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best must-have basic
Amazon Basics 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″ |
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Material | ABS |
Number of Colorways | 4 |
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″ |
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Material | Polycarbonate |
Number of Colorways | 10 |
best affordable carry-on
Traveler’s Choice 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″ |
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Material | Polypropylene |
Number of Colorways | 5 |
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best looking carry-on
Calpak Hue Carry-On Luggage

best looking carry-on
Calpak Hue Carry-On Luggage
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” |
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Material | Polycarbonate |
Number of Colorways | 5 |
best investment piece
Arlo Skye 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″ |
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Material | Polycarbonate |
Number of Colorways | 3 |
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″ |
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Material | Polycarbonate |
Number of Colorways | 14 |
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best for traveling with kids
MiaMily Carry On 20”

best for traveling with kids
MiaMily Carry On 20”
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″ |
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Material | Polycarbonate and polypropylene |
Number of Colorways | 5 |
best smooth-rolling carry-on
Vacay Glisten Jaxson 20-Inch Spinner

best smooth-rolling carry-on
Vacay Glisten Jaxson 20-Inch Spinner
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” |
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Material | rPET |
Number of Colorways | 3 |
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″ |
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Material | Aluminum and polycarbonate |
Number of Colorways | 3 |
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best weekender bag
Everlane 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″ |
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Material | Recycled polyester |
Number of Colorways | 6 |
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″ |
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Material | Vegan leather (nylon also available) |
Number of Colorways | 9 |
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″ |
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Material | Poly canvas, vegan leather |
Number of Colorways | 9 |
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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″ |
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Material | Nylon, pebbled leather |
Number of Colorways | 5 |
How we chose the best carry-on luggage

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.
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.
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.
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