Checked luggage creates an anxious-filled flight. Everyone hates the uncertainty of whether you’ll get your bags at the end of the trip or not. Fortunately, with the right cabin bag, you can stack everything in as long as you pack right.

Cabin bags have changed how we approach travel. These bags are easy to handle and alleviate the stress brought with having your bags far away from you.

Lately, carry on bags have tech integrated into them. This advancement of design has revolutionized how we travel. The hassle you get at the baggage claim is no longer a thing, props to carry on luggage.

With the innovation of these bags emerging every day, picking the ideal one for your travel needs can be a daunting task. Here’s a compiled list of the best carry on luggage of 2020. Read on to verse yourself with the list and what to consider when purchasing one.

The Briggs & Riley Baseline-Softside CX Expandable Wide-Body Upright Luggage Carry is an expandable rolling suitcase. This bag is ideal for international travel as it is spacious enough.

Its wheeled feature is extensive and short, further guaranteeing you enough space. It uses CX technology to allow expansion for more space.

Briggs and Riley prides itself behind the principle of designing a variety of spacious design. And the Briggs & Riley Baseline-Softside CX Expandable Wide-Body Upright Luggage Carry is not shy in confirming that.

Its fabric is nylon, making it abrasion resistant and water repellent. Besides, its lining is soft and light-colored to help you quickly locate packed items.

The suitcase also has a TSA compatible lockable double zipper that guarantees the safety of your items. Its size is the standard required size as it stands at 21 inches.

This suitcase guarantees your items enough space and provides you with ergonomic user experience.

Key Features
  • Expands for extra packing space
  • Lockable double zipper
  • It comes in a variety of colors
  • Lifetime warranty
Specifications
  • Material: Nylon
  • Dimensions: 15 x 9 x 21 inches
  • Wheeled?: Yes
  • Brand: Briggs & Riley
Pros
  • The fabric used is nylon, making the suitcase abrasion resistant and water repellent
  • The lock is TSA compatible, guaranteeing the safety of your items
  • The bag contains a variety of compartments that create more space for packing your items
  • It has a durable twill lining that is light-colored to enhance the visibility of your packed items
Cons
  • It lacks retractable handles and uses one locking system

Samsonite's principle revolves around making luggage that guarantees the safety and durability of your items. This principle is evident with the Samsonite Omni Expandable Hardside Luggage.

This luggage comes with spinner wheels that offer you maneuverability capabilities. These spinner wheels are 360 degree spinner wheels and are sturdy too.

The luggage also has a hard shell; this shell guarantees you durability. Samsonite prides itself on making bags that stay new regardless of how many times you use them.

This suitcase also has a handle that provides a comfortable grip. The handle is of aluminum material making it lightweight and easy to use. Other handles in the bag are retractable side and top handles that remain protected during bag inspection.

Its TSA compatible combination lock guarantees the safety of your items. And the built-in combination lock cuts the hassle of having to carry a key.

This bag is scratch-resistant due to its polycarbonate construction. This luggage guarantees you a comfortable trip regardless of the conditions.

Key Features
  • Retractable handles
  • Variety of colors
  • The bag closes with a zipper only
  • Spacious inside
  • Ideal for any traveling conditions
Specifications
  • Material: Polycarbonate
  • Dimensions: 19 x 14.5 x 9.75 inches
  • Wheeled?: Yes
  • Brand: Samsonite
Pros
  • The polycarbonate material used makes the case hard and scratch-resistant
  • Durable suitcase
  • The suitcase is four-wheeled with 360 degrees spinner wheels. These spinner wheels provide excellent maneuverability
  • It has a TSA compatible lock for security, guaranteeing you the safety of your items
Cons
  • The suitcase lacks a backup option for closing it

The Kenneth Cole Reaction Carry-On Luggage comes with 360 degrees 4-wheel spinners. These spinner wheels offer you the freedom of easy maneuverability.

The bag guarantees further maneuverability through its retractable push-button telescoping handle. And also, features easy-to-grab side handles that come in handy during bag inspection.

The bag also features two spacious fully-lined compartments. These compartments are ideal for double-sided packing. For storing extra items, the interior includes a zipper pocket.

The suitcase comes in a size that is TSA and IATA approved. These exterior dimensions mean that this bag meets the carry on bag requirements of both international and domestic flights.

The bag is also lightweight as it weighs 6.25 pounds. The lightweight feature helps you adhere to the weight requirements. It is also durable as it features reinforced molded corner guards that protect the bag from any external impact.

Key Features
  • 20 inches in size
  • Four-wheel 360 degrees spinners
  • Lightweight suitcase
  • Different colors available
  • Unisex suitcase
Specifications
  • Material: A hard exterior shell
  • Dimensions: 14.5 x 8.5 x 21.8 inches
  • Wheeled?: Yes
  • Brand: Kenneth Cole
Pros
  • The hard shell exterior of the bag makes it scratch resistant and durable
  • The bag has molded corner guards that protect it from any external impact and damage
  • The dimensions of the bag are TSA and IATA approved, making it ideal for traveling on both international and domestic flights
  • It contains a telescopic retractable handle that enhances maneuverability
Cons
  • It lacks a TSA compatible lock

This four-wheeled luggage is 21 inches in size, the ideal size for most international flight carry on bags. In addition to that, the suitcase is 15 percent expandable.

The suitcase features a protective hard shell that guarantees the safety of your items. This shell also makes the bag scratch-resistant assuring you a durable carry on bag.

Its interior is fully lined with a divider. The divider comes in handy when packing and organizing your items. Also, it has three separate zippers that provide you extra compartments for storing additional items.

The handle of the AmazonBasics Hardside Spinner Suitcase Luggage is ergonomic, collapsible, and locks ideally in place. It also has an added short mounted handle. The reinforced handle provides strength for stable lifting.

The bag has double-wheeled spinner wheels. These 360 degrees spinner wheels provide excellent maneuverability. And besides that, the wheels are sturdy enough to hold the bag’s weight.

This scratch-resistant suitcase provides you with long-lasting traveling experience.

Key Features
  • Hardshell case
  • Available in different colors
  • It contains three separate zippers
  • Has a divider
Specifications
  • Material: Thick ABS exterior and polyester interior
  • Dimensions: 14.9 x 10 x 21.6 Inches
  • Wheeled?: Yes
  • Brand: AmazonBasics
Pros
  • The suitcase is scratch-resistant, making it a durable carry on bag to have
  • It has double-wheeled 360 degrees spinner wheels that guarantee you excellent maneuverability
  • The bag expands up to 15 percent, providing adequate space for your items
  • Its handle is ergonomically-friendly, and it also has a reinforced handle for stable lifting
Cons
  • It lacks a TSA compatible lock

The Travelpro Luggage Maxlite3 is a must-have for any kind of travel. The suitcase is suitable for both long and short-term trips. The carry on is not only stylish but also meets the required international carry on standards. It has a large front outer pocket with a smaller mesh zipper pocket inside the compartment.

The suitcase has adjustable hold-down straps that compress content and enable you to fit more items. It also has well-cushioned handles at the top, side, and bottom that provide comfort when holding the bag. The carry on has zippers that can lock together with a small padlock.

The Travelpro Maxlite has a honeycomb frame system that enhances durability without excess weight. The suitcase has water-repellent and stain-resistant exterior fabric; this is great for travelers visiting various terrains. The spinner-style wheels add comfort and mobility as they rotate and roll effortlessly in any direction.

Key Features
  • Airline-grade aluminum handle
  • Honeycomb frame system and EVA foam construction
  • Full-length interior lid pocket and mesh zipper pocket
  • Adjustable hold-down straps
  • Spinner-style wheels
Specifications
  • Material: Polyester fabric and polyester lining
  • Dimensions: 22 × 14 × 9 inches
  • Wheeled?: Yes
  • Brand: Travelpro
Pros
  • Has comfortable rolls for users of different heights
  • The EVA foam construction provides exceptional durability
  • Convenient to move around
  • Has a stylish look
  • Very spacious
Cons
  • Seems to get heavy at the front and can tip over at times

eBags is the latest and most convenient carry-on luggage in town. The bag is made using high-quality material that includes 840D & 900D twisted poly. This material is strong and lasting, and so is the bag.

eBags construct well organized and spacious luggage with interior and exterior spaces. It has an easy access front zip compartment which is fitted with compression straps to maximize the available space. It also has a large main compartment with an interior zip-around mesh pocket. The exterior also contains two zip pockets as well as a zip expansion.

eBags is easy to carry around due to the handles present. First, it has a telescopic handle that can adjust up to three heights. Apart from the adjustable arm, the bag is fitted with three different handles, i.e. bottom, side, and top. With these, you can carry it from whichever side is comfortable with you.

As if all the features described are not enough, the bag comes with a lifetime warranty. The product is among the few that have adopted a lifetime warranty policy to protect their clients against defects in material and craft. With high-quality material, expandability, and a lifetime warranty, eBags is the product to look out for on your next trip.

Key Features
  • Large shape with expandability
  • Adjustable handle
  • Easy-rolling wheels
  • Lifetime warranty
  • Various color options
Specifications
  • Material: 840D & 900D Twisted Poly
  • Dimensions: 21.5 x 15 x 9 inches
  • Wheeled?: Yes
  • Brand: eBags
Pros
  • Holds a lot for its size
  • Perfectly designed
  • Multiple storage pockets
  • Organized and spacious
Cons
  • May need a couple of improvements

Just as the name suggests, Genius Pack is one of a kind when it comes to design and organization. First, the interior is extremely organized with compartments specially made for chargers, undergarments, as well as socks. Additionally, it has an embedded checklist for convenience while packing.

This same bag has a maximum size, yet the weight is minimal. It weighs approximately 6.8 pounds which meets universal travelling standards. It is also easy to manoeuvre around as it is equipped with four all-around spinner wheels. With this, you are guaranteed a smooth ride.

Apart from the wheels, the bag becomes easy to push due to the presence of a rubberized button. The handle of the carry on has two lock positions and can be adjusted accordingly. It is also unique in that it is supercharged with a TSA combination lock in place.

Apart from the quality of the product, customer safety and satisfaction are among the core values of Genius Pack. It is for this reason that the bag comes with a five-year limited warranty from the date of purchase. A combination of the warranty, TSA lock, spinner wheels, and extreme organization is enough of a reason to go for this specialized carry-on.

Key Features
  • Impact-resistant corners
  • Secluded laundry compartment
  • 5-year limited warranty
  • Embedded packing checklist
  • 360-degree spinner wheels
Specifications
  • Material: 100 percent polycarbonate frame
  • Dimensions: 21.5 x 14 x 9 inches
  • Wheeled?: Yes
  • Brand: Genius Pack
Pros
  • Has a rubberized push-button handle for enhanced comfort
  • Extremely lightweight
  • Scratch and stain-resistant
  • Easy to handle
Cons
  • Dedicated pockets may be too small

The carry-on luggage industry is one of the most diverse sectors when it comes to design and convenience. Out of all carry-on luggages in the market, none beats the CHESTER Minima Carry-On Luggage. This product is ultralight and durable. It weighs approximately seven pounds yet is big enough for a five-day trip.

The CHESTER Minima Carry-On Luggage is made of 100 percent Makrolon polycarbonate hardshell. This carry on luggage is lighter than aluminium, spacious, durable, strong, and easy to clean. It is also fitted with a TSA approved lock for enhanced security.

This carry on luggage is also known for its organized compartments. In typical cases, it comes with two distinct and spacious compartments. In the case of small items that are likely to get lost when mixed with the rest, the Minima Carry-On gives you three exterior organizers to store such items. There is also a removable nylon laundry bag to separate clean clothes from dirty ones.

The same carry on is easy to handle due to the four multidirectional wheels that make it comfortable to roll. The arm of the bag has two lock positions and is made from sturdy aluminium. To sum it up, the product boosts your travel and confidence levels due to its 10-year warranty.

Key Features
  • Carries 3-5 days worth of clothes
  • Hidden laundry bag
  • 10-year limited warranty
  • Fully lined compartments
  • TSA and IATA approved dimensions
Specifications
  • Material: 100 percent polycarbonate hardshell
  • Dimensions: 21.8 × 13.7 × 9 inches
  • Wheeled?: Yes
  • Brand: CHESTER
Pros
  • Keeps belongings safe and dry
  • Lightweight and unbreakable
  • Water-resistant
  • Strong and easy to clean
Cons
  • Lacks compression straps and battery pack

If you are looking for a top quality luggage carry on, the DELSEY Paris Helium Aero Hardside Luggage suitcase is the one for you. The carry on is designed with hardside construction, an expandable main compartment, and a dual packing compartment. This carry on is ideal for holidaymakers and professional globetrotters.

The DELSEY Paris Helium Aero Hardside Luggage carry on has multi-directional wheels, which make your movements easy. With this carry on, you don't have to worry about missing luggage. The carry on comes with a TSA-approved lock that keeps your luggage secure.

The carry on can expand to 2 inches for additional space. It meets the required carry on size restrictions for most international airlines. The carry on can serve as a great souvenir on your return journey. It also has a comfortable handle system that locks into two positions for easy use. With the web straps and a zippered divider, you can secure your clothing and minimize wrinkles.

Key Features
  • Has a fabric lining
  • 100 percent polycarbonate material
  • Integrated padded sleeve
  • Two zippered mesh pockets
  • TSA-accepted lock
Specifications
  • Material: Polycarbonate
  • Dimensions: 21 × 14 × 10 inches
  • Wheeled?: Yes
  • Brand: DELSEY Paris
Pros
  • High quality carry on
  • Eye-catching design
  • Soft-touch handles are perfect for lifting
  • Has smooth maneuverability
Cons
  • TSA-accepted lock on hardside only

COOLIFE Luggage is one of the few carry-ons designed for leisure, reliability, and fashion as well as convenience. The product comes in three main sizes, i.e. 20’’, 24’’ and 28’’. Out of all of them, the 28’’ luggage is the most unique in that it is expandable. With this, you are guaranteed extra storage space while travelling.

The suitcase constitutes a combination of ABS and PC hard plastic shell. The material is hard enough to resist any form of damage that may be triggered by the luggage handlers. The best part about it is that the bag is approved for international travels and it has undergone control tests to ascertain this.

Additionally, the suitcase has a fully lined interior which makes it easy to pack your clothes. They are also fitted with organizational pockets that can be used to store various items and valuables. It also contains s strands to hold everything in position.

COOLIFE Luggage comes with a two-year warranty with a return policy in case the product is faulty. The four spinner wheels present also ensure that the bag is easy to move around. At the same time, the handle is made of aluminium and has three adjustable levels. With this, you are guaranteed smooth movement even in tight spaces.

Key Features
  • TSA lock included
  • Fully lined interior
  • Four spinner wheels
  • Expandable luggage for extra space
Specifications
  • Material: ABS & PC hard plastic shell
  • Dimensions: 20inch (21 x 8.5 x 15), 24inch (17 x 10 x 24.5) 28inch (20.5 x 11x 29)
  • Wheeled?: Yes
  • Brand: Coolife
Pros
  • Strong and durable
  • Spacious interior
  • Convenient for family travels
Cons
  • The zipper has to be handled with caution

There are two types of carry on luggage: a carry on backpack and a carry on suitcase. No bag is superior or better than the other; it all lies with your preference while you travel.

However, carry on suitcases come with wheels that help with mobility. On the other hand, carry on backpacks are convenient in that they offer more space than a suitcase but are tedious to handle.

When picking a carry on bag, it's vital to consider the size. US Airlines are strict when it comes to carry on bag sizes. The standard size is usually 22 x 14 x 9 inches, except for some more stringent airlines.

The above measurements are for domestic flights. For international flights, the size might vary, but to be safe, check with the airline before traveling.

Related: The Best Neck Pillow of 2019

The standard weight for a carry on bag with contents in it is 40 pounds. When it comes to carry on luggage, weight is essential. A bag that exceeds the preferred weight ends up in the hold, so check the weight before embarking on your trip.

Some of the best carry on luggage of 2020 come with a TSA approval mark. This mark means that the design of the bag has met all the luggage requirements. While purchasing one, prioritize this feature.

The durability of a carry on bag depends on your preference and the duration of use. Carry on luggage often are less durable as there is less manhandling of the pack compared to checked luggage. However, the durability of the bag is critical, especially if you’re planning to use it for long or if you’re on a long trip with multiple destinations.

While purchasing the best carry on luggage of 2020, avoid smart luggage. Most airlines have banned smart luggage due to Lithium-ion batteries. This effort is in a bid to combat fires and explosions that may result from these batteries.

Soft or hard luggage? It all depends on your preference. Hard luggage takes up space due to the hard shell and is also heavy compared to soft luggage. However, hard luggage is durable compared to soft luggage.

If you want a carry on suitcase with excellent maneuverability capabilities, opt for one with spinner wheels. A two-wheeled bag is also a good pick. All that matters is quality and preference.

The best carry on luggage should have good handles, meet airline guidelines, provide easy maneuverability, and have an extra compartment for extra items like your laptop.

Resources — Upgraded Points, Travel Away

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