Looking for the perfect carry-on bag for your upcoming travels? Look no further! In this article, Travel + Leisure has done the hard work for you, testing over 150 carry-on bags to find the absolute best options on the market. From suitcases and duffles to weekenders and backpacks, they've narrowed down their top 15 favorites based on factors like capacity, maneuverability, durability, and design. Their ultimate top pick is the Samsonite Freeform Carry-on Spinner, which not only aced all the tests but also offers a spacious capacity and a sturdy shell. The runner-up, the Tumi Dual Access 4 Wheeled Carry-on, features two access points and even includes a removable garment bag. With other top picks like the Travelpro Hardside Spinner, Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-on, and Amazon Basics Hardside Spinner, you'll be spoiled for choice. So, get ready to pack your bags and embark on your next adventure with confidence, knowing you've got the best carry-on companion by your side.
Top 15 Favorite Carry-On Bags
When it comes to choosing the perfect carry-on bag for your travels, there are countless options to consider. To help narrow down the choices, Travel + Leisure tested over 150 different carry-on bags, including suitcases, duffles, weekenders, backpacks, and underseat bags. After extensive testing, they determined the top 15 favorite carry-on bags based on criteria such as capacity, maneuverability, durability, and design. Here are the top picks:
Samsonite Freeform Carry-on Spinner
The Samsonite Freeform Carry-on Spinner emerged as the top pick among all the tested carry-on bags. This bag not only offers a spacious capacity, but it is also made with a durable shell that can withstand the rigors of travel. In addition to its impressive features, the Samsonite Freeform Carry-on Spinner performed exceptionally well in all tests, proving its reliability and functionality.
Tumi Dual Access 4 Wheeled Carry-on
The Tumi Dual Access 4 Wheeled Carry-on takes the runner-up position on the list of favorite carry-on bags. What sets this bag apart is its unique dual access points, allowing you to effortlessly reach your belongings from multiple angles. Another standout feature of the Tumi Dual Access 4 Wheeled Carry-on is its removable garment bag, providing added convenience for travelers.
Other Top Picks
In addition to the top two favorites, Travel + Leisure also highlighted a few other carry-on bags that stood out during testing. The Travelpro Hardside Spinner offers exceptional maneuverability and durability, making it a reliable choice for frequent travelers. The Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-on also impressed with its functionality and sleek design. Lastly, the Amazon Basics Hardside Spinner proved to be a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality and features.
Criteria for Selection
To determine the top 15 favorite carry-on bags, Travel + Leisure carefully evaluated each bag based on four essential criteria: capacity, maneuverability, durability, and design. These factors were crucial in assessing how well a bag could meet the needs of travelers while providing a seamless and enjoyable experience.
Capacity
One significant aspect of a carry-on bag is its capacity. Travelers want to ensure that they have enough space to fit all their essentials, without exceeding size limitations enforced by airlines. The bags were tested to see how much they could hold, and those with spacious interiors and clever storage compartments ranked higher in this category.
Maneuverability
Maneuverability plays an essential role in the overall travel experience. A carry-on bag should be easy to move around, whether it's rolling through airports or navigating crowded streets. Testers evaluated the bags based on their ability to glide smoothly, turn effortlessly, and handle different terrains, such as carpeted floors and uneven sidewalks.
Durability
The durability of a carry-on bag is crucial in ensuring its longevity and ability to withstand the demands of travel. Bags were subjected to rigorous testing, simulating real-life scenarios to assess their durability. This involved exposing them to impacts, rough handling, and prolonged use to determine which bags could hold up under pressure.
Design
While functionality is paramount, the design of a carry-on bag also plays a role in its popularity. Travelers want a bag that not only performs well but also looks good. Testers scrutinized the design aspects of each carry-on bag, including aesthetics, ergonomics, ease of use, and innovative features that enhance the overall travel experience.
Testing Process
The testing process involved subjecting each carry-on bag to a series of rigorous tests to evaluate its performance, durability, and overall quality. The tests included:
Packing Test
Testers packed each bag with various items, including clothing, shoes, and toiletries, to assess its capacity and organization. The goal was to determine how well a bag could accommodate different travel essentials while keeping them secure and easily accessible.
Spin Test
The spin test evaluated the maneuverability of the carry-on bags. Testers maneuvered the bags in different directions, testing their ability to rotate and change directions smoothly. This test assessed how well the wheels performed and how easily the bags could navigate through tight spaces.
Hoist Test
In the hoist test, each bag was lifted overhead multiple times to simulate the process of placing it in the overhead bin on an airplane. Testers paid close attention to the bags' weight distribution, handle stability, and overall comfort during this process.
Rolling Test
To evaluate how well the bags performed while rolling, they were tested on various surfaces, including carpeted floors, concrete, and uneven pavement. Testers assessed the bags' stability, ease of maneuverability, and the durability of the wheels.
Impact Test
The impact test involved subjecting the bags to moderate impacts to simulate the bumps and jostling they may encounter during travel. This test aimed to evaluate the overall durability and ability of each bag to protect its contents from external forces.
Testing Results
After thorough testing and evaluation, Travel + Leisure compiled detailed information on the dimensions, price, and features of each carry-on bag. This information gives travelers a comprehensive view of the options available and helps them make an informed decision based on their specific needs and preferences.
Samsonite Freeform Carry-on Spinner
Dimensions: The Samsonite Freeform Carry-on Spinner measures 21.25 x 14.25 x 10 inches, making it an ideal size for most airlines' carry-on restrictions.
Price: The price of the Samsonite Freeform Carry-on Spinner falls within the mid-range for carry-on bags, providing good value for its quality and features.
Features: In addition to its spacious capacity, the Samsonite Freeform Carry-on Spinner features a TSA-approved lock, multi-directional spinner wheels, and a lightweight design, making it a versatile choice for travel.
Tumi Dual Access 4 Wheeled Carry-on
Dimensions: The Tumi Dual Access 4 Wheeled Carry-on measures 22 x 14 x 9 inches, meeting most airlines' size requirements for carry-on luggage.
Price: The Tumi Dual Access 4 Wheeled Carry-on falls on the higher end of the price range for carry-on bags, reflecting its premium quality and innovative design.
Features: With its dual-access points, removable garment bag, and integrated USB port, the Tumi Dual Access 4 Wheeled Carry-on offers versatility and convenience for travelers on the go.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing the best carry-on bag for your travels, considering factors such as capacity, maneuverability, durability, and design is essential. The top 15 favorite carry-on bags, as tested by Travel + Leisure, provide a range of options that meet these criteria. From the spacious and durable Samsonite Freeform Carry-on Spinner to the innovative features of the Tumi Dual Access 4 Wheeled Carry-on, there is a carry-on bag to suit every traveler's needs and preferences. By considering the dimensions, price, and features of each bag, travelers can make an informed decision and select the perfect carry-on for their next adventure.
