Best carry-on luggage 2024, tested by well-travelled women

Specifications:

• Size - 55.1 x 40.1 x 23.1cm.
• Weight - 4.3kg.
• Standout features? The flex divider system is height adjustable, allowing you to tailor your packing space as needed.

Pros:

• RIMOWA's lifetime guarantee.
• Free delivery.
• TSA-approved double combination locking system.

Cons:

• Limited colourways.
• Such a hard shell outer means less manoeuvrability if you're trying to squeeze more into your travel bag.

RIMOWA recommendations: Born in Bahrain and raised in London, fashion designer Misha Nonoo, founder and CEO of her eponymous label, is known for her emphasis on sustainability. She moved to New York about 10 years ago but travels frequently, from short work trips to long holidays. “I’ve taken some amazing trips to Egypt, Italy, and Greece in the past that have been about a couple weeks,” she says. Her trusted companion? The Rimowa Cabin bag. “It’s lightweight but still incredibly durable," she says.

Writer Fariha Roisin travels at least once a month, and while she was on her How to Cure a Ghost book tour in 2020, she was gone for two and a half weeks at a time. In general, she considers herself a light packer—on the clothing front at least. “Somehow I'm always carrying five books, but I also inevitably buy books while I'm away, so 10 books later...I'm pretty heavy,” she says. While she counts on her Away carry-on, she's just about ready to upgrade to this metallic piece from Rimowa.

Specifications:

• Size - 43.5 x 71 x 28cm.
• Weight - 2.4kg.
• Standout features? Lifetime warranty.

Pros:

• Free standard delivery on all luggage orders over £50.
• 360 spinner wheels and lightweight adjustable handle.
• Spacious compartments and internal pockets.

Cons:

ANTLER recommendations: "Notorious for overpacking, this medium soft stripe case accompanied me on a five day trip to Greece earlier this year. I personally like to have multiple fallback outfit options for any given day, so cramming everything I wanted into a cabin bag simply wasn't going to happen, but equally I didn't feel like the shorter trip warranted a larger case," says Lian Brooks, GLAMOUR UK's Senior Audience Development Manager.

“Antler has been my go-to luggage brand for years because they make cases that are built to last. The first thing I appreciated about this case was its size – perfect for my five day trip where I was struggling to fill up a larger case but couldn't face attempting to cram everything into an underseat luggage bag. Light yet sturdy, it was incredibly easy to pack, with two internal zip pockets and the external pocket proving useful to separate out a few key items I wanted to have readily accessible," she adds.

“The muted colour of this model perfectly suits my style and crucially doesn't show scuffing, while still being distinguishable enough to easily pick out from the conveyor belt on the other side. This proved the ideal companion for my trip and genuinely made the often stressful airport experience so much more manageable,” she says.

Specifications:

• Size - 55cm x 40cm x 20cm.
• Weight - 2.7kg.
• Standout features? Durable, water-resistant hard case shell.

Pros:

• 360-degree rotating wheels for effortless navigation through the airport.
• Maximum volume capacity of 44 litres.
• Stylish taupe hue.

Cons:

• It's on the pricier side.

ANTLER recommendations: “I prefer travelling with hand luggage only, so with my bucket bag perched on top, this suitcase is just the right amount for a 3-4 night trip (after utilising my roll and stuff technique), says Samantha Reynolds, UK Editor In Chief & European Editorial Director."

“The interior compartments, expander zips and 360 spinner wheels are exactly what’s needed for a weekend break in the UK or to Europe, plus, thanks to the one-click handle, cobbled streets and stairways are easy to overcome,” she adds.

“I’m a chronic over-packer so I fill every case (no matter how small or large) to the brim but I still found this cabin bag super lightweight. The only drawback? The cabin bags are prone to scratches, which is a bit disappointing and while Antler does sell fitted luggage covers for its medium and large cases, they unfortunately don't do the same for the cabin size — such a shame to hide the beautiful colours," she says.

Specifications:

• Size - 56 x 36 x 20cm.
• Weight - 2.4kg.
• Standout features? Detachable mesh wash bag.

Pros:

• Smooth gliding dual spinner that makes long travel journeys with lots of connections easier to navigate.
• Scratch-resistant PP hard shell.

Cons:

• None here!

NERE recommendations: “I was lucky enough to see the full range of the newly released Bondi collection from luggage brand Nere, including this small carry on suitcase that comes in a range of gorgeous pastel hues,” says Mayola Fernandes, Commerce Writer at GLAMOUR. The scratch-resistant, durable shell has been designed for high impact, while the 360-degree wheels and a removable mesh wash bag are additional details that make this carry-on so great.

Specifications:

• Size - 53 x 32 x 23cm.
• Weight - 1.2kg.
• Standout features? Purpose-built pocket for your shoes!

Pros:

• Comes equipped with a a purpose-built compartment for shoes, a detachable shoulder strap, and a zipped and padded pocket for safely transporting. a laptop or tablet.
• Features a back sleeve that'll slot seamlessly over the handle of any matching Antler suitcase.

Cons:

• Only fits laptop sizes up to 13”.

ANTLER recommendations: "I never thought something so simple as an overnight bag would be able to change my travel experiences so much, but then I was introduced to Antler's Chelsea Weekender," says Georgia Trodd, Senior Commerce Writer at GLAMOUR. "I've used it more than ten times now, and each time I discover something new to rave on about; a 13" laptop sleeve, a zip-able back slot to slide over your suitcase handle, a purpose-built compartment for your shoes (which will easily fit two pairs, FYI), internal pockets, sturdy straps...I could go on," she says. It comes in six colours and is water-resistant too, so if you're caught in a shower you needn't worry about your belongings getting soggy. “It's the one piece of luggage I recommend to all my friends,” noted Georgia.

Specifications:

• Size - 51 x 27.9 x 25.4cm.
• Weight - 1.36kg.
• Standout features? Luxe-style vegan leather detailing.

Pros:

• Lufthansa carry-on case size compliant.
• Features a lockable loop on the two-way zip system.

Cons:

• In terms of practicality, the canvas makeup has no corner protection or dark fabric base to prevent scuffs and dirt, something a Ted Baker duffle does offer.

PARAVEL recommendations: Whenever Brooklyn-based Meghan Donovan, founder of Paris, Perfected and the blogger behind wit & whimsy, travels to Paris, she always brings a largely empty duffel bag as a carry-on with her “to account for any shopping I plan to do.” Her favourite is the Paravel Main Line Duffel because “its size ensures I won't go overboard but is also roomy enough while still being lightweight and stylish.” We couldn't agree more.

Specifications:

• Size - 57.7 x 37.3 x 24.3cm.
• Weight - 3.4kg.
• Standout features? Whisper-quiet rolling from this larger 4-wheel cabin suitcase.

Pros:

• Can, according to the brand, fit approximately 9 outfits for a longer getaway.
• The Bigger Carry-On nests within AWAY's larger hard shell suitcases.
• Buyers remarked how easy it was to manoeuvre through airports, down cobbled streets etc.

Cons:

• It's not actually compatible with many different airlines for their cabin size baggage allowance. The only notable brands which it does comply with that the GLAMOUR team could find was Egypt Air - Egyptians rejoice!

Specifications:

• Size - 55.9 x 35.6 x 22.9cm.
• Weight - 4.6kg.
• Standout features? A one-touch button expansion system on the main compartment, no more wrestling to get the expanding zip pocket closed.

Pros:

• Features a strapped-in folding suit carrier (if dad's a businessman, we'd absolutely recommend this bag as one of the best Christmas gifts for dads).
• Includes garment panels to boost compression and give you peace of mind that your clothes are less likely to leave your case creased.
• Lifetime guarantee.

Cons:

• None here, it even has an easy access SpeedThru™ pocket for any passports/valuables you might need to hand.

BRIGGS & RILEY recommendations: As a freelance travel writer, Annie Daly is on the road most of the year. She's based in NYC's Brooklyn Heights neighbourhood, but traveled around the world to do research for her book, Destination Wellness, which came out in May 2021. “Given the amount that I travel, I should definitely be Team Light Packer by now. But I'm not!” she says. Her favourite luggage is a black Briggs & Riley softside carry-on with roomy front pockets her mum gave her as a Christmas present a few years ago. “I like it as a suitcase, but I like it even more for sentimental reasons," she says. "She even put a yellow ribbon on it so that I'd always recognize my bag on the conveyor belt!”

Specifications:

• Size - 55 x 40 x 20cm.
• Weight - 2kg.
• Standout features? It's water repellant!

Pros:

• Includes a 10-year guarantee.
• Features a two-in-one TSA combi-lock and charging port on the case's side panel.
• Five-star reviews all round from customers.

Cons:

• Not slim enough for some budget airlines, including Wizz Air.

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Specifications:

• Size - 38 x 55 x 25cm.
• Weight - 4.3kg.
• Standout features? Hard-shell zipped front laptop pocket.

Pros:

• Compliant with most European, US and RoW airline cabin size restrictions so you can rest assured that you won't incur additional charges at the airport.
• 360° silent spinner wheels which make navigating around a busy airport a breeze.
• Features a sturdy aluminium frame with TSA-approved lock closure.

Cons:

• At almost £400 for a carry on, it's one of the more expensive picks in our guide.

Specifications:

• Size - 38.1 x 38.1 x 20.3cm.
• Weight - 1.08kg.
• Standout features? The outer canvas fabric is spill-proof so it's a great pick for country/messier getaways as well as city breaks.

Pros:

• British Airways carry-on size compliant.
• Can be used as a laptop bag for screens up to 15".

Cons:

• The ‘Cabana’ shoulder strap is sold separately, which is a tad annoying given the price tag.
• No combination lock.

PARAVEL recommendations: As a self-professed chronic over-packer, Condé Nast Traveler's commerce editor Madison Flager says she loves to bring Paravel's Weekender bag as her personal item on flights. “It's a great size for overnight trips, and surprisingly roomy. It fits all the essentials—laptop, books and magazines, wallet, chapstick, and keys—with room to spare for last-minute odds and ends, like a sweater for the plane, extra pair of sandals, or even my Dopp kit, depending on how jam-packed my suitcase is.” Flager says the bag is also incredibly well-designed, both aesthetically and functionally: It has a trolley sleeve, adjustable and removable crossbody strap, and deep interior pocket—not to mention, it's made using upcycled plastic water bottles. “I always feel more put-together when I'm bringing this bag along,” she says.

Specifications:

• Size - 51 x 32.5 x 23cm.
• Weight - 2.41kg.
• Standout features? As a soft cabin bag you'll save precious weight without having a hefty polypropylene or polycarbonate shell.

Pros:

• Generous 30-year warranty.
• Features an exterior compression system to ensure all your items are secure.

Cons:

• Only two wheels, so you won't be able to glide this hand luggage suitcase upright.

EASTPAK recommendations: GLAMOUR's Audience Development Manager, Lian Brooks, says a trusty Eastpak Tranverz is always her go-to carry-on suitcase because it’s the perfect thing for long weekends. “A simple yet effective classic design,” she explains, “the two separate internal compartments make packing a breeze, while the compression straps mean that when I inevitably overpack, I can still ensure it’s as compact as possible for my journey back.”

Specifications:

• Size - 23 × 15 × 9.5inches.
• Weight - 3.5kg.
• Standout features?

Pros:

• Comes in eight gorgeous colourways, along with five additional limited-edition designs to choose from.
• Unlike most standard carry-ons, this one can fit a 16" laptop and keeps it protected under the same aerospace-grade polycarbonate as the rest of the case.
• 100-day trial period to ensure that the product is the right fit for you, but, if you have any concerns during this period, you can send it back for a refund.

Cons:

• Only suitable for trips that are up to five days away.

Specifications:

• Size - 39.8 x 55.1 x 24.3cm.
• Weight - 5.5kg.
• Standout features? Features a removable inner lining for easy cleaning.

Pros:

• Jet2 in-cabin luggage size compliant.
• Features a luxe leather carry handle.
• Padded interiors to your items, be it a designer tote, iPad or glass bottle toiletries.

Cons:

• Only promises a 2-year warranty even with the high price point. As a direct RIMOWA competitor, RIMOWA's lifetime warranty has the upper hand here.

FPM recommendations: As of June 2021, writer, editor, and brand consultant Adrienne Faurote is back to her usual “crazy travel schedule.” Think New York City for 24 hours, then off to the Hamptons, Miami, and a quick visit home in Indiana—not to mention a slew of fall weddings. “I really feel like travel has resumed and airports are a bit hectic right now, which is why I'm only taking a carry-on to avoid checking a bag,” she says. She converted to hardshell styles about six years ago, and says she'll never look back. “As a fashion editor, I love packing clothes, and the beauty of a hardshell carry-on is I can pack all of my clothes and accessories with the ease of knowing it will always fit in the overhead compartment.” She has packing down to a science—her secret is these packing cubes—and is never without her FPM carry-on. “It checks all of my boxes,” she says, explaining that “it's lightweight, extremely durable, and can fit a lot more clothing than you think at first glance—while being an incredibly chic travel piece.”

Specifications:

• Size - 55 x 23 x 35cm.
• Weight - 3.71kg.
• Standout features? Paravel will offset the carbon emissions as a result of both creating the hard shell case and - a huge bonus - of your first trip with the bag, be it to Europe the US or beyond.

Pros:

• Crafted from 100% upcycled materials, from the hardside polycarbonate to the inner nylon.
• Dual spinner wheels with steel axles and carbon steel bearings for a smooth four wheel glide.
• TSA-approved lock.

Cons:

• None of note, this really is one of the best hard shell cabin bags.

PARAVEL recommendations: Paravel cofounder, CEO, and creative director Indré Rockefeller is based in New York City and travels twice a month, mostly for work. It goes without saying her favourite carry-on luggage is made by Paravel. “I worked for over a year on developing the perfect piece of luggage and I’m so happy it’s finally here," she says. "It has amazing wheels, zippers, and handles, but it’s also sustainably manufactured, using recycled polycarbonate, recycled aircraft-grade aluminium, recycled YKK zippers, and a luxurious lining made from post-consumer recycled plastic water bottles.” It's her pride and joy, especially since she only ever travels with a carry-on. Another pro tip: She stays organised with packing cubes.

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Specifications:

• Size - 40 x 55 x 20cm.
• Weight - 2.6kg.
• Standout features? This hard shell cabin suitcase is compliant with the allowance for most airlines' overhead shelves.

Pros:

• Expandable.
• Reviewers were pleased with the durability and construction.

Cons:

• None of note.

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Specifications:

• Size - 45.7 x 29.2 x 27.9cm.
• Weight - 0.45kg.
• Standout features? One of the lightest holdalls you can buy at sub-1kg.

Pros:

• Folds up into a tiny 20.3 x 24.77 x 7cm pouch for easy storing.
• Includes a smart sleeve for easy rolling on top of bigger trolley bags.
• Can be monogrammed.

Cons:

• No TSA lock, might be one for a mini padlock.

PARAVEL recommendations: Meredith Carey, travel bookings commerce editor at Condé Nast Traveler and cohost of the Women Who Travel podcast, is based in New York City and travels about twice a month. Wherever she's headed, it's with a matchy-matchy Away luggage set in hunter green. And in case she goes overboard while shopping, she says her new must-bring item is the Paravel fold-up bag, in—you guessed it—hunter green. “It packs down to about the size of a book but is sturdy enough when unzipped that I don’t have to worry about it ripping if I fill it with my heavier purchases," she says.

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