The Best Carry On Luggage For International Flights In 2024

Sarah Combs By, Sarah Combs
Updated
Best Carry On Luggage For International Flights
Best Carry On Luggage For International Flights

Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall: Travelpro Maxlite Expandable Luggage

Take your carry-on with you without the weight with Travelpro's Maxlite 5. The soft, lightweight design makes this carry-on one of our lightest wheeled carry-ons. With four spinner wheels and an expandable interior, this suitcase is ideal for those who want to travel in style. Read Review

2. Runner Up: DELSEY Paris Helium Aero Hardside Expandable Luggage

The Helium Aero Collection from Delsey Paris has been designed for the frequent traveller. With a lightweight, durable design, this collection is perfect for packing light. The main compartment's expandable design allows you to carry more and ensures your belongings are safe and secure. Read Review

3. Best For The Price: Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside Expandable Luggage

The Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside International carry-on spinner-carry-on luggage is designed to accommodate international airline requirements and features a telescoping handle and 8 wheel spinner. This softside carry-on comes with an expandable interior, 2 sets of removable wheels, 1 set of removable spinner wheels, and a TSA lock-in approved combination lock. Read Review

4. Top Choice: Weekender Backpack Travelling Suitcase Backpack

The Weekender Backpack is a durable, large capacity, and roomy travel bag with an organized main compartment. With its sturdy and comfortable design, you can quickly zip through the airport or carry it on a day-long adventure. Read Review

Many airlines don’t allow checked luggage on international flights. Instead, you can bring your carry-ons with you and check them in at the airport. When selecting carry-on luggage for an international flight, think about how much space you’ll have to fit everything.

Choose a practical bag that won’t take up too much room or add extra weight to your luggage. Most airlines will not weigh your carry-ons so make sure they fit in the dimensions listed on the airline’s website. Some of these tips may help you select the best bag for your international trip.

You'll have an easier time deciding with our Travelpro Maxlite Expandable Luggage recommendations. Its lightweight design makes it easy to handle and its 4 spinner wheels let you move swiftly through the airport. However, in order to provide the reader with a wider variety of alternatives, we recommend adding DELSEY Paris Helium Aero Hardside Expandable Luggage if you are interested in purchasing another appealing one.

Here are the buying guides that we specially made for you guys. Follow all the words below for successful shopping!

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Travelpro Maxlite Expandable Luggage
Our Score:
9.9
Travelpro

Weight: 5.4 lbs.

Expands up to 2 inch to maximize packing capacity. Features low profile top, side and bottom carry handles, two exterior compartments, full length interior lid pocket, side accessory pocket and adjustable hold down straps for packing convenience

Interior dimension: 21 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches Exterior dimension: 23 inches x 14.5 inches x 9 inches; Volume : 46 liter

4 wheel spinners rotate 360 degree for a smooth roll. Lightweight, sturdy PowerScope handle stops at 38 inch and 42.5 inch features a patented contour grip with rubberized touch points for easy maneuvering. Unique bottom tray design increases durability

A half pound lighter than maxlite 4, this ultra lightweight 21 inch spinner meets carry on size restrictions for most domestic airlines. H20 Guard protects the interior lining from moisture

Limited Lifetime Coverage plus trusted companion promise, which covers the cost of repair for damage from airline or other common carrier for 1 year

TOP Choice #2 DELSEY Paris Helium Aero Hardside Expandable Luggage
Our Score:
9.8
DELSEY Paris

Superior Maneuverability: The double spinner wheels assure exceptional maneuverability and keep ZERO weight on your arm.

Maximum comfort: this carry on bag has a comfortable handle system that locks into two positions for ease of use.WEIGHT:8.2 lbs

Overall Dimensions: 21.25 x 14 x 9 inches,Body Dimensions: 19x13.5x9 inches. Weight:8.2 lbs. Two full packing compartments with lined divider and tie-down straps

100% polycarbonate which makes the case lightweight and durable. Modern design with deep metallic glossy finishes

Convenient and Secure Packing: Two large fully-lined compartments with multiple pockets allow easy access and organization for all of your items. Web straps and a zippered divider secure clothing and help minimize wrinkles.

Large east access front compartment with integrated padded sleeve for up to 15.6 inch laptop and 2 zippered mesh pockets for computer accessories, toiletries, or any last minute items

Large easy access front compartment with an integrated padded sleeve for up to a 15.6 inch laptop and 2 zippered mesh pockets for computer accessories, toiletries, or any last minute items such as tickets, passport or books

Soft-touch top and side carry handles allow you comfortably lift

Largest capacity: this suitcase expands up to 2 inches for additional packing space and meets carry-on size restrictions for most international airlines. This feature is great for packing souvenirs on return journeys.

Integrated 3 dial tsa accepted combination lock, self-repairing zippers

TOP Choice #3 Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside Expandable Luggage
Our Score:
9.7
Travelpro

Expandable carry-on spinner suitcase with external USB port and dedicated powerbank pocket meets FAA regulations for carry-on and checked baggage. Powerbank not included.

Deluxe interior tie down system includes built-in accessory pockets for quick access to essentials. Removable quart-sized wet pocket is TSA compliant and perfect for storing toiletries. Premium leather top and side carry handles plus bottom handle cup provide comfortable carrying options.

Case Dimensions: 19x15x7.75, Overall Dimensions: 21.75x15.75x7.75 Weight: 7.7 lbs

Backed by our built for a lifetime limited worry free warranty that covers the cost of repair for damage from airline or other common carrier for the life of the bag after registration under the trusted companion promise.

The Precision Glide System has magnatrac self-aligning 360-degree dual spinner wheels and an adjustable PowerScope extension handle with Contour grip, that delivers effortless roll and comfortable maneuverability.

BUILT FOR TRAVEL: One organizer compartment for little gear. 4 external compression straps keeps contents from sloshing around and are useful to get an inch or two more of vertical space also reduced stress on the zippers. The large inside pocket has internal compression elastic straps as well. The padded straps include a sternum strap that can be adjusted upward or downward, set to go across your chest, distribute the weight from your shoulder

EXPANDABLE & LARGE CAPACITY: Extra travel large backpack with expandable feature give you more packing capacity. Unzip to expand 40L storage can easily hold packing cubes, toiletry bag, make-up bag, outfits, camera bag and gear, etc. Standard carry on size travel backpack fits overhead and under seat, is ideal for women,women,weekend traveler,or occasional vacationer.This versatile luggage backpack also meets airline carry-on requirements,for airlines such as Easy Jet,Spirit,Jet Blue

EASY TO CARRY: The luggage backpack is light to carry due to its adjustable shoulder straps, comfortable air-mesh ventilated back panel. Two padded grab handles are set both on top and side of the travel backpack, make it easy to take the bag from an overhead bin

DURABLE: Made of water resistant lightweight polyester and lockable zipper heads. Survived different temperatures. With study zippers and decent stitching, this large travel backpack won't show any defects when on the go, ensure you have a unforgettable weekend getaway, international flight

CONVERTIBLE DESIGN: Hideaway padded shoulder straps disconnect easily and store away in zippered back panel, transform the bag in carry-on duffel or briefcase style and give it a minimalist look and a more flexible carrying experience. A luggage strap designed on back allows backpack fit on luggage / suitcase, slide over the luggage upright handle tube for easier carry on international travel or cruise

5 Travelpro Maxlite Luggage
Our Score:
9.4
Travelpro

High performance ball bearing wheels and lightweight yet sturdy power scope Lite handle with stops at 38 inches and 42.5 inches reduce wobble and ensure a smooth, easy roll

A half pound lighter than the maxlite 4 version, this ultra lightweight, ultra durable 22" expandable Rollaboard suitcase maximizes your packing power and meets carry on size restrictions for most domestic airlines. Polyester fabric with stain resistant, water repellant duraguard coating and ergonomic, high tensile strength zipper pulls provide lasting durability

Expands upto 2 inches to maximize packing capacity with tapered shape to prevent tipping; Features low profile top, side and bottom carry handles, 2 exterior compartments, full length interior lid pocket, side accessory pocket and adjustable hold down straps for packing convenience and flexibility

Limited lifetime coverage plus trusted companion promise, which covers the cost of repair for damage from airline or other common carrier for 1 year; H20 Guard protects the interior lining from moisture

Case Dimensions: 21x14x9 inches, Overall Dimensions: 23x14.5x9 inches, Weight: 5.4 pounds ; Volume : 52 liter

Durable double-layer anti-theft zippers make luggage much more difficult to break into.

20" SPINNER LUGGAGE maximizes your packing power and meets most carry-on size restrictions for those traveling domestically and looking to stay light

FOUR MULTI-DIRECTIONAL double spinner wheels allow 360 degree upright rolling so there is no weight on your arm or shoulder

PUSH-BUTTON locking handles provides easy maneuverability when extended out from the suitcase, and stores neatly inside when not in use

SMART FIX BUCKLES to keep tie-down straps out of the way when packing

USB PORT for charging devices (battery not included)

100% RUGGED polyester weave

PACKING Dimensions: 19.0" x 13.5" x 7.75", OVERALL Dimensions: 22.0" x 14.0" x 9.5", Weight: 7.1 lbs.

10 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY: Samsonite products are rigorously tested to ensure our products meet stringent standards. This bag comes with a 10-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.

BUILT-IN ORGANIZATION including WetPak pocket and zippered mesh pocket

This carry-on luggage has low profile top and side carry handles along with bottom grip provide multiple carrying options. Roomy main compartment expands 2” to maximize packing capacity when needed for this hard luggage

This lightweight luggage has 100% Polycarbonate hardshell engineered for impact-absorbing flexibility with a stylish outer finish that helps reduce visible scratches and scuffs. Built-in lock allows TSA authorities to safely unlock and relock this carry on suitcase for inspection when needed (default code set at 0-0-0)

Overall Dimensions: H: 23 in. W: 14.5 in. D: 9.5 in.; Case Dimensions: H: 19.75 in. W: 13.75 in. D: 9.5 in.; Weight: 6.3 lbs. Durable hard case luggage backed by Travelpro built for a Lifetime Limited Warranty with our Trusted Companion Promise which includes the cost of repair for damage caused by an airline or other common carrier for the first year after registration

Sizer bin carry on luggage with spinner wheels tested to fit in the overhead bins of most major domestic airlines while allowing for more packing capacity. Hard shell luggage with 8 Spinner wheels that rotate 360°, providing superior maneuverability and a smooth glide in every direction

This hard shell carry on luggage has interior zippered divider panels and accessory pocket to keep contents organized, separated, and secure while the interior lining with H20 guard is made of 100% post-consumer recycled plastic bottles to help reduce environmental waste

8 Samsonite Winfield Expandable Luggage
Our Score:
8.8
Samsonite

SIDE-MOUNTED TSA LOCKS act to deter theft, ensuring that only you or a TSA agent have easy access to your belongings when traveling

10 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY: Samsonite products are rigorously tested to ensure our products meet stringent standards. This bag comes with a 10-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.

FULL-ZIP INTERIOR DIVIDER and cross straps for increased packing organization

PACKING Dimensions: 20.0" x 13.5" x 9.5", OVERALL Dimensions: 23.0" x 14.5" x 9.5", Weight: 6.7 lbs.

Carry-On meets these airlines' size restrictions: United, American, Delta, Southwest, Allegiant

LIGHTWEIGHT locking telescopic handle

UNIFIED BRUSHED PATTERN CUSTOM DESIGN on front and back shells hide any potential scratches or scuffs from your journey

FOUR, MULTI-DIRECTIONAL SPINNER WHEELS for effortless mobility, re-engineered lightweight

20" SPINNER LUGGAGE maximizes your packing power and meets most carry-on size restrictions for those traveling domestically and looking to stay light

HANDSOME SLIDER in squared full-capacity design featuring oversized 10 zipper and interior divider with organization pockets

Expansion increases up 2". High-density ballistic nylon with DuraGuard coating resists stains. Built-in protection includes corner armor, skid guards and durable wheel housings. Removable, TSA-compliant toiletries bag included

Maximizes carry-on sizer bin restrictions. May need to check if over packe. Includes a zip-in garment organizer and additional coordinating zip-in organizers available for purchase separately: laundry organizer, suiter organizer

PrecisionGlide System for precise control and roll includes a Patented Contour Grip, a Patented PowerScope Extension Handle that adjusts to multiple heights while minimizing wobble and self-aligning magnetic wheels that roll straight in any direction

Case Dimensions: 21x14.75x10; Overall Dimensions:23x15.5x10

Supra zipper heads are engineered to resist damage from daily use. Cushioned, low-profile top and side carry handles along provide comfortable carrying option. Backed by our built for a lifetime limited warranty with our trusted companion promise

10 DELSEY Paris Chatelet Hardside Luggage
Our Score:
8.3
DELSEY Paris

Recessed "one-button" locking handle system for great maneuverability; 21 inch carry on size is perfect for weekend getaways and short business trips

Deluxe interior featuring removable hanger and laundry and shoe bags; two large lined compartments with web straps to keep items secure and wrinkle free

Four spinner wheels assuring a stable base with multi-directional rolling with zero weight on your hand for easy travel

Recessed 3-dial TSA approved combination lock for security; unique brake system locks two front wheels to prevent bag from rolling away

Lightweight and durable 100% polycarbonate shell that is extremely resilient to cracking or breaking; designed with stylish faux leather accents

What to Look For in a best carry on luggage for international flights?

The best carry on luggage for international flights is a product type that many customers feel hesitant to select because of the challenges in evaluating its features. It comes to trust! When studying a significant purchase, many factors must be considered. Our best carry on luggage for international flights knowledge will help you make an ideal decision.

Our article here will highlight some outstanding items and provide solutions to FAQs and guides to buying. You should keep in mind some main criteria of best carry on luggage for international flights below:

Handles

Practicality is enhanced by suitcases that have handles at the top and sides. This extra handle along with the towing handle makes it much simpler to lift your suitcase onto and off luggage racks, check-in scales, and baggage carousels.
Top handles can extend into several positions to provide maximum comfort. When not in use, they can be retracted for easy pushing down.

Size

Cases up to full-size: How easy will your suitcase fit into the car's boot if you plan to drive to the airport? It will it be possible to carry the bag around in crowds? There's also the baggage rack at the airport bus. You could hoist it onto the top. You might consider a lighter option if your travels are less than two weeks. A piece of luggage should be durable enough to endure rough transit conditions, yet not cause you pain.
Hand luggage is allowed on most airlines. Some allow for a second hand bag, such as a backpack, or sling bag. A suitcase that is "cabin-size" does not necessarily mean that it can fit into a cabin. Although there are restrictions on size, many airlines will accept suitcases up to 56x45x25 cm.

Weight

Checked luggage: Full-size bags are allowed, but the weight limits vary by airline (see below). Excess baggage fees can be very high so make sure your bag isn't too heavy. Regular flyers might find it useful to purchase luggage scales. Keep in mind, however that you will need to pack more outfits if your suitcase is empty. We found that the best suitcases were as light as 2.3kg empty. Bulkier options weighed in at around 6.2kg.
Hand luggage: Some airlines may have restrictions on the weight of cabin cases. You don't have to give up books, souvenirs and gifts if you choose a lighter cabin bag or fly with an airline that is more flexible.

Wheels

Four-wheelers are the most common type of suitcase. Sometimes called spinners. This means that you don’t need to tip your bag before you tow it. It can also be wheeled along with you. Two-wheeled suitcases tend to be slightly larger and are easier to lift over kerbs. However, spinners offer more versatility.

Security

Traveling with your padlock is important. However, it is recommended that you have one with Transport Security Administration (TSA).
The locks are branded with the TSA red logo and include a universal masterkey.
The TSA is the only one that has this copy. This key allows American airlines security personnel to access your luggage and inspect its contents, without risk.
They can open the lock if they are unable to do so.

Storage

There are many internal pockets that you can find in both hard-shell and soft-sided luggages. These include small pockets with integrated zippers and large pouched pockets that will hold a laptop. You can also have removable laundry bags or garment sections to keep your suit jackets from tearing. Soft-sided suitcases are often equipped with external pockets that can be used to store easy-access items.

Expandability

A lot of suitcases have an expandable panel that can be removed to give you at least 10% more packing space. If you're looking for last-minute souvenirs and gifts, some of our top-scoring full-size and cabin suitcases can be expanded.

FAQs

What Size Suitcase Is Considered Oversized?

While baggage size regulations vary from one airline to the next, most airlines allow luggage to be checked up to 62 inches in length. These airlines would consider bags exceeding these limits to be excessive.

Are The Inside Pockets Useful?

Your clothing and personal belongings should be contained in your luggage. Bags with too many pockets end up being useless. Think about what you prefer to pack before you go ahead and click the buy button. You may not want a large zippered lid, so make sure you have a bag that has a great design. Look for suitcases with shoe compartments. Your bag should maximize its space. If your features aren't clear, it won't work.

How Much Does It Weigh?

You should look beyond the features and attributes of the bag's pockets when you search for a travel suitcase. Check out the weight of the bag without any contents. This is a mistake I've made more times than once. A bag too heavy to carry around is a temptation that I make love to. You will need to ensure that your bag is light, especially for travelers who want to save baggage fees. Look for bags that claim to be lightweight, or give you an accurate weight. It will not be possible to carry a heavy bag on an airplane from Hawaii, or at train stations across Europe.

Is Hard Or Soft Luggage Better?

Because it is lighter than heavy luggage, soft luggage is more popular. Because of the use of lighter materials in hard luggage, this has been changed. It really depends on personal choice as to which option is better. Many soft luggage has expandable and external pockets. Hard luggage, on the other hand offers greater protection and durability.

What Is The Importance Of Luggage?

Because you need to travel a lot, you can also take the bag with you. A well-designed luggage bag will make an impression on other people. Bags are more than just bags. They can also be a fashion statement.

Is The Rolling Handle Double Barred?

You may prefer to carry a rolling bag, but the main part of a suitcase is its handle. Some brands still make luggage that has a single pull handle. Single bar bags are less sturdy than double-bar rolling bags. This feature can fail to work when you're rushing through an airport. You will be in the middle of an arm workout while carrying your bag. This can be avoided by purchasing a bag that has a double-bar handle.

What Is The Most Durable Luggage?

Polycarbonate and ABS are the most reliable luggage materials on the market. While the former is more sturdy, it's usually lighter. Both durable and lightweight luggage can be constructed from both.

In short, the list of best carry on luggage for international flights would be updated when the data is upgraded and available. Please visit our website frequently to get the latest updates.

Our staff team is always available and ready to support you with your complex problems. Try to contact us as soon as possible whenever your product obstacles come up. Feel free for that!


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About Sarah Combs

Sarah Combs
Sarah Combs is a visual editor who loves to travel and hike. She enjoys taking photographs of her journeys, which help her to remember the beautiful places she's been to. Sarah is grateful for the opportunities that she has had to see the world and looks forward to continuing to explore new places in the future. Sarah is the editor of CampfireHQ since 2021 and has written on a variety of topics, from camping, and hiking to other outdoor guides.

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