) Considering that this bag costs half the price of the Platinum Elite, this makes sense, but it’s something to be aware of.

If you’re a frequent flyer and willing to invest in higher-quality gear, we recommend the Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential 22″ Carry-On Expandable Spinner (also available in a two-wheeled version with more capacity).

It’s the best of the best. Every detail of this top-rated bag, from the zippers to the wheels to the wrinkle-resistant suit compartment, is made to the highest standards, and we found that it had a higher proportion of usable space than any other spinner bag we tested. Briggs & Riley keeps its design consistent, adding, at most, small improvements such as this year’s upgraded lifting handle. Our 6-foot-6 paid tester pointed out that the Baseline Essential’s handle extended an inch and a half farther than that of the Travelpro Platinum Elite, which made it less likely to hit his heels as he pulled it.

Although the wheels don’t snap into alignment, they are exceptionally smooth-rolling and easy to maneuver. If you fly more than 25,000 miles per year, it’s worthwhile to invest in luggage that goes beyond merely being sturdy and actually improves your overall travel experience. That’s why we’ve been recommending it since we first covered this topic in 2014. The Baseline Essential is one of the best carry-on luggage options available today.

Its compression system is truly a marvel. The most ingenious part of the Baseline Essential bag is its CX expansion and compression system. Pull upward on two plastic handles inside the bag, and you can extend its depth a full 2.5 inches. Load the bag as full as you need to, and zip it closed. Then you push down on the bag, which compresses it as a clip mechanism secures it in place. Unlike other expansion systems, which are either open or closed, this one locks into incremental positions. It’s a unique design and very satisfying to use.

It’s the easiest to pack. Briggs & Riley placed the tracks for the Baseline Essential handles on the outside of the bag, which allows for a flat surface in the interior of the bag, with no small crevices to work around for simple packing. And in our tests, after packing 10 bags and trying to figure out strategies for each nook and cranny, packing on a broad flat surface felt like a luxury. According to our measurements, the bag, unexpanded, offers 1,905 cubic inches of storage room (and that accounts for the space occupied by the wheel wells and such). Expanded, it can stow 2,110 cubic inches. That’s remarkably efficient for a bag that does so much. All of these features add up to a carry-on that is easier to pack than any other bag we tested.

The Baseline Essential spinner is also the only spinner luggage model we tested with a built-in garment folder. It’s similar to the folder in Travelpro’s two-wheeled Platinum Elite bag, and that’s a good thing. It’s easy to pack and has an anchor point for hangers. Each of the three folds has a bit of padding that helps to keep a suit from pinching onto itself and creasing, though much of that depends on how well you pack. You can fit a week’s worth of clothes in the Baseline Essential, including some puffy gear for colder weather. A wide, wrinkle-free tie-down system completes the package.

It’s understated. On the outside, the Baseline Essential is pretty unremarkable. There’s nothing eye-grabbing about the bag, which is good if you’re trying to avoid being gate-checked (or having it stolen). Its outer, nylon fabric seems to be of a tighter weave than that used on the other bags we’ve tested. We also noticed a robust feel to the zippers, which are a self-repairing type made by YKK.

Similar to our top pick, the Baseline Essential includes a charging pocket. However, Briggs & Riley skipped the internal USB wiring, instead opting for a simple pocket arrangement (video) on the back of the bag for discreetly storing a charge pack and your phone. It’s an elegant solution.

It comes with an excellent warranty. All Briggs & Riley bags come with a lifetime warranty that covers any damage to the “functional aspects” of the bag, even if caused by an airline (like Travelpro, Briggs & Riley does not cover cosmetic wear or cleaning). Although Briggs & Riley handles warranty-covered repairs at no extra cost, you do have to pay to ship the bag to the company to carry out any repairs; it will ship your bag back to you for free. Or you can drop off the bag at one of the many repair centers . Briggs & Riley emphasizes that returning your bag to you in its original condition, even after repairs, is not always possible. The bags are easy to service and repair, so you can also order the parts you need and replace them yourself at home.

We’ve put in the miles, and the Baseline Essential is in a separate league. Over a five-year period before the pandemic, Wirecutter founder Brian Lam carried a two-wheeled Baseline Essential carry-on while traveling 150,000 miles and farther. After considering all the bags in our test and logging an additional 40,000 miles with a similarly priced bag by Tumi, he was convinced that this model is the best for anyone who’s always on the move. “I love this bag. It carries so much,” Brian said. “Sometimes I check it. Sometimes I carry it. It always fits.”

Dimensions: 22 by 14 by 9 (expands to 11.5) inches (HWD) Weight: 10 pounds Volume: 37 liters (expands to 48 liters)

• Despite the plastic shielding, the exposed rails on the exterior could use more protection. While dragging the bag up stairs (which we don’t advise doing), we felt more scraping than we’d like.
• At first glance, the handle feels too loose for a roughly $700 bag. We spoke to Briggs & Riley representatives, and they explained that this is a deliberate choice: The looser tolerances allow for the handle to retract by itself when you click its button, without your having to force it down. In practice, this is very helpful for scaling stairs and could save you some hassle in tight quarters, such as in the aisle of an airplane.
• At 10 pounds, the Baseline Essential is the heaviest bag we recommend. In this price range, weight often equals durability, which equals quality. But if you’re uncomfortable with a heavier bag, this isn’t the best pick for you.

Carl Friedrik’s The Carry-On is an impressive polycarbonate case that improves in areas where most other companies tend to cut corners.

It’s robust and durable. It improves the usual hard-case design primarily by replacing the zipper with an aluminum frame sealed with two metal latches incorporating TSA locks. This trim makes the case feel far more robust, which is a very satisfying feeling when you’re wheeling luggage around an airport.

Clasping shut an aluminum frame with a metal lock is pleasing—it feels like closing a safe and locking it tight. The polycarbonate shell has an equally rigid feeling but exhibits plenty of flexibility under strain. Although it’s difficult to compare polycarbonates between brands, higher-end polycarbonate feels dense to the touch even as the material flexes; in this piece of luggage, Carl Friedrik offers impressive quality.

Additionally, the Carl Friedrik Carry-On has YKK zippers internally and Hinomoto spinner wheels from Japan—both considered the top of their class.

It’s thoughtfully styled. The soft leather accents and bolted frame all have a certain maturity that’s often lacking in other, competing cases. This look carries to the inside of the luggage as well. A simple gray polyester lining accompanies two sets of compression straps and a removable compression pad, which has a zippered pocket.

It has an excellent warranty. As you might expect for the price, Carl Friedrik backs up its luggage with a lifetime warranty that protects against airline damage (assuming the airline hasn’t responded to your request for compensation within 14 days).

Dimensions: 21.6 by 14.5 by 9 inches (HWD) Weight: 8.6 pounds Volume: 40 liters

• This is a brand-new pick—so far we haven’t found any flaws, but we’re keeping an eye on the latches. Luggage latches are small, complicated mechanical devices that have a myriad of ways to fail.
• The handle feels just a touch loose, which, as with our upgrade pick from Briggs & Riley , can be a benefit. It can also sometimes be a hazard. Again, we’ll continue testing it.
• Like our top pick, the Carl Friedrik uses real leather accents, which may be a dealbreaker for some.

Hybrid designs like the Yeti Crossroads 22″/35L Wheeled Luggage aren’t for everyone, but if you like the flexibility of a soft-sided luggage with the hard-hitting ruggedness of a polycarbonate back and two large fixed wheels, then this bag is just right.

It’s made from tough materials and easy-to-repair parts. Yeti has a reputation for using tough, sometimes cutting-edge, materials in all its gear. The Crossroads is no exception. The 700-denier nylon is one of the better nylons we’ve tested—tightly woven and exceptionally durable. (Denier is a measure of the fiber thickness in a fabric.)

The Crossroads comes in only a two-wheeled design, which is usually able to withstand more damage than a four-wheeled design. The wheels are also easier to service on the road and often replaceable. 5

It’s well organized. It includes a front panel organizer, similar to that of modern laptop backpacks, with two slots for your laptop and tablet plus a mesh pocket for spare gear. Fully packed, it still has room for a few magazines as well, if you like. Internally, the soft top has a zippered main compartment with a decent amount of packing space, as well as two mesh organizing pockets. In fact, it’s this organization that separates the Yeti from—and makes it better luggage than—other top contenders in the duffle category, specially the Patagonia Black Hole Wheeled Duffel . However, Patagonia has a lifetime (and legendary) warranty. So if longevity is your priority, the Patagonia is our next best pick.

It’s a pleasure to pack. As the Crossroads is built around a molded polycarbonate base, the entire suitcase becomes, in essence, a large tray to pack and then zip shut. It’s a very satisfying design—easier to manage than many of the clamshell designs that are currently popular. Yeti’s packing cubes are designed to fit snugly in the Crossroads’s main compartment, and the bag does come with one small cube. But if you choose these, you’re spending a premium for additional packing cubes when almost any packing cube will work.

Dimensions: 22 by 14 by 9 inches (HWD) Weight: 8 pounds Volume: 40 liters

• We’d love to see a better warranty. Three years is very limited when compared with other luggage brands selling similarly priced suitcases—especially for a bag that claims to be as tough as the brand’s reputation.
• Occasionally, Yeti’s tough-gear reputation veers almost into absurdity, as with the inclusion here of self-sealing zippers on a bag that isn’t actually waterproof—merely weather resistant. They’re top-of-the-line zippers. But self-sealing zippers can be hard to operate and require regular lubrication, which most people aren’t used to providing.
• The front-facing laptop organizer is woefully unshielded. If you’re traveling with a laptop, place it deep within the bag if you want it properly protected.
• The bag feels heavy—by our measurements, it weighs about a half pound more than Yeti’s 7.5-pound estimation. It’s not the heaviest of our picks, but something about the weight distribution and shape of the bag makes it feel heavier when you’re swinging it around.

If you need a hard-sided budget bag: Look at the Gregory Quadro Hardcase 22″ , an unexpectedly high-quality suitcase from an outdoor-gear company. Gregory offers a lifetime warranty with service and repair. Although the warranty doesn’t explicitly mention airline damage, Gregory’s good reputation speaks for itself in this matter. However, the Quadro Hardcase is a pound heavier (at 6.5 pounds) and about $60 more than our budget pick.

If the Away Carry-On is sold out: Consider the Monos Carry-On Plus . Picking between these two models came down to splitting some very fine hairs. Both use YKK zippers. Both have lifetime warranties. The handles and interiors are almost identical. Monos even hides the stitching that attaches the zipper to the polycarbonate frame, which is a nice aesthetic touch. The difference came down to the Away Carry-On’s wheels, which spun just that much more freely in our testing, and the underside handle, which made it easier to pull out of overhead bins. And we’ve tested the Away Carry-On for longer. However, if it’s unavailable, the Monos model is a good, nearly identical substitute.

If you want an adventure duffle with a lifetime warranty, but not much organization: Try the Patagonia Black Hole Matte Wheeled Duffel 40L . While more duffle than suitcase, this bag is sized for carry-on, comes with Patagonia’s excellent lifetime warranty , and it’s well constructed. It’s made of 100% recycled fabric, which includes the TPU laminate. And the wheel axle is easily repaired by anyone in the field, assuming they have spare parts. However, it lacks the organization of the Yeti Crossroads , with its many different compartments and pockets.

If you want a bag made of recycled materials: We suggest the Paravel Aviator Carry-On . Paravel is attempting to design luggage with recycled materials and some environmentally minded transparency to the company’s production methods. However, you pay a premium for the effort. Quality-wise, the bag is similar to our other hard-sided picks, for about a hundred more dollars. And much of the Paravel branding is built on carbon offsets, which we are deeply skeptical of (though we wish they worked).

If you’re an infrequent adventurer: Try the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag Roller , which could almost be an also-great pick under our hybrid pick . It’s cheaper, has a better warranty (but no explicit coverage for airline damage), and is made from recycled materials. However, the overall build quality is wanting. For example, the polycarbonate shell doesn’t fully cover the tubes for the extendable handle as it does with our hybrid pick. It seems an oversight for bags that are built to knock around.

If the best possible suit-packing experience is all you want, and money is no object: The Vocier C38 Carry-On Luggage is worth a look, despite a few flaws and an $800 price tag. The C38 takes a unique, fold-free approach to packing clothes. Rather than folding garments in on themselves to fit in the bag, it bends the suit around the outside of the luggage frame in a U shape. This packing method creates no creases and therefore no wrinkles. The case is protected by a limited lifetime warranty that doesn’t cover airline damage.

We hope to take a look at the European brand Floyd , which is currently popular on Instagram. At first glance, it’s another piece of luggage looking to appeal to a younger mass audience. But the easy-to-replace polyurethane wheels and bearings—similar to skateboard wheels—do have “user-serviceable parts inside” curb appeal.

We’re considering expanding our coverage to include equipment cases like those made by Pelican . Though their appropriate use is very specific, when you need to travel with high-end gear or fragile valuables, Pelican cases are the first and almost only choice.

What about Rimowa? I admit that over the last decade I’ve hadmthe occasional perverse urge to see if a $1,500 carry-on suitcase is worth the price. Rimowa is famous for a few things. The company has made aluminum luggage for nearly 100 years, and it invented the polycarbonate suitcase in 2008. So it is true that in many ways Rimowa has set the standard in two separate centuries.

Soft-sided carry-on luggage

Cotopaxi Allpa 38L Roller Bag : We’re generally fans of Cotopaxi’s Allpa line, but this two-wheeled bag falls short. Specifically, the bottom of the bag is split by the zipper, which gives the bag an unstable feeling when it’s standing upright.

Eagle Creek Tarmac XE 4-Wheel 22″ Carry On Luggage : If this bag were about $150 cheaper, it would be a good price for the quality. We like the recycled materials, but the bag lacks framing.

Solo Re:Treat Carry-On Spinner : I appreciate any bag made entirely out of recycled materials, but this model (from a brand owned by the same company that manages Briggs & Riley) felt awfully flimsy. Even with its five-year warranty, I just don’t trust that this bag can go the distance.

Thule Subterra : The clamshell design—similar to the ones you find on hard-sided bags—makes this bag difficult to close if you’re trying to fill it to its full capacity. It just isn’t as easy to use as our soft-sided picks.

Timbuk2 Copilot Luggage Roller : The balance on this bag was decent, and it stood up well unloaded or loaded. Its wheels had a cheap ball-bearing rhythmic chatter, though, and the abundance of zippers and internal compartments made it tedious to pack.

Topo Designs Global Travel Bag Roller : We considered this is a possible alternative to our Yeti hybrid pick . However, the overall build quality is wanting. For example, the polycarbonate shell doesn’t fully cover the tubes for the extendable handle as it does with our hybrid pick. It seems an oversight for bags that are built to knock around.

Travelpro Versapack+ and Crew Luggage lines: Both the Versapack+ and Crew luggage designs are absolutely fine: Consider them slightly stripped down versions of our top pick, the Platinum Elite. However neither have the extra warranty coverage—including against airline damage—that comes with the Platinum Elite.

Tumi Aerotour International Expandable 4 Wheeled Carry-On : At about half the price, this would be a great bag. But paying nearly $700 for a five-year warranty and a bag that doesn’t do nearly as much as a Briggs & Riley suitcase seems a bit silly.

Hard-sided carry-on luggage

Amazon Basics 24-Inch Hardside Spinner : This bag is a surprisingly good carry-on for about $90. However, its ABS plastic shell is not as tough as a polycarbonate shell. It’s worth investing more in your luggage—the bag you choose will last longer and work better.

Arlo Skye The Frame Carry-On : The Arlo Skye carry-on is a decent piece of luggage, but it’s hard to square the bag with its cost: $200 more than our pick from Away .

Away The Carry-On: Aluminum Edition : 10 pounds! At this weight, you’ve lost a quarter of your allowable luggage weight to the suitcase alone, unpacked. And it’s nearly as expensive as our upgrade pick, with a much less satisfying compression system.

Briggs & Riley Torq and Sympatico : Though these collections seek to solve a different problem, neither is as impressive as the Baseline series.

Calpak Ambeur Carry-On Luggage : We preferred sturdier polycarbonate shells over Calpak’s blended ABS polycarbonate shell. Also, the bag’s handling felt jittery against normal airport floor surfaces.

Delsey Rempart Expandable Spinner Carry-On : At just around $200, the Rempart is a decent budget option. However, the external styling (like layers of pressed sheet pans) is an odd choice. It has some practicality, but only if you’re stacking identical Delsey cases one on top of another, which might happen, I suppose, at some point … maybe.

July Carry On : In the lineup between July, Monos, and Away, July falls just short. We appreciate the lifetime warranty, YKK zippers, and flexible but dense-feeling polycarbonate. But the overall design doesn’t do much to improve on the category (as the Monos bag subtly does).

Level8 Road Runner Pro Carry-On 20″ : This is potentially a decent budget pick at just around $200. But the one-year warranty and the somewhat fiddly TSA lock and front latching panel give us pause.

Level8 Voyageur series : This model features an extra-wide handle, which looks striking but doesn’t seem to offer many advantages over a regular handle—at least for carry-on luggage. In larger checked bags, we did notice that the wide handle offered a little more leverage when handling a bigger bag, but it seemed to hinder us with a carry-on.

Lojel Cubo Medium : Although we liked the uncommon top-loading design, the internal organization of the lid made packing this carry-on difficult. We also weren’t impressed by the zippered expansion system, which made the suitcase feel bulkier than our picks.

Lojel Voja Medium : An odd suitcase, this would be a great children’s suitcase or a budget pick—especially if it were under $200. But its current price is steep for a polypropylene blend with a couple of latches.

Paravel Aviator Carry-On:  Paravel is attempting to design luggage with recycled materials and some transparency as to the company’s production methods. However, you pay a premium for the effort. Quality-wise, the bag is similar to our other hard-sided picks, for about a hundred more dollars. And much of the Paravel branding is built on carbon offsets, which we are deeply skeptical of (though we wish they worked).

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Chris Ryan.

Airline policies vary, but a general rule is that the bag must be under 45 linear inches—the total sum of the bag’s length, width, and depth. Here’s the current sizing breakdown among the major US airlines:

• Alaska Airlines: 22 by 14 by 9 inches
• Allegiant Air: 22 by 14 by 9 inches
• American Airlines: 22 by 14 by 9 inches (the dimensions of soft-sided garment bags are allowed to add up to 51 inches)
• Delta Air Lines: 22 by 14 by 9 inches
• Frontier Airlines: 24 by 16 by 10 inches (and less than 35 pounds)
• Hawaiian Airlines: 22 by 14 by 9 inches
• JetBlue Airways: 22 by 14 by 9 inches
• Southwest Airlines: 24 by 16 by 10 inches
• Spirit Airlines: 22 by 18 by 10 inches
• Sun Country Airlines: 24 by 16 by 11 inches
• United Airlines: 22 by 14 by 9 inches

We double-checked the measurable packable space of our top picks against the manufacturers’ listed volumes by filling each piece of luggage with hundreds of Ping-Pong balls: 144 Ping-Pong balls weigh exactly 0.5 pound, and each Ping-Pong ball represents approximately 2 cubic inches (PDF) . After weighing each piece of luggage three times to establish an average empty weight, we filled the bags as full as we could with Ping-Pong balls and measured the change in weight. For every half-pound increase in weight we estimated 288 cubic inches of packable space.

His five-day travel kit included the following:

• 1 two-piece linen suit on a hanger
• 1 dress shirt on a hanger
• 1 pair of jeans
• 1 pair of khakis
• 5 medium-weight to lightweight shirts
• 1 heavy sweater
• 2 flannel shirts
• 5 pairs of boxer briefs
• 5 pairs of sport socks

Her five-day travel kit included the following:

• 1 dress on a hanger
• 1 blazer on a hanger
• 1 blouse on a hanger
• 1 pair of heels
• 2 pairs of jeans
• 1 pair of light sneakers
• 5 pairs of underwear and 3 bras
• 1 pair of yoga pants
• 1 flannel shirt
• 1 hair dryer
• 1 curling iron
• 1 jewelry/makeup kit
• 3 pairs of sport socks
• 4 lightweight shirts

You use a garment folder by laying a suit or dress across the panels, folding them into themselves, and zipping up the inner compartment. A folder should be wide enough that a suit isn’t cramped, and it should include hanger straps (which should fit around everything, even larger plastic hangers) to keep things from shifting around too much. Some folding boards have 0.75-inch-diameter foam rolls in them to help prevent creases along the packed clothes’ fold lines. When you aren’t traveling with fancy clothes, you can take the whole apparatus apart and use it as luggage dividers in the main bag itself, or leave it at home, converting the suit/dress compartment into an extra packing cube.

Yeti doesn’t seem to have an easy way to order replaceable wheels. But the 3.5-by-1-inch wheels are fairly common, and we’re looking at the best possible alternatives.

Meet your guide

Kit Dillon is a senior staff writer at Wirecutter. He was previously an app developer, oil derrick inspector, public-radio archivist, and sandwich shop owner. He has written for Popular Science, The Awl, and the New York Observer, among others. When called on, he can still make a mean sandwich.

Further reading

The Best Luggage Tags

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The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is our backpack pick for most travelers. We also have picks for other travelers, including those who want to carry a bit more.

We’ve Loved Luggage From Travelpro’s Platinum Elite Line for a Decade. Here’s Why.

Travelpro Platinum Elite is our most loyal travel companion.

Are Away Carry-Ons Worth the Hype?

Although we still prefer the better durability of soft-sided luggage, if you want the look and feel of a hard-sided case, we recommend the Away Carry-On .

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The Best Carry-On Luggage 2024, Tested and Reviewed by Travel Editors

Caroline Morse Teel

Caroline Morse Teel is the Managing Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline .

Caroline joined Boston-based SmarterTravel in 2011 after living in Ireland, London, and Manhattan. She's traveled to all seven continents, jumped out of planes, and bungeed off bridges in the pursuit of a good story. She loves exploring off-the-beaten path destinations, anything outdoorsy, and all things adventure.

Her stories have also appeared online at USA Today, Business Insider, Huffington Post, Yahoo, Boston.com, TripAdvisor, Buzzfeed, Jetsetter, Oyster, Airfarewatchdog, and others.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "Earplugs. A good pair has saved my sleep and sanity many times!"

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro.

Travel Motto : "Don't be boring."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Aisle (when the first class private suite isn't available)."

E-mail her at [email protected] .

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Packing for a trip can be stressful, especially if you’re trying to fit everything you need into a carry-on bag. With increasingly strict airline baggage allowances and common occurrences of lost/mishandled checked bags, finding the right carry-on suitcase is key to avoiding expensive checked baggage fees and ensuring your stuff makes it to your destination. 

No one understands this struggle more than the SmarterTravel team. As travel editors, we travel a lot (and are firm carry-on only flyers.) We tested and reviewed the top carry-on luggage over hundreds of trips to help you find one perfectly suited for all your travels.

The carry-on bags we reviewed underwent rigorous testing to see how they held up to the realities of travel. We evaluated important factors like size and weight, wheeled performance, ease of packing, durability, and special features. Our testing process included packing each bag to capacity, carrying it through airports, stowing it in overhead bins, and taking it on planes, trains, and automobiles during real-world trips.

Ranging in price from affordable to splurge-worthy, the best carry-on suitcases earned top marks across all our tests for their optimal size, seamless maneuverability, handy organization, stylish looks, and resilience.

From a lightweight hard-sided spinner that fits easily in tiny overheads to a large carry-on that expands for over-packers, these are our travel editors’ picks for the best carry-on suitcases of 2024. 

Best Carry-On Suitcase Overall: Samsonite Outline Pro Carry-On Suitcase

The Samsonite Outline Pro Carry-On Suitcase was our favorite of all the carry-on suitcases we tested. This smart and sleek suitcase is made from a durable polypropylene shell that helps contribute to its light weight of 6.4 lbs. Smooth spinner wheels and an adjustable handle make this bag easy to wheel even when fully packed.

The interior is just as nice, lined with a fabric made from 100 percent plastic bottles. There’s also a multi-functional panel divider that can compress clothes to create more space while providing pockets for organization. One of the pockets is water-resistant, so you can use it to separate swimsuits or wet clothing on the journey home.

Our favorite feature of the Samsonite Outline Pro is the antimicrobial handle technology used on the trolley grip and side handles, which helps keep us healthy while traveling. 

Dimensions: 15” x 10” x 23”

Weight: 6.4 lbs

Best Large Carry-On Suitcase: Roam Large Carry-On Suitcase

If you want to test the limits of an airline’s carry-on policy, we recommend the Roam Large Carry-On Suitcase as the best large carry-on suitcase. We’ve taken this suitcase on hundreds of flights and have only ever had to check it on very small puddle-jumper planes. This roomy carry-on can hold up to 42 liters, making it a great suitcase for chronic overpackers. 

This suitcase comes with two compression boards, which can be used to divide the two halves of the suitcase and help you fit even more in. The boards have large pockets perfect for packing cords and other small items. 

We also love that all Roam luggage can be customized to suit your style—you can choose the color of every part of this suitcase, right down to the wheels, to create a unique bag that definitely won’t get mixed up at baggage claim.

Dimensions:  9” x 16.25” x 22”

Weight: 7.7 lbs

Best Expandable Carry-On Suitcase: Delsey Rempart Carry-On Suitcase

An expandable suitcase is like having two bags in one—keep it small and compact for a short trip or open it up for a longer journey (or for the return trip when you buy lots of souvenirs to bring home). Delsey’s Rempart Carry-On Suitcase is our favorite expandable bag due to its patented Securitech Zipper that’s three times more resistant than a standard zipper (so you don’t have to worry about it ripping open, even when it’s expanded to its maximum capacity).

Other thoughtful features include an integrated TSA-combination lock, two packing compartments with compression straps, zippered pockets, and a lined divider. We also love that the interior lining can be removed and washed—an innovation you’ll appreciate if you’ve ever come home with a sandy suitcase after a beach trip.

Three carrying handles allow this bag to be carried in various ways. If you have other Delsey suitcases, the Rempart’s modular design allows it to stack on top for easy carrying and storage. 

Dimensions: 13.75” x 10.25” x 21.75”

Weight: 6.7 lbs

Best Soft-Sided Carry-On Suitcase: Travelpro Maxlite 5

The best soft-sided carry-on suitcase is also one of the lightest weight options on our list. The Travelpro Maxlite 5 lives up to its name, weighing just 5.4 lbs. This model is the brand’s latest and is a full half-pound lighter than the previous iteration, the Travelpro Maxlite 5. 

The suitcase has a unique tapered design that helps prevent it from tipping over when upright (a common problem with soft-sided suitcases). It also has a solid bottom tray design that helps increase the bag’s durability. The Travelpro Maxlite 5 can expand to 2 inches to provide extra space when needed. The interior is lined with a waterproof protectant that helps keep the bag dry. 

This suitcase comes with Travelpro’s limited lifetime warranty, which will cover the cost of repairs if it’s damaged for one year after purchase. 

Dimensions: 23” x 14.5” x 9” 

Weight: 5.4 lbs

Best Luggage Trackers

Best Small Carry-On Suitcase: Eagle Creek Gear Warrior XE 4-Wheel Carry-On Luggage

We love the Eagle Creek Gear Warrior XE 4-Wheel Carry-On because it’s deceptively spacious for its small size and light weight. It even expands slightly to give you a little bit of extra space when you need it. We’ve packed for week-long trips with just this bag and had no issues fitting everything in. Despite the diminutive size, this suitcase is packed with organizational features, like an exterior laptop sleeve and interior zippered pockets. 

Made from 100 percent recycled, water-resistant fabric, this carry-on-sized spinner bag is easy to wipe clean and great for rainy destinations. 

The Warrior is equipped with heavy-duty wheels that allow you to roll this bag over rough terrain—a perfect pick for navigating the cobblestone streets of Europe.

Dimensions: 21.65” x 14” x 10”

Weight: 8 lbs 12 oz

The Best Hardsided Carry-On Suitcase: Away The Carry-On

Away’s The Carry-On Suitcase has won many awards and is beloved by travelers, and for good reason—it’s smartly designed. The Carry-On is Away’s smallest suitcase and will fit in most overhead compartments and pass all but the strictest baggage sizers at the gate.

This durable carry-on suitcase is crafted from 100 percent polycarbonate for maximum impact resistance. It glides smoothly on premium 360-degree spinner wheels and features a telescoping trolley handle with two height settings for ergonomic maneuvering. The water-resistant shell safeguards your belongings, while convenient features like the TSA-approved lock, laundry bag, and color-matched luggage tag help streamline your packing routine. 

Thoughtfully designed, the suitcase maximizes storage with a double-buckle compression pad and extensive interior organization like three mesh pockets and a handy hanging pocket. Reverse coil zippers grant easy access to the wide opening, and an underside grab handle aids lifting. 

As a bonus, Away’s carry-on suitcase comes in a variety of beautiful colors, including glossy and matte options. 

Dimensions: 21.7″ x 14.4″ x 9″

Weight: 7.5 lbs

The Best Luxury Carry-On Suitcase: Tumi Continental Dual Access 4-Wheeled Carry-On

The Tumi Continental Dual Access 4-Wheeled Carry-On is an organized packer’s dream. The design of this suitcase keeps suits, shoes, clothes, and toiletries neatly separated and wrinkle-free. Convenient amenities like the built-in USB port and built-in TSA lock maximize functionality. 

This is a great suitcase choice for business travelers, as the interior features a removable garment sleeve and fiberglass rod that allows you to hang a suit or dress inside the case without getting crushed or wrinkled. 

The Continental Dual Access features Tumi’s signature smooth-rolling wheels and a 3-stage telescoping handle for easy maneuverability. Protective features like molded bumpers and side panels guard against impacts, while built-in tracers and TSA-approved locks keep valuables secured. With options for top, side, or bottom access via well-designed zippers, this suitcase optimizes packing efficiency for several days of travel. 

Dimensions: 22.0″ X 16.0″ X 9.0″

Weight: 11.1 lbs

The Best Carry-On Backpack: L.L. Bean Approach Travel Pack

A carry-on doesn’t have to be limited to a suitcase. For the ultimate in mobility, opt for a backpack as your carry-on. You won’t have to worry about climbing stairs or pulling a bag over rough sidewalks, and a backpack can fit under your seat on a full plane when necessary, avoiding the dreaded gate-check. 

Our favorite carry-on backpack is the L.L. Bean Approach Travel Pack . Use it on its own for a short trip, or combine it with a checked bag (put all the essentials in the backpack and carry it on the plane) for longer journeys.  

The Approach Travel Pack opens flat and can be packed like a suitcase, unlike a traditional backpack where you’ll have to shove everything in through the top and dig through the entire bag to find something buried at the bottom.

Dimensions: 20” x 12.5” x 10”

Weight: 3.3 lbs

5 Simple Ways to Make Travel Easier in 2024

How We Tested These Carry-Ons

These are the carry-on suitcases that the SmarterTravel team uses on their own trips. We’ve taken them on countless flights, train trips, road trips, and cruises to find out the pros and cons of each bag. 

When testing a carry-on, we consider the following factors:

• Size and weight
• Ease of transportation
• Organizational features

We’ve tested out numerous suitcases that didn’t make the cut, which helped us narrow the list to the best carry-ons worth investing in. 

What Size is a Carry-On Suitcase

The dimensions for a carry-on suitcase vary by airline and generally change depending on if it’s an international or domestic flight. For flights within the United States, the most common size limit for a carry-on suitcase is 22 inches long, 14 inches wide, and 9 inches high. 

The international carry-on suitcase size limit is usually 21.7 inches by 15.7 inches wide by 9 inches high, but this will vary by airline.

Note that airline carry-on size limits include all aspects of the suitcase, including the handles and the wheels, so be sure to check the total dimensions of your bag and not just the interior measurements. If your suitcase meets the size limit but the wheels don’t, it will not pass the carry-on sizer test.

Always check with your airline for the correct carry-on size for your trip, as it can change by destination. 

Is There a Weight Limit for Carry-Ons?

There usually isn’t a weight limit for carry-ons on domestic flights within the United States (unless you’re flying on a very small plane). However, you must be able to lift the suitcase into the overhead bin without assistance.

International flights are generally stricter with weight limits and will weigh your carry-on bag when you check-in. These weight restrictions vary quite a bit by airline but generally range from 15 to 35 lbs. 

What Can’t You Pack in a Carry-On Suitcase?

Remember, carry-on suitcases are subject to stricter security restrictions than checked bags. You can’t pack these items in carry-on suitcases, but you can pack them in your checked luggage:

• Liquids or gels bigger than 3.4 ounces
• Sharp objects (including knives, hiking poles, and large scissors) 
• Certain sporting goods (such as baseball bats and hockey sticks)
• Self-defense items (including pepper spray and brass knuckles)
• Weapons (including firearms) 

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We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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The 12 Best Travel Bags to Walk the Airplane Runway With, Tested & Reviewed

Pack everything you want and leave nothing behind.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

What to Keep in Mind

• Your Questions, Answered

Why Shop With Us

InStyle / Alli Waataja

Let me start this article by saying I’m on a plane roughly eight to 10 times yearly. I absolutely adore travel and even made it around the world backpacking by myself for a year. Needless to say, I know a thing or two about smart packing. After loading my valuables into travel purses , weekender bags , carry-ons, and even hiking backpacks, I quickly learned that not all bags are created equal—at least not for every type of travel.

It’s not just me who thinks so. Our editors have found their favorite travel bags through press trips and vacations, so we brought our heads together to compile a list of our ultimate favorites. To take it an additional step further, we pulled the best-performing products from our lab as well, where we tested a variety of bags in real life, doing so much as throwing suitcases onto the floor and seeing how they endured. As we boarded planes, we observed how quickly we could reach for our passports and whether there was a safe space for our laptops to snuggle into. We noted how smoothly wheels rolled over the French cobblestone streets or how heavy a duffel bag felt on our shoulders. The result? This foolproof list of best travel bags, including laptop bags and backpacks , that ensure the smoothest commute to the next closest Aperol Spritz.

Best Overall

Dagne dover landon carryall bag.

Why We Love It: We’re big fans of Dagne Dover’s neoprene collection, having tested the belt bag and backpack already. We weren’t surprised, therefore, when this Carryall Bag impressed us, too. With inside pockets (both slip and zip), we were able to place a laptop into the sleeve in addition to a water bottle and a passport into their dedicated slots. Still, there was plenty of room in the main compartment for all our clothes. Included in the bundle are two removable pouches as well as a shoe bag and a mesh zip pouch. Most notably, the top zip extends out an extra few inches, maximizing the space to stuff our cute weekend outfits. If we didn’t need the extra space, we could clip the sides down to keep everything looking compact. Lastly, there’s an outer slip intended to be used over a suitcase handle, so the bag could stay safe and flush against our carry-on. “We use high-performance 900 Denier polyester when designing travel bags because it’s incredibly durable,” says Cofounder and Chief Creative Officer at Dagne Dover, Jessy Dover . “It's also super lightweight, water-resistant, and is created to withstand life on the go, so it won't tear or snag during your adventures,” she explains. 

Who It’s For: Someone looking for a minimalist, stylish, and functional bag. With tons of smart compartments and a generously spacious interior, the Carryall Bag does truly that: carry all.

Dimensions: 20.5 (W) x 10.5 (H) x 10 (D) inches | Materials: Premium neoprene | Colors: 12

Best Budget

L.l. bean boat and tote, zip-top.

Why We Love It: The L.L. Bean Boat and Tote bag is famous for a reason. After owning this bag for just six months, InStyle’s Senior Commerce Editor Hayley Prokos came to learn just how sturdy the canvas tote is. Not only that, but it’s become her go-to for basically all occasions, be it a personal item on a plane, a carryall for the beach, or an overnight tote to hold a change of clothes, shoes, and toiletry bag (she uses the large size). “Since the canvas maintains its shape when open, it’s extremely easy to pack. The only drawback is that it doesn't have any built-in compartments, but that hasn’t really bothered me, as I tend to keep small things in removable pouches that I can shuffle around in the bag,” she says. The fact that it’s monogrammable is just the icing on the cake. Choose between four different sizes and even two different top handle lengths—Prokos owns both the long and the short, swapping between them based on her needs.

Who It’s For: You like an aesthetic that is reminiscent of beachside holidays. Personalized touches make things feel special to you, and you don’t care too much about compartments. With tons of valuables to pack, however, you definitely require something sturdy enough to hold everything without tearing.

Dimensions: 10.5 (W) x 9.5 (H) x 5 (D) inches | Materials: Polyester | Colors: 13

Best Splurge

Paravel aviator carry-on.

Why We Love It: Anyone looking to book a luxurious trip should have an equally luxurious suitcase to match. Owning the Paravel Aviator Carry-On felt like a beautiful travel experience in itself. Dare we say we actually enjoyed packing for once? That’s because it comes with multiple interior pockets, a separate laundry bag, and an interior compression board, which helps to press down clothing and allow for more space. Packing cubes made compartmentalizing shoes away from clothing a breeze as well. All of the details are beautifully designed, with vegan leather finishes and buttery smooth zippers—which by the way, could be locked and sealed for anti-theft. Much like the Muji option below, the wheels on this suitcase glided so smoothly it was as though it were floating. Yes, it’s a little pricier than other options, but it does come with a 10-year warranty that allows you to get manufacturing defects fixed, free of cost. 

Who It’s For: A suitcase is more than just a storage compartment for you, it’s part of the beautiful travel experience. You want something aesthetically pleasing and the mere sight of your suitcase should get your heart all giddy. 

Dimensions: 13.7 (W) x 21.7 (H) x 9 (D) inches | Materials: Recycled polycarbonate, recycled aluminum handles, recycled zippers, vegan leather | Colors: 5

Best Leather

Polène cyme bag.

Why We Love It: This is my personal favorite travel bag. I use it for absolutely everything—from commutes to work to weekends away and big trips to Europe. In terms of design, texture, and quality, it competes with designer bags that usually sell for thousands, thanks to its calf leather exterior and suede interior. There are top handle straps as well as longer shoulder straps, which I use interchangeably. A magnetic closure keeps things quite secure, and a removable pouch holds essentials like passports, pens, and some tickets. Although it doesn’t have any compartments, as a fashion girly I really love it for its high-end appearance. Stacked on my Muji carry-on bag, I have all I could possibly need to travel while looking sleek.  

Who It’s For: While the lack of compartments and zippers might not be for everyone, those who love a design-forward bag that looks chic with absolutely anything will adore this tote. 

Dimensions: 15 (W) x 12.6 (H) x 6 (D) inches | Materials: Calf leather | Colors:  8

Cuyana System Tote

Why We Love It: This sleek, all-leather tote bag is as minimalist or as maximalist as you want it to be, at least where organization is concerned. When I received mine, I realized the tote itself comes quite bare, with a big open space and one single slit pocket on the side. However, there’s the option to purchase add-ons, such as pouches, dividers, and laptop sleeves, to customize the interior to your needs. A number of adjustable straps are also available to add on. Of course, these all come with an additional price tag, but considering you get your own personalized tote, we think it’s a fair deal. 

Who It’s For: Someone who is very clear and specific about what they want in their tote. You know exactly what you need and what you don’t, and want a sleek, beautiful, custom tote bag to fit into your life perfectly. 

Dimensions: 13.25 (W) x 10 (H) x 5 (D) inches | Materials: Leather | Colors:  6

Best Compartmentalized

Lipault lost in berlin 24h bag.

Why We Love It: We’ve been using this bag not just on our travels, but to the gym as well, giving it a bigger bang for its buck. It’s got two generously sized and zipped pockets on the exterior, making items like passports, phones, and ChapSticks easy to grab and safe from theft. Thanks to the cushiony and soft exterior, valuables on the inside always remain safe. There are even more compartments on the inside that are either zipped or meshed. And of course, a laptop sleeve can be found as well for anyone looking to use it on a business trip. As a little extra bonus, we love how the bag folds flat when not in use—it’s easy to store it away without taking up too much closet space. 

Who It’s For: Frequent travelers and anyone going on business trips—this bag will ensure everything is safely tucked in, in its right compartment, and unlikely to get lost. 

Dimensions: 17.3 (W) x 11.4 (H) x 9.8 (D) inches | Materials: Polyester | Colors: 4

Best Convertible

Caraa studio large leather tote.

Why We Love It: At first glance, this black leather tote looks like any standard bag. But upon further inspection, we fell deeper and deeper in love with all the smart benefits it offers. There are removable straps that turn the tote into a backpack (!!), so we could move around with our hands free. Because they are removable, they don’t dangle around and get in the way when we simply want to use it as a tote either. We found a side zip that we used as a shoe compartment, although it only fits flat sandals or smaller shoes (i.e. no high heels). The interior is extremely spacious, too, which allowed us to roll multiple shirts and sweaters in. And so nothing goes missing, there is a laptop compartment, a water bottle cinched pocket, and two larger slip pockets for passports, wallets, and phones. All in all, we could organize, bring a ton of items, and still look chic—a true win-win situation. 

Who It’s For: Anyone looking for a multipurpose bag, as the sleek leather exterior makes it appropriate for work, a shoe compartment makes it useful at the gym, and the backpack feature allows you to go hands-free at the airport. 

Dimensions: 13 (H) x 18 (W) x 7.5 (D) inches | Materials: Leather | Colors: 1

• PHOTO: InStyle / Joy Kim

Best Carry-On

Muji adjustable handle hard shell suitcase.

Why We Love It: We didn’t know how smooth wheels could roll until pushing this carry-on suitcase through rough pebbled European streets. No matter how heavy the case was packed, it would still roll as though it only carried a feather. Muji has an extensive travel collection which we all adore, but this simple yet elegant suitcase has to take the cake. We could easily fit enough items for a weeklong getaway. The two interior compartments are divided by a zippered mesh flap, where we keep miscellaneous items like notebooks. When the suitcase is closed, we could clip the zipper handles into its designated clasp on the side and lock it with a key, giving it an extra layer of anti-theft protection. And the best part? We could lock the wheels from rolling, allowing us to leave it standing on a moving train without it skedaddling down the aisle. 

Who It’s For: The unisex appeal and thoughtful (but not overwhelming) design details makes this suitcase a great purchase for absolutely everyone. 

Dimensions: 14.6 (W) x 21.3 (H) x 9.4 (D) inches | Materials: Recycled polycarbonate, recycled polyester, polyester | Colors: 7

Best Weekender

Calpak hue laptop duffel.

Why We Love It: Duffel bags are a favorite go-to for little weekend getaways, and this option from Calpak offered far more than just a big empty space for clothes. Most notably, a padded laptop sleeve protected our laptop during transportation. A discreet phone slit made answering phone calls easy, and various pockets in and around the bag offered more ways to organize our valuables. A little slot fit for suitcase handles allowed us to keep everything together and our hands free. When we’re not traveling, the bag doubles as a great gym bag as well, giving us more chances to use it in everyday life. 

Who It’s For: Anyone going on frequent weekend getaways (like those who have family in another state) will get tons of usage out of this smart, laptop-friendly duffel bag. 

Dimensions: 18 (W) x 10 (H) x 9.5 (D) inches | Materials: Polyester, polyurethane | Colors: 4

Best for Business

Away the everywhere bag.

Why We Love It: Going somewhere for business? This bag from Away looks like a large briefcase and functions partly as one as well. With a separate compartment for laptops, pouches for notebooks and pens, a zippered section for wallets and passports, and a mesh socket for a water bottle, it's a sleek way to organize all our business essentials. The center compartment is large enough to pack enough clothes for a two-day trip, we found, but not more. With how sleek and minimalist the bag looks, we could easily carry it from the plane to the meeting without stopping by a hotel. After accidentally spilling some water onto the bag while being served by a flight attendant, we were happy to find the exterior was completely water-resistant.

Who It’s For: Frequent business travelers who find themselves on two to three-day trips will find all they need in this bag: a laptop compartment, notebook slots, and enough space for a few night's stay. 

Dimensions: 16.3 (W) x 10.2 (H) x 7.3 (D) inches | Materials: Nylon, leather | Colors:  5

Best Duffel

Baggu cloud carry-on.

Why We Love It: Three things you can expect from Baggu? Lightweightness, practicality, and fun prints. At least those are the key points that made Associate Photo Director Kelly Chiello fall in love with the Cloud Carry-On. “It’s lightweight and can collapse into a tiny pouch when I’m not using it,” she says. “It’s also large enough to store a ton of pouches inside to grab and while traveling.” There are two large side pockets as well as a trolley sleeve to keep it flush against your suitcase. A big zipper on top ensures all of the valuables are safe inside, so you can even check the bag in if need be. And of course, who can resist the quirky prints! 

Who It’s For: Anyone tired of the same old black and white suitcases, the print options from Baggu are a delight. A zipped bag such as this can function both as a checked luggage and a carry-on as well. 

Dimensions: 19.3 (W) × 13.8 (H) x 7.5 (D) inches | Materials: Recycled nylon | Colors: 6

Best Backpack

Open story 35l travel backpack.

Why We Love It: While this backpack may look like your regular rucksack from the outside, once you open it you’ll see it functions like a mini carry-on suitcase. Allow me to elaborate—with it folded flat open, you’ll see one large compartment big enough to hold multiple outfits separated by a mesh zipper. On the other side there are several mesh zipped pockets for toiletries and other essentials. There’s even an outer pocket big enough to fit a laptop, passports, notebooks, wallets, and more. The entire backpack is made of water-resistant recycled polyester, with multiple ways to hold the sack (top handle, trolley sleeve, backpack). “It has good padding on the back and the straps are really supportive. And nobody ever measures or weighs it as a carry-on which helps you get away with things at the airport,” says Associate Director of Growth & Content Strategy, Giovanna Angulo . 

Who It’s For: Over-packers who want to discreetly carry an extra mini suitcase as a carry-on. Anyone who prefers having their hands free while traveling will also find this backpack useful.

Dimensions: 13 (W) × 19.25 (H) x 8.25 (D) x inches | Materials: Recycled polyester | Colors: 4

• Size: Did you know there isn’t one universal carry-on size requirement that all airlines adhere to? It’s actually up to individual airlines to determine carry-on and checked luggage size requirements, as opposed to TSA. This means that different restrictions may apply from flight to flight (though a commonly accepted maximum carry-on size is 22 x 14 x 9 inches). If you don’t mind checking a bag, then no need to worry, but if you, like us, dread the baggage claim carousel, be mindful of dimensions when selecting your next bag.
• Features: Travel bags come equipped with many different features like dirty-laundry dividers, specific pockets for tech devices, weight indicators, and more. “I do believe that form follows function,” says travel expert and influencer Thithi Nteta . “When it comes to functionality, I always look for my carry-on to be expandable and have organizational features so that I can separate things out properly and easily access must-haves like my laptop and wallet.” 
• Ease: When shopping for luggage, really try to imagine yourself carrying this bag throughout various lifestyle scenarios. Can you schlepp the thing through an airport, onto a train, then onto a subway, and then up the four flights of stairs to your Airbnb? If it’s lightweight, you should be just fine. Meanwhile, a non-wheeled duffel might be better suited for car travel like road trips or packing for that pet-sitting gig you have several towns over.

Your Questions, Answered 

What type of bag is good for international travel .

If you’re making the trek outside of the country, you’re likely staying for more than a weekend, requiring a larger checked bag. For international travel, we recommend looking for a suitcase with TSA-approved locking capabilities, weight indicators (weight restrictions for checked luggage can vary from airline to airline—research ahead of time), and smooth 360 wheels (international airports require a lot of walking). “I love a bag that can flex to fit any situation when I’m traveling because I always try to pack light,” says Dover. “I look for something that’s really versatile and durable, but it also has to be chic enough that it can take me from a hike to dinner effortlessly.” A bag that expands isn’t a bad idea either, just in case you come home with souvenirs. We’ve seen plenty of options where the tote or duffel bag actually attaches itself onto a suitcase. The feature makes them great travel bags for international travel as well.

How do you pack a carry-on-sized bag for a multi-night trip?

Most carry-on sized bags can accommodate three to four days worth of clothes… if you know how to stretch your base layers, shoes, and accessories. “I do my best to keep to one suitcase by packing versatile clothing pieces that I can pair and style differently,” explains Nteta. Though she notes it does take a bit of planning, it creates for a more stress-free travel experience overall. “For example, I select a pair of trousers and work out all the different tops and looks I can create with that one pair of trousers,” she says. “The key is to consider how you can layer foundational items and then elevate with accessories.” Dover seconds this sentiment, saying that she “packs by outfit and brings less than I need. I find that planning at least a week ahead of time helps me feel organized and avoids procrasti-packing .” 

How do you safely transport makeup and other liquid toiletries?

“When I travel, I don't compromise on my skincare routine, so I need a lot of pockets to organize things like cotton pads, Q-Tips, tweezers, and more,” says world-traveling content creator Kristina Rodulfo . (Check out our favorite makeup bags ).) “When you have liquid makeup like foundation, you want to ensure none of your clothes or other valuables get messy.” As an additional suggestion, she recommends the Ries Essential Travel Bottles as they come with an airless pump. “I have my Ries bottles filled and always ready to go for my next trip,” she says.

Bianca Kratky is a commerce writer with over three years of experience covering fashion and beauty. She’s an avid traveler and has explored the world solo for a year. In order to write this article, she interviewed Cofounder and Chief Creative Officer of Dagne Dover, Jessy Dover, for further insights on travel bags. She also leaned on previous reporting done by Linne Halpern , a freelance fashion, beauty, and lifestyle writer, who had interviewed the following experts: 

• Thithi Nteta, Travel Expert and Influencer
• Kristina Rodulfo, Travel Expert and Content Creator

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TRAVEL SHOULD ALWAYS be on the table, no matter what time of year it is; and whether you're gearing up for a family road trip , a quick weekend getaway, or finally taking that overseas vacation you've been saving your precious PTO for, making sure you have the proper luggage is the vital first step at setting yourself up for smooth sailing.

But choosing the best luggage is not always as easy as it seems. The variety of options on the market can make shopping for a new large suitcase or carry-on feel like driving through a dark tunnel without a navigation system. This guide here on the best luggage brands will help shine a little light on your trek, aiding you in choosing the right luggage for your budget.

Best Overall Luggage Brand

The Close Second

The Frequent Favorite

Which brand of suitcase i s best.

The editors and writers at Men's Health are constantly on the go. From working assignments in LA to taking tropical vacations in Madeira, we make it a point to test all the best luggage brands in our adventures. Over the past four years alone, we've tested well over 40 different luggage brands to find the perfect piece. Here, we bring you the 17 best luggage brands of 2024 in one clean list, with Samsonite commanding our top spot of the best luggage brand overall due to the brand's outstanding durability, clean design, and wallet-friendly price.

No matter if you’re looking for a one-size-fits-all bag or an entire luggage set, these are the best luggage brands on the market that will get you cruising without the stress of schlepping some raggedy old case. Ready to see the list?

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Price Point ($-$$$): $ | Hardside or Softside: Both | Warranty: 10 years

Samsonite makes the best affordable suitcases and luggage sets in our eyes. While the brand is in just about every major department store, the best place to buy Samsonite luggage is on Amazon. The retailer carries some of Samsonite's highest-rated products that won't burn a hole in your wallet. You can score an entire hard-sided set for under $300 or shop the brand's durable nylon singles . The items might not be as feature-loaded and reinforced as some of the other brands, but you will be surprised at how far your luggage will go before you need replacing.

When asking Justin Crabbe , the CEO of Jettly, a private jet charter service, about his go-to luggage brand, he mentioned Samsonite as one of the most well-priced and reliable brands that come to mind. "With lightweight yet durable material, superior design, and multiple compartments for packing with ease, it is a traveler’s dream come true," says Crabbe.

Our Senior Gear and Commerce Editor, John Thompson, always seems to find himself traveling with Samsonite too. " Time and time again I think I need to upgrade my luggage, and then I come back to my softside Samsonite carry-on I've held onto for over 5+ years," he says. " It [my carry-on] has been my companion with me through many adventures, from high altitude camping trips in Colorado to overseas adventures in countries like China and Germany." Thompson also notes his Samsonite's all-black fabric body has resisted scratches and marks over time, which makes it suitable for business trips as a clean piece that will blend in among the other bags—and not stand out for being all mangled and disheveled.

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Price Point ($-$$$): $$ | Hardside or Softside: Both | Warranty: Lifetime

You must be living under a rock if this is your first time hearing about the magic that is Away luggage. The simple-yet-modern design makes you actually love to carry the brand's bags. Away's claim to fame comes from the brand's built-in battery packs that can power up your devices. Our Fashion Director, Ted Stafford, is a huge fan of Away due to the brand's attention to detail in the design process. " The interior of the suitcase has a streamlined design, which offers ample space to fit all your necessary items in an uncluttered and organized way ," says Stafford. " Plus, Away’s suitcases are extremely lightweight, so you can easily maneuver to and from your destination without pulling your muscles or overexerting unnecessary energy—to me, that kind of ease is invaluable at a price that’s very fair.”

The carry-on sizes come in a traditional option and a bigger carry-on for certain airlines that allow it. The brand also innovated on its hard-sided luggage collection, and now makes a full line of soft-sided durable ballistic nylon and outer pocket additions.

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Price Point ($-$$$): $ | Hardside or Softside: Softside | Warranty: 10 years

What would the best luggage guide be without TravelPro? The legacy brand has been a longtime favorite of frequent travelers, soft luggage fans, and, yes, even pilots and flight attendants. TravelPro sets are wallet-friendly and its bags are constructed with function in mind (we especially love how durable the 360-wheels and handles are on its pieces).

Nadia Podrabinek , a travel writer and founder of Why This Place, is a huge fan of her expandable soft side Travelpro carry-on due to the high quality of design for an affordable price. "The lightweight construction that does not sacrifice on quality, allowing you to travel with peace of mind; and the four-wheel spinner design makes maneuvering through airports easy, while numerous pockets help keep your items organized," Podrabinek says.

Travelpro might not be the most flashy brand, but there's a reason so many travel writers (and flight attendants) love the brand.

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Price Point ($-$$$): $$$ | Hardside or Softside: Both | Warranty: 5 years

Tumi is for the slick traveler on the move that appreciates design as much as they do function. The longtime brand founded back in 1975 makes sure every new piece of luggage helps aim to solve common travel qualms. Tumi's carry-on bags and backpacks are made with several easy-access zippered compartments to help breeze through TSA lines, and the brand's add-a-bag sets are designed to lug around two to three bags at one time with one hand.

Adam Mansuroglu, a former Style & Commerce Editor at Men's Health is a Tumi fan. "I've had my Tumi 19 Degree carry-on case for a few years now ; and whenever I want to feel a bit fancier and pretend like I live that jet-set life, I make sure to carry that silver stunner," Mansuroglu says. " I t not only looks sleek and stylish—it can hold a surprising amount of shoes for a fashion editor who can't seem to ever travel light."

It's no secret Tumi is one of the more expensive luggage brands around, but if can pony up the investment you'll be happy knowing you'll have a sleek bag that's going to last you for many years to come.

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Price Point ($-$$$): $$ | Hardside or Softside: Softside | Warranty: 3 years

Calling all gearheads. If you're an adventure traveler, Yeti has your back (literally, with the brand's first Crossroads backpack series). In this line of luggage, you'll find dry bags for white water rafting, carryalls, and classic rolling luggage and duffels that can withstand just about anything without showing much wear and tear. These bags are made for utility and function with a willingness to get tossed around and dirty with an easy clean.

Due to the tough construction of Yeti luggage, it's no wonder the bags have become a favorite for adventure tourists in the past few years. Geordie Mackay-Lewis , co-founder of Pelorus , a bespoke agency that plans exotic travel and yacht experiences, loves to pack Yeti bags for client excursions. " For our more adventurous trips, we pack our soft and fully waterproof Yeti bags, which can easily be thrown into a RIB or helicopter ," Mackay-Lewis says. " They also have great camera bags, which we’ve been using on client trips and reconnaissance missions for years."

It's worth mentioning only some of the Yeti bags are completely waterproof, but most are water-resistant.

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Price Point ($-$$$): $$ | Hardside or Softside: Hardside | Warranty: 5 years

Calpak’s popularity is right up there with AWAY, but a major difference is the organizational approach of each brand. Almost all of Calpak's luggage has separate sleeves for shoes, zip pockets for smaller items, compartments for magazines, and straps to hold it all in place. Plus, they make some of the best matching luggage sets around, including a full line of accessories that make packing easier.

Christen Nicole , a FORA Travel Advisor and travel blogger, told us the Astyll 3-Piece Set has been her current go-to for travels for the past two years. " I've loved how the polycarbonate shell has kept my belongings secure, and how the spacious interior pocket dividers have kept everything in its place," Nicole says. When it comes to naming her favorite bag in the set, she finds the carry-on to be the best piece overall due to its combination of generous space (up to 45 liters) with a light build (6 pounds in weight).

If you're someone who has to frequently sit on your suitcase to close it, then opting for Calpak will help turn you into an efficient packing pro. The brand's packing cubes and organizers are excellent at categorizing items, and the suitcases are deep and roomy.

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Peak Design

Price Point ($-$$$): $$ | Hardside or Softside: Softside | Warranty: Lifetime

Smart, sexy, and functional as heck, are three words we'd describe Peak Design luggage. The West Coast-based brand originally started in making camera equipment—like carbon fiber tripods—but over time started venturing into camera bags, then everyday bags, then actual travel bags. Products like the Travel Backpack and Travel Duffel offer durable, water-resistant protection for everything from clothes to electronics.

We love how Peak Designs keeps things simple for the look of each bag, making sure to omit tacky logo placements and over-the-top colors, and instead go with a classic all-black look, plus a few natural color combinations on some specific bags.

Samara's luggage pieces are as sleek and stylish as they come. And while they look beautiful from a design standpoint, the one area that deserves recognition is their high level of functionality. We're talking about a strong aluminum frame, 360-degree spinner wheels, and telescopic handles. Plus, all Samsara luggage comes with Tag Smart, which is a unique design configuration made in the luggage to allow for easy placement of your Apple AirTag.

Our Senior Gear and Commerce Editor, John Thompson, likes to use his Samsara carry-on whenever he wants to switch over to a hardshell suitcase. "Right now, there's no other brand making such a well design AirTag holder for keeping tabs on its suitcase," Thompson says.

We also found the built-in portable charger is easy to pop out and use, and it works great when powering bigger electronics like laptops and over-ear headphones .

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Eagle Creek

Eagle Creek is known for its no-nonsense and affordable gear that caters to outdoor adventurers. The brand makes some of the best dang packing cubes one could buy, and if you follow up the product ladder you'll land on the different luggage pieces those very cubes can be stored inside. Eagle Creek makes only soft luggage, but the materials are often super tear resistant and the designs offer lots of utility and opportunity for smarter configurations of how to store everything from clothes and hiking essentials to camera gear.

Jackson Groves , travel photographer, adventurer, and founder of the travel blog journeyera.com, told us his personal favorite Eagle Creek bag is his Gear Warrior roller suitcase. " The Gear Warrior's rugged construction and water-resistant materials ensure that my belongings stay safe and protected even in challenging environments; and its spacious main compartment and multiple interior and exterior pockets offer ample storage space for all my essentials, allowing me to stay organized on the go," Groves says. " The durable wheels and retractable handle make maneuvering through airports, trails, and uneven terrain a breeze."

What we love the most about Eagle Creek is they have a no questions asked warranty policy, so if something were to get damaged on your travels, the brand will make sure either repair or replace your bag.

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Price Point ($-$$$): $$ | Hardside or Softside: Softside | Warranty: Lifetiime

Osprey makes a number of trusted duffle bags and backpacks that are suitable for minimalist travelers and adventure junkies. The brand shines brightest in its travel backpack offerings. Yes, the packs work amazing for actually backpacking, but due to Osprey's commitment to loading its products with tough materials and premium features—like carrying belts and smart pocket configurations—we've found the backpacks work seriously good for fast weekend getaway trips, no serious outdoor adventuring required.

Scott Cundy, Founder of Wildland Trekking and Intrepid Travel Director of Marketing, The Americas, swears by his Osprey Aether Plus 100 for everything from wilderness backpacking to conventional travel. " It has fantastic capacity at about 6,000 cubic inches, is durable, has an extremely robust hip belt which keeps the weight off my shoulders, and any great pockets," says Cundy. "M y favorite feature of this pack though is how the top loader is removable and becomes a very useable day pack."

The best part about traveling with an Osprey backpack is you can fit your laptop inside with two to three days of clothes and never have to worry about hauling a carry-on or duffel bag to your destination.

Price Point ($-$$$): $$ | Hardside or Softside: Softside | Warranty: 2 years

OGIO can transport a wardrobe quite well, but what the brand is truly exceptional at is transporting gear. Whatever equipment you might want to take with you on your next big trip, an OGIO bag will work as a checked luggage option to get your prized possessions from point A to point B.

This prior notion is especially true when it comes to traveling with golf clubs, as pieces like their ALPHA Travel Cover help you roll your clubs through a terminal without any snagging or other inconveniences. "G reat product to carry clubs. Kept everything safe and has lockable zippers," said one Amazon reviewer.

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Price Point ($-$$$): $ | Hardside or Softside: Hardside | Warranty: 2 years

Coolife prides itself on constant innovation. The company was started in the '80s and has evolved to be as modern and relevant as today's big players, like AWAY and Calpak. The aesthetic is quite similar to such brands, with minimally-hued hardshell cases that protect your precious goods and spin nicely. While you don't get the popular brand name, you will get a far better price point, (we're talking under $200 for a two-piece set), making Coolife luggage a major bang for the buck you're spending.

Plus, the Amazon reviews on Coolife luggage are exceptional. " It [the set] cost less than a single suitcase in other stores and includes perfect sizes with the largest being expandable; don’t hesitate to buy these when you need luggage," said one Amazon reviewer. The three-piece set has over 1,000 five-star reviews alone.

Price Point ($-$$$): $$$ | Hardside or Softside: Hardside | Warranty: Lifetime

For over 120 years, Rimowa has been making hard-sided luggage, first starting with wooden suitcases and then moving to sturdy aluminum bags. Now, RIMOWA uses ultra-lightweight polycarbonate in its bags. The brand is known for pushing the boundaries of innovation. Though they come in at a luxury price point, these bags will last for well over a decade. Just take a look at this review a Rimowa buyer left at Nordstrom.com: " On our first trip using this suitcase, my entire family fought over who got to roll the Rimowa because it was just SO MUCH LIGHTER and maneuverable than our other suitcases. It’s sleek, sturdy, light and has great details and added features." The hard-sided shell might look intimidating at first, but once you feel how lightweight and easy this is to the wheel, you'll wonder why you haven't invested in it sooner.

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Price Point ($-$$$): $$ | Hardside or Softside: Hardside | Warranty: Lifetime

If you're looking for unique luggage that will stand out in baggage claim, look no further. Not only are Roam 's designs multi-colored, the brand even offers the option to make it uniquely yours in their own design studio. Roam makes the best-checked luggage for that reason along with being light in weight, easy to wheel around, and extra secure with a locking system. "I was an early adopter of the Roam Journey. I traveled all over the world with it. It is lightweight and the customization options really make it pop on the conveyor belt. No more episodes of other people accidentally grabbing my mundane black bag," said one Roam reviewer.

We had thoughts about the carry-on looking small when we first got our hands on one, but the bag can surprisingly fit many days' worth of outfits. The only con about the carry-on thought is it comes without outer organizational pockets, so you'll have to store smaller belongings and electronics inside the bag.

You're probably going to be most impressed by Monos on this list. The Canadian brand makes luggage with a cool minimalist aesthetic that is efficient in packing space thanks to organized internal compartments and packing cubs. It seems as if the brand has thoroughly thought of every travel hiccup and created its products to solve those common issues. The Monos carry-on features a fold-out tech pocket that doesn't compromise the unbreakable aluminum and polycarbonate hybrid shell. The result of all of this: durable aluminum, lightweight polycarbonate, and soft-sided organization features. The wheels are virtually noiseless, and the brand's accessories snap perfectly into place among the entire line of luggage. It all looks and feels expensive, probably because it isn't cheap—but it will make your travel dreams so much better.

Price Point ($-$$$): $$$ | Hardside or Softside: Softside | Warranty: Lifetime

Filson has captured the hearts of travelers who love timeless rugged design. While the Seattle brand doesn't carry any hard luggage, Filson does make some grade-A soft luggage. Everything from their duffle bags to messenger bags is perfect for short trips and for carry-on duties. One Filson review mentioned how well his duffel bag performed on a trip abroad. " Used it on a 10-day trip to Europe in winter; paired it up with a carry-on and this was perfect to fit bulkier items like boots, sweaters, and jackets," said the Filson.com reviewer.

The initial investment on any Filson bag is a pretty penny, but the quality materials like USA-sourced leather and tear-resistant canvas point to your bag lasting a long long time—and look better with every new sign of wear and tear, no less.

July is another luggage brand that's made a splash in recent years. The attention to detail in design, combined with stylish silhouettes, has brought forth a line of pieces that look great standalone and even better together. "The suitcase packed a lot of clothes very nicely as I traveled all through the Middle East, France, and Amsterdam. It rolls so easily it made the whole trip quite enjoyable. It seems very sturdy, and it is great looking," said one July reviewer.

July luggage comes in a ton of colors and—best of all—the brand offers small personalization services like monogramming and images of your pets. Yes, you heard that right pet parents.

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Why Trust Us

• In order to keep up with new innovations and product releases, the Men's Health editors and writers are continually testing the latest travel gear. Aside from covering travel gear in our evergreen roundups, we also highlight the best new travel gear in our gift guides and annual Travel Awards .
• When it comes to luggage, we make sure to line up real-world testing opportunities anytime we're on assignment or traveling for pleasure. Then, we bring the luggage back to our office to thoroughly inspect each bag to determine what design notes surprised us, and what could use more work.
• We consider how luggage brands appeals to specific types of traveler, as opposed to making generic assumptions that every traveler's needs are the same. We take into account everything from checked bags to carry-ons, to duffel bags and travel backpacks. Travelers who come to us will gain a full understanding of the luggage landscape and how it fits their lifestyle.

Read more: Learn How Men's Health Tests Products

How to Find the Right Luggage

Like your favorite pair of jeans , your favorite piece of luggage is going to come from a brand that fits your lifestyle. When looking for the best suitcase brand, you're going to want to write down what quantities you desire in your luggage. Here's what you should look for.

Frequency of Travel

The right luggage is going to fit with how you travel. If you're only going out of town a handful times a year, then you don't necessarily need to splurge on a super expensive suitcase or suitcase set. In fact, we'd recommend going for a wallet-friendly suitcase or set from brands like Samsonite or Coolife if you're not traveling that often, as these brands will hold up for years with light to medium use and not cost you very much upfront. If you're traveling a lot (for pleasure, business, or both) then you're going to probably want to lean towards making an investment in a piece of luggage that's made to handle continuous wear and tear. "When it comes to buying the right piece for your travel needs, my advice is always to opt for something that fits your lifestyle and budget," says Justin Crabbe.

How You Travel

After estimating how much you will be traveling throughout the year, you can start to write down your travel habits, or how you travel. Do you pack heavy or pack light? What features do you want or need? This is where features like TSA locks, 360-degree wheels, special laptop compartments, built-in portable chargers, and more are to be considered. "Look for ways to elevate your internal organization, like dividers, pockets, and sections that will help you keep your belongings organized and easily accessible during your travels," says Sean Oblizalo. Another note: if you're into adventure traveling, look for a bag that's more flexible, lightweight, and made with weather-resistant materials is your best option. "Look for sturdy fabrics such as nylon or polyester, reinforced stitching, and strong zippers to ensure your luggage can handle the demands of outdoor adventures," says Jackson Groves.

You also want to consider how much you are willing to pay for your suitcase. Some suitcase brands are expensive because they get grouped into high fashion, but suitcases can also be expensive because they're known to last a long time (it's worth mentioning the best luggage brands have a kind of timeless style attributed to them). A few of the best suitcase brands that require a significant investment include RIMOWA, Tumi, and Filson. If you're looking for suitcase brands that provide the best overall value (for the price you pay), consider makers like Samsonite, TravelPro, and CooLife.

Lastly, take note of each luggage brand's warranty. A warranty will help get your suitcase replaced or fixed should it have any issues (like a broken off wheel or damaged handle). Most luggage brands have pretty good warranties these days (usually 5-10 years) but the best warranty you can get on a suitcase is a lifetime warranty. Warranties can be huge for frequent travelers, as your suitcase will wear down with high usage. If you are a frequent traveler, or if you're someone who simply wants the best warranty you can get, go with a suitcase that has a lifetime policy. Premium luggage brands are more likely to have lifetime warranties, so this can be another benefit to going up and investing in an expensive suitcase.

Is Hardside or Softside Luggage Better?

The most popular luggage comes in either a hard-sided or soft-sided structured bag. Like mentioned earlier, the pros and cons of both depend on what you prioritize when you pack. Soft-sided luggage typically has more room for movement, more organizational pockets, and can compress to fit into tight spaces (like the overhead of an airplane). They open with a top flap zip, placing the bulk of storage at the bottom. Softside luggage offers more packing room, but it can throw off the balance of your goods when it’s tossed around and stowed away by airline employees. Basically, soft-sided luggage does not provide as much protection as hard-sided bags—but they are roomier.

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Due to advances in making polycarbonate more durable and lighter, hard-sided bags started gaining popularity in the past few years Hardside luggage features a 50/50 split opening (also called a book opening), making each side an equal stabilizer with an outer shell of hard protection. Polycarbonate shells are typically better for business travel. They stack easily but are usually rigid with zero room to expand like a soft-sided bag. The latest hard-sided bags look sleeker and are easier to clean and move—but they require you to be more strategic in your packing.

Other features that you’ll want to consider are weight and wheelability. Many modern suitcases are designed in the lightest possible form, along with four spinner wheels that can swivel 360 degrees to make rolling around the airport, pavement, or hotel floor a breeze.

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The best checked luggage of 2024, tested by editors.

A checked bag is just as essential as a good carry-on.

The Best Checked Luggage

Leilani Osmundson | U.S. News

Every traveler can use a solid piece of checked luggage that can fit enough clothing, accessories and shoes for a long trip. Durability, plenty of storage and wheels that can handle rolling a full bag easily are just a few things to look for in a reputable piece of luggage.

If it's time to purchase a checked bag that can accommodate your belongings and handle the rigor of being tossed around, read on to discover your best options. All of our recommendations have top ratings and have also been personally tested and reviewed.

Best Overall: DELSEY PARIS Sky Max 2.0 Large Expandable Spinner

• Jump to features and expert insights ↓

Best Hard-sided: Samsonite Freeform Large Spinner

Best soft-sided: travelpro crew classic large check-in expandable spinner, best medium: away the medium, best large: lojel cubo large, best trunk: july checked trunk, best lightweight: lipault plume very long trip, best organization: solgaard check-in closet original – medium.

(Note: Prices and stock availability were accurate at the time this article was updated; they may fluctuate due to demand or other factors.)

Erin Evans | U.S. News

Price: $209.99 or less

Dimensions: 31 x 20 x 13.25 inches | Weight: 8.25 pounds Packing capacity: 14-21 days; 117 liters | Colors: Black, green or blue Hard- or soft-sided: Soft-sided | Warranty: 3-year limited

The soft-sided DELSEY PARIS Sky Max 2.0 Large Expandable Spinner is our top overall pick for the Best Checked Luggage thanks to its durability and excellent handling. This piece of checked luggage features double-spinner wheels; a collapsible handle for use on two or four wheels; a TSA-approved lock; and cushioned top, bottom and side handles. The bag has one large interior compartment with tie-down straps to keep everything in place and a medium zippered side pocket, plus a large zippered mesh pocket on the inside of the top of the bag, perfect for holding toiletries (or dirty clothes as your trip unfolds).

There are two large front pockets on the exterior of the bag for stashing last-minute or smaller items. The exterior of this checked bag is constructed of a polyester fabric with a twill pattern, and the bag expands quite a bit to fit in any additional souvenirs you may want to bring home with you.

What our editors say:

I am obsessed with this soft-sided checked bag – it fits an absurd amount of stuff. You can easily pack enough clothes, shoes, accessories and gear for a two- to three-week trip, and even when it's filled to the brim, the wheels and handle make it easy to maneuver the suitcase across many types of terrain. Mine has been checked numerous times, and the darker-colored fabric with its subtle design means any scuffs are pretty impossible to see and it hasn't scratched or dented at all. – Erin Evans, Managing Editor

Catriona Kendall | U.S. News

Price: $279.99 or less

Dimensions: 31.1 x 20.9 x 13.8 inches | Weight: 9.6 pounds Packing capacity: 14-21 days | Colors: Navy, white, gray, black or purple Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: 10-year limited

The Samsonite Freeform Large Spinner is a traveler favorite for good reason. This hard-sided polypropylene suitcase is impressively lightweight for its size and made to last. A built-in TSA lock protects your luggage, and it expands by 1.5 inches when you need more room. There are two main packing compartments separated by a zippered panel on one side and compression straps on the other. The double wheels will allow you to navigate any airport or destination with ease. The Freeform also comes in medium and carry-on sizes, as well as a two-piece set.

I used to only use soft-sided luggage, but I've been won over by this suitcase. I love how easy it is to maneuver and lift such a large bag during my travels. You also can't go wrong with the Samsonite Outline Pro Large Spinner , which comes in a few other colors and has a slightly different compression system inside. – Catriona Kendall, Editor

Price: $349.99 or less

Dimensions: 30.75 x 18 x 13.25 inches | Weight: 10.4 pounds Packing capacity: 14-21 days; 130 liters | Colors: Black, gray or blue Hard- or soft-sided: Soft-sided | Warranty: Limited lifetime

Like many Travelpro luggage pieces, the Travelpro Crew Classic Large Check-in Expandable Spinner comes with a plethora of handy features. A TSA-approved lock keeps your belongings safe, and the self-aligning wheels make for easy rolling across a range of surfaces. Inside, you'll find a removable fold-out suiter for protecting clothes against wrinkles – so you won't need to bring an extra garment bag for a formal affair. There are also interior pockets (including a water-resistant one) and hold-down straps for keeping your belongings organized and secure.

This Travelpro spinner can hold plenty at 130 liters, but if you need something even bigger, the Travelpro Platinum Elite Large Check-In Spinner is a great alternative with many of the same features and 143.5 liters of space.

I was shocked at how lightweight this suitcase was for its size. The fold-out suiter is a game-changer for business travel or travel that requires formal attire, like a cruise or destination wedding . – Leilani Osmundson, Senior Digital Producer

Amanda Norcross | U.S. News

Price: $365 or less

Dimensions: 26 x 18.5 x 11 inches | Weight: 10.4 pounds Packing capacity: 7-14 days; 68 liters | Colors: Several options, including black, sea green, olive or white gloss Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: Limited lifetime

The Medium by Away is surprisingly large, with enough storage for about two weeks' worth of clothing. An interior compression panel and mesh pockets help maximize space, and an included laundry bag allows you to easily separate dirty and clean clothing in your suitcase. This checked bag also comes with a color-matched luggage tag. For the inevitable scratches, you can use a magic eraser to wipe the bag clean.

The Medium is so spacious that I can't imagine using a larger checked bag. I also appreciate all of the grab handles that make it easy to load on to the airport scale or pull off the baggage claim belt. – Amanda Norcross, Senior Content & SEO Strategist

Rachael Hood | U.S. News

Price: $430 or less

Dimensions: 30.5 x 21.7 x 13.4 (14.6 when extended) inches | Weight: 11.7 pounds Packing capacity: 14-21 days; 120 liters (130 when extended) | Colors: 9 options, including burgundy, black, yellow or navy Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: 10-year

The flat-top opening on this large suitcase really makes it stand out from the crowd. Given its size, the top opening makes it easy to pack and close the suitcase when you have limited space. Constructed with 50% recycled polycarbonate, this style has a durable and sustainable design. The interior of the expandable suitcase has a lid with two spacious mesh compartments and a third with a privacy panel. For added organization, there's a zip pocket and a compression divider with four zip pockets, which keeps small items organized and helps you compartmentalize your belongings while in transit.

If you're looking for a large checked suitcase that is sturdy, easy to wheel and can hold a lot of contents, this is it. I really like the variety of zip pockets on the interior to keep smaller items easy to find, and the flat-top opening is a real game changer in small hotel rooms or tight spaces. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

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Price: $545 or less

Dimensions: 28.35 x 16.34 x 14.5 inches | Weight: 13.2 pounds Packing capacity: 10-14 days; 95 liters | Colors: 11 gloss and matte options, including dark green, red or black Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: Limited lifetime with 100-day trial

This trunk is constructed with a rivetless anodized aluminum frame and crush-proof German polycarbonate shell. The trunk design has an 80/20 lid opening, and it closes with twin integrated TSA latch locks. On the inside, the bag has stain- and water-resistant nylon lining, a hidden laundry bag and a Y-strap compression system to keep contents secure. For easy maneuvering, it has a multi-height adjustable soft handle, top and side carry handles, and dual-spinner wheels.

From its sleek exterior to its space-maximized interior, this trunk makes packing for a long trip a breeze. The handle is extremely comfortable to pull, and the silent wheels glide effortlessly on an array of surfaces. – Rachael Hood

Price: $329 or less

Dimensions: 31.1 x 18.1 x 12.2 inches | Weight: 8.6 pounds Packing capacity: 10-21 days | Colors: Maroon, navy or khaki green Hard- or soft-sided: Soft-sided | Warranty: 3-year limited

Weighing in at less than 9 pounds, this checked bag doesn't sacrifice quality or features. Its durable nylon construction wipes off easily, so you won't be too troubled by white winter salt marks or spilled coffee. The interior features two fold-down shelves, allowing you to pack it like a trunk or a traditional suitcase. There's also a mesh separation net to keep all of your belongings in place when you open the case, as well as two large interior zippered pockets.

On the front of the bag, you can make use of a spacious front zip pocket, a coordinating luggage tag and a zippered compartment that conceals and protects the telescoping handle when not in use. The spinner wheels glide easily on any surface, and if you want a coordinating carry-on, the Lipault Plume Cabin Size Spinner – U.S. News' top soft-sided luggage pick – can be stowed inside this bag when not in use.

While I try to stick to carry-on luggage, this checked suitcase is extremely impressive and perfect for when I need more space. I absolutely love the shelves that can be folded down flat when I don't want them, but also the ability to pack so I can just use the suitcase like a rolling closet. It's really lightweight, and I love that it coordinates with one of my favorite personal item bags, the Lipault City Plume 24H 2.0 . – Rachael Hood

Sharael Kolberg

Price: $355 or less

Dimensions: 24.8 x 14.5 x 11.8 inches | Weight: 10.7 pounds Packing capacity: 10-15 days; 91 liters | Colors: 13 options, including black, red, purple or precious metals Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: Lifetime

If you're the type of person that likes to transfer your clothes from your suitcase to the hotel dresser upon arrival to keep things organized, this Solgaard suitcase is for you. With its built-in shelving system, you don't have to unpack – just pack your clothes into the five shelves and, when you get to the hotel, hang the removable shelving system for easy access. The suitcase is made with a durable polycarbonate shell. It comes with a TSA-approved three-digit lock, and the frictionless wheels paired with its comfortable handle make this checked bag easy to maneuver.

What our contributors say:

Not only does this suitcase make it easier to travel, but I also love that it is designed with sustainability in mind. Each one is made from 100% recycled plastic that is collected in coastal communities, in order to prevent it from going into the ocean. The one downside is that the shelving does take up some room, so you might be trading convenience for maximum capacity. – Sharael Kolberg

How we tested

Taking into account durability, capacity and features, our team tested more than a dozen checked bags from a variety of brands at a range of price points. We tested to see how the overall structure of the bag works for travel needs, along with the maneuverability of the wheels and comfort of the handle on a range of surfaces from moving walkways to cobblestones. After taking these suitcases on a variety of journeys, we've selected these checked suitcases as the best for 2024.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Luggage Sets
• The Best Luggage Brands
• The Best Carry-on Luggage
• The Best Hard-sided Luggage
• The Best Travel Insurance

Tags: Travel , Travel Gear

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The Best Luggage for International Travel

Experts swear by these top-tested suitcases for traveling abroad.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Best Overall

Samsonite freeform hardside expandable spinner.

Amazon Basics 20-Inch Hardside Spinner

Best Carry-On

Away the carry-on.

As you start planning your next trip to a different country by looking into hotels, flights and tourist attractions, don't forget that the key to a smooth travel experience ensuring you have the best luggage brand by your side. When you're traveling internationally, it's especially important to bring a suitcase that complies with airline restrictions, is comfortable to carry or roll throughout your journey and has plenty of room for all of your belongings and your souvenirs for the trip home.

With so many options to choose from, it can be difficult to decide which luggage is truly worth it. That's why at the Good Housekeeping Institute , I and my fellow Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab analysts put luggage to the test to determine which suitcases you should invest in. We've evaluated more than 100 pieces of luggage from popular brands in the Lab for properties like packability, durability and ease of use. We also share luggage with consumer testers who are able to try it out on their own getaways and provide real-user feedback about their experiences. Whether you're looking for a large checked bag for a long trip overseas, a quality carry-on for a shorter stay or a travel backpack for easy toting, we've found an option for nearly every traveler.

This top-performing suitcase from our best overall luggage brand Samsonite has repeatedly stood out in the Textiles Lab's and our consumers' tests and is priced under $200 — an incredible value. The hardside carry-on is made of polypropylene and weighs in at just 6.5 pounds, which is one of the lightest bags we've tested, so it won't eat too much into the lower weight restrictions set by many international airlines.

I was impressed by how easy it was to lift and roll the bag around, even when filled with our standard packing load. Despite the lightweight design, this carry-on is spacious with a butterfly-opening, unfolding into two primary compartments for easy packing, and there's an additional one inch of expandable storage with the pull of a zipper.

During our Lab evaluations, we liked how easy it was to pull the bag through our luggage obstacle course. While some testers said the telescopic handle felt a bit loose, the suitcase earned high scores for maneuverability, with testers sharing feedback including "very smooth rolling" and "the wheels moved really well." The material was more prone to scratching than some others we evaluated, but the suitcase proved to be durable overall in our drop tests, resisting major damage.

Listed dimensions: 21.25" x 15.25" x 10" | Weight: 6.5 lbs | Material: Hardside polypropylene | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

With more than 34,000 five-star ratings, t his best-selling suitcase from Amazon Basics is loved by both real users and our consumer testers who say it's worth every penny. Made of lightweight ABS plastic, the hardside suitcase isn't quite as durable as those made of polycarbonate, but the material helps to keep the cost low — under $100 — so I recommend it for someone shopping on a budget.

During our Textiles Lab evaluations for durability, there were some noticeable markings in our scratch tests, but we were impressed by how well the bag maintained its shape after being released repeatedly from our drop tester. Amazon reviewers who regularly use the suitcases say they hold up over time, as well.

When our consumer testers rolled the suitcase through our obstacle course, they were wowed by how smooth the wheels were, with one describing the bag as "very easy to move." We gave the carry-on high scores for packability, as we were able to pack our standard load of belongings (clothing, accessories and toiletries) for a short trip inside with room to spare. Plus, there are interior zippered mesh pockets for easy organization, and the bag expands up to one extra inch for additional packing space.

Listed dimensions: 22" x 14.9" x 10" | Weight: 7.3 lbs | Material: Hardside ABS plastic | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

One of the most popular suitcases on the market, Away's standard carry-on is definitely worth the hype . The bag is available in 11 colors, including on-trend options like green and red, along with neutral hues like gray and black.

Not only is the suitcase simple and stylish from the outside, it's also full of functional features inside to make packing for your next international trip a breeze. The bag unfolds into two separate primary compartments to fit all of your things: one fully zippered side and one with adjustable compression straps, and there are mesh pockets to stash smaller items.

Consumer testers and GH analysts alike love to travel with the Away carry-on, including one who shared, "It fit all of the clothes I needed for a long weekend. It rolled really easily and was light enough to pop in and out of the overhead bin." Testers said the telescopic handle felt flimsier than others they tried, but they were impressed with the bag overall, saying that it was easy to maneuver and roll over different types of flooring, including wood, carpet and tile. And it looked great after our drop and scratch tests, showing no major signs of damage or dents.

Listed dimensions: 9" x 13.7" x 21.7" | Weight: 8.1 lbs | Material: Hardside polycarbonate | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 100 days, unused

Briggs & Riley 31-inch Baseline Extra Large Expandable Spinner

The innovative design details of this softside checked bag from Briggs & Riley help to simplify packing for extended trips abroad. The bag features a unique push-button expansion system unlike any other we've evaluated , which allows you to easily expand the bag, fill it with everything you'll need and then compress it back down to its standard size.

One tester who was impressed with the amount of space in the carry-on version of the bag shared, "It fit clothing and accessories for two people for a seven-day summer vacation." And this checked bag offers more than double the packing capacity. Other innovative features include a built-in trifold garment folder for formal attire and reinforced corners for added protection.

At 15.6 pounds, the suitcase does weigh more than other models we've evaluated, but it is made with a nylon material that resisted wear and tear when I tested it in our abrasion machine. It also earned top marks in our latest round of drop testing. Along with performing well for durability, the suitcase received high scores for maneuverability, with smooth wheels and a sturdy telescopic handle.

Listed dimensions: 31" x 22" x 13.8" | Weight: 15.6 lbs | Material: Softside nylon | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

July Checked Luggage

Rolling a bag through the airport has never been easier than it is with July's classic luggage , including this spacious checked suitcase and its popular carry-on bags . One GH analyst who took the checked bag on a vacation abroad said, "I've never used a suitcase with wheels this smooth." I've personally traveled with luggage from the brand and was blown away by how effortless it was to roll the suitcases, even over carpet and concrete sidewalks.

The telescopic handle technically locks at 20 different heights to prevent it from falling down on its own, and most testers appreciated the slanted grip on the handle, sharing that it was comfortable to hold and easy to maneuver with.

Made with a polycarbonate shell, the suitcase is lightweight and durable, and the corners are reinforced with aluminum bumpers for an added level of protection. The bag held up well after being released repeatedly from our drop tester, but testers noted marks and scuffs on the surface after taking the bag on just one trip.

It boasts 80 liters of packing space and features one fully zippered compartment and one open compartment with a compression panel and Y-strap for security. Even more, it weighs just 8.3 pounds, which is similar to many of the carry-on sized bags we evaluate.

Listed dimensions: 26" x 18.75" x 11" | Weight: 8.3 lbs | Material: Hardside polycarbonate with aluminum corners | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 100 days, unused

Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside Expandable Checked Luggage

Travelpro luggage was created by a pilot who wanted to make bags specifically for other pilots and airline crewmembers who were always on the go. The result is a collection of highly durable, quality suitcases including the popular Platinum Elite medium checked suitcase.

Built to last, the luggage is made of heavyweight nylon material that performed well when I tested it for abrasion resistance. When I released the bag repeatedly from our drop tester, it showed no signs of damage or dents. Our testers also gave the suitcase high scores for ease of use and appreciated the sturdy feel of the telescopic handle. The suitcase does have a more traditional look, though, which some testers described as "old-fashioned," sharing that they wished it were sleeker.

Full of thoughtful and functional features, the suitcase makes packing and traveling a breeze. The bag can be unzipped to reveal one large packing compartment with compression panels that secure your belongings in place, a removable wet bag for toiletries, a large mesh zippered pocket in the lid for breathable storage and a built-in suiter to help keep more formal clothes in tip-top shape. To prevent the suitcase from tipping over when it's full, it's also designed with a unique tapered expansion system, so the bag is narrower at the top and broader at the bottom.

Listed dimensions: 25" x 18" x 11.25" | Weight: 9.8 lbs | Material: Softside nylon | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Delsey Paris Helium DLX Softside Expandable Luggage

While some softside luggage is bulky and pricey, this Helium DLX carry-on from Delsey is lightweight, as the name implies, and it's available for a great value. The polyester material isn't quite as durable or substantial as nylon styles we've tested, but the brand's polyester fabric has performed well overall in our abrasion tests without major wear.

Two external zippered pockets allow for easy access to travel essentials like your phone and ID, so you won't have to hold up the TSA line while scouring through your bag. While the bag unzips to expose only one main compartment for packing, it's equipped with a removable bi-fold organizer and expands by two inches for additional room. One tester said, "I love the pockets." Plus, the inner lining can be fully unzipped and removed for easy cleaning.

I personally carry luggage from Delsey and love the smooth wheels and sturdy telescopic handle, and our testers who tried Delsey's luggage found the handle to be comfortable to grip and use. However, they said the bags were more difficult to maneuver through our obstacle course than others they tested.

Listed dimensions: 12" x 17.75" x 28" | Weight: 8.4 lbs | Material: Softside polyester | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

L.L.Bean Adventure Rolling Duffle Bag, 135L

A rolling duffel like this one from L.L.Bean is ideal for longer adventures abroad or for overpackers like me. The duffel isn't as structured as standard suitcases, meaning you can compress it and slide it under your bed or in a closet if you're pressed for storage space — and on the other hand, you can really fill it to the brim when you're packing. Just be careful that you're not stuffing it too much because it can be easy to exceed an airline's weight restrictions.

One GH analyst who loves to travel with this bag said that it's one of her go-to picks for family vacations. With just two wheels, our analyst said it's a little more cumbersome to maneuver than a spinner suitcase, but you also have the option to carry the bag with the padded strap.

The bag has a wide opening for easy access to everything you need inside, and outer compression straps keep everything in place. Made of durable polyester material with a reinforced base, the duffel lasts for years and years without signs of wear, according to our analyst. Plus, it's water-resistant inside and out — perfect for inevitable leaks or wet weather. If you're looking for something smaller, the brand carries a variety of sizes to meet your travel needs.

Listed dimensions: 14" x 17.25" x 32.5" | Weight: 8.8 lbs | Material: Softside polyester | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 1 year

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack

When we evaluated this bag in the Textiles Lab, we were amazed by just how much we could fit inside during our packing tests. Not only did it beat out other travel backpacks we tested, it also outperformed some of our carry-ons because of its spacious interior .

The backpack has a suitcase-style opening and fully unzips to expose a highly organized interior jam-packed with zippered mesh pockets for all of your belongings. It also features a padded laptop sleeve that fits up to a 17-inch computer.

Made of recycled nylon and polyester, the bag is durable and water-resistant. When I tested it for abrasion resistance in the Lab, there were no visible signs of wear. Details like a sternum strap, waist belt and padded mesh provide comfort and support. With backpack straps that tuck neatly inside the back of the bag and carrying straps on all sides, you can easily grab it to lift into an overhead bin.

Some online reviewers wished it was equipped with a water bottle holder and said the zippers can be finicky, but we didn't have issues with them in the Lab.

Listed dimensions: 22" x 12" x 10" | Weight: 3.5 lbs | Material: Softside polyester and nylon | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Calpak Luka Duffel

Able to hold everything you need for a weekend getaway, this weekender from Calpak was the top performer in our Textiles Lab tests. Not only is the bag totally on-trend, thanks to the puffy padded design and fashionable color options, it's also full of functional features . One tester who used it as her personal item on a long trip said, "This bag fits everything I need and more!"

A GH analyst who used the bag added, "I appreciate the well-organized interior," which includes several zippered pockets and elastic storage. Outside, there's a separate shoe compartment, additional zippered pockets and a water bottle holder. Altogether, there are nine pockets, and the spacious bag aced our packing tests.

If you're pairing it with Calpak's popular luggage , this bag has a trolley sleeve that slides right over the telescopic handle of your suitcase. One tester noted that the stitching that secured the sleeve in place started unraveling a bit after just one use. The bag is made of a smooth polyester material that's comfortable to carry and water-resistant. A tester said, "It poured while I was traveling and everything inside this bag stayed perfectly dry."

Listed dimensions: 12" x 16" x 7" | Weight: 2 lbs | Material: Softside polyester | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler 40L Duffel Bag

This convertible duffel from Eagle Creek is the perfect adventure travel companion. The bag is durable, combining polyester and nylon for a water-resistant material that also held up well when tested for abrasion resistance . One GH analyst who travels with this duffel said that it still looks great after years of regular rough and tough use.

It's structured and maintains its shape for easy packing, but the duffel can be compressed to bring inside of your suitcase as an extra bag or for compact storage at home. According to our testers and GH analyst, the zippers have large pull tabs that are easy to use, and, according to the brand, they're covered in water-resistant strips for the ultimate protection in wet weather.

The duffel features a reinforced top handle and grab handles along the sides for carrying, and there are adjustable backpack straps for hands-free use that can be connected for an additional carrying strap or tucked inside the bag. Some online reviewers said the backpack straps are on the thinner side and weren't as comfortable as other traditional travel backpacks, but they appreciated the convenient option.

Listed dimensions: 11.5" x 23.25" x 11" | Weight: 2.5 lbs | Material: Softside polyester and nylon | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Amanda (she/her) researches and reports on products in the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab, ranging from clothing and accessories to home furnishings. She holds undergraduate degrees in apparel merchandising and product development and advertising and marketing communications, as well as a master of science degree in consumer sciences from The Ohio State University. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2022, Amanda was a lecturer for the fashion and retail studies program at Ohio State, where she taught fashion and textiles courses.

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I’m a Professional Gear Reviewer, and I’d Never Buy New Luggage Without Considering These 7 Things

Good luggage should be an investment. before you make a purchase, you’ll want to keep these things in mind..

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Picking the right luggage is easier than ever. Here’s how to start.

Photo by Kingmaya Studio/Shutterstock

Before you purchase a new piece of luggage , you’ll want to consider the kind of traveler you are and the kind of trip you’re taking. Do you pack light or do you like bringing along lots of options? Are you heading to a city or going somewhere off the grid where wheeling a suitcase along dirt paths will be a hassle? If you’re traveling for work, will you need a bag with a laptop compartment?

Most important: Will the luggage fit into the overhead bin on an airplane, a crucial factor considering the increasing cost of checking a bag ? These are the features you’ll want to keep in mind when shopping for your next piece of luggage, whether it’s a large checked bag , a rolling carry-on, or a travel backpack .

Soft shell vs. hard shell

When it comes to rolling suitcases, you can choose from hard-shell polycarbonate or aluminum options, or soft-sided ones typically made with thick nylon. Soft-shell luggage often comes with more pockets and expandable zippers, while hard-shell pieces tend to be more water-resistant and durable.

Backpacks and duffel bags can be made with nylon, canvas, leather, or a combination of all three. Nylon is your most durable and waterproof option. While leather may look great, it weighs more.

The number of wheels

A four-wheeled spinner carry-on can zip through airports with ease and roll down city sidewalks without weighing you down. But some people prefer the ergonomics of pulling a two-wheeled suitcase behind them. If you are heading somewhere more remote, or need to navigate train stations with lots of staircases during your travels, going the no-wheel route with a backpack or duffel bag you can sling across your shoulders may be more efficient.

For international travel, choose a smaller carry-on

Carry-on size restrictions vary from airline to airline, but most domestic carriers allow bags up to 22 x 14 x 9 inches to be placed in overhead bins. (International carriers tend to cap out on bags that are 20 inches in length.) Anything larger will need to be checked, while bags under 18 x 14 x 8 inches can generally fit underneath the seat in front of you. In terms of capacity, carry-ons between 30 and 50 liters tend to be big enough to pack the items you can’t travel without but small enough to fit into overhead compartments.

The overall weight of the bag

Rolling carry-on luggage lacks the bulk it had back in the day, thanks to lightweight polycarbonate shells. But if your airline also imposes strict weight limits on carry-ons, consider ditching the wheels for a travel backpack or duffel bag—both of which will be lighter in weight than a suitcase.

The exchange policy and warranty

Until you take your new bag for a spin, you won’t know if it’s completely right for you. If you’re buying online, check to see if the brand offers a trial period with free returns. While you’re at it, consider its warranty policy too. You don’t want to invest hundreds of dollars in a new bag that can’t be replaced if the shell cracks or the handle breaks.

For example, Away’s limited lifetime warranty covers any damage to the shell, wheels, handles, and zippers of any of its suitcases. I personally had to put this warranty policy to the test. After stacking five other suitcases on top of my original Bigger Carry-On in the car on the way to the airport, a three-inch crack appeared in the top corner of the hard-shell exterior. This could have been a major con to the bag, but when I emailed Away’s customer support line, a representative responded in 20 minutes and helped replace the bag within a week.

Additional features, like pockets and water-resistance

If you’re a business traveler who needs to stay connected on the go, you may want a carry-on suitcase that comes with a laptop compartment. Heading to a damp climate? You’ll want a bag that is water-repellent. And for those who want to stand out at the luggage carousel, consider a brand that offers its bags in a rainbow of colors.

For anyone looking for a backpack or duffel bag instead of a suitcase, look for travel-friendly features like a clamshell opening—rather than a traditional, top-down opening common in hiking backpacks—and hip straps to help distribute the weight. Some bags, like those by Tortuga Backpacks , have removable hip straps, while the popular duffel bags by Patagonia don’t—and aren’t a good option for anyone with back or shoulder pain.

Sustainability of materials or buy secondhand

The most sustainable option is to buy a carry-on secondhand (websites like eBay , Poshmark , and REI’s used gear section are a good place to start your search online). Beyond that, many luggage brands have incorporated repurposed materials—like nylon woven from recycled water bottles—into their bags, while others like Paravel have taken their commitment to sustainability even further by offsetting carbon emissions from manufacturing and shipping.

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The Best Travel Bag Setup For Overpackers

Laura is speaking directly to my soul in our latest YouTube video . After years of travel, she finally nailed down the very best travel bags for fellow overpackers. (Hi, it’s me). And, they all happen to come from Calpak, a brand I’ve been itching to try out and now feel pretty dang confident in. 

Laura’s got options for everyone, too. If you’re like me and bruise like a peach, you might tend to skip the duffle bag situations with those leather handles (IYKYK).  Calpak’s version looks like a  much  comfier fabric, so I’d still be tempted to try it. I’m really leaning towards the backpack in ‘storm’ (that doubles as a duffle) and the mini carry-on , too. They’d make walking through airports and hotels a breeze. I can’t even count on my fingers the amount of times my current bags have failed me and made it  not  a breeze. Laura, THANK YOU.

The Best Travel Setup From Calpak

We’re not done yet. Laura also has bonus pieces that help organize the stuffs  inside  the travel bags. A true travel bag aficionado. Oh, and another plus of Calpak’s bags? They’re just plain old pretty, and the colors make it much easier to detect which bag is yours on the baggage carousel. I mean, look at those metallics…I love it. (Anyone else have a slight panic that they’ll grab someone else’s bag? I can’t be the only one). 

Psst  — curious about all the travel bags Laura covers in the video?  You can find this latest video  here on our YouTube channel . Just click “More” in the description and you’ll find allll of the shopping links.

Danielle & Laura

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Best bags for men 2024: An extensive guide by WIRED

Upgrade your wardrobe without compromising style or function with man bags. check out wired’s guide for the best bags for men 2024..

 Illustration: Umang Sawkar/WIRED Middle East Staff

Has online shopping ever stopped and made you question why are man bags so popular ? While personal bags made specifically for men can be found throughout history, the trend of “man bags” has become increasingly popular since the 2000s thanks to shifting style trends and growth in designs specifically made for men.  

Whether you’re looking for ways to take your outfit to the next level, or are just tired of carrying items around in your pockets, a bag is the perfect accessory fit for style and function. With an array of different options for every occasion, finding the right bag can be a hassle. Here’s our guide to the best bags for men 2024 .  

Quick Access:

How to choose a man bag?

What kind of bags are in style for men, work bags for men, casual and leisure bags for men, travel and outdoor bags for men.

While everybody has varying style and taste, there are a few key factors to always look out for when purchasing a new bag.

• Function : What purpose the bag will fulfill (e.g., work, travel, or sports).
• Frequency : Consider frequency of use. Opt for durable materials or features like water resistance for long-term use.
• Features : Prioritize your must-have features. Some examples include a water bottle pocket, key leash, or built-in charging port.
• Compartments: Does the bag have multiple compartments and organization spaces, or is it one single compartment.
• Price : Evaluate if you’re searching for an economical option, or are willing to spend more on a luxury edition.

With everything from everyday messenger bags for men to designer men’s bags for travel, our guide has something for everyone. Read our extensive list with all the different options for the best bags for men 2024.

In the fashion world, the typical design men’s bags include a range of different styles, with some more popular than the others. For instance, the best work bags for men often feature a messenger or briefcase type design. In more casual settings, belt or sling bags are common choices. If you want to stand out, there are many out of the ordinary options too, like a tribal bag for men . Certain styles from specific brands also come and go in trends. This could be a Guess sling bag for men, or a Gucci messenger bag for men.  For anything sports or travel related, we’ve also covered the best duffle bags for men.

Our best bags for men 2024 guide showcases the full variety of trends and designs that are available for customers.

How to wear men’s bags?

While men’s bags are an accessory of their own, it can be paired in a variety of different ways to uplift any basic outfit. One of the biggest factors to consider when styling is location and purpose. Ensure that you take the appropriate style bag for each respective location. For instance, while a backpack ‘s versatile design makes it fit for any occasion, consider the design elements when making a choice. A sleek design with a solid color may work better for the office, while a larger, colorful design could be better for a hike.

Check out the options on our guide for the best bags for men 2024 to get a gist of the different type of options you could try.

Best office bags for men 

Laptop, messenger, or briefcase — the question everyone asks is what kind of bags do men carry to work ? Here’s our selection of formal bags for men that are perfect for the office . 

Robert Wood – Check Print Laptop Bag

Price : AED 149 

Purchase here

credit: Robert Wood/Namshi

Laptop bags for men are a popular option for office-goers as it offers a secure place for your electronics. With one big main compartment for easy access, this compact design from Robert Wood provides a mix of style and functionality. This specific office bag for men comes with a checkered design and a detachable shoulder strap, alongside two handlebars.

Calvin Klein – Laptop Bag in Quilted Faux-leather

Price : AED 875

Purchase  here

Credit: Calvin Klein

If you’re looking to spend more for an option that provides long durability, then consider this Calvin Klein laptop bag. While many laptop messenger bags for men come in flashy colors and designs, if you’re looking for something more classic, then this bag is a a good fit. With it’s clean, minimalistic design the faux leather bag offers a timeless look. It has multiple internal compartments for ample organization and the shoulder strap is also detachable.

Montblanc – Meisterstück neo briefcase

Price : AED 8,400

Credit: Montblanc

If luxury is more your style, rest assured that there are plenty of designer men’s bags for work. Particularly, this briefcase by Montblanc is a great option if you’re opting for a traditional look. The bag has the distinct front flap that classic business bags for men often have. This same design is also available in blue, and that version is priced at AED 7,500. You can purchase that edition here .

How to pack a good office bag for men  

When packing for the office, it’s important to think about what your role entails you to carry. However, some essentials are useful for everyone no matter their job. Some of these items include chargers for electronics, water bottles, any important medication, and some basic stationary, like pens. For smaller miscellaneous items, it may be helpful to carry a smaller pouch to ensure no items get lost.

Looking for something new for your daily use? Our casual bag selection on this best bags for men 2024 guide has an array of products for you to browse through. An everyday sling, a new clutch, or a hand bag for men — all the options are available.

Nike – Jordan Rise Festival Bag 

Price : AED 125

Credit: Nike

While a sling bag for men may come in varying sizes, smaller sizes tend to be designed for easy, grab-and-go everyday use. This Nike sling bag for men is the perfect example of a compact design that can keep up with your busy routine. There’s two zipped compartments that offer ample space to place your essentials like your wallet or keys.

Under Armour – Loudon Lite Crossbody

Price : AED 129

Credit: Under Armour

If chest bags for men is more your style, then look no further than this Under Armour cross bag for men. It has two main zipped compartments and adjustable straps. In fact, if you ever want to switch things up, the straps allow you to modify the bag from a crossbody style to a mini backpack. The black color also provides you the flexibility to style it with any outfit. The bag is also water repellent, ensuring your items stay dry. 

Comme Des Garçons – Tartan patchwork clutch

Price : AED 436

Credit: Comme Des Garçons

This branded clutch bag for men from Comme Des Garçons offers a distinctive checkered, patchwork style that is available in two colors. Priced at AED 430, the second version follows a red and green color scheme and can be purchased here.

Coach – League Belt Bag in Signature Canvas

Price : AED 1,950

Credit: Coach

When choosing a belt bag for men, companies often feature similar design and color schemes. However, if you’d like to stand out, then designer bags may be the option for you. If you’re searching for luxury alternatives to classic designs, then this Coach belt bag for men is one great option. Among the many best designer bags for men, Coach has a wide variety for the belt bag style. For this specific item, they offer a total of three color variations — blue, green, and black. All variations are priced the same. The bag features two separate zipped compartments and is made from a mix of leather and jacquard.

PUMA – Fit Duffel Bag

Price : AED 229

Credit: Puma

When searching for football bags for men, duffel bags like this PUMA option are a popular choice. The 28-litre size of this duffel bag ensures that there is more than enough room for all your gym necessities. In addition to the main compartment, a zipped pocket can also be found at the front, perfect for any items that require quick access. The bag is also available in white for the same price, which can be purchased here .  It’s also a suitable option if you’re searching for a new gym bag for men.

Which luggage bags are best?

Personal travel bags are an important addition for any trip, as they ensure your necessities stay close. The style of a s ide bag for men tends to be popular when you’re on the go. Which is why duffels and messenger bags tend to be popular for simple and easy travel. Whether you’re on the hunt for the perfect suitcase or the best mens shoulder bags for travel, our list of options will ensure you travel in style. Here are the best bags for men 2024, travel and outdoor edition.

Arctic Hunter – Foldable Duffel Bag

Price : AED 155

Credit: Arctic Hunter

This is the best weekender bag for men for any trip no matter how long or short. It’s water-resistance capabilities make it suitable for outdoor adventures. It has multiple compartments, including a separate side space for shoes. The shoulder strap is detachable and the bag can also be folded away for easy storage when not in use.

TUMI – William Backpack 

Price : AED 2,440

Credit: TUMI

Among the classic bags for men, backpacks tend to top the list. And while popular bags for frequent business travellers range from styles like suitcases to weekender bags, a backpack is a tried and trusted item. This backpack from TUMI offers variety in different sized compartments, as well as features like a key leash and luggage sleeve. It can fit laptops up to 15 inches large and also has specifics like a key leash and also has some smart features like a built-in USB port for charging on the go. TUMI also has a feature called ‘TUMI Tracer” which provides customers the ability to locate lost items with the help of a unique code found on every product.

Quechua – Hiking backpack NH Arpenaz 100

Price : AED 115

Credit: Quechua

This backpack by Quechua checks all the boxes for any adventure seeker. Specifically designed for hikes , the bag offers over five different compartments, ensuring there’s space for all the essentials for any journey near or far. Other smaller details include sufficient back padding that allow ventilation, as well as outer elastics that can hang jackets.

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The 15 Best Crossbody Bags That Make Traveling a Breeze

Hands-free is the way to go

Every product on this page was chosen by a Harper's BAZAAR editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

When you’re traveling, nothing is more convenient than a good crossbody bag . Whether I’m headed for a short domestic flight to Chicago or on a trip to Portugal, having a compact bag that holds everything I need is a must.

Finding the perfect crossbody is not always an easy task, so we called in a travel expert: Camiel Irving, general manager of Uber Mobility in the United States and Canada. According to Irving, one of the most important things to consider is the bag’s size. “I try to travel light, so the best crossbody is big enough to carry all of my essentials (phone, passport, lip color, hand sanitizer), but small enough to not weigh me down,” she says. “I opt for versatile colors and textures, with a strap that can be worn a few ways, so that the same bag can take me from a client meeting to dinner with friends.”

Aside from size and versatility, when shopping for a travel-ready bag, it’s important to pay attention to interior and exterior features. (Personally, I’m a sucker for some zip pockets.) Finally, you want to look for a bag that is extremely secure with zip-top or button-flap closure. Sorry, pickpockets!

Best Everyday Crossbody Bag

A.p.c. betty crossbody bag.

Most Sustainable Crossbody Bag

Cuyana double loop bag.

Best Nylon Crossbody Bag

Prada re-nylon shoulder bag.

To make your adventures a little easier, have a look at the 15 best crossbody bags to make for easy, breezy traveling . Once you find your forever style, it’s a game changer.

The A.P.C. Betty is my personal favorite. It holds all my essentials and never feels too heavy, even when I’m walking around a new city for hours on end. I have owned this bag for over six years now, and the stiff leather barely shows any sign of wear or tear. And it’s even compact enough to throw into my personal item on a flight, so I don’t have to worry about extra baggage.

Materials: Leather

Dimensions: 8" W x 7" L x 2.4" D

Colors: Brown, black

Cuyana excels at creating leather goods with purpose. The Double Loop bag is made from Italian leather—certified by the Leather Working Group—and produced in a woman-owned factory in Turkey, which has been in operation since the 15th century. The brand’s minimal designs, like this crossbody, are always in my suitcase because they’re guaranteed to work with any outfit I wear.

Dimensions: 8" H x 9.5" W x 5.5" D

Colors: Dark olive, black, cappuccino, ecru, and more

I like traveling with nylon bags since they don’t feel too precious. Prada’s version is a classic, reimagined in its Re-Nylon, which is produced from recycled, purified plastic materials. It has plenty of organizational pockets for all my necessities, too, so I am fully prepared for a full day of wandering.

Materials: 100% recycled nylon

Dimensions: 15" H x 23" W x 7" L

Colors: Black

Il Bisonte Salina Leather Crossbody Bag

Slow fashion is key to Il Bisonte’s work. The brand’s leather products are made by hand in Tuscany, Italy, by skilled artisans who use vegetable-tanned cowhide in an effort to produce leather more sustainably. This minimalist Salina crossbody looks like a vintage bag I’d stumble upon in a Parisian flea market. And the retro design isn’t clunky, making it ideal for a day of gallery hopping.

Materials: Cowhide leather

Dimensions: 9.5" H x 10" W x 3.5" D

Colors: Avorio, caramel, nero

Loewe Gate Dual Mini Crossbody Bag

Loewe’s Gate Dual Mini is a no-brainer. It is stylish and compact, with a jacquard canvas strap that is thick, soft, and won’t rub on the shoulder. It’s also available in a bevy of rich colorways, so there is something for everyone. I love the olive green paired with a white tee, black jeans, and blue button-up.

Materials: Leather, cotton/polyester strap

Dimensions: 5.1" H x 8.3" W x 3.5" D

Colors: Green, tan, beige, peach, and more

Longchamp Le Foulonné Small Crossbody Bag

Longchamp’s Le Foulonné bag has a top zip closure, so belongings won’t spill out while you’re zipping through security. The fabric lining inside also makes for easy cleaning in case of spillage—so there’s no need to worry about mini TSA-approved perfume bottles or a rogue uncapped lipstick making a mess.

Dimensions: 7.75" H x 7.75" W x 2" D

Colors: Caramel, turtle dove, black, and more

Chloé Marcie Medium Crossbody Bag

Chloé’s Marcie bag has been a permanent fixture in the brand’s collection, for good reason. It’s a roomy crossbody shape that fits all the essentials for travel: passport, wallet, phone, and keys. The stitching and simple hardware give it a slight bohemian-meets-equestrian feel. I’d take this one on my summer travels and pair it with airy, cotton dresses and lace-up sandals in the Mediterranean, or to the countryside in the fall while wearing a blazer, jeans, and cowboy boots.

Dimensions: 10.2" H x 11.4" W x 3.5" D

Colors: Tan, black, light gray

Bottega Veneta Intrecciato Leather Crossbody Bag

Bottega Veneta’s Intrecciato crossbody bag is a worthy investment. The thick, supple leather strap sits comfortably on the shoulder. But most importantly, it’s also removable, so the bag easily converts to a clutch

Dimensions: 5" H x 8.5" W x 2" D

Colors: Porridge-gold, white gold, teal washed silver, and more

The Row Small Slouchy Banana Bag

The Row makes a bag that is a personal favorite of Irving’s. She tells us, “I love [this bag] because it sits securely in the front, is easy to access, and the relaxed leather adds some intrigue to any outfit.”

Materials: Leather, suede

Dimensions: 4.75" x 13.75" x 7"

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Why trust Harper’s Bazaar ?

For more than 150 years, Harper’s Bazaar has been the preeminent fashion, beauty, and lifestyle resource for women at every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in fashion by working with the world’s leading authorities in ready-to-wear, footwear, accessories, and more. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of editors and industry experts.

Gaby Keiderling is a freelance writer, working on fashion, lifestyle, travel, and sports features.

Michella Oré is the fashion commerce editor at Harper's Bazaar . Previously, she was the style commerce writer at GQ and associate producer at Vogue . Her writing has been published in i-D , 10 Magazine , and WWD .

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The 12 Best Luggage Pieces for International Travel of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

From flexible softside suitcases to durable hardside options, these are the best luggage pieces for jetting off abroad.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

With the enormous variety of luggage options available today, it can feel overwhelming to pick the right bag for an international trip . To help you find the perfect piece for your needs, the Travel + Leisure team tested more than 600 travel bags, from carry-ons and checked suitcases to duffels, weekenders, and backpacks.

We built an airplane set in our New York City lab to lift bags into overhead bins and see how well they fit beneath real airplane seats, hit bags with baseball bats to test their durability, and maneuvered them through obstacle courses to see how easy they are to roll. For this list, we prioritized bags that work with general international size and weight limits, as many international carriers have stricter requirements for both.

Whether you’re heading on a two-week European vacation or a shorter trip on an airline with restrictive policies, there’s an option on our list for every type of traveler, from a collapsible checked suitcase to a compact garment bag.

Best Overall

July large luggage.

This bag has the largest capacity on this list and a great compression system so you can fit everything you need for your international getaway.

The suitcase weighs 10.5 pounds on its own, so be mindful of packing heavy items so you don’t go over your airline’s weight limit.

If you’re going away for a long international trip and want to bring along all the comforts of home, this spacious suitcase is large enough to hold two weeks worth of your favorite outfits and plenty of shoe options, too. The largest bag in July's entire range of luggage , this suitcase has a built-in compression feature that is durable enough to keep clothes from falling out regardless of which side you open it from. It also has many zippered pockets that are great for keeping smaller items organized, a laundry bag, and a water-resistant and stain-proof nylon lining. Just keep in mind that the bag may go over your airlines’ weight limit if you pack it full since it’s pretty large.

We were especially impressed with how smooth the wheels glided over various surfaces during our tests, seamlessly transitioning from concrete pavers to carpet and maneuvering easily through our human obstacle course. Despite its large size, the bag was easy to roll around people, and the handle was easy to pull without leaving a strain on our arms or backs, even when packed full. We also loved how the handle has the ability to adjust to any height rather than set modes, so it’s customizable for different family members to share. The outer shell felt pretty sturdy, although there were some light scuffs and grazes after we threw it off a counter multiple times fully packed. However, the contents inside didn’t budge, and the bag did not dent even after we hit it repeatedly with a metal baseball bat.

The Details: Checked suitcase | 30.25 x 19.75 x 12.5 inches | 10.5 pounds | 110-liter capacity | 4 dual spinner wheels

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Best Large Carry-on

Samsonite freeform carry-on spinner.

The wheels glide effortlessly over all sorts of terrain, and the suitcase itself is featherweight yet boasts a generous capacity.

There aren’t any smart features, which business travelers may need.

Frequent flyers will love this ultralightweight, 21-inch hardside carry-on from Samsonite . We can attest to this — we recently retested this bag in our lab to see if we loved it as much as we did two years ago when we first tried it out. During both tests, it exceeded all of our expectations. Even when fully packed, it’s a breeze to hoist over your head on flights. Built with four 360-degree spinner wheels, it stands out for how effortlessly it glides over everything from carpet to curbs, easily navigating road bumps and smoothly transitioning from two to four wheels. It also held up well to all of our durability tests, showing no signs of damage after being thrown off a table and hit with a baseball bat on both occasions.

While there aren’t any smart features, like a built-in power bank, there are plenty of handy extras like a recessed TSA-approved lock, compression straps, a small zippered pouch to store your delicates, and a one-inch expander. While there’s already ample space to fit a week’s worth of clothing in the zippered compartment, the expander is primarily excellent for freeing up some extra space for souvenirs. You can scoop this bag up in 14 vibrant jewel tones, and can even opt to make it a set with the addition of a 28-inch checked bag . "It's really just a reliable little suitcase," T+L editor Taylor Fox says.

The Details: Carry-on | 21.25 x 15.25 x 10 inches | 6.5 pounds | 34-liter capacity | Expandable | 4 dual spinner wheels

• PHOTO: Tripsavvy / Vicky Wasik
• PHOTO: Jhett Thompson

Best Small Carry-on

Delsey chatelet air 2.0 carry-on spinner.

Its smaller size should adhere to international airline's stricter size restrictions for carry-ons.

It’s a bit pricey given its compact size.

Light packers, look no further than this compact suitcase from Delsey. The iconic French brand is known for its lightweight and ultradurable suitcases , and this carry-on is another excellent example. It’s ideal for weekend getaways or business trips, as it includes a USB port and is packed with organizational features to help keep your belongings in their proper place.

On one side, there’s a zippered compartment which we found to be perfect for storing midweight jackets and a few pairs of shoes. The other half of the suitcase features compression straps, which worked well to help maximize packing space. We loved how easy it was to stay organized using this suitcase: there’s a mesh zippered pocket for separating delicates; a laundry and a shoe bag; and a discrete pocket hidden in the lining, which makes for a great place to store currency if you’re not using a hotel safe. We also love the antimicrobial lining, which helps to reduce any lingering odors. While the price tag may seem steep given that this is a smaller bag, it’s a tribute to Delsey’s legacy of standing by its luxury pieces — the brand offers a 10-year limited warranty.

The Details: Carry-on | 21.75 x 13.75 x 10 inches | 6.39 pounds | 38-liter capacity | Expandable | 4 dual spinner wheels

Hartmann Reserve Medium Trunk

The organizational features are clever and well thought-out.

At just over 14 pounds, it's quite heavy even when empty.

Trunk suitcases are ideal for long-haul trips because they tend to have spacious capacities and sturdy construction. This Hartmann trunk is no exception, offering plenty of space for your things while keeping them secure wherever your travels take you. It's incredibly spacious and has many organizational features inside that make it a neat packer's dream. "This is one of the most organized pieces of luggage I've ever seen," says T+L testing editor Jackie Cucco , adding that "everything has a little home" inside.

This trunk has a 50/50 opening so each side is the same size. One side has three built-in dividers that you can snap into place or remove if they're in the way. You can close the side with a zippered divider that has two large zippered waterproof pockets for smaller items or toiletries. The other side of the suitcase is an open compartment that comes with a large removable pouch that you can use as a garment bag . The trunk also comes with two large packing cubes and a shoe bag that fits inside the removable pouch. All of these items are designed to fit in the suitcase to maximize your space, which is a thoughtful touch we appreciated during testing. Once fully packed, everything feels extremely secure. This trunk is bulky and heavy to carry but maneuvers surprisingly well. Overall, we feel it's an excellent trunk for travelers who want to prioritize organization.

The Details: Checked suitcase | 16.93 x 13.78 x 25.98 inches | 14.11 pounds | 4 dual spinner wheels

Best Medium Checked

Travelpro maxlite air medium check-in hardside spinner.

The built-in compression panels and 2-inch expander help fit even more into this medium-size checked bag.

We wish the handle could be adjusted a bit shorter to accommodate travelers of different heights.

A medium checked bag can be the perfect go-to piece of luggage for just about any trip, and our favorite is the Travelpro Maxlite Air Medium Check-in Hardside Spinner. This bag easily fit everything on our packing lists with very little thought given to organization thanks to the built-in compression panels. It also expands 2 inches so you could give yourself even more room if needed for longer trips.

While this is a high-capacity bag, it's still lightweight and easy to maneuver (although we wish the handle could adjust to more than just two heights). We love how easily the wheels glide over any surface. We were even able to smoothly twirl the bag as well as both push and pull it over carpeting, concrete, and more. After our durability testing, it shows one minor scuff but otherwise looks great, and all of the items inside were well-protected.

The Details: Checked suitcase | 27.5 x 17.5 x 11 inches | 8.5 pounds | 89-liter capacity | 4 dual spinner wheels

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

Best Large Capacity

Briggs & riley extra large trunk spinner.

This trunk is the largest bag on this list and can easily be shared by multiple people.

Because it's so large, it may be hard to stay within your airline's weight limit when packed full.

If you need a large checked bag that's up to the challenge of keeping your things safe, it'll be hard to find an option better than this one from Briggs & Riley . This substantial trunk is the largest on this list and was dubbed an "absolute monster" during testing (in a good way) for its 123.9-liter capacity and 32.5-inch height. We were able to fit our entire packing list easily and felt like we could fit it again four times over if needed, making this a great option for people who are going on long trips or packing for a family.

This bag has an 80/20 lid that opens to reveal two deep compartments with compression panels and zippered pockets. The polycarbonate hardside shell did dent when we hit it with a baseball bat during testing, but we still feel like this bag is more than strong enough to protect your things during travel. We were a little worried about navigating this bag due to its size, but we found it surprisingly easy to wheel around even when packed full. The bag itself only weighs about 10 pounds when empty, which leaves you lots of wiggle room to pack within your airline's allotted weight limit, although the massive interior of the bag can make it difficult to do this. Overall, we were impressed with the size and maneuverability of this bag, and we think it's an excellent option for anyone who needs a lot of space in their checked luggage.

The Details:  Checked suitcase | 32.5 x 16.5 x 15.5 inches | 10.4 pounds | 123.9-liter capacity | 4 dual spinner wheels

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Best Softside

Samsonite elevation plus large softside spinner.

This softside bag has more flexibility than most hardside bags if you tend to overpack.

The handle can be a bit difficult to adjust.

We love this spacious suitcase, designed with multiple interior and exterior pockets to keep all of your items organized. Because it's a softside bag , it has a bit of give that naturally expands as you need to make sure it easily zips closed. While this suitcase is rather heavy at 10 pounds, it wasn't overly cumbersome. It was easy to pull and push the bag over different surfaces as the weight evenly distributed itself. We also love the thick exterior fabric of the bag that proved to be tear and scuff-resistant throughout our durability tests. The handle was the only feature that seemed less sturdy as it got caught on occasion, but worked well when needed. Whether you're planning a long trip or short trip, this is a high-quality, functional bag that is sure to withstand anything you throw at it.

The Details: Checked suitcase | 29.8 x 20 x 11.5 inches | 10 pounds | 4 dual spinner wheels

Best Carry-on Backpack

Cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.

This backpack has plenty of packing space and is comfortable to carry.

There is minimal structure, so you have to pack strategically to avoid sagging.

It's a tall order to find a backpack that can replace your carry-on bag, but the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack is up to the challenge. We love this bag so much that we voted it the best overall out of all the carry-on backpacks we've tested , with perfect performance in all our testing categories. This bag opens like a suitcase, so it's easy to pack like one, too. It has a relatively unstructured style, but we found this useful for squishing things into every last bit of space. There are several zippered pockets and compartments for organization and help keep everything in its place. It also has a designated laptop pocket.

The shell of this backpack is made from TPU-coated 1000D polyester and comes with a rain cover to ensure your belongings stay dry. It's easy to lift at any angle, thanks to handles on all four sides. The back is padded and comfortable for extended periods of wear and has a waist belt for additional support while traveling. We think this is a fantastic bag for replacing your carry-on if you're comfortable packing light and don't want to wheel a suitcase around.

The Details:  22 x 12 x 10 inches | 2.94 pounds | 35-liter capacity

• PHOTO: Travel + leisure / Jhett Thompson

Best Weekender

Béis the weekender.

There’s a separate, sturdy base compartment for your shoes and any other travel essentials.

It’s close to carry-on size, which may feel too large for some travelers.

Beis’ Weekender is the go-to of frequent flyers who want form and function. It’s got the brand’s signature functionality features , like a separate bottom compartment for shoes, toiletries, or your dirty laundry bag, plus a padded laptop sleeve, several small internal pockets, and more. There’s a removable shoulder strap along with a back zip-pocket that converts into a trolley sleeve for easy transport, too. While it’s got a bit of heft to it even while empty, its sturdiness is appreciated — unlike so many duffel-style bags, it won’t slip off of your suitcase even if you’re sprinting through the airport.

We love the bottom zippered compartment, which is perfect for storing toiletries or shoes separately so you don’t need to worry about leakage or dirtying your wardrobe. It’s one of several pockets and compartments that set this bag apart as an organizational hero for us, as small pouches are excellent for storing small essentials like keys, while larger pockets are perfect for tucking delicates, socks, and more.

The Details: 19 x 9.8 x 15.7 inches | 3.86 pounds | 49-liter capacity

Best Duffel

Patagonia black hole 40l duffel bag.

Versatile carrying straps allow you to wear this as a backpack as well as a duffel.

The glossy look of the water-resistant exterior may not appeal to everyone’s sense of style.

Looking for a duffel that can function as either a carry-on or personal item ? How about one that also converts into a carry-on backpack for versatile carrying options? If so, you’ll love Patagonia’s Black Hole Duffel as much as we do. It boasts a 40-liter capacity and a spacious pocket under the lid, as well as external zippered compartments for easy access to travel essentials like your passport and boarding pass. The rugged, ripstop fabric is thick to the touch and didn’t scratch or scuff in the slightest during our durability testing. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate that this lightweight duffel is ready to take on any adventure thanks to its extremely water-resistant construction — plus, it’s made from eco-friendly recycled materials. Best of all, it collapses down into a small inner pocket for easy, convenient storage in between trips.

The Details: 21 x 13.7 x 10.6 inches | 2.8 pounds | 40-liter capacity | Lifetime warranty

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Nick Kova

Best Rolling Duffel

Eagle creek cargo hauler.

You can choose to either roll or carry this duffel, and it comes with a handy packing cube for easy organization.

There’s no frame to support the bag, so it won’t stand up on its own.

Designed with an extremely large capacity, this 130-liter duffel is spacious enough to fit multiple weeks' worth of clothing with ease (if you’re flying with it, just be sure to check your airline’s weight restrictions). Heavy-duty external compression straps keep everything in place, while extra rugged wheels are made to ease the pain of lugging heavy loads across campsites or through the airport. We loved the storage bag that’s included, which you can use as a packing cube to help keep things organized.

There’s no exterior frame to support this bag when standing upright — and while this may be an inconvenience to some, we found it to be a huge plus because it makes the bag supremely lightweight for its large size. It’s also easier to wear as a backpack because of this, as there’s no hard frame digging into your back if you opt to convert the bag.

The Details: Checked bag | 34 x 13.75 x 15 inches | 4.7 pounds | 130-liter capacity | 2 wheels

Amazon Basics Hardside Spinner Set

It’s an unbeatable price point for a set of three durable, minimalist suitcases.

The material looks a bit basic and is visibly branded with the Amazon logo.

When it comes to getting a great value for your money, nothing compares to this sleek and sturdy set from Amazon Basics. While we only tested the 21-inch carry-on, we were so impressed by it in two separate lab tests that we’re confident in the quality of the matching set, which includes a 21-inch carry-on, a 26-inch checked bag, and a 30-inch checked bag — all of which conveniently nest into each other for easy storage when not in use. For smoothly maneuvering this set through the airport, there are many gadgets that make it easy to carry multiple bags at once.

During testing, we found that the four spinner wheels could easily tackle bumps and sharp turns, rolling smoothly over carpets, pavement, hardwood floors, and more. We also appreciate the variety of storage compartments, which include three zippered compartments for convenient organization. The carry-on is quite roomy as well, easily fitting a week’s worth of clothes without even using the expander thanks to the compression straps. Once expanded, it offers an additional 2 inches of luggage space. Assuming all bags are the same quality as the carry-on size, we think this is a great set for the traveler on a budget.

The Details: 3-piece set | 14.8 x 10 x 21.7 inches (21-inch), 17.8 x 11.3 x 26.8 inches (26-inch), 20.7 x 12.6 x 30.7 inches (30-inch) | 7.3 pounds (21-inch), 9.4 pounds (26-inch), 11.7 pounds (30-inch) | Expandable | 4 dual spinner wheels

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Vicky Wasik
• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Tamara Staples
• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure/Joy Kim

Other Luggage We Liked

We've tested so many pieces of luggage that there are some other pieces we can recommend for some travelers, although they weren't quite suited for our main list.

Calpak Hue Trunk Luggage : Though we love the Hartmann trunk in our main list above because it has better organizational features for a long trip, this is another great trunk option for a lower price — and it’s expandable. That being said, the top and side handles extended pretty far and pinched our hands during testing.

Tumi International Dual Access 4-wheeled Carry-on : Dual-access compartments are convenient for accessing your belongings, but ultimately we docked points as they eat into the main compartment space in this compact carry-on.

Béis The 29-inch Large Check-in Roller : While we love how capacious and chic this roller bag from Béis is, we found that it scuffed too easily in our durability testing.

Arlo Skye The Frame Carry-on : This carry-on is compact yet spacious and comes with a removable charger, but the wheels and handle didn't function as smoothly as some other bags on this list.

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Peak Design Travel Backpack : Generously sized and comfortable to carry for long periods, this is a great backpack for outdoor enthusiasts. However, the sporty aesthetic may not appeal to everyone's sense of style.

Beis The Small Carry-on Roller : This little bag provided a decent amount of packing space for its size, and we thought it would be useful for staying organized on short trips. That being said, the wheels didn't roll smoothly, and it was hard to maneuver.

The T+L team tested more than 600 carry-on and checked suitcases, and other travel bags including backpacks, duffels, and more in our New York City lab. We recreated an airplane set to best test carry-on bags just like we would on a real plane. Our first task was weighing the bags ourselves to make sure they were in line with their product descriptions, and then we performed a range of tests to assess the capacity, design, value, and durability of the bags. We also took careful note of their maneuverability, portability, and how comfortable they are to carry. We packed each size with a different amount of clothing and toiletries, from a week’s worth of essentials for a checked bag to two days of clothing for weekenders.

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

To see how the bags would perform in a real-life setting, we rolled them around on a variety of different floor types, including an obstacle course designed to test their maneuverability. We also hoisted them into overhead bins on our mock airplane, slung them over our shoulders, and stuffed them under real airplane seats. Next, for durability testing, we shoved each piece off a high countertop repeatedly and struck it all over with a metal baseball bat in order to evaluate potential wear and tear. The pieces that earned the best feedback in all testing categories were selected for this roundup. After our initial tests, we continued to see how the bags fared over the course of six months in the real world.

Tips for Buying a Suitcase for International Travel

Choose a size that’s right for your travels.

It’s crucial to consider what kind of journey you’re most apt to take when searching for the ideal international luggage. After all, three months of continent-hopping calls for a very different set up from a week-long trip to a cosmopolitan capital. If you’re prone to shorter jaunts or know yourself to be a light packer, consider a classic carry-on or something even more compact, like a weekender bag. If you’ll be traveling longer term or have a hard time paring down your outfit options, opt for a larger carry-on or a checked bag.

Look for lightweight construction

No one wants to waste their baggage weight limit on a hefty piece of luggage. For softside suitcases, polyester and nylon materials are often the most lightweight, while hardside shells made of polycarbonate, polypropylene, and ABS are great options as well. Standard carry-ons weigh in around seven pounds, with the lightest-weight options ranging from 4.5 to 6.5 pounds when empty. Checked suitcases are slightly heavier, typically ranging from eight to 11 pounds. If you’re looking for something seriously lightweight, consider alternative options to a classic suitcase — think duffels, weekenders, or backpacks, which can weigh as little as two or three pounds.

Typically, the weight limit for carry-on luggage is around 35 pounds domestically, although carry-on weight limits are often only enforced on budget airlines. International flights may have stricter restrictions, so be sure to check your airline. When it comes to checked luggage, the rule of thumb is 50 pounds — but you can usually pack up to 70 pounds for an added cost .

Decide what organizational features you need

Suitcases are evolving to make packing easier than ever, boasting everything from designated laundry bags to zippered pockets for your tiniest trinkets. Some add-ons may be more relevant to your travel style — compression boards and packing cubes could be non-negotiables for overpackers, while tech lovers may have easy-access exterior pockets and charging ports at the top of the list. And remember, if you fall in love with a suitcase that doesn’t have everything you need — say, compression compartments or built-in security — you can always buy packing cubes or a combination lock separately.

Frequently Asked Questions

International airlines each have their own size and weight limits for baggage, so your best bet is to always look up your specific carrier’s requirements. But, generally speaking, a 21-inch carry-on (considered an “international” carry-on, as opposed to the standard, “domestic” 22-inch size) is a safe bet for most airlines both domestic and abroad.

There’s a whole bunch of stuff you can’t bring in your suitcase — just take a peek at TSA’s Instagram account for a glimpse (and a good laugh). Other than the obvious ones, like weapons or explosives, there are some specific items that are prohibited in carry-ons and checked luggage alike when traveling internationally, from certain amounts of liquids to alcoholic beverages, e-cigarettes, meats, dairy products, drones, and more. If you’re not sure about a certain item, be sure to check your airline’s (and destination’s) guidelines before packing.

Oftentimes, yes! While most domestic carry-ons can weigh up to 40 pounds (and may never be weighed), many international airlines only allow carry-on bags of up to 22 pounds (10 kilograms) and could strictly enforce this. You can often purchase more capacity ahead of time for a discounted price, but be sure to keep the restrictions in mind if you’ll be puddle jumping frequently, as the baggage costs can add up quickly. Checked luggage typically has the same weight limit internationally, offering up to 50 pounds before added fees kick in.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this article, T+L contributor Sophie Dodd researched every aspect of luggage suited to international travel, from TSA-approved dimensions to key organizational features and which materials are the most lightweight. She also relied on testing insights from the T+L team, who spent six months analyzing each bag on this list. We will continue updating this article as we test more bags worth recommending for an international trip.

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.

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Best Sling Bags: Top Picks for Travel, EDC, and Outdoor Activities

Ah, the sling bag, the one accessory that's always meant to be kept close to the heart. It's smaller than a backpack and more in vogue than the fanny pack was in the ’90s. Everybody who's anybody should have at least one handy.

These wonderful multipurpose bags have been around for a long time but earned their modern-day moment in the sun with the promotion of skiing fanny packs in the 1950s and then on the bodies of celebs and influencers throughout the 2010s. Their smaller size, ergonomic design, and sheer versatility make them the ideal travel buddy, everyday carry partner, and intrepid explorer when braving the outdoors.

The only problem with the sling bag is that there are just too many fantastic designs and brands to choose from.

Don't worry, though—we've got you covered. This article will list the best sling bags (be they sling backpacks, fanny packs, or crossbody slings) and the awesome brands behind them. No matter the mood or the occasion, there's bound to be a bag that's the perfect match for you.

Top Picks for Best Sling Bags

Let's start things off with our absolute favorite choices for the top sling bags out there today.

1. Canvelle Sling Bag

Canvelle is, for our money, simply the best brand out there—not just for slings, but for all bags in general. A sling bag from their catalog is not only a unique fashion statement but also practical and perfectly suited for everyday use.

Take, for instance, Canvelle's black sling bag . It's a strong statement with the perfect touch of class, in its splashes of gold on the zipper and strap clasps. The sleek contours of the triangular shape are designed to fit seamlessly on the front or back. Its performance fabrics are not only durable but also sustainable, as they're made from up to 19 recycled bottles.

Combine that with water-resistant lining and exterior pockets, and you've got a bag for all seasons and occasions.

And let's face it, black never goes out of style.

2. The North Face Isabella Sling

The North Face needs no introduction. From fashion to outdoor accessories, their name has become synonymous with outdoor style and practicality. Their Women's Isabella Sling is yet another fantastic addition to their catalog.

As you would expect from an outdoor bag, the Isabella Sling is specially designed to fit tightly yet comfortably around the body. The adjustable strap comes with a padded shoulder for extra comfort and distributed weight, while the recycled heathered polyester fabric and boot material are more than capable of shrugging off outdoor weather conditions and scrapes. The muted color choices also blend well with any environment and outfit.

The multiple pockets and slips on the Isabella Sling allow for easy storage of items and can work just as well holding lip balm as they do a compass. The 9-liter carry capacity is further enhanced by internal mesh pockets.

It's perfect not only for the wild jungle but for the concrete one, too.

3. Peak Design Everyday Sling 3L

Peak Design knows that you love your camera and want to take it with you everywhere. But it also understands that you need to keep it close and protected. The Everyday Sling is a bag for photographers but works just as well for everyday use.

The Everyday Sling ranges in size from 1.5 to 10 liters. The 3-liter model, though, is where it's at in terms of functionality and portability. The padded strap is easily adjustable, so you can access your lenses easily when shooting or tighten it for extra security when on the move.

The interior of the bag comes complete with stretchy pockets and internal dividers, which make it easy to pack any gear inside. The exterior has a minimalist synthetic finish, which is perfect for an understated look.

4. Cotopaxi Luzon Del Dia Sling

Sling bags range from petite to substantial. Big is truly beautiful with Cotopaxi Luzon's addition to the list: the Del Dia. At first glance, you might be mistaken for thinking this brightly colored accessory is a backpack, but look closer, and you'll see how truly diverse the world of sling bags can be.

The Del Dia sling sports a generous 13-liter carry capacity, which makes it ideal for those days spent outdoors wandering the wilderness. The padded strap begins in the middle of the bag, and the dual-sided D-rings make it a comfortable fit on the left shoulder or the right. For heavier loads, you can also rely on carry handles or the load lifter strap.

Storage-wise, the TPU-coated nylon exterior protects goods from harsh weather. The bag boasts a large main compartment for bulky items, plus multiple smaller zippered pockets for all the additional extras you may need on a day out.

5. KAVU Rope Sling

Did you ever fall in love with the design of a bag only to have your heart broken by the limited color options? Well, KAVU's Rope Sling Bags will save you the pain. This nifty 10-liter sling comes in a whopping 40 colors and designs to choose from. From plain colors to vibrant floral patterns, there's bound to be something to suit your aesthetic.

Fun designs aside, the durable fabric of the Rope Sling is made from water-resistant 600D polyester. It's ideal for both everyday use and more rigorous outdoor activities. Two vertical zip compartments make storing and organizing a breeze, while additional slip pockets are ideal for cellphones, memory cards, or house keys.

Finally, as the name implies, the strap of the Rope Sling is, well, you guessed it, made from rope. The adjustable rope strap and release buckle allow the bag to be carried in the front or back, or even in your hand.

6. Nomatic Navigator Sling 6L

Those facing the crush and crowds of the urban commute will tell you that it's not for the faint of heart. It's also a job for a specialized sling, and that's where Nomatic's Navigator comes in.

This is a bag designed for the ins and outs of everyday use. It understands your need to keep your life organized and protected. Part of its 6-liter carry capacity includes an RFID-blocking pocket for credit cards and tablet storage. A cord pass-through also allows you to charge your electronics on the go. There's even a dedicated card holder in the strap for easy use during your commute.

The Navigator is also designed for extra security and protection. The tuck-away stabilizing strap adds security on the move, and the water-resistant zippers are tamper-proof. This, combined with its tough exterior and molded EVA back panel, makes it ideal for convenience and safety.

7. Aer City Sling 2

Here's another nifty sling that's made for getting around the city. Don't let its casual form and understated design fool you; the City Sling 2 is made from premium water-resistant materials and is ready for the rigors of everyday use. The exterior is made from tough 1680D Cordura Ballistic Nylon, the zippers are YKK, and the tension locks are made from aircraft-grade aluminum. The sling strap can even be stowed away.

For such a sleek design, there are a surprising number of pockets too. The 2.5-liter carry capacity is spread over multiple slip pockets and interior organizers for all your essentials, including a secure back pocket for a wallet or passport.

It's time to explore the city.

8. DEFY Insidious Jr. Sling

DEFY is all about taking risks and making a bold statement. Their bags are no exception to this principle and feature bold designs and rugged exteriors. The Insidious Jr. Sling is a bag that won't back down from a challenge and is specially crafted in America to meet the needs of tactical use or the rugged adventurer.

They'll never be elegant bags, but then again, they don't need to be.

Protection is the name of the game here. The exterior is 1050D ballistic nylon, with a Cordura silver lining interior. Not only is the exterior fabric water-resistant, but the YKK AquaGuard zippers are specially designed to keep water out. On top of that, there's an AustriAlpin Cobra buckle and PALS webbing, keeping the outside out and the inside safe.

To top it off, DEFY offers a range of additional extras based on your own adventurous needs, be it an AustriAlpin Carabiner or a paracord. It's a bag built for tough people and tough situations.

9. WANDRD D1 Fanny Pack

Fanny packs have a long and not-always-glamorous history with fashion. They've been in, then out, and now back again in a big way. Opinions aside, there's truly something to be said for their ongoing utility. What you may not know about fanny packs like WANDRD's D1 is that around the waist is but one way they can be worn.

This delightfully minimalist sling is designed for comfort, travel, and light loads. It too sports a tough nylon exterior (840D Jr. Ballistic Nylon to be precise), water-resistant zippers, and a magnetic Fidlock buckle to top it off.

It's the perfect size for keeping your valuables close to you, even sporting a phone and passport pocket, and boasts interior organizers inside.

With three different ways to carry this bag, you'll never want to miss a chance to be seen with it.

10. Hyperlite Mountain Gear Versa

Here's another fanny pack to further bust any misconceptions you may still have. Around the waist, across the shoulder, or dangling from your hip (or backpack), this handy little sling is ready for your next adventure into the wilderness or as an ultralight carrier in its own right.

The lightweight, pint-sized Mountain Gear Versa is perfect for stowing valuables or as extra storage on an already full bag. The Dyneema Composite hybrid fabric is waterproof and able to withstand heavy rain, and the adjustable strap keeps everything within reach. The main compartment is perfect for essential items, but also snacks and water bottles. Two additional sneaky pockets will take care of the rest.

If you're the adaptable kind, this bag is ready to adapt to your needs too.

11. Patagonia Atom Sling

We're finishing our list off with something colorful and definitely practical. Patagonia's reputation for excellence is well-deserved, and they are just as at home designing for casual travelers as they are for hardcore trailblazers. The Atom Sling is another bag that could be mistaken for a backpack, thanks to its 8-liter capacity. That single strap (for left or right shoulder use) and asymmetrical design say otherwise.

It's the perfect travel buddy and ideal for everyday use. True to form, Patagonia offers multiple color choices for the Atom Sling's recycled polyester exterior. The padded shoulder strap ensures comfort, while an external pocket and divided interior give you plenty of ways to keep your life organized. Tuck-away straps offer additional carry space for extra layers of clothes or even a blanket.

Keep it close and comfy with an Atom Sling.

What to Look For in a Sling Bag

Beginning your search for the right sling bag for you can seem overwhelming at first. Ultimately, the right bag is the one that answers your needs and makes you happy. Here are a few areas to help you make the decision.

Capacity and Size

How much are you looking to pack away? Sling bags, like many other bags on the market, measure their carry capacity in liters. With some exceptions, such as Peak Design, your typical sling bag is usually 1-8 liters in size, accounting for all compartments and pockets.

If you're planning to use your sling every day, then consider a larger bag, like a tote bag, or one with multiple compartments and pockets for odds and ends. When valuables are involved, consider smaller bags that hug the chest. Some slings work perfectly as additional storage and can seamlessly clip onto other bags.

Think of the places you and your bag will go before deciding.

Material and Durability

No matter the purpose, your sling bag will be seeing a lot of use. That's why the best quality bags are made from tough materials, whether natural or synthetic.

The bags we've listed above are mostly made from synthetic and recycled materials like nylon and polyester. This gives them weather resistance—sometimes even against light rains—and durability. Ballistic and ripstop nylon are fabrics particularly suited for this purpose. Leather is used in some sling bags for a more refined feel, often in handles and tags.

It's important to remember that zippers, clips, and key rings often see a lot of use as movable parts. Ensure that they're made with high-quality material and, in the case of zippers, at least some degree of water resistance.

Comfort and Fit

A good sling bag makes your life easier. Ensure that the bag you choose will keep you comfortable during your activities. Longer outdoor treks and carry-on travel will require straps with additional padding and ergonomic shapes.

In the case of bigger carry capacities, make sure the bag's shape and straps support the load and distribute weight across your body. Padded back panels are also a plus.

Organization and Accessibility

Multiple pockets and compartments are vital not just for keeping your life organized but also for keeping your possessions separated and safe. You wouldn't want your house keys rubbing against your tablet screen during your commute, after all.

The number of pockets, dividers, and slips you need will depend on the purpose of your bag. If you're venturing outdoors, you'll also want any exterior compartments and zippers to be weather-resistant. Valuable items, like electronics, should be specially cared for with some form of padding or a separate compartment altogether.

Style That you can Sling

There's no shortage of fantastic sling bags out there, but hopefully, we've shortened that list enough for you to find the right one for you. Once-in-a-lifetime travel or everyday use; tiny fanny pack or tablet-carrying workhorse; weather-resistant polyester or ballistic nylon—the choices are many and important.

Because ultimately, the best bag will be the one that meets your very specific needs, not to mention your personality and sense of adventure.

Consider all the wonderful bags we've listed, and don't forget to tell us about your own experiences with sling bags. What's your personal favorite? Did we leave something out? Let us know in the comment section below. If you'd like to keep up with all the latest fashion trends, don't forget to sign up for our newsletter.

Which is better, a sling bag or a crossbody?

Both are fantastic choices and both have their own purposes. Crossbody bags tend to be smaller and more compact, often used for recreational purposes, while sling bags are somewhat larger, more rugged, and versatile.

Are sling bags still a thing?

Absolutely. Sling bags have continued to grow and evolve with fashion over the years. They may not be the fanny packs of a few decades ago, but slings have evolved to fit a variety of functions and purposes.

Are sling bags any good?

Sling bags are very good at the tasks they're made for. They excel at everyday carry, travel, and adventuring. There's a large variety out there, and one is bound to be the right fit for you.

Are sling bags good for men?

While crossbody bags are often more geared toward women, the sling bag is more versatile in its design and purpose. There are plenty of bags for men looking to carry things in their everyday lives, their commute, or out into the wild.

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Top 10 Laptop Bags For Women

Meet the bags women use to carry their laptop to and from work.

When you head out the door in the morning, you’re likely carrying more than a handful of items (phone, keys, water bottle, lip gloss , etc.). Add a laptop to that lineup, and suddenly you’re everyday handbag just isn’t cutting it. So, whether you’re commuting to the office or traveling for pleasure, you need a durable laptop bag that will protect your device without sacrificing style or space for other things.

What To Look For In A Laptop Bag

The most important thing to look for in a laptop bag is a dedicated space for your device. Most laptop bags have a sleeve-style compartment that’s designed to protect your computer—others will have a large, zippered pocket that serves the same purpose. Either way, you should know what size your laptop’s screen is before you buy in order to avoid disappointment (and annoying return processes).

Aside from that, a great laptop bag will have convenient features like adjustable straps, key rings, water bottle sleeves, and exterior slip pockets. Bonus points for bags that have a trolley sleeve, as that makes it easy to throw your tote on top of your suitcase and roll your way through the airport with confidence. 

How We Found The Best Laptop Bags For Women

Your search for a new laptop tote ends here because we put our data-powered ranking algorithm on the search for the best laptop bags on the internet. This tool (which is completely unique to Rank & Style) uses information from user reviews, best-seller lists, social media, and other sources to find and score the top options in a given category. It’s an unbiased approach to shopping that makes your life a lot easier. So, what are you waiting for? Scroll on to shop the internet’s best laptop bags, with options from Cuyana, Tory Burch, and Coach.

September 6, 2024

Product Expert: Georgia Jones

The Rankings

Freja New York Paloma Tote

Overall Score

2 User Reviews

Best Seller

Industry Recognition

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Laptop Work Bag For Women

THE FEATURES The Paloma Tote is one of Freja New York's best-sellers. Its middle zip compartment can store a 16" laptop, and it also has two side pockets that can be used to stow a tablet, notebook, or even a second, smaller laptop.

MORE DETAILS This fashionable laptop bag is made from a vegan pebbled leather material and lined with microsuede. It has a flat, firm base that helps the tote stand up when put down.

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Coach Willow Large Leather Tote

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Best Designer Laptop Bag For Women

THE FEATURES Coach's Willow Work Tote is one of the most stylish laptop bags around. You'd never know from its sleek appearance that it has room to fit a 15” laptop and various pockets for all of your essentials (such as your wallet, keys, phone, and more).

MORE DETAILS The shoulder straps on this tote are extra long to accommodate for cumbersome coat sleeves.

Dagne Dover Daily Tote

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Best Laptop Messenger Bag For Women

THE FEATURES This boxy bag from Dagne Dover has more than six pockets to store your things in. There's a padded laptop sleeve that can fit a 16" computer, as well as an insulated neoprene water bottle holder. Did we mention it's made from seven recycled water bottles?

WHAT REVIEWERS ARE SAYING "I am obsessed with my new work bag! It feels like it was made for me. I love how many pockets it has; it has a key holder, laptop sleeve, exterior pocket for my badge, water bottle holder, and a boxy shape so I can even put my lunch in there and still close it. Best bag ever!"

Cuyana System 16-Inch Tote

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Best 16" Laptop Bag For Women

THE FEATURES Cuyana is a company known for its high-quality bags, which are all made out of imported leather. The System 16-Inch Tote is a roomy laptop bag that's ready for further customization; it comes with two sets of snaps you can use to attach Cuyana's matching clutch and laptop sleeves. 

MORE DETAILS Cuyana's snap-in leather laptop sleeve (which was made to fit inside this tote) is available for purchase separately. P.S. One of Cuyana's totes was featured in our roundup of the best tote bags. 

Monos Metro Tote

123 User Reviews

Best Vegan Leather Laptop Bag For Women

THE FEATURES The Metro Tote is made for commuters. Sturdy and spacious, this vegan leather laptop bag has a trolley sleeve that makes it ideal for traveling. It can hold a 14" laptop and its interior water bottle pocket will ensure your tumbler never tips over at an ill-timed moment.

WHAT REVIEWERS ARE SAYING "I recently took this tote on a work trip and it was perfect! It was large enough to hold my laptop and some general travel essentials with room to spare. I love how it holds its shape. I feel comfortable using it as a travel tote as well as an everyday office tote!"

Tory Burch Perry Triple-Compartment Tote Bag

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Best Leather Laptop Bag For Women

THE FEATURES Tory Burch's Perry Tote is a triple-compartment laptop bag made from imported pebbled leather. It has metal feet on the bottom to protect it from touching the floor, and it comes with a detachable charm that features the brand's iconic logo.

MORE DETAILS This laptop bag is available in a few different colors including Meadow Mist (a minty green shade) and Brick Lane (a crimson hue). 

Lovevook Laptop Tote Bag

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Best Laptop Bag On Amazon For Women

THE FEATURES One of the most affordable bags on our list, Lovevook's Laptop Tote costs less than $40 and has enough room to safely store a 15.6" laptop. The exterior is crafted from waterproof leather, meaning your valuables will be safe even during rainy day commutes. 

WHAT REVIEWERS ARE SAYING "This bag has garnered an impressive number of compliments! There is ample space and my large laptop fits without any struggle. There is a pocket in the front which makes it accessible for items I need to reach quickly (keys, pens, etc.). This bag is easy to carry over the shoulder and the material feels expensive without the hefty price tag."

Quince Italian Leather Triple Compartment Work Tote

143 User Reviews

Best Side-Zip Laptop Bag For Women

THE FEATURES How about a stylish laptop bag made 100% out of Italian leather? That's what Quince's Triple Compartment Work Tote has to offer. That, along with two side compartments, four pockets, and extra long shoulder straps for comfortable carrying.  

MORE DETAILS This bag works best for smaller laptops—13" and under.

BÉIS The Work Tote

3581 User Reviews

Best Travel Laptop Bag For Women

THE FEATURES The Work Tote is a top-rated BÉIS bag with a lot of convenient design features. It has a trolley sleeve, water bottle pocket, key ring, and multiple interior compartments. Reviewers particularly love how well it complements BÉIS' Carry-On Roller.  

WHAT REVIEWERS ARE SAYING "I really enjoy this bag and the space it provides. I'm in my last semester of college and I wanted to invest in a piece I could take into the workplace with me after graduation. I feel like this is perfect. I love that it fits my Macbook, pens, pencils, and all of my personal items."

Calpak Haven Laptop Tote Bag

506 User Reviews

Best Laptop Bag For Women Overall

THE FEATURES Both a laptop bag and a travel tote, Calpak's Haven bag is spacious and versatile. It comes with a removable laptop sleeve that fits up to 16" devices, plus it has five other pockets of varying sizes inside its main compartment. Despite all of that space, it's a relatively lightweight laptop bag.

MORE DETAILS You can purchase this tote in three neutral tones and five limited-edition colors. Also, the removable shoulder strap is adjustable.

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Tested: The 6 Best Garment Bags for Traveling in Style

By: Ethan Brehm Published: Sep 09, 2024

Traveling with your normal, casual apparel is hard enough. But if you’re jet-setting for business purposes, you likely also need to bring a suit and tie along, which poses an even bigger issue: moving your suit from A to B without wrinkling and/or creasing it. But that’s exactly what garment bags are for. If you really care about your formal wear, you might want to invest in a dedicated, purpose-built vessel for transporting it. Below, you can find our favorite garment bags after testing the best ones on the market.

Best Garment Bags

Best Budget Garment Bag

Halfday Travel The Garment Duffel 45L

Best for Commuting

Henty Wingman Commuter Suit Bag

Best Wheeled

Samsonite Armage II Wheeled Garment Bag

Best Traditional Garment Bag

Satchel & Page Garment Bag

Best Duffel

Shinola The Convertible Traveler Garment Bag

Best High-End

Ghurka Packet No. 83 Garment Bag

Article Overview

How We Tested

What to look for, garment bags comparison chart, what is a garment bag, types of garment bags, honorable mentions, tested: the best gmt watches for stylish travel.

There are a lot of options out there for garment bags. And if you’ve purchased a luggage set , it’s pretty likely that you’ve got one. However, not all of them are created equal. These units can range from the affordable (~$100) to the luxurious (~$2,500). We’ve aimed to explore options at both ends of the spectrum and everywhere in between, as well as tackle what warrants this price range.

To create our shortlist for testing, we really explored this space to figure out which brands were most respected and why. We also looked at some of the lesser-known boutique or heritage offerings from smaller companies you may not be familiar with, looking at materials, construction process, aesthetic, and features. From there, we sourced our units for testing and got hands-on with each garment bag, looking at how well they felt and operated, along with how they looked in person. Our findings and more are detailed below.

Closure: The format of your garment bag will likely determine both how well it keeps your clothes wrinkle-free and how compact it is. However, this is always a compromise, as the two factors are opposing. Some garment bags roll up, making them very compact but increasing the risk of wrinkles. Others offer a more gentle half-fold, but take up more space than their rolling counterparts. You’ll have to decide which is more important to you: fewer wrinkles or better packability.

Exterior Material: You’re probably unlikely to find yourself in a thunderstorm in your travels, but it’s still a good idea to consider the possibility. That means you should pay attention to the external material of your garment bag. Many nowadays are made with coated fabrics that help repel water — keeping your suit safer than it might otherwise be. The tradeoff here is that more weatherproof and durable fabrics tend to be more expensive, so you’ll have to weight the options against your budget.

Interior Lining: Typically, this is not an important consideration, as most every garment bag on the market has a soft liner that’s easy on your delicate apparel. Still, it’s important to be aware of the liner material and how it might affect your travels and your garments. As you might expect, the softer the material, the better it likely is for your suit(s).

Carry Handles: Much like the closure style, the way you carry your garment bag is a fairly big factor to consider. Some offer little more than a pair of suitcase handles, while others might offer wheels and telescoping handles or even backpack straps. If you’re carrying multiple bags through the airport, one of the latter options might be the best. But if you’re only hauling the garment bag, then suitcase handles will work just fine.

Extraneous Details: First and foremost, your garment bag should be a suit-hauler. But they often offer a bit more than can make them all the more enticing for travel. In some cases, they have a couple of extra pockets for accessories and/or other gear. Others are more comprehensive in how much they can carry. It all depends on your individual needs. Just be aware of all these factors when making your considerations.

• Garment bag doubles as a duffel
• Water-resistant materials
• Handsome look
• Comes with 2 shoe compartments
• Zipper can be too easy to unzip
• Handles aren’t the most comfortable

Best Budget Garment Bag: Just because you own nice suits doesn’t mean that those suits cost you an exorbitant amount of money. To go along with your budget three-piece is this The Garment Duffel from Halfday Travel, a large-sized 45-liter option made from a water-resistant 420D woven polyester exterior and water-resistant taslan interior. Weighing just 2.3lbs, this two-in-one bag fits a suit in the outer layer like a regular garment bag but then structures itself so you can load five days’ worth of clothing inside like a duffel bag. Currently available in nine different colors, it also comes in at under $100 !

From premium, durable materials to an innovative design that brings a ton of versatility, The Garment Duffel from Halfday is a fantastic budget bag. In fact, I honestly couldn’t figure out why the price tag was so low. In my short time using it, I had essentially no real unexpected complaints. Looks-wise, the Halfday is a classy carry-on with handsome styling and texturing. Plus, I’m a fan of the brand’s attractive logo, which is front and center here.

I’d be lying if I said the zipper design didn’t boggle my mind, and I’m glad I wasn’t the one in charge of figuring out the specific mechanics of such a spiraling setup. I thought it would be difficult to get my suit removed when zipped up as a duffel but this wasn’t a problem. Though I supposed if you had heavier items inside, it could be. Oh yeah, there’s also a pair of shoe sleeves, which easily held my size 12.5 dress shoes, so that’s a definite plus.

Even though I tested this bag in the summertime, it makes a solid winter-spring option with its water-resistant materials. Although, it’s important to note that the zippers don’t claim to be water-resistant.

The Not So Good

If I had to quibble, I’d say The Garment Duffel is a little too easy to unzip. Meaning, it’s intended to retain some structure for doubling as a duffel bag. And since this thing can unfold all the way, that could pose an issue if you only planned on taking out 1 or 2 items without unraveling and spilling its entire contents. However, if you’re just a little bit careful, you shouldn’t have any real issues here.

Also, while pretty durable, the handles on top weren’t the most comfortable to carry, even when wrapped. Likewise, the Velcro wrap was a bit rigid and didn’t feel great in my hand

Verdict: A garment bag with duffel bag versatility, The Garment Duffel from Halfday Travel is a superb bag with a unique design. And if you consider its durable materials and handsome appearance, you’d be shocked to find out that it’s one of the most affordable options out there. We had small complaints about the comfort of the top handles and the zipper, which was too easy to open accidentally, but all systems go for this garment bag.

Size: 22″ x 12″ x 12″ Materials: Water-resistant 420D woven polyester Suit Capacity: 1 + other clothing and shoes

• 2-in-1 option great for bike riding or walking
• Built-in padded laptop sleeve
• Super comfortable against back
• Comes with rain poncho to cover top
• Lots of extra gear pouches
• Needs clips for bottom of garment compartment

Best for Commuting: Most garment bags out there are decent for travel but are cumbersome and difficult to manage for just about any other kind of commuting. By contrast, it seems like the Henty Wingman Commuter Suit Bag was made to be good on any kind of transport. With backpack straps, it’s easy to haul around from cab to train to plane and back again, but it still features a roll-style closure that will help keep your suit wrinkle-free. It’s also water-resistant and even has a dedicated laptop sleeve — making it great for bike commuting to and from work in the city, as well.

If you need to commute with a suit, whether by bike or train, there’s really no better option than the Henty Wingman. The structurally sound bag rolls and unrolls with ease, but the suit itself is hidden inside an accessible zippered pouch with a hanger hole up top. Aside from the laptop sleeve, this bag also comes with plenty of exterior pockets of different sizes. It can also be hung up when unfolded, making these gear pockets even more accessible. There was also a supplementary waterproof duffel that you could use for any extras, like underwear and socks. This can be attached to the Wingman if you so choose.

As a backpack, the Henty is highly comfortable and supportive, with easy-to-adjust straps for the sternum and waist. Even though the bag is water-resistant, it comes with a hi-vis orange poncho that expands to go over the top of the rolled-up pack. While I didn’t use it, there’s also a removable shoulder strap for a more casual carrying option.

The dedicated laptop sleeve is a really nice touch here but not the most practical when it comes to execution. It adds a stiffness to the back of the bag that messes with its comfortability. I should also point out that this bag is quite heavy, even when empty. Luckily, it’s not designed to store a lot of gear, so there won’t be much added to that weight.

Also, I would’ve liked some sort of clip at the bottom of the garment compartment to prevent my suit from falling down. After all, this is designed to be held sideways. Every time I unzipped the bag, my suit wasn’t exactly how I left it.

Verdict: If you’re going to be doing any commuting with a suit, there won’t be a better option than the Henty Wingman, which can be worn as a comfortable backpack that includes tons of extras like a laptop sleeve, a rain poncho, and several gear pouches. Admittedly, the bag is heavy but you also won’t be putting a ton of gear inside. Also, we may have liked some clothing clips for the bottom of the garment compartment but that’s just a minor complaint for a really superb bag.

Size: 9″ x 11″ x 22″ Materials: Water-resistant polyester Suit Capacity: 1

• Carry-on size
• Super comfortable handle
• Wet pocket for toiletries
• Holds multiple suits
• Has a plethora of purposeful compartments
• Has exterior non-garment pocket
• Dedicated shoe pockets are small
• Pretty heavy at 10.7lbs

Best Wheeled: While most garment bags come as handled options meant to be carried, Samsonite has an impressive wheeled suitcase intended for protecting your finest suits. Building off of the brand’s status as a mainstay in the luggage industry, the Armage II looks like a standard carry-on bag from the outside but inside is purpose-built to keep your garments neat and tidy. Not only does this bag offer enough space for your suit and all the necessary accessories like two pairs of shoes and even some toiletries, but it also features Samsonite’s Tru-Trac GT wheels, sturdy YKK zippers, and a telescoping handle for convenient hauling through the airport, train station, or even city streets. And yes, it’s compact enough that you could bring it into the airplane cabin with you when you travel. Also, this is backed by Samsonite’s 10-year limited warranty.

In terms of pure capability, the Samsonite Armage II is the best we tested. Not only can it hold several suits if you really want it to (there’s no official capacity but we got 3 inside no problem) but it also acts as a two-sided hanging closet. The left side features a pair of “structured” mesh zippered pockets at eye level, which you can use for rolled ties or handkerchiefs –– things you don’t want to get smashed. I particularly loved the water-resistant zippered pocket on the right side of the bag, which stands about 4″ high and is transparent enough for you to see what you’re grabbing inside.

There are several more zippered pockets on this side of the bag, both mesh and opaque. And if that’s not enough, there’s a sizeable exterior pocket for books, papers, or even an iPad to easily access in flight so you don’t need a second carry-on for these things.

I’m admittedly not super familiar with all of Samsonite’s range but the rolling handle has to be one of the most comfortable I’ve ever used in my hand with its plush padded grip and easy adjustment button. Meanwhile, the wheels are fine but I didn’t notice anything superb to write home about; they were perfectly serviceable.

For a piece of rolling luggage, the Armage II is rather wide, although 22″ across is pretty standard for a garment bag. I just felt like I was going to trip people as I walked past them. Keep in mind as well, this bag is pretty darn heavy at nearly 11lbs, and that’s when it’s empty!

It’s also important to note that the dedicated shoe pockets at the bottom of the bag are rather small. The site’s picture shows a pair of heels in each pouch but realistically men are going to use garment bags just as often as women. I couldn’t fit my own size 12.5 shoes in these pockets so I wrapped them in a separate shoe bag I have and put them behind the divider on this side of the garment bag, which worked just fine (as long as you’re only traveling with one or two suits).

Verdict: Extremely capable, Samsonite’s Armage II is a carry-on sized garment bag with tons of pockets and compartments, as well as enough room for several of your suits. We loved the dedicated water-resistant wet pocket for toiletries, the structured necktie pockets, and the exterior compartment for any non-garment items for accessing in-flight. Admittedly, the bag is heavy at nearly 11lbs and the shoe pockets will be small for most men’s shoes, but this is a quality bag that does a whole lot that others don’t do.

Size: 10″ x 17.5″ x 22″ Materials: Recyclex polyester Suit Capacity: 3+

• Stunning appearance
• Premium materials
• Very durable, especially on the inside
• Built-in shoe pockets
• Suit entryway doesn’t open all the way
• A bit heavy

Best Traditional Garment Bag: If you’re looking for a more traditionally-styled garment bag, you could do far worse than this selection from Satchel & Page. Not only is this bag drop-dead gorgeous, but its British waxed canvas and Italian leather exterior is also durable and tough enough that this could end up becoming an heirloom piece you pass on to your children. Of course, it also still has everything you’d expect out of a solid garment bag — like a 600D waterproof nylon lining, organizational pockets , a complete-access opening main compartment, and adjustable leather shoulder straps. The bag also comes with a lifetime warranty from the brand, which is awesome.

If you’re looking to spend around $500 on a garment bag, you won’t be disappointed with this pick from Satchel & Page. The obvious selling point here is its appearance, with arguably the most handsome exterior on this list, making good use of its leather and waxed canvas shell. The latter isn’t too “slimy” like some waxed canvas products have a tendency to be, nor does it smell waxy, while the leather expresses a beautiful leather aroma that’s among the best I’ve ever experienced. And that’s not to mention the brass hardware that looks like it was actually sourced from antique luggage.

If the outside has a timeless aesthetic that’s worthy of passing down to your children, the interior is all business, with plenty of storage pockets that can be easily accesses when you hang this bag up. The nylon lining feels robust and highly sturdy –– arguably the most so of the units I tested. The shoe pockets were large enough to house one of my size 12.5 shoes each, plus each pocket has a reliable zipper closure.

The biggest drawback of the Satchel & Page Garment Bag is its availability. At any given moment, the brand’s website will say that the bag is “Out of Stock.” The good news is that it frequently comes back into stock (this back-and-forth happened a couple of times during our sourcing and testing process). Also, many will note that the entryway for the suit compartment is a bit tight, making it a bit challenging to place the outfit inside with ease. However, this isn’t a deal breaker. The bag is also a bit heavy, so keep that in mind as well.

Verdict: Premium in every sense of the word, the Satchel & Page Garment Bag is one of our favorites for how beautiful it looks on the outside while being a total workhorse on the inside –– with top-notch construction for both. Availability will be hit or miss here but keep an eye out on the brand’s website. Also, while the bag is somewhat heavy and the suit entryway can be tight, these aren’t deal breakers for one of the finest garment bags in the game.

Size: 20″ x 22″ x 2.5″ Materials: Waxed canvas and Italian leather exterior with 600D waterproof nylon lining Suit Capacity: 2

• 2 bags that can be used together or separately
• Uses premium materials
• Spacious duffel
• Very sturdy
• Not a lot of features on garment bag portion
• Buttons challenging to put back together

Best Duffel: Alongside their stupendous watches and vintage Americana-inspired gear , Shinola also makes a wide variety of excellent luggage for travel. As such, it should come as no surprise that they’ve built a spectacular garment bag. Balancing form and function, this three-in-one unit features a folding garment bag snapped against a duffel bag, with both able to be used separately as well. Constructed with canvas and Italian Vachetta leather, either bag can be attached to the removable shoulder strap and is closed up with a brass zipper.

The Convertible Traveler from Shinola is a unique piece in that it houses a duffel bag and garment bag in one unit, but keeps them segmented in the best way possible. Utilizing heavy-duty snap buttons to attach to garment bag to the duffel, the brand eliminates any ambiguity by making the access point for the duffel a zipper instead. I was never confused when it came to which compartment I was trying to access. Inside the spacious duffel is a sturdy shoe bag and attachable shoulder strap to make this easier to carry. The main hook of this product is that you can use the duffel and garment bag together or separate them entirely. I tried using both of them individually, and had no issues. I especially loved the soft handles on the duffel.

I also loved how the bottom of the suit compartment eliminates the need for clips or harnesses, which could wrinkle the material, in favor of a pinching function that uses the bag’s own weight to keep the suits in place. And I will say, this worked like a charm.

If you’re looking for extra features inside the garment bag itself, you might be disappointed here. There is only one small pocket at the top. On the other hand, the duffel has some smaller pouches and even a windowed slot for a name tag or business card.

Like most of these high-end garment bags, the Shinola bag is quite heavy. But at least you can shed weight with its different usage options. My biggest complaint is the amount of time it took to pop those snap buttons back on to attach the garment bag back to the duffel. One time I was a single button off and had to start over. Lastly, this bag is a bit pricey for what you get. Sure, it’s unique, but the price tag also feels superfluous.

Verdict: A three-in-one option for those who want some flexibility in their lives, The Convertible Traveler by Shinola is both a duffel and a garment bag, with distinct opening mechanisms (a zipper or snap buttons, respectively) and heavy-duty materials to keep the contents protected. We loved the inherent suit “pinching” feature that used the bag’s own weight to keep garments in place, as well as the spacious duffel bag. On the other hand, it took some time when it came to attaching the two units back together.

Size: 14″ x 22.75″ x 10″ Materials: Canvas and Italian Vachetta leather Suit Capacity: 2

• The classiest option you’ll find
• Holds up to 3 suits
• Incredibly smooth zipper action
• Meticulously integrated stitching design
• Uses high-end leather
• Can be customized and monogrammed

Best High-End: Far and away the priciest bag on our list, Ghurka’s Packet No. 83 Garment Bag might also be the most beautiful and finest-made on the planet. Crafted in its entirety from top-grain leather , it features a convertible hanging system to meet all your needs (with an included hanger), can fit up to three suits at a time, has a heavy-duty brass zipper, comes with an adjustable shoulder strap, and even comes with its own luggage tag. It’s an investment, to be sure, but this is the kind of bag that will be in your family for generations, so long as you take good care of it. If you want to personalize your bag, the company allows you to customize and monogram your bag as well.

If you want class, look no further than this Ghurka garment bag, which has a jaw-dropping exterior that felt like a privilege to hold in my hand. The chestnut leather shell isn’t just sturdy (and pleasant smelling) but its stitching is so meticulous, with integrated design via needlepoint as well as subtle embossing. Unlike the Satchel & Page, which boasted a marvelous exterior with a rugged interior, the inside of this bag matches its outside, and without losing any ruggedness in the process. Unzip this part to reveal the handsome cotton twill lining.

One small detail I really dug was the dual-fastening hanger loophole, which allows you to remove your suit without having to lower the hanger into the compartment and risk wrinkling your outfit. Like the Shinola above, the lower portion of this bag features a band that pinches your suits at the bottom without the need for extra clamps.

In terms of function, this bag is superb as well, albeit simple and straightforward in a good way; there’s just the right amount of extra pockets and compartments. Likewise, the zipper construction on this bag happens to be the breeziest to use without being too loose. The brass zipper never got stuck despite the curves of the bag. Aside from being able to hold three suits, which is around the most on this guide, the No. 83 also has a large front pocket and some

With the meticulous design methods used by Ghurka and the steep price tag, it’s hard to imagine that anything would need to be changed with this garment bag… aside from the price tag itself. Admittedly, $2,500 is a lot of money for a mere garment bag but if class is what you’re after, you’ll be willing to pay the cost.

Verdict: Steeply priced at nearly $2,500, the Ghurka No. 83 Garment Bag is at the top of its class for a reason with beautiful design points and strategically integrated stitching. Inside holds a trio of suits, along with some extras thanks to its external pockets. We loved the smooth zipper action of the brass hardware as well as the clever hanger removal system.

Size: 23″ x 18″ Materials: Leather and twill Suit Capacity: 3

Most suitcases, backpacks, and duffel bags do a pretty good job of hauling gear to and from various destinations. However, they were not made for transporting suits. Typically made of high-end fabrics, suits are actually a bit more delicate than most other menswear and, as a result, are prone to wrinkling and creasing. Garment bags, however, were made specifically to minimize that possibility. Their format is well-suited to suits, no pun intended, by offering the ability to store them without folding them in a way that might crease or wrinkle them. Even still, some are better than others.

Folding: Like a bi- or tri-fold wallet, folding garment bags will have creases or perforations where you’re supposed to fold them. These are the most common type of garment bags.

Rolling: As opposed to folding bags, rolling bags are intended to literally roll up your suit, not dissimilar to a sleeping bag. These will be much thicker but also won’t crease your suit as easily.

2-in-1: Exactly what it sounds like, a 2-in-1 garment bag is good at being folding or rolling bags, and can serve both purposes.

Packable: Unlike other options that are meant to stand on their own, packable bags are intended to fit inside your suitcase for travel. It should also be noted that many folding options can be packable as well.

Away makes some of our favorite suitcases and also has a classy yet straightforward garment bag option, with a fair price to boot. We couldn’t get hands-on with this bag but still wanted to mention it.

Like Away, TUMI is a force to be reckoned with in the luggage world. As such, it makes a solid wheeled garment bag option as well, with a quartet of omnidirectional wheels. However, we opted for the Samsonite above for all that it can do.

While it won’t look as good as some of the others I found, Eagle Creek makes a super cheap option in their Pack-It Specter Medium Garment Bag .

Briggs & Riley also makes a classy-looking bag in their Baseline , but not quite on the same level as a couple of the ones we included above.

Mark & Graham’s Commuter 2-in-1 Garment Bag looks more like a duffel bag than a garment bag, despite the name. Nevertheless, the Shinola above is a better “duffel” option even if it is a bit pricier.

If you’re looking to outfit yourself on your next travel adventures, why not start with your wrist? Head over to our recent guide to find the best GMT watches for jet-setting this year.

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Ryanair issues warning for passengers with black, grey or navy bags

The leading European budget airline has advised potential holidaymakers to make their checked-in luggage more noticeable on the carousel as many people have luggage in these colours

• 09:58, 12 Sep 2024

Ryanair has issued a warning to passengers who typically travel with black, navy or grey suitcases - urging them to alter their luggage to avoid any issues upon arrival.

The leading European budget airline has advised potential holidaymakers to make their checked-in luggage more noticeable on the carousel as many people have luggage in these colours. A statement from Ryanair reads: "Make it easier to spot your checked-in luggage on the carousel, especially if your luggage is black, navy or grey (like 99.9 per cent of the population). Add a colourful luggage tag or ribbon to the handle so that there's no confusion on arrival."

The airline also suggested passengers photocopy their passports, driving licences, and ID cards and email them to themselves for emergency situations. It's recommended that passengers take photos of these documents and save them on their phones if they are offline when they arrive at their destination.

If you are worried about losing your bag, then it may be wise to deploy a luggage tag. These can make it easy for both yourself and members of staff in an airport to help identify your bags and have them returned to you if they get lost.

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What to include on your luggage tags

• Full name: Use your full name as it appears on your passport. This helps assist airline staff in locating and safely returning your belongings if they go missing.
• Phone number: List a phone number with the country code for quick communication.
• Email address: Include an email address for additional contact, especially for international trips. Consider using a separate travel email address to keep it distinct from your personal one.

Information to avoid putting on luggage tags

• Home address: For your privacy and security, avoid including your full home address.
• Details of valuables: Avoid mentioning any valuable items inside your suitcase to prevent drawing unwanted attention.
• Travel plans and destinations: Keep your travel itinerary and destination details private to prevent misuse of your information.
• Sensitive information: To protect your personal identity, refrain from including personal identification numbers such as national insurance or passport numbers. This includes avoiding details of travel insurance policy numbers.

Mike Harvey, managing director at 1st Move International, comments: "When creating luggage tags for your suitcases, it’s crucial to balance providing essential contact information with protecting your personal security."

MORE ON Ryanair Michael O'Leary Travel Tips

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• Local Media Release

Wilmington CBP Officers Collar Counterfeit Belt Bags

WILMINGTON, Del. – Some say that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, until that imitation runs afoul of the law.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers seized 277 counterfeit Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bags recently in Delaware, that had they been authentic would have been worth about $13,000.

The belt bags arrived in two separate shipments from China and were destined to the same address in Wilmington, Del. CBP officers inspected the shipments -- the first on August 8 of 136 belt bags and the second on August 16 of 141 belt bags. Officers suspected that the Lululemon branding may have been used without authorization and detained the shipments to verify trademark authenticity.

CBP officers submitted product documentation and photographs to CBP’s trade experts at the Consumer Products and Mass Merchandising Center of Excellence and Expertise (CEE) for analysis. CBP’s trade experts verified that the Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bags were counterfeit and subject to seizure pursuant to CBP’s statutory and regulatory authorities.

CBP officers seized the first shipment on August 26 and the second shipment on September 6.

The international trade in counterfeit consumer goods is illegal. It steals revenues from trademark holders, steals tax revenues from the government, funds transnational criminal organizations, and the unregulated products potentially threaten the health and safety of American consumers.

Counterfeiters manufacture consumer goods using substandard materials and parts that either break prematurely or that could hurt consumers. Counterfeit consumer goods may also be sourced or manufactured in facilities that employ forced labor.

For more information about the consequences and dangers often associated with the purchase of counterfeit goods visit the Truth Behind Counterfeits public awareness campaign website at CBP’s Fake Goods Real Dangers webpage.

“Popular products, such as Lululemon belt bags, are prime targets for counterfeiters to manufacture, and are revenue generators for unscrupulous vendors who worship profits over consumer health and safety,” said Erik Kelling, CBP’s Port Director for the Port of Wilmington. “CBP urges consumers to protect themselves and their families by always buying authentic products from reputable vendors.”

CBP protects businesses and consumers every day through an aggressive Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) enforcement program . During fiscal year 2023, CBP made nearly 20,000 seizures with an estimated manufacturer’s suggested retail price worth over $2.76 billion, had the goods been genuine.

Media can search for additional enforcement details by viewing CBP’s IPR webpage or by viewing CBP’s IPR Dashboard and CBP’s Annual IPR Seizures Reports .

U.S. trademark and copyright owners can register with CBP to have their intellectual property protected at the border through the through the e-Recordation program ( https://iprr.cbp.gov/s/ ).

CBP encourages anyone with information about counterfeit merchandise illegally imported into the United States to submit an e-Allegation . The e-Allegation system provides a means for the public to anonymously report to CBP any suspected violations of trade laws or regulations related to the importation of goods in the U.S.

CBP's border security mission is led at our nation’s Ports of Entry by CBP officers and agriculture specialists from the Office of Field Operations. CBP screens international travelers and cargo and searches for illicit narcotics, unreported currency, weapons, counterfeit consumer goods, prohibited agriculture, invasive weeds and pests, and other illicit products that could potentially harm the American public, U.S. businesses, and our nation’s safety and economic vitality.

See what CBP accomplished during " A Typical Day " in 2023. Learn more at www.CBP.gov .

Follow the Director of CBP’s Baltimore Field Office on Twitter at @DFOBaltimore for breaking news, current events, human interest stories and photos, and CBP’s Office of Field Operations on Instagram at @cbpfieldops .

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is America's frontline: the nation's largest law enforcement organization and the world's first unified border management agency. The 65,000+ men and women of CBP protect America on the ground, in the air, and on the seas. We facilitate safe, lawful travel and trade and ensure our country's economic prosperity. We enhance the nation's security through innovation, intelligence, collaboration, and trust.