The Best Carry-Ons of 2024
Carry on with your carry-on.
Photo Credit: Veerasak Piyawatanakul
We all know a checked-bag should be prepared to be manhandled and beat to death, but is a carry-on all that different? Despite our best efforts to protect our bags, carry-ons are just as susceptible to dings, spills, and zipper breakage (an end result of over-packing, typically.) as their bigger counterparts. They’re wheeled through dirty airports and shoved in overhead bins, so they need to withstand the stresses of combat associated with air travel. Yet, they should also be functional and attractive—remember, it is a giant accessory so it doesn’t hurt to make a statement with your luggage. Here are our favorite carry-ons of 2024!
1. Away The Carry-On
Features: Durable polycarbonate shell, built-in battery for charging devices, 360-degree spinner wheels, and an interior compression system.
Pros: Sleek design, practical features like a laundry bag, and TSA-approved lock.
Cons: The built-in battery might need to be removed at some airports.
2. Samsonite Winfield 3 DLX
Features: Lightweight polycarbonate construction, full-zip interior divider, side-mounted TSA locks, and oversized spinner wheels.
Pros: Scratch-resistant finish, spacious interior, and reliable brand.
Cons: Slightly less stylish compared to high-end brands.
3. Travelpro Platinum Elite
Features: High-density nylon fabric with a DuraGuard coating, PrecisionGlide system for smooth rolling, fold-out suiter, and external USB port.
Pros: Extremely durable, well-organized compartments, and comfortable handling.
Cons: Higher price point.
4. Tumi Alpha 3 International Expandable 4-Wheeled Carry-On
Features: FXT ballistic nylon construction, dual integrated lock, and 4 dual spinner wheels.
Pros: Premium quality, expandable capacity, and Tumi Tracer program for lost luggage.
Cons: Very expensive.
5. Briggs & Riley Baseline Domestic Carry-On Expandable Spinner
Features: Ballistic nylon outer fabric, CX compression-expansion system, and aircraft-grade aluminum handle system.
Pros: Lifetime guarantee, excellent durability, and high packing capacity.
Cons: Premium price.
6. Delsey Paris Helium Aero
Features: Lightweight and durable polycarbonate shell, double spinner wheels, and integrated TSA-accepted lock.
Pros: Affordable, stylish design, and good maneuverability.
Cons: May scratch easily.
7. American Tourister Moonlight
Features: Durable ABS/polycarbonate construction, single spinner wheels, and playful, colorful designs.
Pros: Budget-friendly, stylish options, and reliable.
Cons: Not as durable as higher-end models.
8. Osprey Transporter Travel Duffel Bag
Features: Made from bluesign approved recycled polyester with dual-sided TPU coating inside and out.
Pros: PFC-free DWR coating that protects your gear from the elements.
Cons: No wheels so it could get heavy when lifting into an overhead bin.