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Everyone has their own particular suitcase needs and preferences; some travelers prefer softside for carryon travel, so if you’re on the lookout for a reliable, lightweight one, check out these reader recommendations for the best soft suitcase!
Best Soft Sided Luggage
Table Of Contents
When it comes to preparing for your upcoming travels, making sure you have a trusty carryon is absolutely essential. While there are so many options out there and great points on both sides of the hard vs soft luggage debate, a soft shell suitcase is a timeless classic! They’re lightweight, super packable, and tend to be easier to work with overall.
Should you need more assistance on what is the best suitcase for you, check out these comprehensive resources:
- How to Choose the Right Travel Luggage – If you’re new to traveling carryon only, this handy guide will help you determine what luggage to choose and what features to look out for.
- Top Suitcase Recommendations – If you’re unsure what carryon luggage brands are best, readers (the experts) share the top brands to buy!
- 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 5 lbs – 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: 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!
Our well-traveled readers have helped us compile this list of the best soft side luggage and have come up with the most lightweight, user-friendly brands!
Readers agree that the best tool for organizing and compressing clothes is by using packing cubes! See this tutorial video on how to use carryon packing cubes!
Best Soft Luggage With Wheels for Carryon Travel
Shop: Amazon
Travelpro Maxlite 5 21” Soft Luggage Bags Suitcases
So many of our readers say that Travelpro makes some of the best softside options! And this 21” Maxlite 5 was the #1 selling suitcase on the blog last year! The Maxlite is incredibly lightweight and the name refers to its weight, at only about 5.4 lbs it won’t be an annoyance to haul around. At the same time, the packing capacity is outstanding, able to 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. It also comes in a range of pretty colors!
While the 21” is a top pick, our readers have raved about many of the other carryon sizes, too:
- The 19” Maxlite 5 is a perfect carry on size for European flights.
- The 20” Maxlite 5 has all the same great features but is a little more compact to fit in almost any overhead bin with ease.
- The 22” Maxlite 5 upright model is a slightly bigger option, so it’s ideal for domestic flights or longer getaways where you’re packing carryon only.
- Their soft side luggage sets are highly rated, too, and look so amazing all together!
One TFG reader shares her adoration for this brand, “I love my Travelpro Maxlite 5! Easy to pack, cubes fit great. Use it carryon domestically all the time for work travel. Easy to lift in/out of overhead with handles.”
Read TFG’s review to out why our readers can’t stop raving about the Travelpro Maxlite 5!
Shop: Amazon
Travelpro Platinum Elite 20” Soft Sided Suitcase
The Platinum Elite 20” Suitcase is equipped with so many incredible features, and it certainly doesn’t sacrifice on style, either! At a light 8.4 lbs, this TravelPro is sleek and sophisticated and rolls along effortlessly. There are also leather top and side handles for easy carrying. And bonus, it has a 15″ padded laptop sleeve and RFID blocking pockets (great for Europe).
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.”
For a size guaranteed to fit in domestic overhead compartments, the 21” will have your back. Or, if you need something even smaller for European travel, opt for the 19” version.
Also available in a beautiful 2-piece luggage set.
Shop: Amazon
Travelpro Crew Versapack 21” Soft Shell Luggage
The Crew Versapack 21” from Travelpro is another highly rated option. This carryon size fits most overhead bin restrictions, is super lightweight at 7.99 lbs, and is easy to maneuver. The wheels and handle are sturdy and smooth, and readers say Travelpro luggage holds up super well. This option also features a complimentary toiletries bag that’s TSA compliant!
For a smaller alternative, the 20” is a popular pick that fits 80% most international carryon standards and gives you a little extra packing space! One reader reports, “Travelpro Crew is solid and used by most crew members.”
Shop: Amazon
Briggs and Riley 22” Carry-On Luggage Softside
There are a lot of Briggs and Riley luggage fans in the TFG community! Their 22” carryon is highly rated for its quality and performance, and readers say it’s SO worth the investment. This luxurious suitcase features a strong fiberglass frame, spinner wheels, an adjustable handle, corner guards, and it’s expandable, so there’s no question that this piece can handle anything!
There’s a TSA lock, a power compartment for charging on the go, and amazing organizational features inside. And despite it being on the bigger side, it’s quite lightweight at 8 lbs. It’s a great domestic carryon option, though some readers have been able to use it on international flights, too!
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.”
Read these tips on how to pack for 5kg baggage allowance!
Shop: Amazon
Delsey Paris Sky Max 21” Soft Shell Suitcase
The Delsey Paris Sky Max 21” is a stunner at 5.67 lbs, with silver metal accents, cushioned top and side carry handles for easy lifting, and a beautiful exterior and interior! The spinner wheels roll smoothly, and exterior pockets allow easy access to essentials. Your belongings will stay safe with the zipper locks, and its constructed of lightweight and durable DuraTec fabric that stands up to rigors of travel and looks great.
Another popular Delsey suitcase is the 20” Helium DLX carryon, which is made of a Duratec fabric, Ergonomical handles, with hanging, removable bi-fold organizer, and many pockets for major organization! It’s lightweight but very resilient.
TFGers adore their softside Delsey. One reader says, “Not a huge fan of hard shell, I can get more in a soft side and love this brand.”
Shop: Amazon
Samsonite Solyte DLX 20” Soft Luggage With Wheeled 4-Spinner
The 20” Samsonite Solyte DLX is an easy, lightweight option at 6.97 lbs. that works with most domestic airlines. Samsonite is known for its incredible quality, and this carryon is no exception. It’s made of durable polyester that users say holds up extremely well, and the spinner wheels and handle stay firm and easy to use, even after years of use!
The built-in interior organization is wonderful, 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!
The Samsonite Ascella carryon is another great 20” option with slightly different dimensions that make it a bit more compact. It’s simple, super easy to maneuver, and is really spacious inside!
One reader says about her Solyte DLX, “This is a really great and wonderfully built bag. It’s expensive, but I love mine.”
Osprey Transporter 22” Carryon Soft Luggage
If you do a lot of international travel, the Osprey Transporter is a stellar option! This suitcase is a globally accepted carryon size, so the Transporter will be by your side no matter where you travel to! However, check with the airlines you plan to fly on to double-check the requirements.
The large front pocket features a padded laptop sleeve that will fit laptops up to 16”, and the internal pockets and mesh dividers make organization a breeze! The oversized wheels make for an impressive ride, too. Overall, this option is super durable and functional for all types of travel, to all destinations! You can buy the 22” at Amazon or on the Osprey site!
One Osprey fan shares, “If you are thinking about buying it: DO IT! This is about as perfect of a bag and company as you are going to find in this price range.”
The popular Osprey Daylite wheeled duffle makes a fantastic alternative as well. This 40L duffle fits most airline carryon requirements and has a super handy collapsible design. The Daylite is sturdy and durable, constructed with sustainable materials, and one of the coolest features is the detachable backpack straps to change how you carry it!
Here are the best carryon suitcases for traveling Europe!
Shop: Amazon
Steve Madden 20” Carry-On Soft Luggage
While designer luggage may not be an immediate thought, this Steve Madden 20” carryon is chic, lightweight (7.8 lbs!), and can fit in the smallest of overhead bins!
Because of its compact size, readers say this choice is great for both domestic and international travel. This suitcase is crazy durable, made with high-quality polyester. It also has a wide wheel base so it won’t fall over, which is a common complaint of softside users.
One reader says, “Love this bag!!!! Lightweight but sturdy and quality materials. Love the tassels, and the unique color (easy to spot). It’s to move and can roll down the plane aisle sideways ahead of you. Fits in the overhead bin well.”
Shop: Amazon
IT Luggage 22’’ Citywide Carry On Softside Suitcase
This Citywide 22” carryon from IT Luggage lives up to its name, and its high ratings! It’s a great budget option that our readers love! This 22” style is light yet super durable, with unique base structure and EVA front panel. Readers love the flat packing interior with no pipes, and one reader says that it holds her Compass Rose packing cubes very well!
It has a embossed text panel creates stunning in-store appeal and great protection, and is available in two colors. With superior wheel control and sturdy trolley system, users say the suitcase is easy to roll and ideal for uneven surfaces!
While a 22” is likely better for domestic travel, one TFG reader shares their international experience with it, “I first used it in May this year. Did carry-on on planes and then on trains all over Italy. Venice, Florence, Rome, Cinque Terre. Over many, many cobblestones. Then I used it in Paris in October. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with it. It’s held up well.”
Shop: Amazon
Kenneth Cole Reaction 20” Soft Sided Carry-On Luggage With Spinner Wheels
Kenneth Cole’s Chelsea 20” suitcase is super stylish! The polyester-twill exterior not only looks great but holds up super well. It has 8 multi-directional spinner wheels for the smoothest of rides where you won’t feel the weight! The good interior organization allows you to perfectly fit everything you need, and at a mere 6.4 lbs, it definitely won’t weigh you down!
This option is definitely on the smaller side, and some users have actually reported being able to use this as their personal item!
One traveler says, “It’s held up great over the past year I’ve had it, it looks stylish, the wheels and handle work great and it holds all of my stuff. Half of the time I don’t even need to have a carryon with me because I can fit everything I need for a week-long beach vacation in here! I also love the little detail of the gold zippers which makes it stand out in the luggage return.”
Read my guide on how to stop overpacking and learn how you, too, can travel carryon only.
Shop: Amazon
American Tourister 4 KIX 21” Soft Sided Carry On Luggage
You’ll be surprised how much you can fit in the 4 KIX 21” from American Tourister! It’s lightweight at 7.1 lbs and spacious to maximize your packing capacity, which is awesome if you’re flying carryon only. The outer pocket is super handy, with an extra zipper on the front for easy access to essentials. The four spinner wheels glide steadily, making zipping through an airport so easy!
This is a great domestic travel option, as it’ll meet most restrictions for domestic flights. It’s also expandable, giving you extra space on the way back for souvenirs!
One user says, “I was pleasantly surprised with this suitcase. It’s deep so my running shoes didn’t take up all the room. I like that it has a plastic pocket for shampoo and other products. I was able to pack a lot into this suitcase. Rolls easily and not heavy.”
Shop: Amazon
Rockland Pasadena 20” Spinner Soft Luggage
This Rockland Pasadena 20” is perfect for a short trip and is only 7.43 lbs. It’s small and simple, but has everything you need for a quick vacay! The sturdy handle and wheels make it easy to maneuver, and because it’s small and lightweight, it’s also really easy to lift and carry.
The two exterior pockets are handy, and it’s quite packable for its size! Plus, this cutie will fit in almost any overhead compartment. Also comes in a variety of colors!
A traveler says, “I took it with me on a cross-country flight to California and back. It handled beautifully! I was able to fit in everything I needed without having to ‘stuff and squeeze’ things in. It was so much easier navigating the center aisle in the planes, and it fits easily into the overhead compartments. The bag held up well and still looks like new.”
Shop: Amazon
Tumi Alpha 3 Continental 4 Wheeled 22” Carry-On Soft Luggage
Though at a higher price tag, the Tumi is a big hit with TFG readers for frequent trips and its ability to last years and years. The Alpha 3 Continential Carry On is 22” and weighs a light 11.1 lbs. It’s roomy too, expanding to 11” when packed and the compartments are well designed to accommodate a wide range of clothes and shoes (having a garment sleeve and a hanger bracket).
With extras like a USB port and dual TSA locks, this also moves like a dream down plane aisles. One TFG reader speaks to the Tumi longevity, “My Tumi is 15 years old and going strong after use nearly weekly for work or travel… I absolutely love it.”
Shop: Amazon | Bloomingdales
Legend Global Carry On Expandable Spinner
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!
It’s quite lightweight, given its ultra-sturdy design at 8.7 lbs, and its dimensions are 21.65″ x 14″ x 9”.
Shop: Target
Swissgear Zurich Carry On Small Soft Suitcase
Swissgear’s Zurich 19” carry on is tiny but mighty, with effortless mobility from its eight spinner wheels and highly robust material that travelers confirm can take a beating and still look amazing! Inside, you’ll find a wet pocket, tie-down straps, and tons of packing space, as well as a roomy zippered front pocket. To top it off, this bag is incredibly light at 6.8 lbs.
The dimensions are 12.75 x 10.25 x 21, so it’s an excellent option for international travel, while its zippered expansion system will maximize your packing potential all the more!
Shop: L.L. Bean
L.L. Bean CarryAll Softside Luggage
L.L. Bean luggage is known for being rugged and ready for adventure, and this cute Carryall Spinner suitcase is no different! The material is sleek and abrasion-resistant, and combined with its sturdy base and smooth spinner wheels, it can handle the roughest of handling and is super easy to roll around. The organization is great, too, with a side pocket that has an organizer panel and key fob, a large front pocket, and an interior mesh compartment.
With dimensions of 22″x 14″ x 9″, it’ll meet most airline carry-on requirements, and it weighs just 7.9 lbs.
Softside Luggage Product Comparison Chart
[wpsm_comparison_table id=”392″ class=”center-table-align”]
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!
Packing Cubes
When you’re ready to travel with your newly purchased items, start with packing cubes; they will seriously change the way you pack! We designed our own brand of slim packing cubes, with a unique color and numbering system, so it’s easy to remember where you’ve packed everything. See more in the video below.
Learn our packing hacks with packing cubes in this video!
We also put together a five-part YouTube series showing the different methods to use packing cubes for travel. If you use this specific packing strategy, packing cubes can also compress your belongings. This method has helped many women travel carry-on only!
What do you think is the best soft sided carry on luggage? Share with us in the comments!
For more tips on how to choose the best luggage, please read:
- How to Choose the Best Luggage for Travel Abroad: Smart Buying Guide
- 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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I need to replace my soft sided carryon and all I was finding in the stores is hard sided. This is great info to help me in my search for a good soft sided bag.
I have looked into purchasing the Briggs and Riley 22″ carryon. It is pricy but has the maximum capacity of all the carryon suitcases and a lifetime warranty!
I have a Samsonite SoLyte which gets a lot of use and I absolutely love (haven’t checked a bag for many years), but now I need to find a bag that will fit underneath the seat for European airlines like Vueling and Ryan Air. The max size needs to be 40x30x20cm. When I look online there are so many options I’ve no idea where to start. I don’t mind whether it’s a backpack style or holdall but I still need to fit enough clothing etc for 5 days so any suggestions TFG’ers might have used successfully would be great.
Thanks team.
Fiona
Thank you so much for this article. Have been looking for a new carryon that will meet requirements for all airplanes. This has given me a lot to think about. Thank you.!
This is such great information! I’m a chronic over-packer and thanks to your tips, I have it down to a 25″ TravelPro bag, but after my luggage was lost this summer, I’m determined to do carry-on for my next trip. Thank you so much TFG for such wonderful and detailed information!
Love my 19 inch Maxlite Travelpro. It was perfect for my 2 weeks in the UK!
I love my Delsey but may replace it with a TravelPro
I recently purchased the Briggs and Reily roller -it’s tge first time I’ve really invested in luggage and it made such a difference. I’m a convert!
Thank you for the information on luggage. It helped me decide what I was purchasing next.
Thank you for all the insightful information. It helped me find the perfect carryon suitcase.
Love travelpro thanks to travel fashion girl!!
Definitely love the travel pro. It’s so light.
Thanks for the great reviews of soft sided carry on luggage. I am a long time carry on only girl, but used the great information in this post, to help decide on a new carry on roller board bag.
Found you just in time for our upcoming 3 wk trip to Italy. Luggage recommendations are super helpful! Can I really do in a carry-on???
Hi Cyndi, to help you with your packing, take a look at TFG’s Four Signature Packing Lists for ideas for a capsule wardrobe and how many clothing items you could pack: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/functional-and-fashion-packing-list/
The packing lists show you how to pack light and have the right clothes no matter the destination or the length of the journey! Then depending on your preferences, you can choose more bottoms, fewer dresses, more tops – you can adjust the combination based on your needs.
Then for some destination-specific help, check out our Italian What to Wear guide: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/what-to-wear-in-italy-dress-like-a-local/
We’ve also put together all the best tips from the entire blog so you can easily access everything in one easy location. Follow these 10 steps which take you through every stage of your packing so that you don’t have to worry about forgetting anything: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/10-step-packing-guides/10-step-packing-guide-italy/
Hope this helps you with your packing. Have an amazing time on your travels!
Thanks for this very informative post, I’m still debating between the Maxlite 5 and the Briggs & Riley. I still researching my options, the online reviews for the Maxlite 5 are so mixed particularly when you have an issue. 🤔
I have the TravelPro Premium 21 inch and I like that it is lightweight. But I’m struggling to find the best packing cubes for this suitcase. Recommendations?
Any thoughts on two- versus four-wheeled suitcases? Does a two-wheeler offer more internal space? Obviously, it’s less convenient to have to support the weight of everything with a two-wheeler, but I’m trying to balance packing more stuff (six-month trip) vs. ease of wheeling a spinner around.
The recent issues with luggage getting lost at several airports had me searching for a suitcase I could carry on the plane. TFG never disappoints. Thanks!
I have been so torn between hardside and softside luggage. I have always had softside but love the look of the hard – just don’t think I can do without the outside pockets! LOL. This article has given me so many stylish and functional options.
After reading this article, I went with the TravelPro Maxlite. I was trying to find the lightest carryon I could due to weight restrictions for my carryon. When I received it, I weighed my old carryon. It is 2.5 lbs lighter and will hold more clothes. Thanks so much!
This article was so helpful. Thank you for the info!!
So grateful for the time and effort you put into these posts. I bought the Travelpro luggage for my boys as a Christmas Gift and I love the fact that they use them all the time and they look great. Spending money on something useful and seeing them travel easily warms my heart
I have problems finding a carry on that works for most international travel. This post has really helped me to narrow it down. Thank you
Just got home from 3 weeks in Europe. I needed a new suitcase and I bought the travelpro max lite 5 based on the recommendation from this list.
It is light weight and held a lot. I am very happy with it!
Thank you for the carry on bag info. I purchased the Briggs & Riley 21”. Giving it a test run in a few weeks when I go to New York City for the weekend.
I have been a big fan of IT luggage. Not always easy to find but the pieces I own have held up well
Thanks to TFG I travel with the TravelPro Maxlite 5. Rolls great and no trouble lifting into overhead bins. With a combination of cubes, shoe bags and dopp kit I know everything fits and I stay organized on the go. I recently traveled with someone who needed some serious packing coaching and sent her your way. Thanks Alex and congratulations on 10 years!
I love the Travel Pro Platinum Elite. Packing is easy. If it doesn’t fit, I need to take less stuff. 😀
I don’t see it mentioned often, but I’m a huge fan of Eagle Creek luggage. Mine have lasted 20+years. The pieces I have are a little heavy, so I typically check them for international travel. Recently added the Lipault carry on. Love it but still looking for my unicorn that maximizes interior space for international travel!
I have the int’l briggs and riley rolly bag and love it. but did recently travel on a regional very small plane where it wouldn’t fit in luggage rack and hubby took up under seat space (took up his and 1/2 of my leg space and had to check.
Such great and detailed advice.
I love all your helpful posts on travel. I have found that lightweight luggage is a key part of traveling carryon. I have been thinking about trying a Travelpro Maxlite. Thank you for the recommendations!
I’ve had my eye on the 19” Travelpro Maxlite for a while now. This article had great information. Thank you!
Soft side all the way! Thanks to TFG I purchased the 22″ Travelpro Maxlite 5 and the 22″ world’s lightest IT luggage. I spent days trying to figure out which one to keep and which one to return. The struggle is real. I kept the Travelpro and can’t wait to use it!!!
I am a huge fan of Away products! I love seeing them 0out and about too. I feel an instant bond with my other Away travelers. 🙂
I love Travel Fashion Girl! As a person who loves both travel and fashion, I find this site extremely helpful and inspiring. It is helping me get ready for a big upcoming trip.
Thank you for having done all the legwork, or google work, for me! Nice to have these resources available.
So excited to try traveling only with carryon. Got a Travelpro Maxlite on your recommendation. Thanks for all the tips!
I just love your content. I don’t get to travel as much as I used to but I’m forever planning for the next trip and I love the challenge of being as efficiently packed as possible. In the market for a new soft-sided suitcase. This was incredibly helpful.
This was valuable information for me. I ordered a Travelpro carryon after reading this. I have had a larger one for years that has held up wells. Looking forward to the carrryon challenge!
Love all of these ideas, good reference for future purchases.
Lots of great suggestions here! I ended up finding a red Lipault le plume (eBay) which seem to be very hard to find right now. Your packing cubes fit perfectly inside!
These are great! I wish I could comment on your European trip with your daughter! I actually read it out loud to my husband since we are going to travel to Europe with our grandson. It was full of important information & practical advice and honest input! We took notes for rentals, the travel stroller -just everything you wrote nailed it! It’s one of your best posts! The boat rental also! Maybe we just need you to have a second blog site for traveling with little ones! It would be an instant hit! Thank you again!
As soon as I can find the color I want back in stock, I’m going to order the TravelPro. I need lightweight to maximize packing and still be able to lift it into the compartment. Thanks for all your good information.
I was surprised to find affordable options on this list. Thank you for your recommendations; always spot on!
Thanks for all these suggestions to replace my worn out carryon.
So much great information here. Just so happens that I need to replace my carry-on. Thanks!
On your recommendation I bought the max lite pro. I have to say, much easier in hotels since you can leave in on a tabletop or luggage rack and open the top and get what you need easily out of it, versus my Away carryon that is just awkward to do that. Have not used it to fly yet, but looking forward to using it carryon only for a future trip. Thanks for all your great tips!
Thanks to you, I am enjoying my Travelpro Maxlite 5 21” so much, it’s the perfect carry- on for me. I really appreciate all the effort you put into your reviews, it’s helped me so much.
Really want a Travelpro after reading your reviews. Thanks for all the information that you give us.
I bought the Travelpro Maxlite 21” after a very worn out carry on broke at the zippers on me! It is lightweight and very mobile with the spinner wheels. I also have a clamshell design (hard one side/soft on the other and I prefer all soft sided! Now to work on packing carry on only! I have done one successful weekend trip like this but m working on it!
I love the travelpro maxlight carryon; although I bought the 19″ version since it was more compatible with international airlines. Thankfully this blog has so many resources on packing lighter so I can still pack what I want/need in it, despite it not having those extra 2 inches lol!
Thanks for sharing your recommendations with us. I really love the variety of options to choose from.
My longtime (as in decades) favorite is the Rick Steves roller bag: great pockets, great compact size, expandable, durable and easy rolling wheels, easy handle, and an additional handle for lifting it overhead with better grip.
Thanks for sharing your go-to suitcase with us Laura!
These are all great suggestions! I’ve been an international flight attendant for 37 years, and I love your blog! Most of us in the industry use TravelPro and/or LW bags, but before I retire I’m going to treat myself to a Briggs and Riley, or maybe even a Tumi!
Thank you for this extensive review! We will choose 2 of these to order and use for upcoming trips.
Briggs and Riley all the way! Best investment I have made. Quality for sure and worth the price. I had way too many bad experiences with less expensive luggage. Well worth every penny. Watch for occasional sales.
Thank you for sharing your recommendation with us Sophie!!! Always recommend looking out for sales.
Love my Travelpro Maxlite 5 21” Soft Luggage. I bought it in 2018 for my first trip to Europe and it has been my faithful companion on all my trips since then. Easy to handle, spacious, and durable
When it comes to soft sided carryon, my IT is the best. So easy to pack without the rails inside.
If theres a down side it would be that the handle is too wide for any luggage sleeve to attach
This article is so helpful. Really gives you all the information to make an informed decision. Thanks TFG!