Selecting the perfect carry-on luggage can make all the difference in your travel experience. When choosing a carry-on, consider elements like size, weight, durability, and design. Most airlines have specific guidelines for carry-on size, so choosing a bag that fits these dimensions is essential.
Lightweight luggage can make navigating through busy airports much easier, while durability is key to withstand the wear and tear of travel. Design features such as compartments for electronics, smooth-rolling wheels, and comfortable handles can also greatly enhance your travel experience.
For this guide, our team has carefully reviewed carry-on luggage from the best brands on the market. We picked options based on their features, fit, and price. We also considered customer reviews and ratings to come up with what we believe are the 13 best carry-on luggage you can get right now.
The Samsonite Winfield 2 shines as the best overall carry-on luggage in its class, boasting a staggering 4.5-star rating from over 7,000 reviews on Amazon.
Crafted from 100% polycarbonate material, it's both durable and versatile, ensuring it withstands the rigours of travel. Weighing in at just 3kg, it features a retractable handle and four multi-directional wheels, making it a breeze to maneuver.
One of the standout features is its impact-resistant shell, designed to protect your belongings. Its fully lined interior offers divided compartments, making packing both efficient and organised. Side-mounted TSA locks add an extra layer of security that customers appreciate, granting them peace of mind while travelling.
Some customers reported that the handle doesn't fully retract, which could inconvenience some travellers. Additionally, while the compact size is generally a plus, it may be too small for those embarking on longer trips or needing to pack a lot of items.
The Amazon Basics Standard Premium Hardside Spinner Luggage is our pick for the best budget-friendly option. Meeting the cabin bag restrictions for Europe's most widely-used airlines, including Ryanair, Vueling, EasyJet, and more, this suitcase is the ideal companion for weekend getaways and flights.
It includes 4 double spinner wheels for smooth 360° rolling, a scratch-resistant ABS hard shell for added durability, and a robust interior organiser made from 150D polyester with three separate zippered pockets. This suitcase is compact, with dimensions of 55 x 40 x 20 cm, yet holds a generous volume of 27L.
Despite this luggage's 4.5 out of 5-star rating on Amazon, potential buyers should be aware of two minor inconveniences. Some users have reported that the wheels may not be as smooth as those of other similar products. Additionally, there have been occasional mentions of issues with durability.
The Travelon Anti-theft Classic Large Multipurpose Backpack garners a strong rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars on Amazon, a testament to its exceptional utility and security features.
It has anti-theft features, such as locking compartments and slash-resistant construction, providing peace of mind to the modern traveller. The main compartment is roomy, capable of holding large items, and even includes a fleece-lined pocket designed specifically for a laptop up to 15.6 inches. Further enhancing its appeal are the RFID blocking card and passport slots in the front compartment, a valuable addition in an age of increasing digital theft.
Some users have reported that the straps can dig into the shoulders during extended use, and while the air mesh back panel and backpack straps are excellent, a more padded design might offer improved comfort. Nevertheless, the Travelon Anti-theft Classic Large Multipurpose Backpack is a top contender for the best carry-on backpack, expertly marrying security, organisation, and convenience.
With a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars on Amazon, we recommend the Ecohub Cabin Bag as the best carry-on backpack option if you're on a budget.
The bag size is perfect for several airlines/The main compartment's suitcase-like opening and external pockets make it extremely user-friendly, ensuring quick access to essentials while also keeping them organised. Plus, the backpack comes with a USB charging port, a feature that is a real game-changer for those long journeys.
The shoulder straps are thick and lined with padding, but some users have found them to be slightly uncomfortable after prolonged use. Additionally, although light, the bag's weight of 0.55kg can be a concern for those who prefer an even lighter bag for their travels.
The Victorinox Spectra 2.0 Dual-Access Global Carry-On has a stellar rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars on Amazon. It offers a myriad of features designed to enhance the travel experience.
A versatile carry-on, this luggage piece offers a quick-access lockable front compartment that conveniently holds both a laptop and a tablet. The zippered mesh divider wall stretches for effortless packing, and the X-shaped compression straps secure folded items over a wide surface area. Notably, the bag has a Travel Sentry-approved lock, providing security without impeding TSA inspections.
The comfort grip, one-touch, dual-trolley aluminium handle system locks into three different positions, accommodating travellers of various heights. The dual-caster wheels provide a smooth roll across any surface, offering 360° maneuverability and zero weight-in-hand.
However, there are a couple of considerations to keep in mind. The Victorinox Spectra 2.0 Dual-Access Global Carry-On has a hefty price tag of $800, which may not suit all budgets. Also, the power bank for the USB charging port is not included, which could be an added expense for some travellers.
Today's Victorinox Spectra 2.0 Dual-Access Global Carry-On deals
Deal
34% off Victorinox Spectra 2.0 Dual-Access Global Carry-On
The Samsonite Underseat Carry-On Spinner with USB Port is our pick for the best lightweight carry-on option in the crowded travel gear market. Weighing in at a mere 2.5kg, it comfortably fits under the seat or in the overhead bin of most aircraft, making it an ideal companion for those constantly on the move.
Its thoughtful design includes a USB port for charging electronics on the go, a 3-height top handle that ensures easy lifting, and a pass-through band for attaching it to a larger wheeled bag. The main compartment houses a spacious, padded area for a laptop (up to 13.3 inches) and ample exterior pockets for smaller items. The bag's smooth spinner wheels make for effortless hauling, and its durable construction promises reliable protection for your belongings.
However, for all its advantages, the bag comes in only one size, which might be a limitation for those planning longer trips. Some also found the top handle a bit cumbersome to hold. These aside, it carries an impressive rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars on Amazon, with over 5,000 reviews, underscoring its widespread appeal.
The American Tourister Airconic Hardside Spinner Suitcase is constructed from resilient polypropylene. It features a scratch-resistant texture, ensuring it stays in great condition, even after numerous trips.
Another excellent feature is the water-repellent coated zipper, which provides an extra layer of protection for the contents inside. The double wheels offer effortless movement, a convenience you'll appreciate when navigating crowded airports. Inside, it's well-equipped for organised packing, thanks to a fully lined interior, dual straps, and a zipped divider. This suitcase also comes with a recessed 3-digit TSA lock for extra security.
This suitcase has earned it an outstanding rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars on Amazon. However, no product is without its flaws. While the water-repellent zipper is a fantastic feature, the suitcase is not advertised as waterproof. This could potentially be a concern in particularly wet climates.
The Delsey Paris Helium Aero is undoubtedly a top pick when it comes to hard case carry-on luggage. It has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars on Amazon, demonstrating the high level of customer satisfaction associated with this product.
The suitcase is well-designed with a large, easily accessible front compartment with a padded sleeve for a laptop of up to 15.6 inches and two zippered mesh pockets for accessories, toiletries, or last-minute items.
Its superior maneuverability, courtesy of the double spinner wheels that keep zero weight on your arm, is also a fantastic addition. This suitcase's capacity is unmatched, expanding up to 2 inches for additional packing space. This feature is extremely helpful for fitting in those extra souvenirs on return journeys.
But despite being a top-rated product, it is relatively heavy, weighing in at 8.2 lbs, which for some, is too much to handle. Another potential drawback could be its size. With overall dimensions of 21.25 x 14 x 9 inches, it might not meet carry-on size restrictions for all international airlines.
The Victorinox Spectra 2.0 Dual-Access Global Carry-On is also our choice for the best durable option available in the market. It has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars on Amazon.
With a lightweight construction of just 3.2kg, it provides ample space without compromising on convenience. It can accommodate up to a 15.6" laptop and still leaves plenty of room for your garments. The quick-access door and sturdy top handle further enhance its usability, making it effortless to hoist the luggage overhead.
This carry-on also has a robust hard side. It assures that your belongings remain safe from any impact, offering peace of mind during travel. The smooth-rolling 4 double wheels are another highlight, facilitating easy navigation through bustling airports.
Despite its numerous strengths, it's worth noting a minor drawback. According to some users, the C-shape opening can be tricky to use in a hurry.
Today's Victorinox Spectra 2.0 Dual-Access Global Carry-On deals
Deal
34% off Victorinox Spectra 2.0 Dual-Access Global Carry-On
The Antler Clifton Hardside Suitcase is a brilliant choice for a colourful carry-on, offering an eye-catching aesthetic without sacrificing functionality.
This suitcase comes equipped with a host of innovative features, including a twist-grip handle for comfortable maneuverability, a secure zip to safeguard belongings, and double-spinner wheels for seamless mobility. The added water-resistant pocket provides an extra layer of protection for essential items. With an expanded capacity of 83L, this carry-on ensures ample space for all travel necessities.
While the Antler Clifton Hardside Suitcase is indeed a remarkable product with a high rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars on Myer, some customers still reported a few issues. Firstly, the suitcase's fabrication in Polycarbonate, though durable, might not sit well with travellers who prefer a softer, more flexible material. Secondly, despite the 10-year manufacturer warranty, there have been rare instances of customers experiencing difficulties with the warranty claim.
With a stellar rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars on Amazon, it is clear that the Samsonite Oc2lite Spinner Suitcase has succeeded in meeting the needs of travellers worldwide.
The suitcase's praised features include its expandability for increased packing space and the 360-degree multidirectional spinner wheels that allow seamless maneuverability. The integrated 3-digit TSA combination lock offers security, and functional elastic cross ribbons ensure that packed items remain secured throughout the journey. This new Oc2lite, with its improved lightweight and durable polypropylene case, maintains the popular Octolite shell and includes expanders for added packing capacity.
But while the double wheels provide stability and easy maneuverability, some users have found them a bit too sensitive, leading to instances of the suitcase rolling away on slight inclines. Furthermore, while the anti-theft security zips are a nice touch, the absence of a keyhole for the TSA lock means that if the combination is forgotten or the lock mechanism fails, there is no backup way to open the suitcase.
The Rockland Revolution Hardside Rolling Computer Case is an exceptional choice if you're looking for the best carry-on for laptops. It scores an impressive 4.4 out of 5 stars on Amazon, a testament to its quality and functionality.
Its padded compartment provides optimal protection for laptops and other electronics, ensuring they stay undamaged during transit. The lightweight polycarbonate material offers solid impact protection, and the smooth, silent dual-wheel casters make navigating busy airports a breeze.
This carry-on is functional and compact, fitting into most overhead bins and easy to store when not in use. The one-touch aluminium handle is user-friendly, easy to retract, and comfortable to hold for extended periods.
It is worth noting that the shiny finish on the durable hardshell exterior may not appeal to all users, as aesthetics are a subjective matter.
We picked the Samsonite Foldaway Packable Duffel Bag as the best carry-on duffel bag on the market today, with a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars on Amazon.
Constructed from reliable 600 denier PU, this bag showcases immense durability and resilience, promising to withstand the trials of travel. Its large main opening is a notable feature, capable of accommodating all the extra souvenirs gathered during a journey. The adjustable shoulder strap adds to its convenience, allowing for comfortable transport.
Despite its spaciousness, users have noted that it can be somewhat challenging to organise due to the lack of internal compartments. Additionally, it requires a bit of effort to fold the bag back into its compact storage pouch.
For business trips, a carry-on with tons of space and a sleek design is your best bet. That's why we selected the Samsonite Underseat Carry-on Spinner with USB Port as the top option. It has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars on Amazon.
This Samsonite carry-on luggage only weighs 2.5kg, making it a lightweight option that fits under your seat and overhead in most planes. There is a USB port that allows you to charge your electronics on the go, making it an ideal choice for busy people. Additionally, it features a 3-height top handle for easy lifting, and you can even attach this carry-on to a larger wheeled bag using the pass-through band on the back.
This luggage's main storage has a padded laptop compartment that fits a laptop up to 13.3". It also has spacious exterior pockets for stashing smaller paraphernalia. The spinner wheels are smooth, which makes hauling the luggage effortless. And because the luggage is made of sturdy material, you'll be sure that it can take a beating and protect your valuables. This only comes in one size, which may be too small for longer trips.
When it comes to luxury, you can't go wrong with the Delsey Paris Chatelet Hardside Luggage. This carry-on has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from over 2,000 Amazon customers.
Made of a lightweight 100% polycarbonate material, the Chatelet has a resilient hard shell that won't easily crack or break. The exterior also has faux leather accents with corner protectors for extra durability. For your convenience, the luggage has dual-density, double-spinner wheels and the brand's patented SECURITECH zip – a closing system that the brand claims to be 3 times more resistant to intrusion than a conventional zipper.
To protect your clothes, there is a fully-lined interior coated with SILVADUR technology, providing odour control. The luggage also comes with a removable hanger and laundry and shoe bags as well as 2 large, lined compartments with web straps. The Chatelet comes in various sizes to fit any of your travel requirements, starting at $539.99.
Today's Delsey Paris Chatelet Hardside Luggage deals
We considered suitcase and luggage brands when choosing the best options:
Amazon Basics
American Tourists
Asenlin
Ben Sherman
Briggs & Riley
Cabin Max
Carhartt
Caribee
Delsey Paris
Fila
Herschel
High Sierra
Inateck
Kenneth Colen
London Fog
Osprey
Puma
Rockland
Samsonite
Steve Madden
The North Face
Thule
TPRC
Travelerpro
Vaschy
Victorinox
Wrangler
For this list, we carefully selected carry-on luggage based on customer reviews and ratings (as of August 2023). We then made a shortlist and compared each product based on various features like size, weight, durability, price, and more. We came up with what we believe are the 13 best carry-on luggage you can buy online in Australia right now.
Why should I use a carry-on bag?
Carry-on luggage can make flying easy and convenient. The benefits of using a carry-on bag include:
Save time. If you only bring a carry-on bag on your next flight, you won't have to wait in line to check your bags or spend an extra half an hour waiting for your bags to be unloaded after you land. If you aren't going away for too long, a well-packed carry-on bag can save you a lot of time. Keep in mind, there are some items that you cannot pack in a carry-on bag.
Access your essentials. Having a carry-on bag with designated compartments for passports, valuables and other documentation can remove one layer of travel-related stress and make sure all your essentials are within reach at all times.
Make flights more comfortable. With carry-on luggage, you can easily pack a book for taxiing, a pillow for overnight flights, toiletries to freshen up and an extra jumper for when the air conditioner is cranked all the way up. Having a few comforting items on hand on a long flight can be a lifesaver.
Soft vs hard bags
Soft-sided bags form the majority of the luggage market and are often made from nylon or canvas-like materials. Hard-sided, or hard-shell, cases are traditionally made from polycarbonate and can offer sturdier protection for your belongings.
Each case type has its advantages and disadvantages.
Pros
Cons
Soft-side
Flexible
Lightweight
Extra pockets and compartments
Can rip if low quality
Less protection
Harder to find four-wheeled models
Hard-side
Protective
Often comes with built-in locks
Flat lay packing
Inflexible
Prone to scratches and dents
Does not typically include side pockets
How to compare carry-on luggage
Basic carry-on luggage can start at around $35, while more-expensive options from luxury retailers can set you back over $1,000 or more.
When choosing carry-on luggage, consider the following features:
Size
The bigger the bag, the more you can pack. While this could be the difference between needing checked luggage and not, airlines do have strict weight limits. Just because you'll have extra space doesn't mean you'll be able to use it.
Weight
If the carry-on limit is already 7kg, you don't want your bag to weigh 5kg. Soft-sided bags are often lighter and therefore take up less of your weight capacity. While certain hard-sided models can be equally as light, they are typically much more expensive.
Expandability
You can find expandable carry-on bags that allow you to increase and decrease the capacity of the bag. This can mean squeezing in that last-minute purchase or coming home with a much smaller bag after offloading presents for your hosts.
Pockets
Carry-on luggage can be designed with a range of additional pockets and attachments. These include umbrella clips, electronic pouches and designated document sleeves. Think about how you will use your bag and which extra pockets or features you would use the most.
Wheels
Decide if you want two wheels, four wheels or no wheels. Two-wheeled cases are often sturdier and more durable, as the wheels are traditionally recessed in the case. Four-wheeled bags, also known as spinners, are more maneuverable in tight spaces, yet are more susceptible to breaks as the wheels tend to be externally attached. This is an important decision as you spend a lot of time moving with your carry-on luggage, including getting to and from the airport and roaming about in transit.
Handles
Does the case have two handles? Is one of the handles extendable? Are they easy to grip and comfortable to hold? Is there a shoulder strap extension?
Zips
The two most common types of zips are chain and coil. Chain zips are traditionally stronger, made of metal and harder to break into.
Flexibility
Soft-side bags are more flexible than hard-side ones. This often allows you to push the limits of capacity and sneak in that extra pair of socks. This flexibility also allows these bags to be stored in smaller spaces or packed away into larger bags with ease.
Carry-on weight limits
Many airlines enforce strict weight limits for carry-on luggage, with most Australian airlines capping carry-on luggage at 7kg. These limits are put in place to ensure that there is space on board for all passengers to safely stow a piece of carry-on baggage. Weight limits can depend on the ticket you've purchased and often vary from airline to airline. Check your carrier's policy before you start packing, especially if you're changing airlines mid-journey. Next time you travel, check out the best airlines for baggage in Australia to see if you can bring more while paying less. Carry-on luggage allowances for Australian airlines
What can't I pack in my carry-on bag?
Some items shouldn't be packed in a carry-on bag because they take up too much space or weigh too much. There are also many items that are outright banned for air travel. These may vary from airline to airline, especially if you're flying with an international carrier. Items that are regularly banned include:
Knives
Kitchen utensils
Sporting equipment
Metal cutlery
Tools
Straight razors
Letter openers
Golf clubs
Cricket bats
Pool cues
Hypodermic needles
Fireworks
Aerosols
Handcuffs
Cable ties
Frequently asked questions
We picked Samsonite as the best luggage brand. Samsonite is known for its quality craftsmanship and their commitment to producing durable, stylish products. Their selection of different sizes and styles gives customers plenty of choices when picking the right bag for their needs. And with a wide variety of colours available, you can find something that matches your personal style.
We picked the Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Luggage as the best luggage available online.
The standard size of carry-on luggage is 56cm (height) x 36cm (width) x 23cm (depth).
Look for hardside luggage made of polycarbonate or ABS material for impact protection. You might also want to consider options with divided compartments, expandable storage and smooth wheels.
Before cleaning your luggage's interior, make sure all compartments are empty. Mix dishwashing soap and warm water to create a cleaning solution. Using a soft bristle brush, work the solution through the interior's fabric. Next, use a clean cloth dampened with warm water to rinse off the mixture. Let the luggage air dry or use a blow dryer to speed up the drying process. Check your luggage's care label for more information about cleaning your bag's interior.
Why you can trust Finder Shopping best guides
We're knowledgeable
Our editorial team has decades of experience testing and comparing products. We only use experienced journalists with proven track records.
We're comprehensive
We assess hundreds of products for each guide to ensure you're getting a full overview of the market. All guides are regularly reviewed and fact-checked.
We don't cut corners
Selections are based on our own research, comparisons and testing. We do not use automation software or AI. Every best guide follows a stringent methodology.
Ericka Pingol is a writer for Finder specialising in reviews. She has previously written articles about property investment, finances, and health. She’s a huge fan of Tina Fey, bubble teas and dogs. Ericka has a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of the East, Manila and is currently writing her thesis for a Master’s degree in Communication
A maverick teacher uses poetry to embolden his boarding school students to new heights of self-expression. Here's where to watch Dead Poets Society online.
Follow the aristocratic Crawley family and their servants in the post-Edwardian era. Here's how to watch the Downton Abbey TV series online in Australia.
Eager to get access to newly released movies and TV shows? Here’s everything you need to know about Telstra TV Box Office.
Feedback
How likely would you be to recommend finder to a friend or colleague?
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Very UnlikelyExtremely Likely
Required
Thank you for your feedback.
Our goal is to create the best possible product, and your thoughts, ideas and suggestions play a major role in helping us identify opportunities to improve.
Important information about this website
findershopping.com.au is one of Australia's leading comparison websites. We are committed to our readers and stands by our editorial principles
We try to take an open and transparent approach and provide a broad-based comparison service. However, you should be aware that while we are an independently owned service, our comparison service does not include all providers or all products available in the market.
Some product issuers may provide products or offer services through multiple brands, associated companies or different labeling arrangements. This can make it difficult for consumers to compare alternatives or identify the companies behind the products. However, we aim to provide information to enable consumers to understand these issues.
We make money by featuring products on our site. Compensation received from the providers featured on our site can influence which products we write about as well as where and how products appear on our page, but the order or placement of these products does not influence our assessment or opinions of them, nor is it an endorsement or recommendation for them.
Products marked as 'Top Pick', 'Promoted' or 'Advertisement' are prominently displayed either as a result of a commercial advertising arrangement or to highlight a particular product, provider or feature. Finder may receive remuneration from the Provider if you click on the related link, purchase or enquire about the product. Finder's decision to show a 'promoted' product is neither a recommendation that the product is appropriate for you nor an indication that the product is the best in its category. We encourage you to use the tools and information we provide to compare your options.
Where our site links to particular products or displays 'Go to site' buttons, we may receive a commission, referral fee or payment when you click on those buttons or apply for a product. You can learn more about how we make money.
When products are grouped in a table or list, the order in which they are initially sorted may be influenced by a range of factors including price, fees and discounts; commercial partnerships; product features; and brand popularity. We provide tools so you can sort and filter these lists to highlight features that matter to you.
Please read our website terms of use and privacy policy for more information about our services and our approach to privacy.
31
100+
15
