The Best Carry On Suitcase For International Travel In 2024

Sara Ryan By, Sara Ryan
Updated
Best Carry On Suitcase For International Travel
Best Carry On Suitcase For International Travel

Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall: Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Expandable Luggage

Designed for the active traveler on the go, the Winfield 2 Hardside Expandable Luggage by Samsonite is made of lightweight and durable materials. The bag features a 20" x 13" x 9.5" main compartment with an expandable zippered interior that can accommodate laptops up to 16", along with a separate zippered section for documents and an exterior pocket for accessories. Read Review

2. Best Bang For The Buck: Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage

Looking for a lightweight, durable and sturdy bag to pack your gear and travel with ease? The Travelpro Lightweight Expandable Carry-On Luggage is a perfect choice. With 4 wheel spinners rotating 360 degrees for a smooth roll, this suitcase features a patented contour grip with rubber touch points. Read Review

3. Best Reliable: Kenneth Cole Reaction Renegade 20” Carry-On Luggage

The Kenneth Cole Reaction Renegade 20" carry-on suitcase was designed to be a carry-on-approved and travel-friendly, yet stylish, solution for the frequent traveler. With its sleek and stylish design that features corner guard reinforcements, this suitcase is perfect for the business or leisure traveler. Read Review

4. Best Style: Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Upright 2 Wheel Luggage

The TravelPro MaxLite Carry-On is designed for the discerning traveler. The lightweight, one-bag solution offers minimal weight and maximum packing potential. This carry-on bag boasts an impressive 45 L of volume, which can easily hold enough clothes for a week's worth of travel. It is TSA-compliant so you know when it's time to leave, you'll be ready to go! Read Review

When you’re planning your next trip, you probably start thinking about all the things you’ll need to pack. If you’re headed off on an international trip, then it’s likely that your suitcase will be more than just a little overstuffed. However, if you’re prepared and have packed light, then everything you need should be within arm’s reach at all times.

Packing for an extended getaway can seem like an overwhelming task as there are so many things that we take for granted at home but need when traveling away from home. With that in mind, here is our rundown of everything you need to know about packing for an extended trip away from home.

You are strongly encouraged to pay close attention to the Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Expandable Luggage as our top product. Or you can check the Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage as the other great option, even if the first option didn't meet all of your requirements.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Expandable Luggage
Our Score:
9.8
Samsonite

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

LIGHTWEIGHT locking telescopic handle

TOP Choice #2 Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage
Our Score:
9.6
Travelpro

Weight: 5.4 lbs.

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

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

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

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

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 #3 Kenneth Cole Reaction Renegade 20” Carry-On Luggage
Our Score:
9.5
Kenneth Cole REACTION

Ergonomically designed retractable trolley handle

Main compartment interior features several zippered organization pockets elastic shoe pockets and a garment restraint panel

8-wheel multi-directional spinners for effortless handling

Sleek and stylish exterior with corner guard reinforcements helps protect your bag from damage

Weight - 7.35 lbs.

Packing Dimensions - 20" H x 13.5" L x 8.5-10.5" D.

Meets most U. S based & international airline carry-on size requirements and fits into most overhead bins.

Expands an additional 2 inches

Overall Dimensions - 22" H x 14" L x 9-11" D.

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

Case Dimensions: 20x 15x7.7, Overall Dimensions: 21.75x15.75x7.75, Weight: 5.4 pounds ; Volume : 45 L

Ultra lightweight, ultra durable 19 inches expandable Rollaboard suitcase maximizes your packing power and meets carry on size restrictions for most international airlines; Polyester fabric with stain resistant, water repellant duraguard coating and ergonomic, high tensile strength zipper pulls provide lasting durability

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 and flexibility

High performance inline skate wheels and lightweight yet sturdy PowerScope Lite handle with stops at 38 inches and 42.5 inches reduce wobble and ensure a smooth, easy roll; Expands up to 2 inches to maximize packing capacity with tapered shape to prevent tipping

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

Easy-to-use large pull handle with a rubber-enclosed protected push button.

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

SELF RETRACTING carry handles that maintain a low profile when not in use

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.

NEW FOUR POCKET REVERSIBLE panel that maximizes organization without extra bulk or weight

PACKING Dimensions: 20.0" x 14.25" x 9.5", OVERALL Dimensions: 22.5" x 14.5" x 9.5", Weight: 6.97 lbs.

1.5" EXPANSION to allow you to pack more items and compression keeps clothing neatly pressed

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

100% POLYCARBONATE that’s tough and scratch resistant

7 DELSEY Paris Chatelet Hardside Luggage
Our Score:
8.8
DELSEY Paris

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

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

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

8 DELSEY Paris Chatelet Hardside Luggage
Our Score:
8.7
DELSEY Paris

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

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

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

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

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

✈️ DELICATE DESIGN; The stylish unique style, noble and elegant design, catering to the new trend of fashion. No matter travelling on the weekends or go abroad, you will be the distinctive one. Suitcase lining made of high quality and safe polyester fabric

✈️ BUILT FOR TRAVEL; Travel lighter than ever with this 3-piece luggage set; The softside design can collapse a bit to fit more easily into tight spaces (compared to hardside); The lightweight construction helps you adhere to airline weight restrictions and avoid unneeded airport fees which make it best suitcase for domestic and international travel

✈️ BUILT FOR COMFORT AND CONVENIENCE; You can easily drag along the airport with its ergonomic handle providing easy maneuverability and relieve any pressure from your arms while on the move; The 4-spinner wheels system allow smooth, 360° degree movement over any rough terrain for complete mobility free-weight rolling

✈️ SATISFACTION GUARANTEED; Limited 5 year manufacturer warranty plus trusted companion promise, which covers the cost of repair for damage for any manufacturer defect or replace the defective bag

✈️ HI-STABILITY: Wide wheel positioning provides better balance and resistance from falling forward/ unique base structure - specially developed case platform provides additional strength and stability

Top Quality Brand YKK Zipper are not easy to be pierced by sharp tools, and using 5 strands to protect zipper teeth, smooth and durable. Smart TSA lock that protects your stuffs in luggage and privacy better when traveling. This hardside suitcase is equipped with customized clear PVC cover for water resistant and protection from accidental scratches. 3 Years warranty according to warranty card, if any issue, please contact us through Amazon, then we reply within 24hrs.

Ergonomic adjustable aluminum alloy telescoping handle with push button locking system allow you to stow away conveniently in tight space and allows for easy maneuvering when extended. And design with Soft Rubber top carry handle and side carry handle not only make you more convenient to carry check in luggage, but also provide comfort after a long journey. This trolley case handles were still smooth and stable After 1500 shock tests, 9000 fatigue tests.

Simple & Fashionable Suitcase, Combined with THREE-LAYER Bayer PC material which is called “Soft Steel” for hardshell, which make the luggage durable, wearable and lighter than ABS or ABS+PC suitcases. The color of this series hardside rolling suitcase is fashionable and bright and available in 16in 20in 22in 24in 26in 28in, please check our size chart/description carefully before placing an order and choose the right one for the upcoming travel.

Top Quality Brand YKK Zipper are not easy to be pierced by sharp tools, and using 5 strands to protect zipper teeth, smooth and durable. Smart TSA lock that protects your stuffs in luggage and privacy better when traveling. This hardside suitcase is equipped with customized clear PVC cover for water resistant and protection from accidental scratches. 3 Years warranty according to warranty card, if any issue, please contact us through Amazon, then we reply within 24hrs.

Silent & Smooth Multi-Directional Spinner Wheels benefit from brand new soft TPE Rubber and lubricating balls inside wheels, Less Noise More Elegant. Thickened TPE wheel effectively reduce the friction with the ground and dramatically reduce the noise from the wheels. Carrying weight walking 36KM at 4KM/Hour, the wheel skin loss is no more than 2mm, that is 3 times of industry standard. Perfect away luggage for long-term travels and business trips.

What to Look For in a best carry on suitcase for international travel?

There are several factors to consider when you spend that money in best carry on suitcase for international travel. It's more difficult to pick because the product is available in different sellers' wide assortment, functionalities, and characteristics. As a result, you should go through a reputable source of information on the item.

You're meant to relax since we're here to help you with that. The research is aided by more excellent technologies such as Artificial intelligence and Big Data. Thus, the information has a tremendous amount of influence and reliability.

Following, we've pointed out various characteristics of the best carry on suitcase for international travel. You are projected to read the shopping guide here as well as the list of top models in the list:

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

It's time to start buying when you've determined the best types of best carry on suitcase for international travel and the characteristics you want. It's important to remember that you needn't rush out to a certain store or browse internet discounts just soon. You may quickly discover your pal thanks technological advancements, particularly the proliferation of selling sites.

Try to keep an eye on our site's regular to guarantee the latest deals best carry on suitcase for international travel passes our standards. As a result, you'll be able to close the gap with them. Could you kindly provide us with feedback so that we can satisfy you guys, our customers? Wish you a great shopping experience!


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About Sara Ryan

Sara Ryan

Sara Ryan is a freelance writer for CampFireHQ and avid diver. She first discovered her love for diving while on vacation in the Caribbean and has been hooked ever since. Sara loves exploring new dive sites and observing the fascinating creatures that live beneath the waves. As a native of Colorado, Sara enjoys spending her free time hiking and camping in the beautiful Rocky Mountains. She also enjoys writing about her adventures in diving and wildlife conservation.

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