Selecting the perfect carry-on bag for your travel needs can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable international travel experience. The significance of the right luggage cannot be overstated-whether you're embarking on a business trip or a leisurely adventure. Consider the value of investing in a quality carry-on that caters to your specific needs.
To help you make a quicker, better-informed choice, we've compiled the highest-ranking, top 5 best carry-ons for international travel. From luxurious options to budget-friendly alternatives, we'll guide you through what makes a quality carry-on based on size, weight, material, features, and overall performance.
Want to know what real customers think of these products? We've included reviewer pros and cons to provide a well-rounded view of what you can expect from these choice carry-ons.
Carry-On Luggage Buyer's Guide
When choosing the best carry-on for international travel, be sure to consider these factors:
- Size: When choosing the size of your carry-on bag, it's crucial to take into account the duration of your trip and any airline restrictions-there might be a slight variation in these dimensions depending on the airline. International flights generally have smaller size limits compared to domestic ones.
- Weight: Take into account both the weight of the carry-on and the weight of your items. Airlines often enforce strict weight restrictions for carry-on bags, making it crucial to opt for a lightweight bag. This ensures that your luggage doesn't contribute significantly to your overall baggage allowance.
- Features: Consider the travel-friendly features that would enhance your experience, such as spinner wheels, dedicated pockets for your cell phone or laptop, expandable storage, or the inclusion of a TSA lock. Find a carry-on that matches your specific travel needs.
- Material: Find a carry-on bag that is crafted from premium materials. Whether it's hardside, softside, or hardshell, there's a range of exteriors available. Be sure to carefully read the product description and customer reviews to assess how well the chosen material withstands wear and tear over time.
- Durability: Opt for a carry-on bag that boasts strength and resilience, especially if you're a frequent traveler. Prioritize features like "scratch-resistant," "tilt-resistant/shock-absorbing wheels," and "hard shell/hardside exterior" to ensure your bag can withstand the rigors of baggage handling.
- Warranty: Choose a carry-on bag that comes with a warranty or guarantee. This ensures peace of mind, knowing your investment is safeguarded against any defects or issues that may arise.
- Style: Select carry-on bags that align with your personal style and preferences. Whether you lean towards classic leather or modern hard-shell designs, there's a diverse array of options to suit your taste. Additionally, opt for a color that's easily recognizable to you so it's easy to find during the hustle and bustle of international travel.
Top 5 Carry-On Luggage Brands and Bags
International travel, whether for business or pleasure, demands careful consideration when it comes to selecting the right carry-on luggage. The choice of a brand can significantly impact the quality of your selection.
In this review of the top 5 carry-on luggage brands, we delve into the best carry-on choices of reputable names like Samsonite, Rockland, TUMI, Travelers Club, and Swiss Gear. From durability to design, each brand brings a unique perspective to the world of travel gear, promising a blend of quality, style, and functionality. We've included each carry-on's standout features and customer feedback to help you make an informed decision when purchasing a carry-on for your next international adventure.
Top 5 Carry-Ons at a Glance
| Rank | Carry-On | Rating (Out of 5) |
| 1 | Samsonite Omni PC | 4.5 |
| 2 | Swiss Gear Sion | 4.5 |
| 3 | Rockland London | 4.5 |
| 4 | TUMI 19 Degree International | 4.5 |
| 5 | Travelers Club Chicago | 4.3 |
1. Samsonite - Editor's Choice
Samsonite has been well-established as a reputable travel bags, luggage, and travel accessories brand since 1910. Known for creating durable, long-lasting luggage, Samsonite's high standards for quality and craftsmanship make this brand a go-to for travel needs. Samsonite has a variety of collections to choose from: Elevation Plus, their modern, eco-friendly collection; Proxis, the lightest luggage option by Samsonite; Outline Pro, their most durable luggage selection; and Detour, built for adventure. All luggage and accessories come with a limited Global Warranty through Samsonite.
Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Carry-On is the optimal carry-on from Samsonite for international travel. Highly rated for durability, the Samsonite Omni PC is designed to withstand the roughest travel conditions while maintaining functionality and a visually appealing design so you can travel with ease and in style. Available in 13 striking colors. Samsonite provides a 10-year limited warranty with purchase that protects against defects in materials and craftsmanship.
" I have traveled to several international destinations and used this as both carry-on and checked luggage. I have taken this on several city streets, and road trips. It's held up well. It's lightweight and doesn't waste space in the interior with the design. It always fits in the overhead bin. The wheels don't get in the way of zipping. It's usually the distinctive one on the conveyor belt (color). Pricepoint is spot on for the use I have had out of it so far and how it's held up so far."
"Suitcase held up perfectly over 4 four flights over the holidays. Not a single scratch or dent, no signs of wear, and it was easy to travel with - rolled smoothly and easily, sturdy handle."
2. Swiss Gear - Amazon #1 Best Seller
Swiss Gear is a well-known luggage brand that offers a wide range of low- to mid-range luggage options. You can purchase their products individually or in sets, including carry-on, hardside, softside, and check-in luggage, as well as duffel bags, garment bags, laptop bags, backpacks, and adventure backpacks. Swiss Gear stands by its quality craftsmanship and offers a limited warranty from the date of purchase, so you can travel with peace of mind.
Swiss Gear Sion Carry-On is an Amazon #1 Best Seller for suitcases, particularly carry-on luggage. It comes in 7 color options.
- Price: $120 (check link for latest price)
- Rating: 4.5 out of 5
- Size: 14.25 in. x 10.25 in. x 22.75 in.
- Weight: 7.78 lbs.
- Material: Polyester
- Features: Swiss Gear's Sion Carry-On is expandable; has a locking push/pull handle system; 4 360-degree spinner wheels for maximum mobility; an interior and exterior made of durable, scuff-resistant polyester; a removable zippered wet bag; a small packing pocket for smaller items; and a built-in ID tag.
- Pros: Customers are satisfied with the size, weight, portability, and appearance of the Swiss Gear Sion Carry-On.
"This is a basic, well-made, piece of luggage. The wheels are smooth and it's survived and rolled around nicely on different types of surfaces. The handle extends fully and it's easy to maneuver. I like the internal and external pockets."
"A great-sized carry-on; works well, rolls all directions, and has enough room to carry all items I'd need for a trip. I would highly recommend it as a good carry-on bag."
- Cons: A few reviewers have found the handle to be a little flimsy and gets stuck easily. Another reviewer found the wheels pull in one direction making mobility difficult.
3. Rockland - Amazon's Choice
Rockland is a mid-range, family-friendly luggage brand that offers the widest range of carry-on materials, features, and styles to choose from for both adults and children. Rockland's carry-ons are available in softside, hardside, and they even sell carry-on-sized rolling trunks. Rockland luggage is known for vivid color options and eye-catching designs that make Rockland bags stand out from the crowd in any environment making it easy to locate your bags and travel in style. Rockland offers a 5-year warranty on defects in materials and workmanship from the date of original purchase.
Rockland London Carry-On is an Amazon's Choice for carry-on luggage by Rockland. The Rockland London Carry-On is designed to be lightweight and durable with ease of maneuverability. There are 13 stylish color options.
- Price: $120 (check link for latest price)
- Rating: 4.5 out of 5
- Size: 13 in. x 10 in. x 20 in.
- Weight: 7.5 lbs.
- Material: ABS hardshell
- Features: Rockland's London Carry-On is very lightweight, expandable up to an additional 2 in. in depth for maximum capacity, has 4 360-degree double spinner wheels, a telescoping handle, and a durable hardshell exterior.
- Pros: Customers are satisfied with the appearance, value, weight, size, portability, and maneuverability of the Rockland London Carry-On.
"I took this bag with me to Europe and really put it to the test. I was constantly checking the bag, carrying it onto airplanes and trains and it had no issues. I love the bag and the color is perfect and easy to find if you are looking for it at luggage pickup."
"I needed a last-minute carry-on for an international trip and found this at just the right price and time. It held lots of items, was easy to maneuver around airports, and was durable but lightweight. I couldn't be happier!"
- Cons: Reviewers advise being gentle with the zippers as they are not industrial-grade.
4. TUMI
TUMI is a luxury luggage brand with multiple collections to choose from. You can find the best carry-on for your travel needs from TUMI's Alpha collection, which has best-in-class functionality perfect for business travel, 19 Degree collection, which is lightweight luggage crafted from recycled polycarbonate ideal for international travel, or Alpha Bravo's utilitarian-style luggage suited for any adventure. All of these collections come with limited warranties that are free with purchase through TUMI.
TUMI 19 Degree International Luggage is the best choice for a carry-on by TUMI for an international flight. The TUMI 19 Degree carry-on is built to be lightweight and resilient and comes in a variety of 10 trendy colors.
- Price: $750 (check link for latest price)
- Rating: 4.5 out of 5
- Size: 21.8 in. x 14.0 in. x 9.0 in. with an expanded depth of up to 11 in.
- Weight: 10.65 lbs.
- Material: Recycled Polycarbonate
- Features: TUMI's 19 Degree International Luggage is expandable, has a 3-stage telescoping handle, 4 recessed dual spinner wheels for optimal maneuverability, and PROTX2 interior antimicrobial lining.
- Pros: Customers love the quality, value, color options, functionality, and capacity of TUMI's 19 Degree International Luggage.
"You can carry it on board, so you don't have to wait at the turntable and it won't run out. The wheels are quiet and smooth. I'm glad I bought it."
"Only luggage brand I will buy, they do get costly but worth it in the long run. Definitely a quality product."
- Cons: Some reviewers found the carry-on too small for their travel needs. Other reviewers were not pleased with the color of the luggage. One reviewer reported the luggage tag snapped off during travel.
5. Travelers Club
Travelers Club is an affordable choice for carry-on luggage. Travelers Club offers both hardside and softside carry-on luggage built to provide the maximum dimensions and weight for carry-on luggage according to TSA and airline standards. Travelers Club provides a limited warranty with purchase, coverage varies by product.
Travelers Club Chicago Carry-On is a great choice for a quality carry-on that fits most budgets and comes in 14 stylish color choices.
- Price: $50 (check link for latest price)
- Rating: 4.3 out of 5
- Size: 13 in. x 11 in. x 20 in.
- Weight: 5.6 lbs.
- Material: ABS hardshell
- Features: Travelers Club Chicago Carry-On is expandable, has a push-button recessed locking handle system, 4 single-wheel spinners for 360-degree mobility, and a durable ABS hardshell exterior.
- Pros: Customers enjoy the size, weight, and color options of the Travelers Club Chicago Carry-On.
"I purchased this set for our trip. Was very pleased with it. I was a little concerned because of what I had paid but all pieces worked perfectly and held up great. The color is nice and vibrant Very easy to see when waiting for luggage. So glad I made this purchase and looking forward to using it on many more trips."
"This piece of luggage is the right size for [traveling abroad]. It rolls right, spins right, and has the right price. It's lightweight but has a hard shell plastic material to combat scratches."
- Cons: Reviewers mention problems with zippers breaking or getting stuck. One review noted the wheels got stuck and dragged making maneuverability an issue.
FAQs: Best Carry-On for International Travel
A: The ideal size for a carry-on bag for international travel usually depends on the specific airline's restrictions. Generally, international flights have smaller size limits compared to domestic flights. A common standard size is approximately 20 inches in height, but it's crucial to check with your airline before traveling.
Question: Which luggage bag is best for international travel?
A: The best luggage bag for international travel balances size, weight, durability, and functionality. Brands like Samsonite, Swiss Gear, and TUMI offer some of the top-rated options. Factors such as material quality, wheel design, and handle comfort are important to consider.
Question: What is the lightest carry-on suitcase for international travel?
A: The lightest carry-on suitcases are typically made from materials like polycarbonate or high-grade aluminum. Brands such as Samsonite's Proxis and TUMI's 19 Degree collection offer lightweight options without compromising on durability and style.
Question: Which carry-on luggage is best for international travel?
A: The best carry-on luggage for international travel is one that meets airline size restrictions, is lightweight, and has features like durable spinner wheels, secure locks, and efficient storage options. Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Carry-On and Swiss Gear Sion Carry-On are excellent choices.
Question: Which luggage brand is best for international travel?
A: Several brands are renowned for their quality and functionality in international travel luggage. Top contenders include Samsonite, known for its durability and style; TUMI, for its luxury designs and robust materials; and Swiss Gear, for its functional and budget-friendly options.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect carry-on bag can help you have a smooth and enjoyable international travel experience. The best luggage can significantly impact the quality of your journey-whether it's for business or leisure. We hope that you've found our comprehensive guide helpful in making a better-informed decision on finding the right carry-on for you.
Ultimately, investing in a quality carry-on that aligns with your travel needs will not only enhance your overall international travel experience but will also offer assurance, knowing that you've chosen a reliable companion for your globe-trotting adventures. Wishing you safe travels!
