Ultimate Carry-On Luggage Picks: Top 7 Must-Haves

Rockland Melbourne Spinner Luggage, Champagne, 20-Inch Carry-On

Welcome to our post on the “Ultimate Carry-On Luggage Picks: Top 7 Must-Haves”! If you’re someone who is always on the go and wants to make your travel experience more convenient and enjoyable, you’ve come to the right place. In this roundup, we’ve handpicked some of the best carry-on luggage options available, ranging from stylish designs to practical features. Whether you’re a frequent traveler or simply looking for a reliable travel companion, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive in and discover the top 7 must-have carry-on luggage picks!

1
Rockland Melbourne Spinner Luggage, Champagne, 20-Inch Carry-On
8.9
2
SwissGear Sion Expandable Roller Luggage
8.9
3
Amazon Basics 20" Hardside Spinner, Orange
8.9
6
Rockland Purple Luggage Set, 2-Piece
Verdict: Stylish & Practical
BUY NOW Amazon.com
8.4
1

Rockland Melbourne Spinner Luggage, Champagne, 20-Inch Carry-On

$44.80
Amazon.com
as of January 6, 2024 11:01 pm
8.9
Mixed Performance
The Rockland Melbourne Hardside Expandable Spinner Wheel Luggage is a durable and long-lasting carry-on option with smooth and easy rolling capabilities. It fits well in overhead bins and offers extra storage space with its expandable feature. However, some users have reported issues with the expansion zipper catching and difficulty in opening, as well as potential discoloration or a bleached-looking finish on some units.
Benefits of Rockland Melbourne Luggage
  • Durable and long-lasting
  • Smooth and easy to roll
  • Fits well in overhead bins and meets carry-on size requirements
  • Expandable for extra storage space
  • Comes with a lock for added security
Drawbacks
  • Drawbacks:
  • Expansion zipper catches and is difficult to open
  • Discoloration or bleached-looking finish on some units

The Rockland Melbourne Hardside Expandable Spinner Wheel Luggage is a lightweight and durable carry-on suitcase made of ABS material. It features four multi-directional spinner wheels that rotate 360 degrees, allowing for easy maneuverability. The luggage has a modern telescoping handle with a push button, and its interior includes a mesh and zip pocket, as well as an elastic pocket. With its expandable design, you can pack more without worrying about excess weight surcharges imposed by airlines. The suitcase comes in a beautiful champagne color, making it easily identifiable, and meets the size restrictions of major airlines such as United, American, Delta, Southwest, and Allegiant.

Stylish and Functional Travel Companion
  • 20-inch carry-on size
  • Lightweight ABS material
  • Multi-directional double spinner wheels
  • Sturdy aluminum telescoping handle
  • Interior mesh zip pocket and elasticated pocket
2

SwissGear Sion Expandable Roller Luggage

$119.99
$90.00
Amazon.com
as of January 6, 2024 11:01 pm
8.9
Great Value
The SwissGear Sion Softside Expandable Roller Luggage is an attractive and durable carry-on option with fantastic omni-directional wheels. While some users have reported issues with the cheap plastic wheels and broken zippers, overall, it provides ample packing space and is a great value for the price.
Convenient and Versatile Features
  • Attractive and doesn’t scuff up like hard siders
  • Fantastic omni-directional wheels
  • Cheap, sturdy, and looks good
  • Durable and tough
  • Exact measurements for carry-on size
Cons
  • Cheap plastic wheels
  • Inner zipper on the lining missing/broken

The SwissGear Sion Softside Expandable Roller Luggage in Black is the perfect carry-on suitcase for your travel needs. It features four 360-degree multi-directional spinner wheels and a locking push/pull handle, making it easy to navigate through crowded airports and narrow airplane aisles. The durable, scuff-resistant polyester fabric ensures that your luggage will withstand the rigors of travel. With ample packing space, adjustable tie-down straps, multiple pockets, and a removable wet bag, this suitcase offers effortless organization. It also includes convenient side handles for easy lifting and carrying. Whether you’re going on a family trip or a business travel, this luggage will travel with you easily, safely, and stylishly.

Efficient Travel Companion
  • 360-degree multi-directional spinner wheels
  • Locking retractable push/pull handle
  • Multiple front panel pockets with built-in ID tag
  • Expandable design with ample packing space
  • Durable and scuff-resistant polyester fabric
  • Effortless organization with removable wet bag and packing pockets
$90.00
$119.99
as of January 6, 2024 10:57 pm
Amazon.com
3

Amazon Basics 20" Hardside Spinner, Orange

$69.99
Amazon.com
as of January 6, 2024 11:01 pm
8.9
Solid Choice
The Amazon Basics 20-Inch Hardside Spinner in Orange is a durable and lightweight luggage with a spacious interior that expands for extra storage. Although the handle may feel a little loose and the exterior is featureless, it rolls smoothly in any direction.
Convenient and Durable
  • Durable and sturdy
  • Lightweight and easy to carry
  • Spacious interior
  • Expandable for extra storage
  • Rolls smoothly in any direction
Cons
  • Handle may feel a little loose
  • Exterior is featureless and can be hard to find on the belt

The Amazon Basics 20-Inch Hardside Spinner in Orange is a reliable and stylish luggage option for work travel, vacations, or as an international carry-on. Made with extra-thick ABS hard shell in a scratch-resistant orange finish, this suitcase is designed to withstand the rigors of travel. It features 4 double spinner wheels and a telescoping handle for easy maneuverability, as well as an expandable design for up to 15% more packing space. The interior includes an organizer with a divider and 3 zippered pockets for smaller items. With its durable construction and functional features, this suitcase offers great value for the price.

Durability meets style!
  • 20-inch hardside spinner luggage
  • Extra-thick ABS hard shell
  • Scratch resistant Orange finish
  • 4 double spinner wheels
  • Expandable for up to 15% more packing space
  • Interior organizer with divider and 3 zippered pockets
4

Wrangler Smart Luggage Set, Navy Blue

$64.00
$51.85
Amazon.com
as of January 6, 2024 11:01 pm
8.7
Convenient and Versatile
The Wrangler Smart Luggage Set with Cup Holder and USB Port is a convenient and versatile travel companion. With its 3-in-1 utility design, including a cup holder and USB port, it offers convenience on the go. The expandable capacity and easy mobility make it a practical choice. However, some users have mentioned issues with the cup holder positioning and flimsy handle. Overall, it is a good quality, lightweight luggage set with expandable storage.
Benefits of Wrangler Smart Luggage
  • Cup holder
  • USB port
  • Good quality
  • Lightweight
  • Expandable storage
Potential Limitations
  • Cup holder positioning
  • Flimsy handle

The Wrangler Smart Luggage Set with Cup Holder and USB Port in Navy Blue is the ultimate travel companion for the modern-day traveler. With its patented 3-in-1 utility design, this luggage set features a built-in cup holder, USB port for charging devices, and a phone holder. Effortless mobility is ensured with its 4 multi-directional spinner wheels, and it also offers expandable capacity for extra packing space. The top and side handles make it easy to carry and transport, while the 4 side studs provide stability when the luggage is laid on its side. Travel in style and convenience with this versatile and functional luggage set.

Versatile and Stylish Travel Companion
  • Patented 3-in-1 Utility Design: Cup holder, USB port, and phone holder for convenience
  • Effortless Mobility: 4 spinner wheels for smooth maneuverability
  • Expandable Capacity: Option to expand for extra packing space
  • Easy Carrying and Transport: Top and side handles for convenience
  • Stable and Versatile: 4 side studs to prevent tipping over when laid on its side
$51.85
$64.00
as of January 6, 2024 10:57 pm
Amazon.com
5

Rockland London Mint Spinner Carry-On

$120.00
$57.99
Amazon.com
as of January 6, 2024 11:01 pm
8.7
Excellent Carry-On Option
The Rockland London Hardside Spinner Wheel Luggage is a lightweight and durable carry-on option that is easy to maneuver, holds a lot of stuff, and comes in a variety of colors. While it may not be suitable for checked baggage, it fits easily in plane overhead bins and its omni directional wheels make movement a breeze. The only downside may be that the handle feels a bit flimsy.
Top Features
  • Easy to maneuver
  • Holds a lot of stuff
  • Variety of colors to choose from
  • Lightweight
  • Durable
  • Fits in plane overhead bins
  • Omni directional wheels for easy movement
Limitations
  • Not suitable for checked baggage
  • Handle may feel flimsy

The Rockland London Hardside Spinner Wheel Luggage in Mint is a stylish and practical carry-on option for your travels. With its 20-inch size, it’s perfect for short trips and fits easily in overhead bins. The eight omnidirectional wheels make it easy to maneuver through airports, and the spacious interior provides ample room for your belongings. While some customers have mentioned that the handle feels a bit flimsy and the material inside may not be as durable as other luggage, overall it has received positive reviews for its durability and functionality. The mint color adds a unique touch and makes it easy to spot at luggage pickup.

Sleek and Stylish Travel Companion
  • Hardside construction
  • Spinner wheel system
  • Mint color
  • Carry-on size (20-inch)
$57.99
$120.00
as of January 6, 2024 10:57 pm
Amazon.com
6

Rockland Purple Luggage Set, 2-Piece

$95.00
$39.99
Amazon.com
as of January 6, 2024 11:01 pm
8.4
Verdict: Stylish & Practical
The Rockland Fashion Expandable Softside Upright Luggage Set in Purple is a stylish and lightweight 2-piece set that is perfect for carry-on purposes. It offers good quality material, an expandable feature, and comes at a reasonable price. However, the smaller size may not be suitable for those who like to pack a lot of items, and the bag may not stand up on its own in certain situations.
Stylish and Durable
  • Stylish design
  • Good quality material
  • Lightweight
  • Comes with a small attachment bag
  • Expandable feature
  • Perfect size for carry-on
  • Reasonable price
Weaknesses
  • Smaller size may not be suitable for those who like to pack a lot of items
  • Bag may not stand up on its own, which can be inconvenient in certain situations

The Rockland Fashion Expandable Softside Upright Luggage Set is a beautiful and deluxe 2-piece set that is perfect for the serious traveler. Made with heavy-duty polyester and PVC backing, this set is designed for durability and convenience. The set includes three expandable uprights and a flight tote bag, all packed with features such as retractable handles, in-line skate wheels, and multiple pockets for organization. The luggage is fully lined and comes with elegant silver pewter hardware. With its expandable design and comfortable grip handles, this set is a great choice for any traveler.

Stylish and Functional Travel Companion
  • Expandable softside upright luggage set
  • Purple color
  • 2-piece set (14/19)
  • Inline skate wheels and stability bar
  • Telescoping handle
  • Ergonomic padded top and side grip handles
$39.99
$95.00
as of January 6, 2024 10:57 pm
Amazon.com
7

Travelers Club Chicago Hardside Spinner Luggage, Teal

$49.90
$41.28
Amazon.com
as of January 6, 2024 11:01 pm
8.4
Great carry-on option
The Travelers Club Chicago Hardside Expandable Spinner Luggage is a great option for carry-on travel. It has a fully-lined interior with an accessory pocket, expands for extra packing capacity, and features a push-button recessed locking handle system. The double spinner wheels allow for 360º mobility, and there are multiple modern color options available. It is the perfect size for carry-on flights, holds up well and is durable, and is light enough for easy handling. It also offers stylish colors and is a good value for the price. However, some users have reported that the handle doesn’t feel sturdy and there have been occasional issues with the wheels’ durability.
Exceptional Travel Companion
  • Perfect size for carry-on flights
  • Holds up well and is durable
  • Light enough for easy handling
  • Stylish colors available
  • Good value for the price
Product Weaknesses
  • The handle doesn’t feel sturdy
  • Some users have reported occasional issues with the wheels’ durability

The Travelers Club Chicago Hardside Expandable Spinner Luggage in Teal is a stylish and functional carry-on option for travelers. The durable plastic shell and fully-lined interior with accessory pocket ensure that your belongings are protected and organized during your trips. The expandable feature allows for extra packing capacity, while the double spinner wheels provide easy maneuverability. With its modern color options and affordable price, this luggage is a great choice for anyone in need of a reliable travel companion.

Stylish and Durable Travel Companion
  • Fully-lined interior with accessory pocket
  • Expands for extra packing capacity
  • Push-button recessed locking handle system
  • Double spinner wheels for 360º mobility
  • Multiple modern color options

Other Travel Bags to Consider

Everything you need to know about carry-on luggage

Are there any prohibited items that I cannot bring in my carry-on bag?

Yes, there are certain items that are prohibited from being brought in your carry-on bag. These items are restricted for safety and security reasons. Some common examples include:

  1. Liquids over 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters): All liquids, gels, aerosols, and creams must be in containers that are 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less, and they must be placed in a clear, quart-sized bag.
  2. Sharp objects: Items such as knives, scissors, box cutters, and razor blades are generally not allowed in carry-on bags. However, there are exceptions for certain travel-sized scissors and tools.
  3. Firearms and weapons: Guns, ammunition, and other weapons are strictly prohibited in carry-on bags. They must be properly declared and transported in checked luggage, following specific rules and regulations.
  4. Explosive and flammable materials: Items like fireworks, dynamite, flares, and lighter fluid are not allowed in carry-on bags due to the obvious safety risks they pose.
  5. Sporting goods: Some sporting equipment, such as baseball bats, golf clubs, and hockey sticks, may be prohibited in carry-on bags, depending on the airline’s policies and the specific item.

Are there any restrictions on bringing food or snacks in carry-on luggage?

Yes, there are some restrictions on bringing food or snacks in carry-on luggage. According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) guidelines, you can generally bring solid food items such as sandwiches, fruits, and granola bars in your carry-on bag. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:

  1. Liquids: Any liquids or gels in your carry-on must adhere to the 3-1-1 rule. Each container must be 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less, all containers must fit in a single quart-sized bag, and each passenger is limited to one bag. This rule applies to items like yogurt, sauces, or salad dressing.
  2. Spreads and dips: Creamy spreads like peanut butter, hummus, or cheese spreads fall under the liquid or gel category. If they are in containers larger than 3.4 ounces, they are not allowed in your carry-on.
  3. Fresh produce: Fruits and vegetables are generally allowed, but certain countries or regions may have restrictions due to agricultural laws. It’s a good idea to check the regulations of your destination before packing fresh produce.
  4. Special dietary needs: If you have specific dietary requirements, such as baby formula or medically necessary food, these items are generally allowed. However, it is recommended to inform the TSA officer in advance and be prepared for additional screening.

What are the size restrictions for carry-on luggage on most airlines?

Most airlines have specific size restrictions for carry-on luggage to ensure that it fits in the overhead compartments or under the seat in front of you. While there can be slight variations between airlines, the general guidelines are fairly consistent.

The typical maximum dimensions for carry-on bags are around 22 inches (56 centimeters) in length, 14 inches (36 centimeters) in width, and 9 inches (23 centimeters) in height, including handles, pockets, and wheels. However, it’s important to note that these dimensions can vary, so it’s always a good idea to check with your specific airline before you travel to avoid any surprises.

Additionally, most airlines also impose weight restrictions on carry-on luggage, usually ranging from 15 to 22 pounds (7 to 10 kilograms). Again, these limits can vary, so it’s best to verify with your airline to avoid any issues at the airport.

Remember, it’s a good practice to always check the specific requirements of the airline you are flying with, as they can have their own unique rules and regulations regarding carry-on luggage. Safe travels!

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12 Comments

  1. Great roundup! My personal favorite is the SwissGear Sion Expandable Roller Luggage. It’s durable and has plenty of storage space.

    1. Thank you for sharing your favorite! The SwissGear Sion Expandable Roller Luggage is indeed a popular choice.

  2. I would recommend adding the Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Spinner to this list. It’s incredibly durable and has a sleek design.

    1. Thank you for the suggestion! The Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Spinner is indeed a popular choice and we will consider adding it to future roundups.

  3. These are all great options, but I would love to see some recommendations for carry-on luggage with built-in USB chargers. Any suggestions?

  4. Could you provide more details about the Rockland Melbourne Spinner Luggage in Champagne? I’m curious about its features and durability.

  5. For those looking for a more budget-friendly option, the Amazon Basics 20″ Hardside Spinner is a great choice. It’s affordable and still offers good quality.

  6. Can you please let us know if this roundup is up to date? I’m looking for the latest options in carry-on luggage.

  7. I recently traveled with the Rockland London Mint Spinner Carry-On and it held up really well. The spinner wheels made it easy to maneuver through crowded airports.

  8. I respectfully disagree with the inclusion of the Wrangler Smart Luggage Set in this roundup. I found it to be less durable compared to other options.

  9. I have a tip for anyone looking for carry-on luggage – make sure to check the size restrictions for different airlines before making a purchase. It can save a lot of hassle!

    1. That’s a great tip! It’s important to always check the airline’s carry-on size restrictions to avoid any issues.