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If you’re heading abroad on your next trip and are searching for the best carry on luggage international flights will accept, check out these top-recommended reader picks below!
Best Carry On Luggage for International Travel
Table Of Contents
When it comes to traveling abroad, making sure your carryon bag is the right size is of utmost importance. The international carry on luggage size is typically 18″-20″, with nothing below 21”, so sticking with a bag of this size or smaller is the best way to ensure you won’t run into trouble at check-in.
When it comes to European jaunts, a lightweight 20” is a great option; however, the most ideal size to aim for is 19”. Some airlines even let you come aboard with a 21″!
All airlines are different and all suitcases have slightly different dimensions, so it’s also vital to check the carry on luggage size international restrictions with your particular airline to make sure your chosen travel buddy will work for your trip!
Luggage Size and Weight Restrictions
International Airlines Carry On Luggage Size Guide
Domestic Airlines Carry On Luggage Size Guide
If you’re looking for resources on how to choose the best suitcase for you, these articles might be helpful:
- How to Choose the Right Travel Luggage – If you’re new to traveling carry on only, this handy guide will help you determine what luggage to choose and what features to look out for.
- Suitcase Recommendations: Travel Experts Reveal Top Luggage Brands – If you’re unsure what carryon luggage brands are best, readers (the experts) share the top brands to buy!
- Experts Reveal the Best Carry-on Suitcases for Traveling Europe – This roundup is helpful when deciding what is the best size and type of luggage to travel around European cities that involve restrictive budget airlines, train travel, and navigating endless stairs, and the infamous cobblestone streets!
- Best Lightweight Luggage Under 5lb: Avoid Overweight Baggage Fees – While the size of a carryon is vital so is the weight! An overweight bag can put a damper on your trip if you have to pay overweight fees. This article shares the best lightweight luggage out there!
- Hardside vs Softside Luggage: Our Readers Weigh In on the Pros and Cons – If you’re on the fence between the two, readers offer insight into the pros and cons. Ultimately, what you choose is solely up to you!
- Best Checked Luggage – If you’re taking a longer trip, traveling with others and sharing luggage, or simply just like having options, check out the best checked bags that readers swear by!
When it comes to choosing the best carry on international luggage, lightness, maneuverability, and durability are things to consider. Our readers have recommended their favorites for overseas travel that tick these boxes and more! Check out their top picks!
Best International Carry-On Luggage: Hardside Styles
Shop: Amazon
Travelpro Maxlite Air Hardside 20” Carryon
The 20” TravelPro Maxlite Air is not only a beauty but has incredible functionality. The hardshell is super durable, with impact-absorbing flexibility, yet very light for its size, at 6.3 lbs! The interior compartments are super roomy, and users love that it can expand up to 2”, giving them a little extra space for their trip back home!
It comes with 8 sturdy spinner wheels and a handle that extends to 42.5” for maximum maneuverability, as well as TSA locks for security. It’s also so chic and comes in a range of beautiful colors.
One user raves, “Took this beast all over the cobblestone streets in Ireland. It has so much room! Packed for a full week! Zippers we’re great! Size was awesome. Fit in the overhead of a small regional airline too. Highly recommend this. Great price, great quality, great size.”
DETAILS: 2.7 kg / 6.1 lbs | 22 x 14 x 9 in / 56 x 36 x 23 cm | Expandable | 8 Spinner Wheels | Lifetime Limited Warranty
Read this Travelpro Maxlite 5 review to find out if this popular brand makes the cut!
Shop: Amazon
DELSEY Paris Helium Aero Hardside 19” Carryon
For a near-perfect international carry-on luggage size, the Delsey Helium Aero 19” is a gorgeous carryon option that works well for European flights, as well as other international destinations. The spinner wheels make for a smooth ride, and at 8 lbs, it won’t weigh you down. It can expand up to 2” for extra packing space (or to add a souvenir or two!), and there’s an easy TSA locking system.
It’s available in pretty, bright colors that are easily recognizable from afar, and the durable, scratch-resistant cover will ensure it looks just as good off the plane as it did getting on!
One reader who has this suitcase says, “We have the Delsey Helium Aero and love it. It seems to be indestructible, carries a ridiculous amount, and the compression zipper setup is fantastic. I like that each side is packed independently.”
DETAILS: 2.7 kg / 7.5 lbs | 21 x 14 x 10 in / 53 x 36 x 25 cm | Expandable | Double Spinner Wheels | Limited 10yr Warranty
Shop: July
July Hardside 21″ Carry On
Our readers LOVE the July hardside carry on as an international carryon luggage option. It has such a sleek look, and its incredible design and functionality allow you to stroll through the airport with style and ease.
This is a lightweight option at only 3.9 lbs, yet the exterior is tough enough to withstand impact and stay looking fab! Features twin bar 3-stop telescopic handle while aerospace-grade German polycarbonate shell and water-resistant and stain-proof nylon lining and also vegan friendly!
Equipped with a TSA-approved lock and SilentMove Series 2 360° double spinner wheels which is extremely quiet that they can handle the cobblestones of Europe. The July harside suitcase comes in a variety of pretty colors, too!
One TFG reader says, “Perfect size! Our family plans to travel abroad and we have been looking for luggage that meets the size requirements. International travel has much smaller allowances. Although the luggage is small, with compression cubes, you can pack several outfits.”
DETAILS: 1.76 kg / 3.9 lbs | 21.25 x 14.17 × 7.5 in / 54 x 36 x 19 cm | Double Spinner Wheels | Lifetime Warranty
Shop: Amazon
DELSEY Paris Chatelet 19” Hardside Carry On
The 19″ Delsey Chatelet is absolutely beautiful and is built with all the bells and whistles! This 4-wheel spinner is highly functional with locking zippers, awesome inner organizational features, and even a built-in tracking device! It’s also ultra-lightweight at 6.4 lbs.
A lot of our readers have reported that they’ve taken many trips with this carryon and it’s held up amazingly well. Plus, you’ll look incredibly stylish strolling through the airport or European streets with this bag!
One user reports, “I have nothing but great things to say about this suitcase! I fell in love with the way it looks, and its durability and features are huge bonuses. I’ve used it once on an international flight and held everything I needed for a week-long vacation.”
For other destinations, you could use the Delsey Chatelet 21”, one version has a brake so your suitcase doesn’t slide all over the place, while the other version is without a brake. Both are wonderful picks!
DETAILS: 2.9 kg / 6.4 lbs | 21.75 x 13.75 x 10 in / 55 x 35 x 25 cm | Double Spinner Wheels | Limited 10yr Warranty
Shop: Amazon
Samsonite Omni PC 20” Hardside Carryon
Samsonite’s Omni makes for effortless travel at only 6.8 lbs! The 20” size fits in the overhead compartment of most international airlines according to our readers. The 360-degree wheel spinners are easy to maneuver, and the scratch-resistant polycarbonate shell will most definitely hold up against the rigors of travel.
TSA side-mounted locks keep your belongings secure, and users rave about the overall quality! The Omni also comes in a variety of colors, including some fun, bright options.
One traveler shares, “I love this little carry-on! I’ve used it for two international trips and I’m really liking it. I used this for a 10-day trip to Italy, and I was able to get through the entire trip with just this carry-on and one regular-sized backpack. Other folks in the tour group were lugging around GIANT suitcases on small trains and over cobblestone streets, and I was breezing around with this little wonder. It was so great.”
DETAILS: 3 kg / 6.8 lbs | 22 x 15 x 9.5 in / 55 x 38 x 24 cm | | Expandable | Double Spinner Wheels | Limited 10yr Warranty
Here are the best carryon suitcases for traveling Europe!
Shop: Away
Away The Carry On 21” Hard Side
So many of our readers love and recommend Away’s 21” The Carry On, and many claim it’s the best carry on roller bag for international travel. Users report that the polycarbonate hard shell rarely shows any signs of wear, even after lots of rigorous travel. You can fit SO much inside, especially with the mesh zippered compartment on one side, and the compression system on the other.
It’s super easy to maneuver and lift and weighs 8.1 lbs. And bonus, it comes with a water-resistant laundry bag, and there’s even an option to add a USB charger! This Carry-On is available in some gorgeous colors as well.
In my search to find a new carryon, I finally went ahead and purchased the suitcase as well!
Traveling to a conference with my new Away The Carry-On and Lo & Son’s OG Tote!
There are so many readers who have traveled extensively with this suitcase that I was excited to unbox it, so I thought it would be fun to discover some of its features together! I did an unveiling video over at the TFG Facebook Group. And later on, I put this video together to show the interior of the suitcase, plus the clothes I brought for a 4-day conference.
It’s clear this suitcase is popular, and one TFG reader says about it, “I managed two weeks in Costa Rica and Nicaragua with the standard carryon (and some careful planning!). I just got back from two weeks in Thailand with my husband and used it, plus one of their Medium Checked suitcase. You can really get a lot in and they look great, feel quality.”
DETAILS: 3.4 kg / 7.5 lbs | 21.7 x 14.4 x 9 in / 55 x 37 x 23 cm | 360° Wheels | Limited Lifetime Warranty
Shop: Calpak
Calpak Ambeur 21” Hardside Carryon Luggage
The 21” Calpak carryon will add a chic touch to your travel look! It weighs 8 pounds, and its thoughtful design makes it a breeze to carry.
It’s super packable, and users seriously appreciate how much they can fit in this suitcase! There are a lot of cute colors to choose from, too!
A reader shares, “it’s perfect size and style! good quality. lots of little features. i like how the pockets on the inside can come off. the wheels are so nice it slides around so easily.”
DETAILS: 3.6 kg / 8 lbs | 21 x 14 x 9 in / 53 x 36 x 23 cm | 360° Spinner Wheels | Limited 2yr Warranty
Shop: Amazon
Coolife 20” Carry On Hardside
This 20” Coollife carryon is tiny but mighty! While it’s a mere 6.38 lbs, it will keep your belongings safe with a TSA lock and a sturdy shell that can withstand serious impact! The sturdy aluminum handle and smooth spinner wheels allow you to easily zip through crowded airports and tight spaces.
It’s spacious and packable, with fantastic interior organization, but it’s small enough to fit in almost any overhead cabin, international or domestic!
One traveler shares, “This suitcase has gone through a couple of trips and vacations and has taken everything that TSA, luggage handlers, hotel personnel, and whatever else the world of travel can throw at it in stride. The first couple of trips left some marks on the outside that I was able to buff out with car wax, but nothing more. This has been well worth the price.”
DETAILS: 3.3 kg / 7.3 lbs | 21 x 8.5 x 15 in / 53 x 22 x 38 cm | 360° Spinner Wheels | Limited 2yr Warranty
Read these tips on how to pack for 5kg baggage allowance!
Shop: Amazon
Kenneth Cole Reaction Out Of Bounds 20” Carry On
The Out of Bounds 20” by Kenneth Cole Reaction is quite compact, but is still quite packable and spacious when opened up! It’s lightweight, at 6.25 lbs, with a super-strong exterior and reinforced corners to absorb shock. When you’re not strolling along smoothly with the 360-degree spinner wheels, this bag features a top and side handle for easy carrying.
Readers have recommended this, saying it’s a great, dependable carryon. Some readers also recommend the 20” 8-wheel version, too!
One user shares their review, “This suitcase is amazing. It looks tiny, but it’s bigger on the inside. I was looking for a carry-on suitcase to take with me to Melbourne. I managed to fit a month’s worth of clothes plus extras. This suitcase makes my soft large one useless. It’s also more resistant to wear and tear since it has a hard case enclosure.”
DETAILS: 2.7 kg / 6 lbs | 21.75 x 8 x 14 in / 55 x 20.3 x 36 cm | 4 360° Spinner Wheels | Limited Lifetime Warranty
Shop: Amazon
Tumi 19 Degree International 4 Wheeled Carry On
If you’re seeking carry on luggage size for international flights, Tumi, although pricier than other companies, is highly popular with readers for its well-made, durable suitcases.
The 19 Degree 22” is designed with quality, flexible materials that boast great organization on both sides, retractable side and top handles, a USB port so you don’t have to fuss with cords, and a TSA lock. And though slightly taller than other sizes, it’s compact and still holds a lot at 8 lbs!
Take this pretty suitcase for travel within Europe and internationally and it will hold up over many trips. One reader endorses them all the way, “ Tumi is an excellent brand and I love mine!”
DETAILS: 2.7 kg / 6 lbs | 21.75 x 8 x 14 in / 55 x 20.3 x 36 cm | Expandable | 4 Spinner Wheels | Limited Warranty
Shop: Paravel
Paravel Aviator Carry On Suitcase
Paravel is an up-and-coming luggage brand that’s been getting praise from travelers for its gorgeous luggage that’s designed with sustainability at its core. The Aviator carry on is not only a stylish piece but is made from extremely durable polycarbonate, aluminum handles, and tough zippers, all of which are recycled. Travelers highlight the effortless spinner wheels, interior organization, including a laundry bag, scuff-hiding finish, and vegan leather details.
This carbon-neutral carry-on is a compact option that’ll easily fit into the majority of overhead bins, even on international flights and smaller planes.
You can also grab a slightly bigger version called the Aviator Carry On Plus, it measures 14.7″ x 22.7″ x 9.6″ and weighs 8.5 lbs.
DETAILS: 3.7 kg / 8.2 lbs | 21.7 x 9 x 13.7 in / 34.8 x 55.1 x 22.8 cm | 360° Double Spinner Wheels | Limited 10yr Warranty
Shop: Quince
Quince Hard Shell 20” Carry On
Quince is a favorite brand within the TFG community for their travel-friendly clothing, but their sleek, affordable, and quality luggage has been making a name for itself, too! The brand’s 20” hardside carry on is sized to meet the size requirements for most major airlines, and travelers say that with strategic packing, you can fit a ton inside.
With ultra-smooth spinner wheels, a firm aluminum handle, and tough zippers, it’ll make your travels smooth and keep your items ultra-safe.
DETAILS: 2.8 kg / 6.2 lbs | 22 x 14.4 x 9.1 in / 56 x 23 x 37 cm | 360° Spinner Wheels | Limited Lifetime Warranty
Best International Size Carry On Luggage: Softside Styles
Shop: Amazon
Travelpro Maxlite 5 19” Softside Carry On
A lot of our readers say that TravelPro makes some of the best lightweight international carry on luggage, and it’s also one of the best-selling suitcases on the blog!
This 19” Maxlite 5 is incredibly lightweight, as the name hints, at a mere 5.3 lbs. And while it’s compact, the packing capacity is outstanding! Plus, it can expand up to 2” if you need a little extra room!
This suitcase rides like a dream, with a sturdy handle (that expands up to an impressive 42.5”!) and smooth spinner wheels. Interior and exterior compartments keep things super organized, and the overall quality and durability make it an amazing investment. One reader shares just how packable it is, “I’ve done two weeks in London in December in it, and two weeks of UK/France stops in August and September when temperatures were shifting.”
DETAILS: 2.4 kg / 5.3 lbs | 21.75 x 15.75 x 7.75 in / 55 x 20 x 40 cm | Expandable | 360° 4 Spinner Wheels | Limited Lifetime Warranty
Shop: Amazon
Travelpro Platinum Elite 19” Softside Carryon
The size of this Platinum Elite 19” makes it perfect as carry on luggage for international flights, especially European travel. It’s equipped with incredible features, from the spinner wheels to the accessory pockets, to the super handy external USB port!
It certainly doesn’t sacrifice on style, either! This TravelPro is sleek and sophisticated, and you’ll be rolling through the airport with it effortlessly. There are leather top and side handles for easy carrying, and it only weighs 7.7 lbs.
One reader shares, “I have the TravelPro with the charging option and I love it. I travel at least three to four international trips a year. What’s great is you don’t need to worry about losing a cable, grabbing, or dropping your battery pack when rushing to board as it’s all contained.”
The 20” version is a slightly larger option that many readers have voted the best carry on suitcase for international travel!
DETAILS: 3.49 kg / 7.7 lbs | 21.75 x 15.75 x 7.75 in / 55 x 20 x 40 cm | Expandable | 8 Spinner Wheels | Limited Lifetime Warranty
Read my guide on how to stop overpacking and learn how you, too, can travel carryon only.
Shop: Target
IT Luggage Softside Carryon Luggage
The it luggage Lustrous Softside Carry On Spinner Suitcase is a prime international luggage carry on size and one of the lightest luggage! The interior is super spacious, and features mesh pocket, a wet pocket, and a removable bifold organizer! All your things will stay secure in the durable fabric, and users say it stays looking great after lots of use.
Because it’s super lightweight at 6.7 lbs, there’s more room for clothes! Plus it expands up to 2” for even more space, and it rolls so smoothly that you’ll barely feel the weight.
One traveler says, “This is a perfect size—large enough for long haul, international flights yet small enough to maneuver. A perfect set of wheels (I am super picky about these because if you don’t have this, what’s the point of a suitcase), and roomy inside, this Delsey will be my go-to for the next few years.”
DETAILS: 2.69 kg / 5.95 lbs | 21.7 x 14.2 x 7.9 +2 in / 55 x 20 x 36 cm | Expandable | 8 Spinner Wheels | Limited Lifetime Warranty
Shop: Amazon
Samsonite Solyte DLX 20” Softside Carry-On
The 20” Samsonite Solyte DLX is one of the top carry-on luggage international size options. It’s lightweight at 6.97 lbs and made of durable polyester and has smooth spinner wheels and a firm handle. Users say that all of these features hold up extremely well, even after years of use!
The interior organization is amazing, and there’s even a USB port so you’ll never be without power! It’s a great, compact bag that you can fit so much in!
One reader says about her Solyte DLX, “This is a really great and wonderfully built bag. It’s expensive, but I love mine.”
DETAILS: 3.16 kg / 6.97 lbs | 22 x 14 x 9.5 in / 56 x 24 x 36 cm | Expandable | 360 Dual Spinner Wheels | Limited 10yr Warranty
Shop: Amazon
Briggs & Riley Baseline 19” Carryon Softside
The Briggs & Riley 19” is highly rated for its quality and performance. Readers say this luxurious suitcase is SO worth the investment. It features a strong fiberglass frame, spinner wheels, an adjustable handle, and corner guards, and it’s expandable, so there’s no question that this piece can handle anything!
It has a TSA zipper lock, a power compartment for charging on the go, and great interior organization.
There are a lot of Briggs Riley luggage fans in the TFG Community! One reader shares, “The features, durability, and warranty were deciding factors for me. I have the international expandable carry on size—used it for two weeks in France along with a backpack and didn’t check bags. Worked really well on planes, trains, and having to change destinations frequently.”
DETAILS: 4 kg / 9 lbs | 19 x 14 x 9 in / 48 x 23 x 36 cm | Expandable | Spinner Wheels | Lifetime Warranty
Shop: Amazon
Steve Madden Designer 20” Soft Carry-On Luggage
This Steve Madden 20” Carryon is chic, lightweight (7.8 lbs!), and can fit in the smallest of overhead bins! While designer luggage may not be an immediate thought, this is a super functional and highly rated option.
Because of its compact size, readers say this choice is great for both domestic and international travel. This suitcase is made with a high-quality polyester that’s extremely durable. It also features a wide wheel base so it won’t fall over, which is a common complaint of softside users.
One user says, “I just returned from a six-day trip to the UK. I got five days’ worth of clothes (winter), ankle boots, and a jacket in this bag. It’s stylish and functional, and easy to maneuver. Love the pockets. Very happy with this purchase!!”
DETAILS: 3.53 kg / 7.8 lbs | 21.5 x 14 x 9 in / 55 x 23 x 36 cm | Expandable | 360° Spinner Wheels | Limited 5yr Warranty
Shop: Amazon
Kenneth Cole Reaction 20” Chelsea Soft Side Carry On
Kenneth Cole’s Chelsea 20” Suitcase is so stylish! The polyester-twill exterior looks amazing and holds up really well over time. Great interior organization allows you to perfectly fit everything you need, and at only 6.4 lbs, it definitely won’t weigh you down! Plus, the 8 multi-directional spinner wheels give the smoothest of rides where you truly won’t feel the weight!
Some users have actually reported being able to use this as their personal item because it’s such a compact yet powerful item!
One traveler says, “Recently returned from an 18-day tour in New Zealand where this bag was packed, unpacked, and loaded/unloaded from a bus every single day. It held up really well with absolutely no damage so I highly recommend it.”
DETAILS: 2.8 kg / 6.35 lbs | 22 x 14 x 9 in / 56 x 23 x 36 cm | Expandable | 8 Spinner Wheels | Limited 10yr Warranty
Shop: Amazon
Rockland Pasadena 19” Soft-side Carryon
This Rockland Pasadena 19” is a solid economical option for anyone on a budget. It’s small and simple, but has everything you could want in a carryon! The sturdy handle and wheels make it easy to maneuver, and at 6lbs. it’s really easy to lift and carry.
It’s quite packable for its size, and the handy exterior pockets are a bonus! This cutie will fit in almost any overhead compartment. A traveler says, “Survived three weeks in Europe across all the cobblestones in Spain, Italy, France, and Greece. Perfect size for the small European airlines to take as carryon. We never had any issues with the size.”
DETAILS: 2.72 kg / 6 lbs | 19 x 13.5 x 8 in / 48 x 20 x 34 cm | Expandable | Multi-directional Spinier Wheels | Limited 5yr Warranty
Shop: Bloomingdales
Hartmann Legend Global Carry On Expandable Spinner 21″
The Legend Global Carry On from Hartmann is all about the details, from the ergonomic, 12-position contoured pull handle, the removable garment bag, multiple pockets, and a stunning tweed and leather exterior. It’s sized to fit in most major international and domestic airlines while offering ample packing space.
This beauty is definitely a splurge, but one that many travelers say is well worth it for the impeccable design, durability, and great warranty!
DETAILS: 3.94 kg / 8.7 lbs | 21.65 x 14 x 8 in / 55 x 20 x 36 cm | Expandable | Spinier Wheels | Limited 10yr Warranty
Luggage Tags
A super practical addition to your new suitcase is a luggage tag! TFG readers have been raving about luggage tags, and highly recommend them for every trip.
Luggage tags are handy little trackers that you attach to your belongings and then track through an app on your phone. The most popular option in the TFG community is Apple Airtags, which hook up to the Find My iPhone app so you can see where your item is in real-time. Readers say they’ve been lifesavers for finding lost luggage in an airport!
For non-iPhone users, readers recommend the Samsung Galaxy SmartTag and the TilePro, which are compatible with Android devices, and the TilePro also works for iOS.
Luggage tags are not only handy for your luggage, but for your purse, keys, wallet, or even your parked car. You can enjoy your vacation with the utmost peace of mind!
Compass Rose Carryon Size Packing Cubes: Slim Size Cubes | Medium Size Cubes
How to Pack Using Packing Cubes
Whether or not you choose to travel carryon only, always use packing cubes to help you organize and even compress your belongings to maximize your space.
Use luggage organizers such as packing cubes to maximize the space in your carryon luggage size international so you can fit in all your belongings in an organized and efficient way using minimal space.
Many of our readers use Compass Rose Packing Cubes to organize and compress their clothing and other items they plan to bring. These packing cubes are the only ones on the market with a number and color-coded system, so you know where you packed everything.
And now the Compass Rose Packing Cubes are offered in two sizes: slim and medium. The slim size cubes measure 13” x 5” x 2.8”, and the medium size cubes measure 2.8” x 13” x 8.5”. Both fit an international carry-on suitcase. Users say the medium size is great for bulkier items! Buy it here!
Compass Rose Digital Luggage Scale
Not many people are familiar with luggage scales, but they’re incredibly helpful when you’re a frequent traveler.
We recommend bringing along a lightweight luggage scale to weigh your cases before going to the airport. This will ensure you are below the weight limit and avoid extra charges.
With a compact luggage scale in hand, you’ll never have to worry about excess baggage fees!
What do you think is the best carry on luggage for international flights? Share your thoughts in the comments!
For more help on how to choose the best luggage, please read:
- Suitcase 101: How to Choose the Right Travel Luggage
- Best Under Seat Luggage and How to Pack with Minimal Space
- Best Rolling Duffle Bags: Great Alternative to a Suitcase
- Step by Step Guide to Choosing the Best Travel Backpack
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Some of the full size luggage you recommended are sold out while others did not get reviews on Amazon. Hard to decide !!
Hi Michelle, I am really sorry about this, which luggage are you looking at which is coming up as sold out for you?
If you’re looking for full sized luggage, rather than carryon size, we do have more options here: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/best-checked-luggage/
Hope this helps!
I have found it extremely difficult to find the right dimension personal item for European travel. The dimensions allowed are just a little smaller than most backpacks or totes.
I need a new carryon for Italy. This article was really helpful! Thank you TFG!
That is awesome to hear Sara. Have an amazing time on your travels!
So much helpful info in this article and in the comments!
Thanks for the recommendations. It is always hard to pick the right luggage
When I bought my Away bag, it was available only in black. I love it, but I need a way to distinguish it even from my husband’s bag in the overhead bin!
Thanks for this very thorough review. My sister and I went with the Osprey transporter for our rescheduled trip to Italy. I have already used it for a couple domestic trips to practice pack.
Heading to Italy for 5 weeks next Friday. We have packed, pared down and repacked. Thanks for all the travel tips!
The hard-side vs. soft-side has been a debate in my family for a long time. This article shows that you cannot go wrong either way! Thanks.
Thank you! Your review guided me to the Travelpro Maxlite. I’m usually an over packer but the space in this suitcase coupled with your excellent packing tips have changed my ways!
About to go to Germany for 3 weeks with just my 21 inch Briggs & Riley. I have my 2 year olds clothes in there too. We’re about to see what this case is made of😉
Samsonite Omni 20” is the BEST! i bought the full set to replace a very beat up 15 yr old set and an additional 20” Omni for my family’s return to travel this summer. Great investment, rolls smooth and holds a ton.
I’ve gotten quite used to traveling carry on here in the US. Traveling internationally is very different though. I’m still going carry on, but may purchase a 21 inch to be sure I meet all regulations. Happy traveling
Thank you for this great insight as we’ve been struggling to choose one with so many options.
We love the Away bags – great for 2 week trips! We also have the Weekender bag that fits on top perfectly. We have the medium size also but really don’t use it that much since soooo much fits in the Carry On.
This article will help me find the perfect carry on!
I used the Monos carry-on pro for an Italy vacation this summer and absolutely loved it! Spacious and well organized, wheels are fabulous and zippers are high quality.
I have been shopping for a new carry on and been reading the helpful information here. Leaning toward the Away carry on. People seem to really love it!
I’ve been struggling to find a carryon that works for KLM. I might have to try the Away carryon.
We’re in the beginning stages of planning a trip to France—my first ever—with a short stop in London to take the train under the channel. My older carryon is too big for new requirements & international travel. I’m hoping to update my Samsonite with a good replacement that will last for years of use, be easy & lightweight to handle, & with wheels able to handle cobblestones & metro travel—plus the prospect of many stairs! My goal is carry-on only for the trip over, so I need a better option for that than my usual backpack as well. I so appreciate your reviews & the Facebook group page for all the helpful info!
I have the DELSEY Paris Helium Aero Hardside 19” Carryon and it hold more than you would think. I like how it can open in the front as well.
I also have the Away but have not used it yet. Looking forward to it.
Such great information!
I was surprised that the Beis 22″ hard-side wasn’t reviewed. I watched/read a lot of reviews and comparisons between Monos, Away and Beis. Ultimately decided on Beis, but I haven’t travelled with it yet. My old 22″ needed to be replaced. I hope I made a good choice with this one. Curious if anyone else has tried Beis.
The Away Bigger Carry-on bag is the perfect bag! It holds up well and shows very little wear after several trips and the compression panel really helps fit more into the bag!
I have traveled the world for 30 years but have always checked a large suitcase. I am leaving in a few days for 2 weeks in Italy, I bought the Away Bigger Carry on and the Away Medium Everywhere Bag and am finally doing carry on only. At age 64 I have finally learned to travel light, thank you!
Such great information – thank you! I’m preparing for my first post pandemic trip and just bought my new carryon with your helpful guide
I have now taken the DELSEY Paris Helium Aero Hardside 19” Carryon through five countries. I love this thing, and it’s small size has really been perfect in nearly all overhead bins. Thank you for the recommendation, it has been my perfect carryon item.
TravelPro Maxlight 5 20” Bought this at Macy’s on sale and finally took it on a domestic trip with me. It is light and easy to maneuver on the airplane and up in to the bin above the seats. Used packing cubes and my light packing fit easily in there. So glad I bought this. Next trip international!
Thanks to your site I found a super lightweight suitcase for traveling to europe on Lufthansa airline. Super excited!!
So many choices! This helped me decide on Travelpro Maxlite 5 and I’m happy with my choice.
Just bought the Away small carryon. Can’t wait to use it in the Spring…to Italy!
I just picked up the little Delsey and can’t WAIT to head back to Europe! It sits in a prominent spot in my room, reminding me how important my travel dreams are! Thanks for the rec!
Just used my Away CarryOn for the first time (car trip) and loved it! I’m on my way to becoming a carry on only gal!
This was a super helpful post when I was looking to purchase a new carryon. Especially with rules being so different for international travel!
Away or Maxlite 5? Can’t decide travel with laptop.
Super helpful! Saved me so much time looking for a carry on for my upcoming trip to Paris! Thanks!
Great round up! So important to pick the right luggage for the conditions you are traveling and to comply with airline rules. The lighter the better, who wants to lug a heavy case up lots of stairs!
I think 8lbs verges on not lightweight for carry-on size. There are great options at under 6 lbs!
Using this post to choose a new carryon to go with my TFG packing cubes!
Super helpful! Thanks!
Super helpful! I have been looking for a carry on for my upcoming Paris trip and this saved me so much time! Thanks!
This is simply the best blog!! Helps every time!! Thank you!!
Bought the Away and used it for the first time, super roomy, I loved it! I actually had extra room and my sister is now convinced she can do carryon! 🙂