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The 12 Best Carry-on Luggage Pieces That Will Definitely Fit In The Overhead Compartment — As Low As $37

The 12 best carry-on luggage pieces that will definitely fit in the overhead compartment — as low as $37

No matter how you look at it, travel season never really ends. With this in mind, thousands of prospective travelers are constantly looking to upgrade their carry-on luggage.

Now more than ever, the size of your carry-on luggage matters. Airlines are now charging for checked bags across the board, and some have even begun charging for carry-ons, especially those that don't fit the size requirements for the plane's overhead compartment.

To avoid falling into this group and the guessing game, we've outlined 12 of the best carry-ons that will easily fit in almost any airline's overhead compartment.

For context, according to Travel + Leisure, the standard domestic carry-on luggage size is 22 inches by 14 inches by 9 inches, including a handle and wheels for roller bags. Though you may find an inch or two of difference among airlines, these dimensions apply to most major aircrafts.

At the moment, airlines set their own carry-on luggage restrictions and guidelines. However, it's better to be safe than sorry and stick as closely to these dimensions as possible in case guidelines change in the future.

There are tons of options — from hardside and softside luggage to duffles and expandable picks — that will give you that extra peace of mind and prices start at just $37. Check out the best from Monos, Away, Samsonite, Protege and more.

1. Best Overall: Monos Carry-On Pro, $295 (Orig. $311)

Monos

Monos' best-selling Carry-On Pro is by far the most user-friendly and stylish of the bunch

$295 at Monos

Measuring 22 inches by 14 inches by 9 inches — the standard carry-on dimensions — this hardside piece features a built-in front compartment for easy access while you travel. There, you can store your passport, headphones, wallet and more.

The front compartment also fits a 15-inch laptop and keeps it protected under the same aerospace-grade polycarbonate as the rest of the case. In fact, the shell is actually unbreakable. Get it while it's on sale.

Right now, the Monos Hybrid Carry-On Plus Spinner carry-on and the standard Carry-On Spinner carry-on are also in-stock at Nordstrom.

2. Most Lightweight: Monos Hybrid Carry-On, $325

Monos

This is both the lightest and most secure carry-on you'll find, thanks to its zipperless design that keeps anyone from getting in.

$325 at Monos

Over the past few years, Monos has quickly become one of the best luggage brands, especially if you're looking for pieces that are durable, indestructible, long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing.

In 2022, Monos added the Hybrid Carry-On to its roster, and it's the lightest and most resilient suitcase in its lineup, even beating out the best-selling Carry-On Pro.

So, what makes this a "hybrid?" The brand took the most sought-after features of aluminum and polycarbonate luggage and merged them into a sleek and absolutely stunning carry-on suitcase that stands out for all the right reasons. What sets this one apart from all of the others on this list, however, is its zipperless aluminum frame, aluminum corner guards and unbreakable shell.

Also, measuring 22 inches by 14 inches by 9 inches — the standard carry-on dimensions — the Monos Hybrid Carry-On fits perfectly in the overhead bin. It's available right now in three colors: champagne, obsidian and silver.

3. Most Popular: Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Luggage with Spinner Wheels, $119.19 (Orig. $199.99)

Samsonite

Samsonite is one of the most trusted luggage brands of all time, so it's no surprise that the Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Luggage with Spinner Wheels is a major customer favorite.

$119 at Amazon

Measuring 23 inches by 14.5 inches by 9.5 inches, this best-selling carry-on luggage piece meets size restrictions on United, American, Delta, Southwest and Allegiant Airlines. It's super lightweight and comes with a 10-year limited warranty.

4. Best Softside Option: Travelpro Maxlite 5 Expandable Spinner Wheel Luggage, $144.49 (Orig. $169.99)

Travelpro

If you prefer softside suitcases, this Travelpro option is a popular Amazon pick.

$144 at Amazon

Hardside luggage isn't everyone's cup of tea. This softside pick is one of the lightest on the list, features four spinning wheels that smoothly rotate 360 degrees and even expands up to 2 inches to maximize packing capacity.

Also, if you're looking for a carry-on that's compartment-heavy, this one's the best pick. It features two exterior compartments, a full-length interior lid pocket and a side accessory pocket. The Travelpro Maxlite 5 Expandable Spinner Wheel Luggage measures 23 inches by 14.5 inches by 9 inches.

5. Most Affordable: Protege Regency Carry-On 2-Wheel Upright Luggage (in black), $37 (Orig. $47)

Walmart

You can't beat the price and quality of this sturdy piece.

$37 at Walmart

At just $49, it's a steal, but don't let the price tag fool you — the Protege Regency Carry-On 2-Wheel Upright Luggage is actually premium in every way.

This Walmart exclusive deal features two low-profile in-line skate wheels, an interlocking zipper system to keep your belongings safe, interior mesh pockets, a padded top and a compression strap to keep your items secure. It measures 22 inches by 7 inches by 14 inches and comes in black and red.

6. Best All-Black Carry-On: Carl Friedrik Carry-On Pro, $565

Recently, the brand released an all-black version of its No. 1 best-selling Carry-On Pro and it's, by far, one of the best high-end suitcases I've ever seen and tried.

It has a gorgeous textured grain finish that minimizes the appearance of blemishes and complements the austere look that this luggage piece gives off. The main compartment is also completely zipperless, making it extra secure and impossible for anyone to get in but you. This is all thanks to its TSA-approved locks.

The hardshell pocket on the front is perfect for storing any travel essentials like your Passport, wallet, earbuds and laptop. This pocket includes a laptop compartment, two pen slots and a small pocket. Internally, each side is an open compartment equipped with compression straps. The carry-on also has one removable compression pad with a pocket.

7. Best Expandable Pick: Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels, $125.56 (Orig. $149.99)

Amazon

If you're a light packer and buy a lot of souvenirs or clothes on your trips, this one's for you.

$126 at Amazon

The Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels is one of the best expandable options you can buy.

In addition to this useful feature, its micro-diamond, polycarbonate exterior makes it perfect for the frequent traveler as it's scratch-resistant and stays looking new even with regular wear and tear.

8. Best Sustainable Option: Paravel Aviator Carry-On, $395

Paravel

Dubbed "the most sustainable carry-on you'll ever own," the Paravel Aviator Carry-On suitcase is a first of its kind.

$395 at Paravel

The brand offsets all of the carbon emissions generated from creating and shipping an Aviator Carry-On, making this the most sustainable carry-on you can possibly buy.

Also, contributing to its environmentally conscious mission, it has a durable recycled polycarbonate exterior, recycled zippers, a lining made from 15 upcycled plastic water bottles and more.

It's also just the right size, fitting two to four days' worth of clothes and one to two pairs of shoes. Best of all, it fits easily in the overhead compartment of any airline, thanks to its 13.7 inches by 21.7 inches by 9 inches measurements.

Shoppers also love that this carry-on is extremely smooth and has 360-degree spinner wheels with carbon steel bearings, an interior compression board, a removable laundry bag and more.

9. Sleekest Pick: The Away Carry-On, $315

Away

Not a fan of all the bells and whistles and prefer something sleek and simple? If this is your sentiment, the Away Carry-On is the perfect option.

$315 at Away

There's not a lot to this one, aesthetically speaking. Its gorgeously understated outer design makes it beautiful to look at and, not to mention, it's super lightweight.

Measuring 21.7 inches by 13.7 inches by 9 inches, the carry-on fits in the overhead bin of most major airlines and is compact enough for train and car rides. For that extra luxe feel, it also features leather details and comes with a black leather luggage tag.

10. Most Modern: LEVEL8 Pro Carry-On With Laptop Pocket, $209.99

LEVEL8

This carry-on won a Red Dot award for its premium design and build.

$210 at LEVEL8

LEVEL8 is known for designing some of the most modern, well-engineered and sturdiest suitcases on the market.

This stylish carry-on is finely crafted with aerospace-grade Bayer Makrolon, is water-resistant, lightweight and has a durable hard-shell casing to protect your items. It also has the usual 360-degree ultra-quiet spinner wheels most high-end carry-ons have now.

What sets it apart from others, though, is its built-in USB port and an interior compartment for a power bank that makes it perfect for charging your devices during travel.

11. Best Option With Built-In Organization: Nomatic Carry-On Classic, $399.99

Nomatic

Nomatic's Carry-On Classic comes with built-in organization compartments that do the same task.

$400 at Nomatic

Most folks opt for packing cubes to keep their clothes, shoes and valuables organized and compartmentalized in their carry-ons, but those come at an extra cost.

Described as "a master of organization," this sleek and sturdy carry-on lets you maximize capacity in a virtually indestructible case. Also, it falls in line with the standard carry-on size measurements, has silent wheels, and has both TSA-locking YKK zippers and magnetic compression straps.

12. Best Handheld Option: Troubadour Embark Compact Duffle, $275

Troubadour

For those who prefer a duffle form and can do without the wheels and extra surface area, the Troubadour Embark Compact Duffle fits the bill and is perfect for uses beyond the airport.

It's lightweight, waterproof and can fit a 16-inch laptop in the zipped-and-padded pocket. It also comes with a waterproof-lined pocket to store your shoes so they don't touch any of your other belongings. Best of all, if you choose to use this as your personal item in addition to a roller carry-on, the bag features a trolley sleeve that slides over your luggage handles.

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Away The Carry-On Aluminum Edition Suitcase Review: Sleek, Sturdy And Reliable

In our wider review of the best luggage on the market, we named Away the best carry-on option. We tested the brand's aluminum carry-on and found it to be worth the hype. Read on to find out why.

Up until last year, my carry-on bags consisted of two options: a large travel backpack or a small cloth roller bag that won some "best travel suitcase" award however many years ago. On several occasions, I wound up checking one of my fabric bags that I intended to carry on, only to retrieve a damaged bag at my destination. My mother, who suffers from both Parkinson's and dementia, often checks her luggage to simplify her travels, and after her wrapped iPad arrived at its final destination with a cracked screen, I decided that it was time to try something new. After scrutinizing all of my options, I landed on the Away The Carry-On Aluminum Edition, which caught my eye due to the brand's reputation as being one of the best carry-on luggage choices on the market as well as its aesthetically pleasing exterior.

Away The Carry-On: Aluminum Edition caught my eye due to the brand's reputation as being one of the ... [+] best carry-on luggage choices on the market as well as its aesthetically pleasing exterior.

Illustration: Forbes / Image: Retailer

Sleek, sturdy and attractive, the aluminum carry-on immediately caught my eye as I perused my local Away store. I selected the soft and striking rose gold color and opted for a large aluminum suitcase to accompany me on long trips and the standard carry-on model for shorter outings. After pushing, pulling, heaving and hauling my Away roller around the world, I've reached one conclusion: This is about as good as a carry-on gets. Below, my review of Away The Carry-On Aluminum Edition, and why it makes for such a capable travel companion.

Exterior dimensions: 21.5 x 13.5 x 9 inchesInterior dimensions: 19 x 12.5 inchesWeight: 10.1 poundsCapacity: 35 litersMaterials: Aluminum, leather, plastic

Best For:

People who want or need access to their belongings mid-flight

Travelers who hate checking luggage

Travelers who love beautiful luggage

Skip If:

You're on a tight budget

You typically need more room than a carry-on can provide

Away The Carry-On Aluminum Design: Small, Sleek And Oh So Serious

While I originally chose the Away Carry-On Aluminum Edition bag for shorter personal trips, it quickly became the go-to carryall for my entire family. I've packed it with my mom's belongings when she visits me in New York, and I've appreciated that it's small enough to fit underneath the wheelchair I use to get her through the airport. I've also realized that because she isn't able to lift the bag on her own, airline staff will happily check it for her at the gate, which saves us a little money and prevents the bag from facing airport security, where it might get damaged. My sister also borrowed the bag for a week-long trip to Madeira, Portugal. She took the bag over as a carry-on and then checked it on the way back to protect bottles of Madeira's famous wine that she had purchased.

Away aluminum carry-on fits neatly under an airport wheelchair

Cassandra Brooklyn

At 21.5 inches high by 13.5 inches long, Away's aluminum Carry-On suitcase falls right in the middle of the roller bag sizing spectrum. Some styles are smaller and lighter, while others are larger and heavier. But in this veteran traveler's opinion, it's the perfect size because it's big enough to fit the essentials for a trip, yet small enough to nestle into most overhead compartments, car trunks and closets. It's worth noting that Away's original hardshell Carry-On offers five additional liters of space (though it lacks an aluminum shell), and the brand's even larger carry-on, the Bigger Carry-On, offers an additional eight liters of capacity over the original.

Because this roller features an aluminum shell, it's a few pounds heavier than polycarbonate rollers, but that reinforced exterior contributes to its sturdy, solid design that protects your belongings without adding too much weight. Generally speaking, carry-on bags aren't likely to exceed airline weight limits, but if your checked luggage tends to weigh on the heavier side, those extra pounds might lead to additional fees. I've had to pull out books and belongings on several occasions to reduce bag weight, so consider Away's original Carry-On that's three pounds lighter than the aluminum model if weight is a concern. And if you can't go without a carry-on but some travels require even more space, consider the brand's Carry-On Flex suitcase that offers 40 liters of space, or 47 when expanded.

Underneath, Away outfits its carry-ons with 360-degree Hinomoto wheels that are noticeably smoother than other wheels I've tested. As it turns out, most high-end luggage brands use these Japanese rollers, so you might as well consider them the gold standard in the space. Whether you're walking with the suitcase at an angle or pushing it in the upright position, you'll never notice any stickiness, squeaking or play as it rolls over sidewalks, conveyor belts and busy terminals.

The only criticism some travelers may have with Away's Carry-On is the same one most clamshell suitcases receive: packing it full isn't always easy. Because the suitcase unzips down the middle, you're forced to pack the main compartment to the brim before closing the other packed side in the hopes that everything will fit. A solid set of packing cubes can make it easier, but those that need a single, open compartment might prefer a soft-sided alternative.

Medium and carry-on aluminum Away bags in Madeira, Portugal

Cassandra Brooklyn Away The Carry-On Aluminum Features: Tons Of Travel-Ready Touches

When it comes to features, the Away carry-on suitcase has them in spades. From standard features like TSA-approved locks and handsome luggage tags to customizable add-ons like monograms, limited-edition prints and an ejectable USB charger (a $20 option), Away goes above and beyond to outdo the carry-on competition.

Inside the suitcase, Away offers a handy compression sleeve on one side that cinches down to compress your clothes and save space. On the other side you'll find a dedicated organization sleeve that straps over belongings to prevent random items from bouncing around. Both sleeves feature zippered mesh pockets that are convenient for stashing smaller items like toiletries, or flat items like magazines and notebooks. There's also a removable laundry bag so you don't wind up mixing clean and dirty clothes during the trip.

And then there are the features you simply won't see unless you look hard enough. For instance, the leather-trimmed handles contain a spring that allows them to slowly release against the shell. The dual-combination locks eliminate exterior zippers (this is only true of the aluminum suitcase—the original carry-on uses zippers), so your carry-on opens more like a briefcase. And every mark or ding the aluminum shell bears over time isn't really damage, but a lasting memory of your travels. Outfitting what amounts to a box with wheels isn't easy, but Away does well to provide travel-ready essentials.

Away's built-in charger makes it easy to top off your devices on the go.

Cassandra Brooklyn For Forbes Away The Carry-On Aluminum Durability: Strong And Sturdy, So You Don't Have To Worry

Away's aluminum luggage is the first collection I've ever owned that allows me to travel in complete confidence. Certainly, there are cheaper hardshell suitcases on the market but some designs are flimsy, others use cheap zippers, and I worry most budget-minded models will pop open when tossed around by baggage handlers. These aluminum suitcases, on the other hand, are incredibly sturdy, so I've packed many delicate items without wondering if they'll wind up damaged.

While this carry-on suitcase is small enough to fit in most overhead bins, I've also checked it on numerous occasions, and I've done the same with the larger Away suitcase I own. From bottles of hot sauce in El Salvador that wouldn't pass through security to delicate Christmas gifts for family and friends, the hard sides of the aluminum suitcase have dutifully protected any and all contents.

After employing my Away luggage on a number of trips, it began to show signs of obvious wear. When consulting my airline to discuss their damaged bag policy, I was told any damage was a result of "normal wear and tear," even though my suitcase lost a chunk of leather in the midst of travel. Fortunately, Away has a generous limited lifetime warranty that covers serious travel-induced damage, so they happily replaced my bag as it wasn't repairable. Your mileage may vary in this regard, but Away is definitely ready to stand behind its products.

Compression sleeves and organizing pockets make it easy to pack the Away Carry-On .

Cassandra Brooklyn For Forbes Away The Carry-On Aluminum Verdict: A Travel-Ready Investment

Admittedly, the aluminum luggage collection I own isn't cheap. In fact, it's double the price of many other hardshell suitcases, but as is often the case, you get what you pay for. Personally, I think my rose aluminum suitcases are the most beautiful pieces of luggage I've ever seen at the airport, so I feel proud wheeling them through terminals and hotels. But more importantly, I feel confident knowing my belongings are safe, and I appreciate how the expertly-crafted luggage has made travel my travel experience just a little less stressful. If you can afford Away's aluminum carry-on luggage, I'd highly recommend it. And if you're looking for luggage that doesn't cost as much as a roundtrip flight, the brand's original hardshell carry-on makes for a great investment, and it often goes on sale.

The 14 Very Best Pieces Of Rolling Luggage

It's nerve-racking to wave good-bye to your suitcase at the airport check-in desk. While you meander around Hudson News, your case is journeying from conveyor belt to vehicle to plane and getting scuffed in the process. So, the main criteria when choosing a piece of luggage? Making sure it'll arrive at your destination in one piece. But beyond that, style varies wildly: Will it be hard-shell or soft-side? Two wheels or four? Luxury or affordable? Stylish or practical? To help you choose, we chatted with some of the most well-traveled people we know about their favorites, and below, you'll find a suitcase fit for just about every traveler. And for those that prefer to keep their luggage close, we've included plenty of carry-on-friendly cases, too.

Comments Have you taken any of these suitcases on a trip?

Our experts definitely prefer hard-shell luggage. It's durable and easy to clean, protects your clothes if it rains, and is harder for bedbugs to penetrate if you encounter any on your trip. The hard-shells on this list are made from ABS (an inexpensive but less durable plastic), polycarbonate (a more durable but lightweight material), or aluminum (slightly heavier but the most durable). There are a few soft-sided pieces on this list too — for those who haven't made the switch yet. While they aren't as durable, "from a repair standpoint, we always feel that the canvas soft-sided luggage is better than the hard-side luggage because you can repair canvas," Tony Pecorella, president and CEO of Modern Leather Goods, a repair shop in Manhattan, says. He's an authorized repairman for many of the luggage brands below and says someone comes in with a cracked hard-shell every day and "there's no repairing them at all." So in addition to soft-side suitcases being fixable, they are overpacking-friendly because you can stuff more in them than a rigid polycarbonate case and finesse a larger carry-on to fit in an overhead bin, too

A pretty standard feature in all suitcases are the buckled straps that go over your clothes to help keep them in place. In newer hard-shells, they have doubled down on this concept with full dividers that compress your clothes and make it easier to close your suitcase. Unlike the straps, the dividers cover the entire section and usually have an additional zippered pocket on them, addressing a common complaint that polycarbonate cases don't have any smaller compartments.

Our experts continuously raved about the wheels on their favorite suitcases, describing them as smooth and sturdy. Most were talking about their four spinner wheels, which make the suitcase much easier to push along as it can glide in all directions. For comfort and ease of use, four wheels is definitely the way to go and is our recommendation, but again, Pecorella says it's not the best choice from a repair standpoint. "It is always stronger to have the case that has the two wheels on it," he says. "Those wheels are encased, so the only thing that can really happen on those wheels is that they wear out eventually like tires on your car." With the four spinners — which Pecorella fully admits to using personally — he says because they aren't encased and just are attached to the bottom of the suitcase, you run the risk of them being banged off. "If you're rolling off a curb or if you hit the escalator too hard, it'll just snap the wheel right off," he says. "That's one of the biggest repairs we do here all day."

Almost none of the suitcases on this list go the easy-repair route of being soft-side and having two wheels, and that's because they all have pretty good warranties, which Pecorella says is actually the most important part. "This is what we tell our customers all the time: If you are a regular traveler, really look into the luggage brand's warranty and see what they are covering and what they are not covering," he says. "There is a large disparity between the very good ones that I would recommend if we were off the record and ones I would not recommend." The biggest phrase you want to avoid is "limited to manufacturer's defects," which Pecorella says means they basically cover nothing and will attribute damage to wear and tear, or say it's your fault or the airline's fault. "Lifetime warranty" is ideal, and he says most of them offer it. Others will say they have a "limited lifetime warranty," which means it's only good for so many years or there are restrictions on what it applies to. The bottom line from Pecorella is to do your homework: That way, you'll really know what you're getting.

If you've checked an overweight bag before, you'll know how much those extra charges can sting. Lightweight suitcases are ideal for overpackers — including myself — so we've included each case's weight when empty.

Hard-shell vs. Soft-side: Polycarbonate hard-shellCompression dividersWheels: 360-degree spinner wheelsWarranty: Limited lifetime warrantyWeight: 7.4 pounds

We've been recommended this style of Away suitcase countless times, and after testing it myself, I can add my own endorsement to the list. Although the bigger carry-on has an almost 50-liter capacity, it still fits in most overhead bins and is perfect for a longer trip. Kelly Farber, founder of KF Literary Scouting, took only this on a three-week, seven-city business trip, and said, "That thing just would not quit." I tested the slightly smaller carry-on, simply because I live in Europe, where airlines are much stingier about carry-on allowances. No matter what size you get, though, each one features the same desirable qualities our experts were looking for in a modern suitcase. "It's sturdy but light, and has a USB charger so I can charge my phone just enough to order an Uber," writer and photographer Nicholas Gill said. "Plus, inside it has a nylon bag where I can toss in my clothes after getting caught in a sudden jungle downpour, which always seems to happen."

Stephanie Be from TravelBreak.Net and BUENA calls out the "TSA-approved lock, 360-degree wheels, tough hardware, and sleek design." For me, the wheels are a standout: I'm used to tentatively hauling my suitcases up and down my cobbly London road, but the Away can truly take a battering — and when it meets flat surfaces, it glides. An interior compression divider on one side lets you "stuff all the things and zip it shut," Summer Hull, director of travel content at the Points Guy, says. For Kiana Brooks, a luxury fashion buyer, another selling point was the warranty, which helped her justify the price of the large size. There's a limited lifetime warranty on it. In this case, that means it doesn't expire, but there is a limit on what it covers. Away will fix or replace any functional damage to the shell, wheels, handles, zippers, or "anything else that impairs your use of the luggage," according to the website. The battery pack, however, is limited to a two-year warranty.

Hard-shell vs soft-side: Polycarbonate hard-shellCompression strapWheels: 360-degree spinner wheelsWarranty: Limited ten-yearWeight: 7.9 pounds

It's rare to find a polycarbonate suitcase for less than $200 (and this one's often on sale for even cheaper, too). It's a go-to for travel blogger Courtney Vondran, who uses it for work trips. "I needed a solid, functional, affordable (and stylish) carry-on. I think it's a great option for budget travelers or first-timer carry-on travelers who want nice pieces for more affordable prices," she says. It includes plenty of features you'd expect from more expensive brands, like four 365-degree spinner wheels, TSA-approved locks, and a built-in USB port to use with a power bank. It also has a limited ten-year warranty, which covers any major damages beyond reasonable wear and tear. So far, Vondran has taken her case with her on "road trips throughout the Midwest, a work trip to Egypt, vacation to L.A., travel conference in Memphis, romantic getaway to Maine, and more."

Hard-shell vs. Soft-side: ABS hard-shellCompression strapWheels: 360-degree spinner wheelsWarranty: Limited warrantyWeight: 7.3 pounds

Finding a suitcase closer to $100 that can hang with the rest of the ones on this list is pretty special. This Amazon Basics case is made from ABS, the cheaper and least durable hard-shell material, so that explains the price, but it's still a favorite of writer Robin Reetz. She actually didn't even like carry-ons before trying this one out, always preferring to check a bag — but after trying this spinner because of the price, she found a lot more to like about it. She was drawn to "the compartments and much-better-than-expected functionality," she said. Reetz was impressed with the size of the 21-inch suitcase. "It's really perfect for a weekend or four- to five-day trip," she says. "I've traveled recently with friends who have Away and Delsey luggage, and all are now thinking about getting this bag." Amazon has a three-year limited warranty that protects against defects in materials and workmanship under ordinary use and does not cover normal wear and tear, abuse or misuse, cosmetic damage or cleaning, damage or loss caused by an airline, or incidental or consequential damages, including damage to or loss of the contents of a bag, loss of use, loss of time, or similar expenses.

Hard-shell vs. Soft-side: Polycarbonate hard-shellCompression dividersWheels: 360-degree spinner wheelsWarranty: 5-year manufacturer's guaranteeWeight: 7.1 pounds

The Rimowa Essential line of suitcases was a very close second to the Away. More than ten people mentioned the brand; it ultimately didn't take the top spot because of the price, but those who recommend it say it's worth it if you travel often. Hull is a frequent flier, so her luggage "isn't a once- or twice-a-year thing, it's a regular companion," which is how she justified spending more on a suitcase that would be functional and fun. It comes in 11 colors and two finishes and works like a dream, according to owners, almost all of whom praise the wheels. "I won't pretend to understand all the physics behind the bearings and axles on Rimowa's bags, but I do know they spin amazingly well through the airport," Hull says. Chris Schalkx of travel website Rice/Potato, says "this has been one of our best travel investments we've made," with wheels that roll "as a knife through butter, no matter the terrain they're on."

Rimowa was the first brand to release a polycarbonate suitcase back in 2000, so it's had over 20 years to perfect the durable yet lightweight design. Travel writer Hillary Eaton brought the checked version of this on a 48-hour journey from Vancouver to Machu Picchu by "tiny floatplane, three long-haul flights, a five-hour bus, and a two-hour train ride," and Eaton says the bag, and the three weeks' worth of stuff inside, survived. Many users mentioned how easy it is to get this suitcase repaired if anything goes wrong, which shocked me after looking into the warranty. There's a manufacturer's guarantee of five years — if you remember to register your product when purchase it. Otherwise, it only lasts for two. Even within those five years, the warranty only applies "if the usability of the product is considerably adversely affected by a material or manufacturing fault already present at the time of hand-over (defect)," the brand says. Breaks caused by "abrasion, improper use, faulty operation, or externally occurring forces," like cracks, breaks, and scratches caused in flight, are not covered. There's a lot of fine print with Rimowa, so I suggest looking into it before you purchase.

Hard-shell vs. Soft-side: Polycarbonate hard-shellCompression dividersWheels: 360-degree spinner wheelsWarranty: Limited lifetime warrantyWeight: 7.9 pounds

We've previously called July the Away of the Down Under. The Australia-based brand became available in the U.S. Last year, and its suitcases resemble Away's with a few different perks. July's charger has a USB-C port, so you can charge the latest iPhone or your laptop straight from the bag. Its smallest carry-on weighs about half as much as Away's, even though they both have similar liter capacities, and you can personalize it. This particular model sets itself apart with a removable fabric front pocket, which was great for Christine Wang, the founder of TheSkiGirl, who is generally a fan of soft-side luggage. This basically combines the two. It holds a 16-inch laptop and has slots inside for other documents, in addition to a zippered outside pocket for smaller items. If you're traveling for work, everything you need is easily accessible, and instead of digging through your bag to remove your laptop at TSA, you can easily just snap this pouch off instead. July offers a lifetime warranty on manufacturing defaults, and a limited lifetime warranty that covers damage to the wheels, zips, handles, nylon compression strap, and cracks in the polycarbonate shell or aluminum bumpers.

Hard-shell vs. Soft-side: Aluminum hard-shellCompression dividersWheels: 360-degree spinner wheelsWarranty: Limited lifetime warrantyWeight: 10.1 pounds

Travel writer Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon says this case is her ultimate workhorse. She appreciates that the bag has room for the essentials she needs for a three- or four-day trip and says the carry-on glides effortlessly through her home airport in Miami: "I feel like I could just push it with my middle finger, and it would glide along the concourse." Swede White, principal content strategist at Amazon Web Services, also owns the bag but isn't such a fan of checking it in. "It dents and scuffs so easily," something Away openly notes will happen, suggesting that it will develop a patina over time. "In hindsight, I do wish I would have gotten a bag with a different exterior material. Rimowa aluminum doesn't seem to dent as easily, but it still happens!" It all boils down to personal taste, White adds.

Hard-shell vs. Soft-side: Aluminum hard-shellCompression dividersWheels: 360-degree spinner wheelsWarranty: 5-year manufacturer's guaranteeWeight: 9.5 pounds

Another popular offering from Rimowa is the Original line, which comprises the aluminum suitcases that put the brand on the map. While aluminum is heavier than polycarbonate (this carry-on is 9.5 pounds and the above is 7.1 pounds), it is the most durable material to make a hard-shell out of, and Rimowa makes them so they are completely waterproof, a selling point for Tom Marchant, co-founder of luxury-travel and lifestyle brand Black Tomato. While the other hard-shells on this list will mostly protect your stuff from the rain, they still have fabric zippers that water can penetrate. These suitcases close more like trunks with two built-in TSA locks and a completely sealed opening. The aluminum ensures that your belongings inside stay safe, which is key for Marchant: "My Rimowa has seen quite a few things around the world, including a tumble off the roof rack of a tiny car while winding down roads in Greece (miraculously intact)." The Points Guy Brian Kelly likes the Original cases. The other features — dividers, wheels, and warranty — are pretty much the same as the Essential line, but Kelly adds that Rimowa's handles are standout, too, describing them as "especially awesome for tall people since the handle extends extra-tall."

Photo: The Strategist; Photo: Retailer

Hard-shell vs. Soft-side: Polycarbonate hard-shellCompression dividersWheels: 360-degree spinner wheelsWarranty: Limited lifetime warrantyWeight: 7.3 pounds

You might be able to personalize July's luggage, but Roam's is fully customizable. "Roam lets you customize their lightweight hard-shell pieces in bright, eye-catching colors," says Travel + Leisure editor-in-chief Jacqui Gifford. "I recently purchased one with an 'Arabian Purple' back (it's a subtle magenta), a 'Pacific Blue' front (a slightly brighter, cooler navy), and a 'Metro Grey' zipper." The color options are different now, but they're no less exciting. You can add your monogram free of charge. Roam's luggage has a lot of the standard features we look for. It's made from polycarbonate and has a built-in TSA lock, spinner wheels, and compression dividers on both sides of the suitcase. The warranty is pretty standard, too. Its lifetime limited warranty covers cracks to the shell and wheels, handles, or zippers that no longer work, so long as the damage occurred while the luggage was being used for its intended purpose.

Hard-shell vs. Soft-side: Polycarbonate hard-shellCompression dividersWheels: 360-degree spinner wheelsWarranty: Limited lifetime warrantyWeight: 8.36 pounds

If you can't travel without taking your entire closet, Béis's luggage is for you. For one, it's "expandable up to two inches," says Laura Ratliff, travel writer and former senior editorial director of TripSavvy. According to the product description, though, it's probably closer to three inches, as it says the suitcase expands up to 12 inches, an increase from its standard nine-inch depth. More stuff means a heavier bag, and Béis's built-in weight-limit indicator makes sure you don't teeter over the 50-pound weight restriction for checked bags. According to a customer-service representative, the luggage-weight indicator activates when you lift the suitcase by the side-carry handle. A red mark will appear if the luggage is approximately over 50 pounds, which should save you some stress and money at the check-in counter.

While it's not waterproof like the Rimowa above, the zipper is water-resistant, another favorite feature of Ratliff's. Meanwhile, travel blogger HeyCiara appreciates the TSA lock, handle with ergonomic support, and built-in laundry and shoe bag, to prevent your clothes from getting soiled. As for warranty, Béis only covers its polycarbonate cases and not its newly launched soft-side collection. It covers all the standard things, but it only lasts "for the reasonable lifetime of the Luggage," according to the website, which sounds like there's an undisclosed expiration date based on how long the brand thinks it should last.

Material: Polycarbonate hard-shellWheels: 360-degree spinner wheelsWarranty: LifetimeWeight: Various

This suitcase set has accompanied Strategist senior editor Ailbhe Malone's family on their trips since she received it as a press sample in 2022. As well as having everything you'd expect from a great-quality suitcase — "smooth wheels, extremely comfortable handle, more than enough space" — the cases are eminently easy to store. That's because they slot inside one another, meaning you can store a whole family's worth of luggage in the space of a single suitcase. The polycarbonate cases come in a range of 11 pleasing colors, and thanks to their construction, any scratches or scuffs will appear as the same shade as the case, no matter how deep. For any bigger concerns, the set comes with a lifetime warranty, which covers the cases' wheels, handles, and shells.

$716 at Antler Luggage

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Hard-shell vs. Soft-side: Ballistic nylonCompression strapsWheels: 4 dual-spinnerWarranty: Five yearsWeight: 10.9 pounds

This Tumi case has been a go-to for Jane Stoller, author of Decluttering for Dummies, since 2014. "It's done almost 500 miles — I actually use it almost every weekend as I drive frequently between my homes in Canada." As an organization expert, neat luggage is key to Stoller, borne out by this case's zipped compartments, large mesh zip pockets, compression straps, and a hanger bracket. "I also like the special touch of being able to monogram them with your name or initials," she says.

Hard-shell vs. Soft-side: Soft-sideCompression wingsWheels: Spinner wheelsWarranty: Lifetime warrantyWeight: 8.9 pounds

Travel blogger Gabby Beckford prefers soft-side luggage, as it's less likely to break. Her bag of choice is this durable option from Eagle Creek made with reinforced polyester. It has multiple locks to keep essentials safe and a reflective zipper, which is easy to locate in the dark. Beckford particularly likes that the bag expands, so she has plenty of room to slot away souvenirs from her trips.

Hard-shell vs. Soft-side: Nylon soft-sideCompression strapWheels: Encased wheelsWarranty: Limited lifetime warrantyWeight: 5.4 pounds

From a repair standpoint, Pecorella would probably say this suitcase is a dream. It's made from easy-to-repair nylon and has just two encased wheels that won't snap off. It expands up to two inches and has multiple compartments. None of this is groundbreaking, but TripSavvy's former general manager Molly Fergus is a fan of this admittedly "basic but effective" suitcase. She prefers soft-sided bags for her carry-on so she can stuff them as much as possible, and this one can hold a decent amount. It's her go-to bag for trips that are less than a week long, and even though it doesn't offer the same protection that a hard case would, it's still durable. Fergus has traveled with it to Miami, Cancun, and all across Europe: "It's survived being dragged across sand, dirt, and cobblestones," she says. Travelpro's limited lifetime guarantee covers defects to the wheels, zippers, extension handles, and carrying handles, and this lasts for however long you own it. On top of that, for the first year, your product is backed by its Trusted Companion Promise, which covers the cost of repair for damage caused by an airline and covers the shipping cost for any product that needs to be shipped to one of its repair facilities. In order to take advantage of this, however, make sure you register your product within 120 days of purchasing it.

Material: NylonCompression strapWheels: TwoWarranty: Limited lifetimeWeight: 6 pounds

Alex Sanchez works in marketing for Boston-based travel company G Adventures, so she travels frequently for work (and for fun). She loves the versatility of this bag from Japanese brand Hideo Wakamatsu. "It can look like a duffel (which I like for when my trip is a bit more casual), or it can look a bit more polished for conferences and trade shows," she says. "Another thing is that it has these adjustable straps on the side. If the bag isn't super-full, you can pull on the straps and it collapses down so you're not left with a lot of empty space in the bag."

$269 at Hideo Wakamatsu

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• Alexandra Baackes, travel blogger and founder of Wander Woman Retreats• Stephanie Be, founder of BUENA and blog Travel Break• Gabby Beckford, travel blogger• Kiana Brooks, luxury fashion buyer• Hillary Eaton, food and travel wri

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