The 16 Best Carry-On Bags to Shop for Your Next Getaway—From Duffels to Backpacks

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Whenever I used to travel, I opted for my trusty JanSport backpack as my carry-on. While it might have given me scary flashbacks to middle and high school, it somehow managed to fit everything I needed. Once I finished college, I knew it was time for an upgrade. In comes an affordable hardshell carry-on bag that has made my life so much easier, and I’ll never look back.

However, I understand that not everyone is a roller bag traveler like me. If that’s you, don’t fret because you’ve got plenty of options in weekender bags, duffels, and backpacks. In addition to the different types of carry-on bags, you can find one that matches your budget, capacity, space needs, and style.

Best Carry-On Bags at a Glance

• Best Overall: Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable Carry-On , $137 (originally $200)
• Best Duffel Carry-On Bag: Narwey Foldable Travel Duffel Bag , $10
• Best Softside Carry-On Bag: Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Carry-on Luggage , $144
• Best Hardside Carry-On Bag: Open Story Hardside Carry On Spinner Suitcase, $89
• Best Under Seat Carry-On Bag: TPRC Smart Under Seat Carry-On , $50 (originally $59)
• Best Backpack Carry-On Bag: Dagne Dover Dakota Backpack, $155+
• Best Budget Carry-On Bag: BAGSMART Travel Duffle Bag , $36 (originally $38)
• Best TikTok-Viral Carry-On Bag: Béis The Convertible Weekender, $118
• Best Splurge-Worthy Carry-On Bag: Monos Metro Weekender, $255
• Best Stylish Carry-On Bag: Longchamp Le Pliage Expandable Duffle, $285

No, actually, there are so many stylish options on the market that’ll complete an airport OOTD. Dagne Dover and Béis are paving the way for modern, minimalistic, functional travel essentials that won’t fall apart after a couple of years. But you can always count on Amazon and Target to come through with more affordable options that are equally as cute.

What to look for in a carry-on bag

When searching for the best carry-on bag, make sure to consider size, design, special features, material, and color. Size is perhaps the most important factor because airlines have size limitations for all carry-on bags. It has to fit under the seat in front of you or in the overhead compartment. Pay attention to the design and style, as in shape, because some prefer weekender silhouettes, while others lean towards backpacks. It’s all up to your personal preference and what works for you!

Special features is my favorite part. Does the bag come with adjustable or detachable straps? Does it have a slot that allows you to slide your bag through your hardshell luggage? What kind of an organizational system does it have inside? Definitely think about the material, too, because some are less forgiving than others when it comes to weather and spills. And last but not least is color. Opt for a neutral if you want a bag that’ll look good with every kind of airport outfit. But go for a louder color if you want your bag to stand out among the crowd.

What are the dimensions of a carry-on bag?

The dimensions for a carry-on bag on a domestic airline are 22″ x 14″ x 9″, according to U.S. News & World Report. For international airlines, the common dimensions are 21.5″ x 15.5″ x 9″ inches.

What is the weight limit for a carry-on bag?

There isn’t typically a weight limit for a carry-on bag on a domestic airline. However, many international airlines impose weight limits for carry-on luggage and sometimes even personal items, per U.S. News & World Report.

Now that you know what to look out for, find the best carry-on bags of 2025 below, so you can jet set in style.