What Luggage Should I Buy? Expert-Tested Picks for Every Traveler
Answer three questions about how you travel -- frequency, style, and budget -- and get matched to specific luggage. No scrolling through a thousand reviews.
Every luggage brand claims theirs is the best. Away says polycarbonate. Travelpro says nylon. Rimowa says aluminum. They are all selling their strength. None of them mention that the right luggage depends entirely on how you travel -- not on what material they specialize in.
Answer three questions about your travel frequency, travel style, and budget, and we will match you to specific luggage that expert reviewers have actually tested and compared.
Not sure whether hard shell or soft shell is right? Start with our Hard Shell vs Soft Shell comparison. Want to understand what luggage really costs over time? See The Real Cost of Luggage. And before you buy, read 5 luggage buying mistakes that ruin trips. Already know what you want? Check when luggage prices drop lowest.
How This Guide Works
We organized recommendations by travel need, not by brand catalog. Answer three questions and you will have a specific shopping list.
Question 1: How Often Do You Travel?
Occasional Traveler (1-4 Trips Per Year)
You need reliable luggage at a reasonable price. You do not need airline-crew-grade durability because your bag will not see 200 flights a year. Focus on a single versatile carry-on that works for both weekend trips and week-long vacations. The Samsonite Freeform or LEVEL8 Grace EXT deliver premium materials at entry-level pricing.
Regular Traveler (5-15 Trips Per Year)
You need luggage that survives repeated use without degrading. Wheel quality, handle durability, and zipper strength matter more than shell material at this frequency. The Away Carry-On and Monos Carry-On Pro are built for this use case -- premium components that maintain performance over hundreds of trips.
Frequent Flyer (15+ Trips Per Year)
You need professional-grade luggage with an unconditional warranty. At this frequency, components wear out: wheels flatten, handles loosen, zippers fail. The Briggs & Riley Baseline is the only carry-on with a lifetime warranty that covers airline damage -- no questions, no proof of purchase required. Travelpro Platinum Elite is the airline-crew standard for a reason.
Question 2: Do You Carry On or Check?
Carry-On Only
You need a bag that maximizes interior volume within airline size limits (22 x 14 x 9 inches for most domestic airlines). Expandability is valuable because you can expand for car trips and compress for flights. External pockets matter because you need to access your laptop, boarding pass, and water bottle without opening the main compartment at the gate. Weight matters because every pound of bag is a pound less of packing.
Always Check a Bag
You need impact protection and water resistance because your bag will be thrown, stacked, and left on wet tarmacs. Hard shell polycarbonate is the safer choice for checked luggage. TSA-approved locks are essential. Expandability is less important because checked bags have more generous size limits. The Away Large is purpose-built for this use case.
Mix of Both
You need a carry-on that does double duty. An expandable carry-on (Travelpro Maxlite 5 or LEVEL8 Grace EXT) lets you expand to near-checked-bag capacity when driving and compress to carry-on size when flying. This is the most versatile approach for travelers who do not want to own multiple bags.
Question 3: What Is Your Budget?
Under $150
The Samsonite Freeform ($120) and Travelpro Maxlite 5 ($130) deliver the best quality at this price point. You get reliable wheels, durable shells, and established brand warranties. Do not go below $80 for a carry-on -- the wheels and zippers will fail within a year.
$150 to $350
The sweet spot for most travelers. Away ($275), Monos ($295), and LEVEL8 Grace EXT ($120) offer premium materials, lifetime warranties, and modern design. This range is where the quality jump from budget to mid-range is most dramatic.
Over $350
Briggs & Riley ($579) and Travelpro Platinum Elite ($350) are built for travelers who fly 15+ times a year. The warranty, component quality, and professional-grade construction justify the premium if you travel enough to wear out mid-range luggage.
Quick-Match Summary
| Your Travel Profile | Our Pick | Why It Fits |
|---|---|---|
| Best carry-on overall | Away The Carry-On | Polycarbonate, built-in battery, lifetime warranty |
| Best soft shell carry-on | Travelpro Maxlite 5 | Lightest in class at 5.4 lbs, expandable |
| Best value hard shell | Samsonite Freeform | Polypropylene, expandable, 10-year warranty |
| Best design | Monos Carry-On Pro | Aerospace polycarbonate, whisper-quiet wheels |
| Best lifetime warranty | Briggs & Riley Baseline | Only brand that covers airline damage |
| Best budget hard shell | LEVEL8 Grace EXT | Makrolon PC, Hinomoto wheels, expandable |
| Best checked bag | Away The Large | Polycarbonate, compression system, lifetime warranty |
| Best premium soft shell | Travelpro Platinum Elite | Airline-crew standard, PrecisionGlide wheels |
What We Recommend
Based on our research, these are our top picks. Prices change frequently -- click through to see the latest.
- 1.Away The Carry-On -- Regular travelers (5-15 trips per year) who want a polished, reliable carry-on with modern features. Travelers who value clean design, a lifetime warranty, and the convenience of a built-in charger.
- 2.Travelpro Maxlite 5 21" Carry-On Spinner -- Budget-conscious travelers who want the lightest possible carry-on. Frequent flyers who carry on exclusively and need expandability. Anyone upgrading from a no-name bag to a reliable, branded carry-on.
- 3.Samsonite Freeform Hardside Carry-On -- Occasional travelers who want hard shell protection at an entry-level price. Budget-conscious buyers who refuse to sacrifice expandability. Anyone who wants a recognizable brand with a solid warranty at under $150.
- 4.Monos Carry-On Pro -- Design-conscious travelers who want premium materials without Rimowa pricing. Travelers who are sensitive to wheel noise in hotels and airports. Anyone looking for a polished, Instagram-ready suitcase with substance behind the style.
- 5.Briggs & Riley Baseline Carry-On Expandable Spinner -- Frequent flyers (15+ trips per year) who need luggage that survives heavy use. Business travelers who value function over aesthetics. Anyone who has had luggage damaged by airlines and wants guaranteed coverage.
- 6.LEVEL8 Grace EXT Carry-On -- Budget-conscious travelers who want premium hard shell materials without the brand markup. Value hunters who recognize that Makrolon PC and Hinomoto wheels are the same components used in $300+ luggage.
- 7.Away The Large -- Travelers who want a matching set with the Away Carry-On. Anyone who checks a bag regularly and wants polycarbonate protection with a strong warranty. Families packing for week-long vacations.
- 8.Travelpro Platinum Elite 21" Carry-On Spinner -- Frequent business travelers who fly 15+ times a year. Professionals who need a dedicated laptop pocket and expandable capacity. Anyone who values proven, airline-crew-tested reliability over trendy design.
Away The Carry-On
The carry-on that launched the direct-to-consumer luggage revolution. Polycarbonate hard shell with a built-in ejectable battery for charging your phone at the gate. 360-degree spinner wheels, TSA-approved combination lock, and interior compression system. The battery is removable for checked bags per airline requirements. Lifetime warranty covers functional damage to shells, wheels, handles, and zippers.
Pros
- Ejectable battery for phone charging at the gate -- removable for checked bags per FAA rules
- Lifetime warranty covering shells, wheels, handles, and zippers
- Clean, minimalist design available in 15+ colors
- Interior compression system maximizes packing space
- 100-day trial period with free returns
- 360-degree Hinomoto spinner wheels for smooth rolling
Cons
- No expandability -- the hard shell is the hard shell
- Heavier than comparable soft shell alternatives at 7.6 lbs
- Battery must be removed when checking the bag
- No external pockets for quick access during boarding
Travelpro Maxlite 5 21" Carry-On Spinner
The lightest full-featured carry-on in its class at just 5.4 pounds. High-density polyester fabric with DuraGuard coating for stain and abrasion resistance. Expandable by 2 inches for extra packing capacity. The PowerScope telescoping handle has 2 locking positions for comfortable rolling at different heights. Airline-approved size for virtually all domestic carriers.
Pros
- Lightest carry-on in its class at 5.4 lbs -- maximizes packing weight allowance
- Expandable by 2 inches for extra capacity when needed
- PowerScope handle with 2 locking positions for comfortable rolling
- Trusted by airline crews -- Travelpro was founded by a 747 pilot
- External accessory pocket for boarding pass and phone
- Limited lifetime warranty on construction defects
Cons
- Soft shell offers less impact protection than polycarbonate
- Polyester fabric can scuff and show wear over time
- No built-in TSA lock -- must use an external lock
- Interior organization is basic compared to DTC brands
Samsonite Freeform Hardside Carry-On
A rare hard shell that is expandable. Polypropylene construction is lighter and more impact-resistant than standard ABS plastic while costing less than polycarbonate. Dual spinner wheels, TSA-approved combination lock, and cross-straps inside both compartments. The 10-year limited warranty covers manufacturing defects in materials and workmanship.
Pros
- Durable polypropylene at budget price -- premium material without premium markup
- Expandable -- rare for a hard shell carry-on, adds crucial packing flexibility
- Dual spinner wheels roll smoothly on all surfaces
- TSA-approved combination lock built into the shell
- 10-year limited warranty on manufacturing defects
- Interior cross-straps in both compartments keep contents organized
Cons
- Heavier than comparable soft shell alternatives
- Interior organization is basic -- no laptop pocket or mesh dividers
- Wheels can be loud on rough surfaces like cobblestone
- Polypropylene scratches more visibly than polycarbonate
Monos Carry-On Pro
Aerospace-grade polycarbonate with an anti-microbial interior lining and whisper-quiet wheels that rival luggage costing twice as much. The telescopic handle uses an anodized aluminum mechanism that locks at multiple heights with zero wobble. The unibody shell design minimizes stress points that cause cracking. Includes a built-in TSA lock and a vegan leather luggage tag.
Pros
- Premium materials (aerospace-grade polycarbonate, anodized aluminum handle) at mid-range pricing
- Whisper-quiet wheels -- noticeably quieter than Away and Samsonite
- Anti-microbial interior lining resists odors and bacteria
- 100-day trial period with free returns and free shipping
- Lifetime warranty on all functional components
- Elegant, understated design that stands out without being flashy
Cons
- No expandability -- fixed hard shell capacity
- Limited color availability compared to Away
- Newer brand without the long track record of Samsonite or Travelpro
- No built-in battery like Away -- external charger required
- Slightly heavier than competitors at 7.6 lbs
Briggs & Riley Baseline Carry-On Expandable Spinner
The only luggage brand that covers airline damage in its lifetime warranty -- no receipt required, no questions asked, for the life of the bag. The CX expansion-compression system is unique: expand the bag for extra capacity, then compress it back to original size with a built-in mechanism. Outsider handle design positions the telescoping handle on the outside of the bag, maximizing interior packing volume. Ballistic nylon construction is the most durable soft shell material available.
Pros
- Only brand that covers airline damage in warranty -- no receipt, no questions, lifetime
- CX expansion-compression system -- expand for packing, compress back to carry-on size
- Outsider handle maximizes interior packing volume by moving the handle outside the bag
- Ballistic nylon construction -- the most durable soft shell material available
- Made in USA
- Self-repairing zippers and aircraft-grade aluminum handle
Cons
- Premium price at $579 -- the most expensive carry-on on this list
- Traditional soft-shell business-traveler aesthetic may not suit everyone
- Heavier than budget alternatives at 8.7 lbs
- No hard shell option in the Baseline line -- soft shell only
LEVEL8 Grace EXT Carry-On
Premium materials at a budget price. The Makrolon polycarbonate shell (the same grade used by Away and Rimowa) is combined with Japanese Hinomoto wheels (the gold standard in luggage wheels) and an aluminum frame for extra protection. The EXT model is expandable -- unusual for a hard shell at any price, let alone under $150. TSA-approved combination lock and interior compression straps.
Pros
- Makrolon polycarbonate shell -- same grade as luggage costing 2-3x more
- Japanese Hinomoto wheels -- the gold standard for smooth, quiet rolling
- Expandable hard shell -- rare feature at any price, included at budget pricing
- Aluminum frame adds structural reinforcement beyond the shell alone
- TSA-approved combination lock built into the shell
- Interior compression straps and mesh dividers
Cons
- Lesser-known brand with limited retail presence for in-person testing
- Some reviewers note the zippers could be smoother
- Customer service response times can be slower than established brands
- Limited color options compared to Away or Monos
Away The Large
The checked bag counterpart to the Away Carry-On, built with the same polycarbonate shell, Hinomoto wheels, and lifetime warranty. Interior compression system with built-in nylon laundry bag for separating dirty clothes. TSA-approved combination lock. At 28.5 inches, it is sized for week-long or longer trips. The same 100-day trial and lifetime warranty apply.
Pros
- Same build quality and lifetime warranty as Away Carry-On
- Interior compression system maximizes packing space
- Included nylon laundry bag for separating dirty clothes
- TSA-approved combination lock built into the shell
- 360-degree Hinomoto spinner wheels
- 100-day trial period with free returns
Cons
- Heavy when fully packed -- airline weight limits are a real concern
- No expandability -- fixed hard shell capacity
- No built-in battery (removed from large sizes due to airline restrictions)
- Price is higher than comparable checked bags from Samsonite
Travelpro Platinum Elite 21" Carry-On Spinner
The carry-on used by more airline pilots and flight attendants than any other brand. High-density nylon fabric with stain-resistant coating. The PrecisionGlide wheel system uses self-aligning magnetic wheels that are significantly quieter and smoother than standard spinner wheels. PowerScope telescoping handle locks at multiple heights. Expandable by 2 inches. Dedicated padded laptop pocket accessible without opening the main compartment.
Pros
- Airline-crew standard -- trusted by pilots and flight attendants worldwide
- PrecisionGlide magnetic wheels -- whisper-quiet and self-aligning
- PowerScope handle locks at multiple heights for comfortable rolling
- Expandable by 2 inches for extra packing capacity
- Dedicated padded laptop pocket accessible from outside the bag
- Lifetime warranty from a brand with 35+ years in the industry
Cons
- Premium price for a soft shell carry-on
- Traditional business-traveler aesthetic -- not the most stylish option
- Heavier than the Maxlite 5 at 6.7 lbs
- High-density nylon is durable but not water-resistant in heavy rain
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best carry-on luggage brand?
For most travelers, Away offers the best combination of build quality, design, and price. For frequent flyers who need professional-grade durability, Briggs and Riley is the industry standard with a lifetime warranty that covers airline damage. For budget-conscious travelers, Samsonite Freeform and LEVEL8 Grace EXT deliver premium materials at entry-level prices.
Is Away luggage worth it?
Yes, for regular travelers who take 5-15 trips per year. The polycarbonate shell, built-in ejectable battery, and lifetime warranty justify the $275 price. For occasional travelers (1-4 trips per year), the Samsonite Freeform at $120 offers comparable build quality at less than half the price.
What size carry-on should I get?
A 21-22 inch spinner is the standard carry-on size that fits most domestic airlines. If you fly budget carriers (Spirit, Frontier, Ryanair), check their specific size limits as they are often smaller than standard. If you only fly full-service domestic airlines, 22 inches is the sweet spot for maximum packing within size limits.
Do I need expandable luggage?
If you ever buy souvenirs, overpack, or use your carry-on for both weekend trips and longer vacations, yes. Expandability adds 2-3 inches of packing depth when you need it and compresses back to standard size for flights. Most soft shell bags are expandable. Among hard shells, the Samsonite Freeform and LEVEL8 Grace EXT offer this feature.
How long should good luggage last?
Quality luggage should last 5-10 years of regular use (5-15 trips per year). Premium luggage like Briggs and Riley should last 15-20 years or more. Budget luggage under $80 typically fails within 1-3 years. The biggest failure points are wheels, handles, and zippers -- not the shell itself.
Should I buy luggage online or in a store?
In-store lets you test the handle height, wheel quality, and zippers. Online offers better prices and wider selection. The best approach: visit a luggage store to test your top choices in person, then buy online during a sale. DTC brands like Away and Monos are online-only but offer generous trial periods (100 days for Away, 100 days for Monos).
Not sure where to start?
Follow the path that matches where you are in your decision. Each guide builds on the last.
You can start at any stage. Each article stands on its own, but reading in order gives you the full picture. Want to know when prices drop? See our Best Time to Buy Luggage pricing calendar.
Continue Reading
The Real Cost of Luggage: Why Cheap Suitcases Cost More Per Trip
A $50 suitcase that lasts 10 trips costs $5 per trip. A $275 suitcase that lasts 200 trips costs $1.38 per trip. The math consistently favors quality -- here is the full breakdown.
10 min read5 Luggage Buying Mistakes That Ruin Trips (and What to Do Instead)
Most people buy luggage based on looks, brand recognition, or whatever is cheapest. All three approaches lead to broken wheels at 6 AM in an airport. Here is what actually matters.
9 min readHard Shell vs Soft Shell Luggage: Which Is Right for How You Travel?
Polycarbonate versus nylon is not a matter of better or worse. It is a matter of how you travel, what you pack, and what you need your luggage to survive.
12 min readNever Miss the Best Price
Get buying guides and deal alerts timed to when prices actually drop lowest.
Get Monthly Deal Alerts