The Perfect Carry-On for Every Type of Traveler
Silva Patel Rastogi
4 September 2023

For frequent business trips, the Away Bigger Carry-On shines. Its durable polycarbonate hard shell withstands the hustle of crowded airports to protect clothing, electronics, and other gear. The spacious main compartment fits suits, shirts, shoes, and essentials for multiple days while a separate pocket contains dirty clothes. The ejectable battery charges devices in transit, saving the day when stuck on the tarmac. Four multi-directional spinner wheels mean speedy movement through airports. The sleek style transitions seamlessly from cross-country flights to the boardroom.

In This Article:

The Business Traveler: ANTLER CLIFTON

The Backpacker: LUMESNER CARRY ON BACKPACK

The Chronic Overpacker: DELSEY PARIS

The Minimalist: BANGE TRAVEL BACKPACK

The Photographer: LOWEPRO

The Hard Core: FLIGHT KNIGHT

The Luxury: LEVEL8

The Underseater: TRIPP

Kids-Friendly: TRUNKI

ANTLER CLIFTON

The Business Traveler: ANTLER CLIFTON

For frequent business trips, the ANTLER Clifton Cabin carry-on is a premium pick. Its durable polycarbonate hard shell protects clothing, electronics, and important documents from the bustle of airports. The suitcase boasts a spacious main compartment for suits, shirts, shoes, and other gear, while the zippered exterior pocket neatly contains tickets and accessories for easy access. The four smooth-rolling wheels make dashing through terminals simple. The included portable charger powers up devices on the go, and the TSA-approved lock secures belongings. Its sleek, professional style transitions effortlessly from cross-country flights to client meetings.


Specifications:

Size: 23 x 35 x 56 (cm) with a maximum volume of 45 litres.

Weight: 3.3 Kilograms


Pros:

  • Protects work wardrobe and gadgets
  • External pocket for quick-grab items
  • Charges electronics while waiting at the gate
  • Secured with TSA-approved lock
  • Spinner wheels roll smoothly through crowds


Cons:

  • Polycarbonate shell prone to scratching
  • Locking mechanism can be stiff and difficult to open
  • Exterior pocket is small and may not fit larger items
  • Handle has no padding for comfort when lifted
  • Black color shows scratches and scuffs more visibly
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LUMESNER CARRY ON BACKPACK

The Backpacker: Lumesner Carry on Backpack

For travelers who embrace packing light, the Lumesner Carry On Backpack provides an optimal hands-free experience. This lightweight pack meets airline size restrictions for carry-on luggage while offering well-designed organization. Padded shoulder straps and back support provide comfort, while the stowaway strap turns the bag into a suitcase when needed.


The front compartment keeps essentials like chargers, headphones, passports, and snacks neatly organized and easily accessible. The main compartment features customizable dividers to separate clothing, shoes, and gear. Side pockets fit water bottles and umbrellas, while interior pockets provide extra storage.


Specifications:

Size: 35 x 10 x 30 (cm)

Weight: 1 Kilograms


Pros:

  • Meets carry-on size requirements
  • Padded shoulder straps for comfort
  • Front organizer section for quick-access items
  • Customizable main compartment dividers
  • Can convert to suitcase with hideaway strap
  • Side water bottle and umbrella pockets
  • Multiple interior pockets for organization


Cons:

  • No exterior water bottle pocket
  • Minimal padding on back panel
  • Main compartment has limited expansion
  • Shoulder straps prone to slipping off shoulders
  • Exterior lacks durability for rough handling
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LUMESNER CARRY ON BACKPACK

The Chronic Overpacker: Delsey Paris

Some travelers insist on packing their entire closet, the Delsey Helium Aero Carry-On Spinner Trolley offers durability and maneuverability. This lightweight hardside luggage glides smoothly on four double spinner wheels that rotate 360 degrees for easy mobility.


The deep main compartment provides ample space for clothing, shoes, accessories, and more, while also expanding 2 inches for extra capacity when needed. The integrated TSA-accepted lock allows security agents to inspect the bag without damaging it. Interior straps and zippered mesh pockets keep contents organized.


An exterior zippered pocket on the front grants access to smaller items and liquids, while top and side handles make lifting comfortable. The scratch-resistant texture prevents scuffs and tears during transit. The stylish design transitions effortlessly from the airport to the hotel.


Specifications:

Size: 25.4 x 36.83 x 52.07 (cm)

Weight: 3.74 Kilograms


Pros:

  • Durable but lightweight polycarbonate shell
  • Four spinner wheels for easy rolling
  • Expands an extra 2 inches when required
  • TSA-accepted lock for security
  • Interior organization pockets and straps


Cons:

  • Shell prone to cracks over time
  • Locking mechanism can be stiff
  • Limited cushioning on handles
  • Exterior pocket is small
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BanGe Travel Backpack

The Minimalist: BanGe Travel Backpack

For travelers looking to save money without sacrificing quality, the BanGe Travel Backpack is a wallet-friendly carry-on choice. This backpack is constructed from durable, water-resistant polyester and sized to meet most airlines' carry-on restrictions.


The spacious main compartment has ample room for clothes, shoes, and gear for short trips or weekends away. A separate well-padded sleeve fits and protects laptops up to 17 inches. The front organizational compartment keeps essentials like chargers, headphones, documents, snacks, and other small items secure but accessible.


Interior pockets and compression straps hold contents in place. Padded shoulder straps and air mesh back panels maximize carrying comfort, while the hideaway straps transform the backpack into a suitcase when needed. Stretchy side pockets fit water bottles and umbrellas.


Specifications:

Size:  29.97 x 13.97 x 45.97 (cm)

Weight: 1.52 Kilograms


Pros:

  • Budget-friendly price point
  • Roomy main compartment
  • Padded 17-inch laptop sleeve
  • Front organizer for quick-access essentials
  • Compression straps keep contents secure
  • Converts to suitcase with hideaway straps
  • Padded shoulder straps for comfort


Cons:

  • Polyester prone to ripping over time
  • No hardside for structure and protection
  • Minimal internal pockets for organization
  • Water bottle pockets are on the small side
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Lowepro ProTactic 450 AW II Black Pro Modular Backpack

The Photographer: Lowepro

For photographers who need to safely transport expensive camera gear, the Lowepro ProTactic 450 AW II is an excellent carry-on choice. This high-quality backpack provides extensive customizable storage and protection for pro photography equipment.


The spacious interior fits multiple DSLR bodies, several lenses, flashes, and accessories. A dedicated laptop sleeve holds laptops up to 15 inches. Adjustable dividers allow custom organization of equipment while keeping it cushioned and secure. Quick access from the top and sides enables grabbing gear on the go.


An all-weather AW cover shields the pack from rain, snow, dust, and abrasions during outdoor shoots. Tactical-inspired straps and harness provide stability and comfort when loaded down. A tripod holder, water bottle pockets, and accessory storage offer added functionality.


Specifications:

Size: ‎49.5 x 30.5 x 24.1 (cm)

Weight: 2.68 Kilograms


Pros:

  • Safely carries pro camera bodies, lenses, drones
  • Customizable padded dividers
  • Quick top and side camera access
  • All-weather AW cover included
  • Tactical-style comfortable harness


Cons:

  • Heavy and bulky when fully loaded
  • Not ideal for airline personal item
  • Divider velcro can wear out over time
  • Shoulder straps lack sternum strap
  • Water bottle pockets are small
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Flight Knight

The Hard Core: Flight Knight

For jetsetters who live in airports, the Flight Knight Lightweight 4 Wheel Carry-On keeps belongings secure while navigating crowded terminals with ease. This hard-shell suitcase is constructed from durable ABS plastic and sized specifically to comply with carry-on restrictions for over 100 major airlines.


The suitcase glides smoothly on four multidirectional spinner wheels that handle tile, carpet, and pavement with ease. The cavernous main compartment provides ample space for several days' worth of clothing and essentials. Interior cross straps and zippered divider panels keep everything organized.


The TSA-approved combination lock secures contents while allowing security agents to inspect the bag if needed. The scratch-resistant hard shell prevents damage during transit. Top and side handles make lifting and carrying the suitcase comfortable even when fully packed.


Specifications:

Size: ‎35 x 20 x 55 (cm)

Weight: 2.9 Kilograms


Pros:

  • Made to airline carry-on size restrictions
  • Durable hard ABS shell
  • Four spinner wheels for smooth mobility
  • Large main compartment capacity
  • Interior dividers and straps
  • TSA-approved lock


Cons:

  • ABS plastic prone to cracking over time
  • Spinner wheels may jam after heavy use
  • Locking mechanism can be stiff
  • No exterior pockets for organization
  • Handles lack adequate padding
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Lowepro ProTactic 450 AW II Black Pro Modular Backpack

The Luxury: LEVEL8

For travelers seeking a sleek, high-end carry-on, the Level8 Aluminum Luggage Carry On Suitcase delivers luxury and durability. This premium roller bag is constructed entirely of lightweight yet extremely resilient aluminum.


The scratch-resistant aluminum shell prevents dents, scuffs, and abrasions from the turbulence of air travel. The suitcase glides seamlessly on four spinner wheels that rotate 360 degrees for smooth mobility over any surface.


The main compartment offers ample space for clothing, shoes, accessories and more, while interior straps keep items neatly arranged. The integrated TSA-approved lock secures belongings while allowing security agents to inspect the contents.


With its polished aluminum exterior and gold accented hardware, this carry-on oozes refined style perfect for luxury travelers. The easy-access front organizational pocket stores pens, chargers, headphones and other essentials.


Specifications:

Size: ‎49.5 x 30.5 x 24.1 (cm)

Weight: 2.68 Kilograms


Pros:

  • Durable scratch-resistant aluminum shell
  • Four spinner wheels for effortless gliding
  • Roomy main compartment with straps
  • TSA-approved lock for security
  • Luxurious polished exterior
  • Front quick-grab pocket


Cons:

  • Aluminum can dent with rough handling
  • Fingerprints visible on exterior
  • Main compartment lacks expansion
  • Minimal padding on handles
  • No dedicated laptop sleeve
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Lowepro ProTactic 450 AW II Black Pro Modular Backpack

The Underseater: TRIPP

For travelers who prefer using underseat space for their carry-on, the Tripp Superlite 4W Holdall is an optimal choice. This compact yet versatile holdall bag fits neatly under airplane seats for quick access to belongings in flight.


The durable polyester fabric resists scuffs, stains, and tears that can come with hauling it under cramped seats. Smooth-rolling urethane wheels and a retractable tow handle allow easy transport through airports.


Interior and exterior pockets keep essentials like phones, chargers, headphones, and snacks organized. The main compartment has ample room for a change of clothes, medical necessities, and reading materials for long flights. The adjustable crossbody strap provides carrying options.

Specifications:

Size: ‎24 x 44 x 27 (cm)

Weight: 900 Grams


Pros:

  • Designed to fit under airplane seats
  • Durable polyester fabric
  • Smooth-rolling urethane wheels
  • Retractable tow handle
  • Interior and exterior pockets
  • Adjustable crossbody strap


Cons:

  • No hardside protection
  • Small overall capacity
  • Shoulder strap lacks padding
  • No TSA-approved locks
  • Urethane wheels may crack over time
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Lowepro ProTactic 450 AW II Black Pro Modular Backpack

Kids-Friendly: Trunki

For families looking to make travel more fun for kids, the Trunki children’s ride-on suitcase brings excitement to the airport. This hard-shell suitcase gives kids a ride by doubling as a scooter.


The durable plastic exterior comes in colorful designs that kids love, while also protecting belongings inside. The retractable carry strap and smooth wheels make it easy for parents to maneuver when needed.


The interior offers ample packing capacity for clothes, toys, books, and activities to keep kids occupied. The lockable strap provides security while the silicone name tag ensures it returns if lost. Fun designs like unicorns, rockets, and pirates make it a toy and travel bag kids adore.


Specifications:

Size: ‎44.2 x 20.32 x 28.45 (cm)

Weight: 1.6 Kilograms


Pros:

  • Fun ride-on design engages kids
  • Durable hard-shell protects contents
  • Generous interior packing capacity
  • Lockable for security
  • Easy for parents to steer


Cons:

  • Easily scuffed and scratched
  • Difficult for child to steer alone
  • Handling can be awkward for parents
  • Lack of interior pockets
  • Straps may be uncomfortable for kids
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The right carry-on bag helps ensure a stress-free trip. Finding one suited for your packing habits and travel style is essential. Do you see yourself in one of these traveler profiles or is your perfect carry-on something entirely unique? Whatever features are most important to you, choosing a thoughtfully designed carry-on saves hassles, money, and headaches down the road. Smooth travels!


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