The 15 Best International Carry-ons of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Discover the best international carry-ons for your next adventure! Our comprehensive guide features 15 top-rated bags, tested and reviewed for durability, size compliance, and ease of use. Find the perfect carry-on luggage to maximize space and minimize travel stress. We assess key features to help you make an informed decision.

Top Picks: International Carry-on Suitcases of 2024

Here's a detailed look at our top 15 international carry-on suitcases, complete with their key features, pros, and cons. We've included options for various budgets and travel styles, from minimalist packers to those who like to bring everything but the kitchen sink.

Note: International carry-on size restrictions can vary slightly by airline. Be sure to check the specific dimensions allowed by the airlines you plan to fly with before making your purchase.

Below is a summary table for your quick reference.

Suitcase	Dimensions	Weight	Capacity	Material	Key Features	Pros	Cons	Price (Approx.)
Monos Carry-On Pro Plus	23 x 15 x 9 in	7.4 lbs	46L	Polycarbonate	Built-in compression pad, TSA lock, removable laundry bag	Durable, stylish, great organization	Relatively expensive	$345
Away The Carry-On	21.5 x 13.5 x 9 in	7.6 lbs	39.8L	Polycarbonate	TSA lock, ejectable battery (optional), interior compression system	Iconic design, durable, convenient features	Battery sold separately, some find the interior space limited	$275
Rimowa Original Cabin	21.7 x 15.7 x 9.1 in	9.5 lbs	36L	Aluminum	Iconic design, durable, multiwheel system	Extremely durable, a status symbol	Very expensive, heavier than polycarbonate options	$1,400
Briggs & Riley Baseline Domestic Carry-On Upright Garment Bag	21 x 14 x 9 in	10.7 lbs	N/A (Garment Bag)	Ballistic Nylon	Built-in garment bag, CX expansion compression system, lifetime warranty	Excellent for wrinkle-free clothing, incredibly durable, great warranty	Heavier than other options, specialized for garments	$799
Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On Spinner	23 x 14.5 x 9 in	7.8 lbs	46L	Nylon	External USB port, TSA lock, premium leather accents	Durable, good value for money, convenient tech features	Style may not appeal to everyone	$399
Samsonite Freeform Carry-On Spinner	21 x 15 x 10 in	6.5 lbs	36L	Polypropylene	Lightweight, durable, TSA lock	Very lightweight, affordable	Interior organization is basic	$170
Paravel Aviator Carry-On Plus	22.7 x 14.7 x 9.5 in	8.2 lbs	41L	Recycled Polycarbonate	Made from recycled materials, TSA lock, compression board	Sustainable choice, stylish design	Slightly heavier than some competitors	$375
Bric's Bellagio 2.0 Carry-On Spinner Trunk	21 x 15 x 8 in	8.6 lbs	37L	Polycarbonate with Leather Trim	Stylish Italian design, leather accents, TSA lock	Luxury look and feel, durable	Expensive, leather trim requires care	$695
July Carry On Pro	21.7 x 15 x 8.5 in	8.1 lbs	42L	German Polycarbonate	Built-in laptop sleeve, TSA lock, lifetime warranty on shells	Convenient laptop access, durable	Laptop sleeve takes up interior space	$345
Beis Carry-On Roller	22.7 x 15.7 x 9.8 in	8.4 lbs	N/A	Polycarbonate	Weight indicator, cushioned top and side handles, TSA lock	Thoughtful features, stylish	Can be bulky for some airlines	$218
Monarc Settra Carry-on	21.5 x 13.5 x 9 in	7.5 lbs	40L	Recycled Aluminum and Vegan Leather	Eco-friendly materials, sleek design, integrated compression	Sustainable, stylish, efficient packing	May show scratches more easily	$395
Calpak Ambeur Carry-On	21 x 14 x 9 in	7.2 lbs	38L	Polycarbonate	TSA lock, expandable, sleek design	Affordable, stylish, expandable for extra space	Expandable feature can exceed carry-on limits	$195
Osprey Ozone Wheeled Luggage 42L	21.7 x 14 x 9 in	4.8 lbs	42L	Nylon	Super lightweight, durable, comfortable handle	Extremely lightweight, perfect for weight-conscious travelers	Less structured than hardside options	$220
Eagle Creek Expanse AWD Carry-On	21.5 x 13.75 x 9 in	7.5 lbs	38L	Recycled Polyester	Durable, water-resistant, expandable	Made with recycled materials, expandable for extra space	Fabric exterior may show wear and tear	$249
Victorinox Spectra 3.0 Expandable Global Carry-On	21.7 x 15 x 7.9 in (expands to 11 in)	7.5 lbs	34L (expands to 42L)	Polycarbonate	Highly durable, expandable, integrated multi-tool	Swiss-engineered quality, built-in multi-tool is a bonus	Can be pricey, expandable feature can exceed limits	$499

Factors to Consider When Choosing an International Carry-On

Before you make a purchase, keep these key factors in mind:

Size and Weight: Adhere to the specific carry-on restrictions of the airlines you'll be flying with.

Material: Polycarbonate is lightweight and durable, while aluminum offers superior protection but adds weight. Soft-sided options are more flexible and often have more pockets.

Wheels: Spinner wheels (four wheels) offer greater maneuverability than two-wheeled options.

Features: Consider features like TSA-approved locks, built-in compression systems, USB charging ports, and laptop compartments.

Price: Set a budget and stick to it. There are great carry-on options available at various price points.

Durability: Check reviews for information about the luggage's long-term durability. A good carry-on should withstand the rigors of travel.

Types of Carry-On Luggage

Beyond traditional suitcases, several types of carry-on luggage cater to specific needs:

Hardside Suitcases: Offer excellent protection for fragile items and are generally more water-resistant.

Softside Suitcases: More flexible and often have external pockets for easy access to essentials.

Backpacks: A great option for those who prefer to keep their hands free and need to navigate crowded areas. Look for features like padded shoulder straps and multiple compartments.

Rolling Totes: A good compromise between a suitcase and a backpack, offering the convenience of wheels with a more compact size.

Tips for Packing Your Carry-On Efficiently

Maximize your carry-on space with these helpful tips:

Roll your clothes: This saves space and helps prevent wrinkles.

Use packing cubes: These help organize your belongings and compress clothing.

Wear your bulkiest items: This frees up space in your luggage.

Utilize every space: Stuff socks and underwear into shoes to maximize space.

Take advantage of personal item allowance: A small backpack or tote bag can hold essential items like electronics, books, and snacks.

Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best International Carry-On

Choosing the right international carry-on can significantly enhance your travel experience. By considering your individual needs and travel style, you can find a carry-on suitcase that's both functional and stylish. We hope our list of the 15 best international carry-ons of 2024 has helped you narrow down your options and find the perfect companion for your next adventure. Remember to double-check the carry-on size limits for your specific airline to avoid any gate-checking surprises. Happy travels!