Raise your hand if you’ve ever wrestled with a suitcase 🙋🏻♀️ Maybe the wheels got stuck, the zipper broke mid-trip, or (worst of all) you realized it was just a little too big to fit in the overhead bin.
Trust me, I’ve been there.
Finding the best carry-on luggage for your needs isn’t just about picking the shiniest suitcase. It’s about choosing one that actually works for you. Whether you’re a chronic overpacker, a frequent flyer, or someone who just wants something durable that won’t betray you mid-trip, the right suitcase can make all the difference.
That’s why I’ve rounded up five top-rated carry-on suitcases and broken down their real pros and cons, so you can find the one that fits your travel style like a glove. No more guessing, no more last-minute airport struggles. Just smooth, stress-free travel with a suitcase you love and that will last you for years!
Let’s find your perfect match and dive into the top rated carry-on suitcases! 😊✈️
*This post contains affiliate links. Which means that if you shop for certain things by clicking the links in this blog post, I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you! Thanks in advance for supporting Ways of Style!
1. Away Bigger Carry-On – The Sleek, Practical Travel Favorite!
🧳 Quick Overview:
A modern, hard-shell suitcase with smart organization, a compression system, and a minimal, stylish design that’s built to last.
✅ Why It’s One of the Best Top-Rated Carry-On Suitcases:
✅ Smooth 360-Degree Spinner Wheels: Rolls easily through crowded airports.
✅ Scratch-Resistant Hard Shell: Polycarbonate material keeps it looking brand new.
✅ Compression Packing System: Helps maximize space.
✅ Lifetime Warranty: An investment that lasts.
✅ It’s gorgeous and it comes in 14 different colors! Check them out here.
❌ A Few Things to Consider:
❌ Heavier Than Others: At 7.9 lbs, it’s not the lightest option. (but also not the worst)
❌ No Front Laptop Pocket: If you need quick laptop access, you’ll need a separate bag.
❌ Not accepted as a carry-on by all airlines! (check here – and click on ‘airline compatibility’)
💡 Is this the one for you? If you love tech, need a built-in charger, and want a stylish, durable suitcase, this could be your perfect carry-on!
🗺️ If you travel internationally a lot, then don’t get this one. Here’s the link to smaller version that complies with most airlines’ carry-on policies.
2. Samsonite Winfield 3 DLX 20′ – The No-Fuss Pick
🧳 Quick Overview:
A lightweight, hard-shell carry-on with a sleek design, expandable space, and an affordable-ish price tag.
✅ Why It’s One of the Best Top-Rated Carry-On Suitcases:
✅ Super Lightweight: Only 6.8 lbs—easy to lift overhead.
✅ Expandable Feature: Perfect for when you need just a little extra space.
✅ Affordable Yet Reliable: Great value for its price.
❌ A Few Things to Consider:
❌ Basic Interior: No fancy organizational features.
❌ Zippers Could Be Stronger: Some users report durability concerns.
💡 Is this the one for you? If you need a simple, lightweight, more budget-friendly carry-on, this could be your suitcase!
🧳 Can I pack your carry-on for you? 🧳
You’re already doing something amazing…. traveling with a carry-on! (Seriously, I’m proud of you 👏🏼)
But if your current system still involves cramming everything into your suitcase the night before… we can do better, friend.
That’s where my free customized packing list comes in. You just need to answer 2 questions so I can tell you exactly what to pack and how to style it! Get started right away ⬇️
These packing lists are:
🧳 Perfect for spring and summer getaways
🙋🏻♀️ Tried and tested
💡 Packed with styling tips so you actually love what you pack
🤑 Completely free!
Let’s make sure your suitcase works for you—not against you. No more overpacking, no more “just in case” pieces that never get worn. (click here to get started)
3. Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Expandable Carry-On – The Frequent Flyer’s Dream Suitcase
🧳 Quick Overview:
A soft-sided carry-on that’s loved by pilots and flight attendants for its durability, expandable space, and built-in laptop pocket.
✅ Why It’s One of the Best Top-Rated Carry-On Suitcases:
✅ Expandable by 2 Inches: Great for last-minute shopping sprees. (game changer)
✅ USB Port: Perfect for business travelers. (has a front pocket that can be used for a small laptop)
✅ Self-Aligning Spinner Wheels: Smooth rolling through any airport.
❌ A Few Things to Consider:
❌ Soft-Sided, Not Hard Shell: If you prefer hard-shell luggage, this may not be for you.
❌ Slightly Heavier: Weighs 7.8 lbs, which is on the higher end.
💡 Is this the one for you? If you travel often and need a laptop-friendly, ultra-durable suitcase, this could be your best bet!
4. July Carry On Plus – The Sleek & Spacious Minimalist Favorite
🧳 Quick Overview:
A beautifully designed hard-shell carry-on with a clean aesthetic, ultra-quiet wheels, and a surprising amount of interior space.
✅ Why It’s One of the Best Top-Rated Carry-On Suitcases:
✅ Spacious Interior (42L): Slightly roomier than standard carry-ons while still fitting in overhead bins.
✅ Compression System: Helps keep everything in place and maximize what you can pack.
✅ Optional Ejectable Battery: Available on certain models for charging on the go.
❌ A Few Things to Consider:
❌ No Laptop Compartment: There’s no dedicated laptop sleeve.
❌ Premium Price Point: Comparable to Away in cost.
💡 Is this the one for you? If you love a sleek design, extra packing space, and buttery-smooth wheels, this is a top-tier alternative loved by many female travelers!
5. Level8 Voyager Carry-On – My Go-To Choice for Stress-Free Travel
🧳 Quick Overview:
A sleek, ultra-durable carry-on suitcase with silent wheels, high-end organization, and a TSA-approved lock. I’ve traveled full-time for years, and after testing multiple suitcases, I finally settled on Level8 Voyager Carry-On and I’ve never looked back.
✅ Why It’s the Best Choice for Most Travelers:
✅ Lightweight But Super Durable: Their polycarbonate shell is tough yet doesn’t weigh you down.
✅ Whisper-Quiet Spinner Wheels: Its wheels glide effortlessly, even on uneven surfaces.
✅ Premium Interior Organization: It has a smart compression system and multiple zippered compartments to keep your packing neat. No more digging through a messy suitcase!
✅ Ultra wide handle: it helps you pack better and gives you extra space.
❌ A Few Things to Consider:
❌ No Expandable Option: If you tend to overpack, you’ll need to be strategic or read more of my packing light articles 😅 But honestly? The compression system makes it so much easier to fit everything in.
❌ Matte Finish Shows Fingerprints: A small trade-off for such a sleek look.
💡 Why I Chose This One: It’s lightweight, stylish, and built to last. The first time I traveled with it, 2 flight attendants complimented and noticed the super cool wide handle. It made me feel pretty good about my life choices.
How to Choose the Best Carry-On Luggage for You:
⚡ If you want maximum packing capacity → Away Bigger Carry-On ($295)
💰 If you’re on a budget → Samsonite Winfield 3 DLX 20′ ($219)
✈️ If you travel constantly → Travelpro Platinum Elite ($365)
⭐️ If you want sleek design and extra space → July Carry On Plus ($295)
😅 If you want a chic, high-quality suitcase and to twin with me → Level8 Voyager ($239)
Final Thought: What’s Your Travel Style?
Here’s the truth: these top-rated carry-on suitcases are all great. They each check the boxes for durability, ease of use, and smart design, but the “best” one? That really depends on you.
They’re more similar than they are different, so the decision often comes down to the little features that matter most to you.
Maybe it’s how effortlessly it rolls through the airport, how organized you can keep your things, or how much you can squeeze in without feeling like you’re sitting on your suitcase to close it.
💭 Picture your next trip… what does your ideal carry-on look like?
That’s the one.
So pick whatever feels right, invest in it, and get ready for smoother, stress-free travel from here on out. Having a great suitcase does make a HUGE difference.
You’ve got places to go and now, you’ll have the perfect suitcase to go with you.
Thanks for stopping by!
XO,
Aimara
>>> PS: you don’t need to suffer when packing your carry-on. Remember I can send you a customized packing list for any spring or summer trip. Just answer these 2 questions!
About The Author:
Hi, my name is Aimara and I am the voice behind Ways of Style. I was born and raised in Venezuela until the age of 27 when I moved to Chicago, and 2 years later I met my best friend and husband. We now travel full time and live out of a carry-on bag, so believe me, I know a thing or two about how to maximize every single piece I own.
I love creating new looks, and looking cute while I’m traveling. And in this blog, I try to share all my looks, even if I don’t have the best photos ;) My goal is to help you maximize every piece you have in your closet and to encourage you to live with less things.
Related Travel Posts To Read Next:
- 7 common packing mistakes people make all the time!
- How to pick the right skincare routine depending on the kind of trip.
- The 5 best shoes for travel!
- What to wear on travel days!
- Are packing cubes right for you?
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