In the midst of recent air travel chaos, from WestJet strikes and Boeing drama, to airlines tightening carry-on restrictions, the quest to carry as much as you can on board has never been more crucial. With airlines becoming stricter about size and weight limits, selecting the best carry-on luggage is vital to ensuring a smooth and hassle-free travel experience. Here’s how to navigate this labyrinth and find the perfect carry-on for your needs.
Key Points to Consider
1. Travel Frequency
How often do you travel? This question should be top of mind when choosing the best carry-on luggage. Frequent travelers find better value when they invest in high-quality, durable bags that can withstand the rigors of constant use. Occasional travelers might prioritize affordability without sacrificing too much on quality.
2. Wheel Configuration
When it comes to wheels, you have three choices: 4 wheels, 2 wheels, or no wheels. Each option has its pros and cons.
- Four Wheels (Spinners): Ideal for level, smoother surfaces like airport floors, these glide effortlessly by your side. However, they are less durable on rough terrain.
- Two Wheels (Rollers): More durable and better suited for bouncing along the cobblestone streets of Paris. You'll have to tilt them to roll, which means there will be weight in your hand, but they’ll hold up better over time. From the perspective of our repair shop here in Winnipeg, we see a lot fewer 2-wheel bags come in for repairs than we do spinners.
- No Wheels (Backpacks): These can offer the most packing space (no wheels, frames or hardware) and are easier to squeeze into restricted overheads and can be ideal for true off the beaten track travel. Great for minimalists but remember, you’ll be carrying the weight yourself.
3. Weight
Weight is a crucial factor. A lightweight carry-on is easier to lift into overhead bins but might be less durable. A heavier bag might last longer but could be cumbersome to carry. Find a balance that suits your needs.
4. Airline Size Restrictions
Different airlines have different size restrictions for carry-on luggage. For example, Air Canada currently allows carry-ons up to 21.5 inches in height, while WestJet only allows 21 inches. Always check your airline’s restrictions before buying a new carry-on.
5. Softside vs. Hardside Luggage
The debate between softside and hardside luggage has been going on since U.N. Luggage started (1940!). Here’s what you need to know:
- Softside Luggage: Expandable, stuffable, and generally lighter. Soft side carry-ons typically offer outside pockets that might be ideal for toiletries & liquids (that you need to pull out going through security), tablets or rain gear.
- Hardside Luggage: Can offer better protection for your belongings and is easier to clean. They might be less flexible when it comes to packing and take up more space to open, but some people appreciate the separate compartments for better organization as well as the style points awarded to certain brands like Tumi.
Can’t decide between softside and hardside? Consider a hybrid! Hybrid luggage combines the best features of both, offering flexibility and protection. Thule has been doing a great job of this so long as their sizing suits the airline you most commonly use.
Our Top Carry-On Luggage Recommendations
After considering all the key points, here are our top picks for carry-on luggage in 2024:
For Frequent Flyers
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Tumi Alpha 3 International Dual Access 4 Wheeled Carry-On: This stylish and luxurious carry-on is perfect for frequent business travelers. With premium materials and thoughtful organization, it’s built to withstand the rigors of constant travel.
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Briggs & Riley Baseline Global Carry-On Spinner: A softside spinner that’s durable and reliable, with a great expansion system that offers a ton of space. It’s perfect for frequent flyers looking for a dependable companion.
For Lightweight Travel
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Samsonite Airea Carry-On Spinner: This lightweight spinner is WestJet-approved and ideal for occasional travelers who still want a decent suitcase from a solid brand.
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Samsonite Pursuit DLX Plus Carry-On Spinner: Another lightweight hardside option with fun colour choices for those who like a bit of flair and is safe to take aboard both AC and WJ.
For Adventurous Travelers
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Osprey Transporter Carry-On 2-Wheel Duffle: A durable two-wheel option that’s lightweight, very stuffable (max’s out at 40L) and perfect for dragging over rough terrain and seeing you through adventurous travels.
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Cotopaxi Allpa 42L: From out of nowhere, this brand landed and has shaken up the carry-on industry. A super versatile 42L, no-wheel option with tons of space and organization for those who can handle a backpack and need to get everything they can into their carry-on. A new staff favourite!
Best Bang for Your Buck
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Thule Subterra 2 Carry-On Spinner: A hybrid option that’s hardsided on the back and soft on the front, offering a great balance between durability and flexibility. It's a fantastic middleground between Samsonite and Briggs & Riley, with better quality and parts than most Samsonite bags but not quite the same warranty as Briggs.
Best Overall Carry-On
Final Thoughts: Your Perfect Carry-On Awaits
Choosing the right carry-on luggage in 2024 boils down to understanding your travel needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for the best carry-on suitcase 2024 has to offer or simply want the biggest carry-on luggage allowed, there’s something out there for everyone.