I am taking my first trip overseas since the beginning of the pandemic, and I am an equal mixture of excitement and nerves. A few nights ago, I had what can only be described as a fever dream, in which my beloved carry-on bag [1] was appropriate for domestic but not international travel. I awoke in a panic at five in the morning, and immediately ran to find my suitcase and a tape measurer. If you're anything like me, and are planning on taking a trip this summer, you need a carry-on suitcase that's designed for international travel.
International carry-on luggage [2] is slightly smaller than luggage suitable for domestic travel, which is frustrating, but honest. Generally, international carry-on bags should be 22 x 14 x 9 inches in dimension. For comparison, a standard domestic carry-on bag can be up to 24 x 16 x 10 inches, which is a meaningful difference. If you're looking for hard luggage, a soft duffle, and everything in between, we've got you covered. There's a suitcase we love with a 90 day warranty, so if you don't like it, you can return it and get a refund. Keep on reading to shop our selects, and here's to the triumphant return of summer travel!
Best Lightweight Carry-On: July Carry On
If you're looking for something lightweight, we suggest the new July Carry On [4] ($245). The crush-proof German shell is sturdy, yet light, and it also has an ejectable battery that'll keep your phone charged. It also has handles that can be raised to any point, not just the very top, so your journey through the airport can be as comfortable as possible.
Best Stylish Carry-On With Useful Compartments: Monos Carry-On Suitcase
If packing light is hard for you, try investing in a suitcase with useful pockets — like this Monos Carry-On [5] ($225, originally $283). The compression straps are extra helpful for when you need to strap it all down, and its handy pockets make packing smart easy. Plus, if you want something with a soft pocket in the front, for a laptop or dirty clothes, try the Carry-On Pro [6] ($275, originally $289).
Best Luxury Carry-On Suitcase: Rimowa Cabin
If you want an investment piece, this lightweight Rimowa Cabin [7] ($720) is for you. The classic case features the brand's signature patented Flex-Divider system to keep you organised, and it's a quality suitcase that will last you for years to come. Its sturdy design comes in a ton of great colours, but we love the brand's azure-blue shade.
Best Soft Carry-On: Briggs & Riley Spinner 22-Inch Carry-On
We love a soft suitcase because it's that much easier to stuff things into. The soft sides are more malleable, so you might just make that extra dress fit in a soft suitcase. We like this Briggs & Riley Spinner 22-Inch Carry-On [8] ($439). It's a lightweight choice that's easy to pack and expand, and the microweave tech fabric is water resistant.
Best Expandable Suitcase: Away Carry-On Flex
The bestselling Away Carry-On Flex [9] ($255) is an internet favourite. While it comes in a classic model [10], the brand also has this handy expandable option. It's a smart choice for a weekend trip — if you buy something, you'll have room to bring it back. It's worth noting that once you expand it, it becomes big enough to become a checked bag.
Best Suitcase With Compartments: Béis 21-Inch Rolling Spinner Suitcase
The Béis 21-Inch Rolling Spinner Suitcase [11] ($198) is small big mighty. Every inch of space has been thoughtfully designed, so you can be sure there's room for every single extra outfit you'd like to try and squeeze in. It comes with two separate bags that are perfect for dirty laundry. Customers love how useful this bag is, with one person saying, "I take two week holidays to Europe and pack only this carry on."
Best Pink Suitcase: Calpak Ambeur 22-Inch Rolling Spinner Carry-On
As much as we love a classic black bag, if you want something that stands out, get a colourful bag. That way, it'll be much less likely for someone else to mistake their bag as yours. Pick up this gorgeous Calpak Ambeur 22-Inch Rolling Spinner Carry-On [12] ($195), that's affordable, elegant, and has plenty of space.
Best Classic Carry-On Bag: Tumi 22-Inch 19 Degrees International Expandable Spinner Carry-On
If you're looking for something elegant and timeless, go with the Tumi 22-Inch 19 Degrees International Expandable Spinner Carry-On [13] ($695). This bag has a lock on the side, making sure your belongings stay extra safe. The outside is sturdy and durable, and the inside has a plethora of pockets.
A Carry-On Suitcase Under $200: Vacay Glisten Vibrant 22-Inch Spinner Carry-On
If you're looking for a more affordable option, go with this Vacay Glisten Vibrant 22-Inch Spinner Carry-On [14] ($160). It's a great bag for a beach holiday because it has a removable wet pocket, integrated wet pocket, integrated shoe pockets and a large compression pad to keep belongings in place. It comes in a few different colours, but we love the bright pink.
Best Carry-On Suitcase With a Soft Pocket: Coolife Carry On Luggage
If you love a hard suitcase, try one with a soft pocket in the front. This becomes super useful for storing things like a laptop, or even dirty clothes post trip. This Coolife Carry On Luggage [15] ($120) is an Amazon bestseller, and is the perfect dimension for international travel.