How to Choose Carry-On Luggage

It is time to buy new carry-on luggage. There are so many options that make it hard to figure out how to choose carry-on luggage that works best for my needs.

I usually fly at least 2-3 times every year. I average about a month every year living out of a suitcase — whether that is traveling on vacation, a trip for work, or visiting out-of-state family.

I have bought two sets of luggage over the past twenty years. I bought new carry-on luggage only when the airlines started charging for checked bags because my carry-on was not the correct size. I replaced the zipper on my larger suitcase once over about ten years of use before upgrading that suitcase for one with swivel wheels.

It is now time for me to buy new carry-on luggage. The telescoping handle is not working anymore — to the point that I was unsure if it would go back down at all on my last trip. There are so many choices out there that it is overwhelming to figure out how to choose carry-on luggage that works best for your needs.

How to Choose Carry-On Luggage

1. Size or Dimensions

The maximum size for carry-on luggage for most major airlines is 22 inches long, 14 inches wide, and 9 inches high. These measurements include the wheels and handles. Some airlines have a limit on linear inches as opposed to specifying limits on length, width, and height. Calculate linear inches by adding length, width, and height.

✅Pro Tip: Use a fabric tape measure to determine your luggage’s dimensions.

2. Weight

Some airlines have weight limits for carry-on luggage. Consult your airline for these limits. Regardless, you need to be able to lift your luggage into the overhead bin.

✅Pro Tip: Pack a portable luggage scale for your trip.

3. Wheels

My preference is that my luggage has four wheels that spin. Having four wheels means that I can roll my luggage without having to tilt it. Spinning wheels allows me to pull my luggage quickly through crowds with ease.

For people who travel frequently or are particularly hard on their luggage, you might read the ultimate guide to luggage wheels. Most travelers, likely do not need to think much more than four wheels that spin when selecting carry-on luggage.

✅Pro Tip: Is your luggage fine, but the wheels are broke? You can replace your luggage wheels!

4. Handles

Look for luggage with telescopic handles. If you purchase your luggage in a store, try out the handles. Does it expand and retract easily and reach a comfortable height?

Most luggage will have a static handle on the top on the side. Ideally, look for luggage that has a grip on the botto, too. Having a handle at the top and bottom makes it easier to place luggage into the trunk of your rental car without accidently dinging the car.

✅Pro Tip: You can add a handle grip for added comfort and to help your luggage stand out.

5. Expandability

I like luggage that expands. While, my carry-on luggage will not maintain the minimum size to remain as carry-on luggage if expanded, I want to be able to expand if needed.

If I am going on a road trip that involves a flight to the main destination, expandable luggage is necessary. It is easier to pack more quickly.

I also like expandable luggage so that if I purchase souvenirs, then I have a place for them, even if it means I have to check my luggage on my return flight.

6. Compartments and Pockets

I prefer fewer pockets. I like to have at least one pocket on the outside of my luggage and one or two on the inside for small items or items that I don’t want busted all over my clothes (like tea bags).

An external pocket is great to store the items you are saving for a travel journal and for items purchased last minute at an airport (like snacks).

I do not usually care if my luggage has separate compartments or not. One the hand, a compartment can help keep items somewhat organized. On the other hand, I can also use ziplock bags or compression bags to do the same thing without taking up additional space.

✅Pro Tip: Pack a couple of ziplock bags and plastic grocery bags to help keep your luggage organized while traveling.

7. Capacity

The best carry-on luggage has the capcity to hold your travel essentials. Keep in mind what you must travel with and its size when selecting a bag.

✅Pro Tip: Use compression packing cubes to increase the capacity of your carry-on luggage.

8. Material

I have only ever used soft-sided luggage. Other people love the hard-sided luggage. Hard-sided luggage may be more difficult to cram into the overhead bin because it isn’t flexible. However, you might prefer hard-sided luggage depending on what you have in your bag.

Hard-sided luggage comes in polypropylene (PP) polycarbonate (PC), and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). For the average traveler, the material may not matter all that much (learn more about these materials here).

Soft-sided luggage comes in polyester, nylon, leather, and canvas. Nylon and polyester are likely the more practical choices and it seems nylon may be a bit more durable than polyester.

✅Pro Tip: You can use a PVC waterproof cover if you are traveling on a rainy day or a spandex cover for protection from dirt and scratches.

9. Color

I like to buy luggage in any color except black. A distinct color makes it easier to spot on the airport shuttle and at baggage claim if I end up having to check my bag.

✅Pro Tip: Add colorful luggage straps or a luggage tag to help it stand out.

10. Warranty

I don’t know if I have ever bought luggage with a warranty, though many reputable brands come with warranties.

Based on my experience, I would prioritize luggage that comes with a warranty if I were spending a lot of money on a suitcase (for me, that would be $250 or more). However, I have also had good luck with luggage and wouldn’t get too hung up on whether it has a warranty or not.

11. Other Bells and Whistles

• Security: Some suitcases include the ability to lock themselves. I prefer external locks so that I can use them for other bags that I am carrying out in public for added security.
• Chargers: There is also luggage with built-in chargers for your cell phone, but then your luggage also has to be charged. I always travel with a portable charger and many airports and even planes have a lot of outlets for charging devices. Personally, I would pass on luggage with a built-in charger.
• Cup holders: Like the charger, if I want to use a cup holder, I can bring a cup holder.

Carry-On Luggage Picks🧳

Travelpro Maxlite 5 21″ Carry-On Spinner

Rating: 4.5/5 (13,000+ reviews)

The Travelpro Maxlite checks several boxes for me. It has a telescoping handle; swivel wheels; a handle on the top, side, and bottom; comes in several colors, and is a good price at under $200.

It’s dimensions meet most airlines standards and when handles and wheels are included it meets the maximum dimensions for carry-on luggage for Southwest and Delta — two airlines I often fly.

Amazon Basics Suitcase

Rating: 4.5/5 (49,000+ reviews)

For those who want hardside luggage, this Amazon Basics Suitcase is affordable at less than $70. The suitcase features a telescoping handle, swivel wheels, and is expandable.

The suitcase expands for 25% more packing room and it’s dimensions (including wheels) meet the limits of most airlines. I also love that it comes in a basic black and colorful options like blue and orange.

Because it is hardsided, it does weigh a bit more than softsided luggage and lacks exterior pockets.

Level8 Carry On Luggage

Rating: 4.2 out of 5

LEVEL8 Carry On Luggage is the priciest of my recommendations at less than $350. However, it has some upgrades not available with the other recommendations.

I really like that it has a side pocket for small items, which can be handy in an airport. The suitcase also has a pocket designed to hold a laptop.

Comparison of Carry-On Luggage Picks

	Travelpro Maxlite	Amazon Basics Suitcase	LEVEL8 Carry On Luggage
Dimensions	21″L x 14″W x 9″H Includes wheels and handle: 23 in x 14.5 in x 9 in	14.8″L x 10″W x 21.7″H (includes wheels)	14.96″L x 9.25″W x 22.83″H
Weight	5.4 Pounds	7.72 Pounds	8.4 Pounds
Capacity	46L	39L	40L
Expanded	Up to 2 inches	25% more packing room	46L
Cost	$170	$63	$340

FAQ

What is the maximum size for carry-on luggage?

Most major airlines limit carry-on luggage to 22 inches long, 14 inches wide, and 9 inches high. Technically, these measurements include wheels and handles. Consult your airline because the limits vary. For instance, Southwest limits are 24” (L) + 16” (W) + 10” (H) (including wheels and handles).

Are fresh fruits allowed in carry-on luggage while travelling by air?

It depends. Fresh fruit can be transported within the continental United States. However, fresh fruit can not be transported to or from Hawaii, Puerto Rico, or the U.S Virgin Islands.

If you are returning to the United States from outside of the country, you are prohibited from bringing in fresh fruits and vegetables and other animal and plant materials.

Can someone travel around Europe by train for two weeks with only carry-on luggage?

Yes, but again, it depends. Every traveler is different in what they need with them to travel comfortably. I traveled through Europe by plane and bus for three weeks with only carry-on luggage (my suitcase and a backpack).

Is it allowed to bring prescription medication bottles in your carry-on luggage through airport security?

Yes, it is recommended that you bring prescription medications in your carry-on in case your checked baggage is lost or delayed.

TSA does not require the medication to be in prescription bottles. It is recommended that all medications be in their prescription bottle for international travel. You should also review the rules of your destination in case a prescription that is legal in the United States is prohibited in your destination.

Is it allowed to bring a vape pen in carry-on luggage or checked baggage when flying?

Vape pens and electronic cigarettes must be in your carry-on. Because they have lithium batteries, they are not allowed in checked luggage. Be sure to check your destination for any prohibitions on bringing in (importing) vape devices and accessories as a number of countries have banned e-cigarettes.

Conclusion

Picking out the right carry-on luggage comes down to meeting the airline dimension requirements and your personal preferences. I chose the Travelpro Maxlite to replace my carry-on bag because it meets my preferences, has great reviews, and comes in at a price that fits my budget.

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