Warning: You’ll Get Wanderlust Just *Looking* at These Chic and Functional Carry-Ons

0
Warning: You’ll Get Wanderlust Just *Looking* at These Chic and Functional Carry-Ons


We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we love. Promise.

best must-have basic

Amazon Basics 21-Inch Hardside Spinner

21-Inch Hardside Spinner

best must-have basic

Amazon Basics 21-Inch Hardside Spinner

Now 30% Off

Pros
  • Affordable
Cons
  • Lock not included

It’s harder than it should be to find a good quality carry-on for under $100, but this one from Amazon fits the bill. It’s easy to maneuver and super sturdy thanks to the scratch-resistant hardshell case.

Glowing review:I bought this after seeing my boyfriend’s. It’s the best suitcase to use. We normally travel with just carry-on suitcases, and this one is wonderful. I was able to pack a week’s worth of clothes for Costa Rica and still have room for souvenirs.”

Dimensions 14.76″ x 9.45″ x 21.46″
Material ABS
Number of Colorways 4

best for overpackers

Beis The Carry-On Roller

The Carry-On Roller

best for overpackers

Beis The Carry-On Roller

Pros
  • Built-in weight indicator
  • Expandable
  • Stain-resistant
Cons
  • One reviewer says the outer shell is a bit flimsy

Boasting an average of 4.9/5 star reviews and plenty of hype on social media, this might very well be the internet’s favorite carry-on. It’s got all the fahn-cy features—like thick interior dividers, a TSA-approved lock, and smooth-rolling wheels—plus a super convenient weight indicator for all the over-packers out there.

Glowing review:My favorite suitcase I’ve ever used! It’s huge for a carry-on, has add-ins that allow for easy organizing, rolls wonderfully, the padded handle feels nice, and my backpack fits seamlessly over the handle. And because of its size I was a little nervous it wouldn’t fit in the overhead bin on my first trip but it did with room to spare. I love this.”

Dimensions 15.7″ x 22.8″ x 9.8″
Material Polycarbonate
Number of Colorways 10

best affordable carry-on

Traveler’s Choice Pagosa Indestructible Hardshell Expandable Spinner Luggage

Pagosa Indestructible Hardshell Expandable Spinner Luggage

best affordable carry-on

Traveler’s Choice Pagosa Indestructible Hardshell Expandable Spinner Luggage

Pros
  • Also available in a two-piece set
  • Built-in USB port
Cons
  • Some reviewers say it scuffs easily

The name says it all: hardshell, expandable, spinner luggage—what’s not to love?! This carry-on also features large interior compartments with multiple zippered pockets, interior compression, and a built-in USB port.

Glowing review:Only been on one trip with it so far and it tumbled all the way down a two-story escalator from the top and came out with just a few scratches. That sealed the deal for me lol.”

Dimensions 22″ x 14.25″ x 9.25″
Material Polypropylene
Number of Colorways 5

Advertisement – Continue Reading Below

best looking carry-on

Calpak Hue Carry-On Luggage

Hue Carry-On Luggage

best looking carry-on

Calpak Hue Carry-On Luggage

Credit: Calpak
Pros
  • Removable pocket accessory
  • Modern design
Cons
  • Some reviewers say it shows signs of wear and tear after a few uses

UM, how chic is this minimalist, polycarbonate carry-on (which is also available in poppy, pink sand, hazel, and black!)? It’s beautiful on the inside as well, thanks to interior dividers with pockets on one side and a compression strap on the other.

Glowing review:Perfect for our vacation! Wheels move in all directions and it holds so much. Best part is that it is compliant with carry-on size for all airlines!!”

Dimensions 21.5” x 13.75” x 9”
Material Polycarbonate
Number of Colorways 5

best investment piece

Arlo Skye The Frame Carry-On Max

The Frame Carry-On Max

best investment piece

Arlo Skye The Frame Carry-On Max

Pros
  • Lock design makes it easy to close
  • Easy to roll (even on cobblestones!)
Cons
  • Eeeeexpensive

Though pricey, this carry-on has a whopping average of 4.9/5 star reviews. Customers love the “ultra-quiet” wheels, removable charger, and beautiful yet functional aesthetic. But what really takes this Arlo Skye luggage to the next level is the fact that it’s got two TSA-approved clasp locks instead of a zipper for a unique look and total security.

Glowing review:I have used this to travel all over the world and it is incredible. It looks lovely and holds everything I need. I am looking forward to my next trip.”

Dimensions 22.8″ x 15.0″ x 9.6″
Material Polycarbonate
Number of Colorways 3

best for charging devices

July Carry-On

Carry-On

best for charging devices

July Carry-On

Credit: July
Pros
  • Features July’s signature SilentMove 360° spinner wheels
  • Hidden odor-proof laundry bag
Cons
  • One reviewer says the bag rolls too easily so you always have to keep a hand on it

You’ll never have to spend your travel time scouting out a free outlet at the airport (instead of, you know, eating snacks as you should be) with this carry-on. It’s got an ejectable battery with USB and USB-C docks, so you can charge your laptop and your phone.

Glowing review: “Love it so much. It’s perfect for work trips which was my primary reason for purchasing. Originally purchased a checked plus for my partner, which is so beautiful, I wanted my own. Fits just the right amount of luggage. Wheels are unbelievable. So quiet and smooth. Love the color and the name is such a nice way to personalize it. You won’t regret this purchase, I promise!”

Dimensions 21.5″ x 15″ x 8.5″
Material Polycarbonate
Number of Colorways 14

Advertisement – Continue Reading Below

best for traveling with kids

MiaMily Carry On 20”

Carry On 20”

best for traveling with kids

MiaMily Carry On 20”

Credit: MiaMily

We all know traveling with kids isn’t easy. MiaMily, a family-focused luggage brand, also knows that, and it was the inspiration behind their one-of-a-kind suitcases. Their carry-on features a built-in seat that can hold up to 220 lbs (so yes, adults can sit on it too!), perfect for keeping squirmy little ones contained on the go. The seat also has a kid-sized seatbelt, and a hook on the back for hanging any personal items.

Glowing review: I wasn’t sure if it was worth it to spend over $300 on a suitcase, but after using it, I think it was totally worth it. I had to fly with my toddler by myself and it made flying less stressful. I was able to have my daughter with me as I was using the restroom, and be hands-free while I was waiting in the check-in line as well as waiting for the flight. It made it much easier to wheel her around with me in a hurry. It is definitely a conversation piece.

Dimensions 19″ x 15″ x 11.5″
Material Polycarbonate and polypropylene
Number of Colorways 5

best smooth-rolling carry-on

Vacay Glisten Jaxson 20-Inch Spinner

Glisten Jaxson 20-Inch Spinner

best smooth-rolling carry-on

Vacay Glisten Jaxson 20-Inch Spinner

Credit: Vacay
Pros
  • Lightweight
  • Easy to organize
Cons
  • One reviewer says the zipper broke

Tons of extra pockets—including ones for both dry and wet travel essentials—make packing this carry-on easy peasy lemon squeezy. Oh, and if you’re looking for a suitcase that’s easy to spot at the airport, it’s also available in lime green!

Glowing review:Best luggage ever! I love every detail of this luggage! It’s the cutest and most practical piece I’ve ever owned.”

Dimensions 20” x 14.5” x 10”
Material rPET
Number of Colorways 3

best for longer trips

Monos Hybrid Carry-On Plus

Hybrid Carry-On Plus

best for longer trips

Monos Hybrid Carry-On Plus

Pros
  • Includes an anti-microbial laundry bag and two shoe bags
  • Includes a vegan leather luggage tag
Cons
  • Some reviewers say it will dent if you check it

It’s not check-in size, but it’s slightly bigger than the standard Monos carry-on. So if you’re an over-packer (hi, guilty!), add this baby to your cart. Oh, and did I mention it’s got two TSA-approved combination locks instead of a zipper?

Glowing review: “So far, I LOVE this bag. It seems really high quality and very sleek. I have it packed to the brim and it seems to latch fine. All the small details and touches inside are very thought out and practical. Glides so smooth, the handle doesn’t rattle, and the added shoe and laundry bags are a nice touch. I’ll be living out of this one bag for a two-month Europe trip next month, can’t wait to break this bag in!”

Dimensions 23″ × 15″ × 9.5″
Material Aluminum and polycarbonate
Number of Colorways 3

Advertisement – Continue Reading Below

best weekender bag

Everlane The ReNew Transit Weekender

The ReNew Transit Weekender

best weekender bag

Everlane The ReNew Transit Weekender

Pros
  • Spacious
  • Sustainably made
Cons
  • Some reviewers say the color is misleading online

Small but mighty, this sustainable option from Everlane is easy to carry and surprisingly spacious. Inside, you’ll find a padded laptop sleeve, two water bottle holders, an exterior zip pocket, and a sleeve (that doubles as a pocket) that attaches to your suitcase for maximum convenience.

Glowing review:Great travel bag! Fits everything I need for 3-4 days, plus love the slit in the bag that allows to fit over a roller suitcase handle so that I can stack it on top of my roller bag. Laptop pocket is super convenient too!”

Dimensions 14.2″ x 7.3″ x 19.5″
Material Recycled polyester
Number of Colorways 6

best backpack

Monos Metro Backpack

Metro Backpack

best backpack

Monos Metro Backpack

Credit: Monos
Pros
  • High-quality, water-resistant material
  • Lots of pockets and a trolley sleeve
  • Opens like a clamshell
Cons
  • Doesn’t have a waterbottle pocket

My friends and family are probably sick of hearing me rave about this vegan-leather cutie…but it’s just that good. Not only is it super chic (so you’ll want to wear it all the time, not just while traveling), but it also has a padded laptop pocket, trolley sleeve, and detachable pouch on the front to keep important items handy. The material is also water-resistant, so you don’t have to worry about your goods getting soaked if it starts raining while you’re on the move.

Glowing review:This backpack is beautiful, first and foremost. Second, it’s incredibly functional. I like how it opens like a clamshell (no more digging for things at the bottom of your bag) and all of the compartments make organizing really efficient. I use the front removable case for my cords and other electronics and it has a great keychain in there as well.

Dimensions 11.5″ × 16.5″ × 6″
Material Vegan leather (nylon also available)
Number of Colorways 9

best for separating toiletries

Beis The Weekender

The Weekender

best for separating toiletries

Beis The Weekender

Pros
  • Design makes it easy to find small/miscellaneous items
  • Has a padded laptop sleeve
Cons
  • Big for a shoulder bag

You probably recognize this cutie from your Instagram feed, and it’s totally worth the hype. The bottom compartment is…dare I say…revolutionary? It’s big enough to store your shoes, toiletries, or even your hair dryer. This tote also features a key fob, organizational pockets, and a trolley passthrough that attaches to your luggage.

Glowing review:Lately when I’ve ordered things online, sight-unseen, I’m mostly disappointed. But not this time! This bag is EXACTLY what I hoped it would be. Roomy and stylish! If you’re looking for a travel bag for a weekend, this is perfect!”

Dimensions 19″ x 9.8″ x 15.7″
Material Poly canvas, vegan leather
Number of Colorways 9

Advertisement – Continue Reading Below

best for daily use

Away The Everywhere Bag

The Everywhere Bag

best for daily use

Away The Everywhere Bag

Credit: Away
Pros
  • Comes with a removable long strap
  • Great customer service, according to reviewers
Cons
  • Some reviewers say the paint on the zipper chips easily

This durable nylon tote comes with a 100-day free trial—but I’m 99 percent sure you won’t want to return it. With a laptop pocket, a zippered waterproof umbrella pocket, a spacious interior, and a trolly sleeve, The Everywhere Bag is a travel essential.

Glowing review:Away never disappoints. This is exactly what I was missing in my travel routine. This bag is the ideal size to use as my personal item when flying. Easily fits over my Away Carry on, has an optional long strap if I need it, and the front compartment easily fits my iPhone 12. So easy to travel with.”

Dimensions 16.3″ x 7.3″ x 10.2″
Material Nylon, pebbled leather
Number of Colorways 5

How we chose the best carry-on luggage

line break

As you probably know, Cosmo‘s lifestyle team spends all day, every day scouring the internet, testing products, and reading reviews so we can bring you the type of high-quality content we’d want for ourselves (and our standards are preeeetty darn high, TBH).

It’s also really important to us that each of our shopping articles adheres to the 15 Percent Pledge, and we try to make sure the products we feature are good for both you and our planet. If we wouldn’t buy something for ourselves, we sure as heck won’t recommend it to you—and we’re always gonna keep it really, really real. Pinky swear.

Lettermark

Hanna Flanagan is an associate shopping editor at Cosmopolitan, sharing her recommendations for everything from denim and eye creams to coffee mugs and silk sheets. Before joining Cosmopolitan, she wrote fashion, beauty, and lifestyle content at People (so, yes, she’s basically a professional product tester at this point). Follow her on Instagram for photos of Timothée Chalamet and #OOTD mirror pics. 

Headshot of Hannah Chubb

Associate Lifestyle Editor

Hannah Chubb is the associate lifestyle editor at Cosmopolitan, covering all things home, travel, food, health, career, and more. She spends pretty much every hour of every day curating the internet for the best new products, trends, and travel destinations. You can typically find her looking for houses she can’t afford on Zillow or Airbnb, planning her next meal before she gets to the restaurant, or taking all of the Justin Bieber classes over and over and over again on Peloton. Follow her on Instagram

 

preview for All Sections Playlist - Cosmopolitan US

Advertisement – Continue Reading Below

Advertisement – Continue Reading Below





Source link