Almost all of us have been down that road where checked-in baggage has either gone missing or has been damaged. Another travel hassle is waiting for the carousel to finally throw up your bag. Or worst-case scenario, someone making off with your luggage by mistake. If we’re just breezing in and out of a city with the bare minimum, then carry on luggage is a much better option. It makes travel much less stressful.
The best thing about carry-on luggage is that it provides enough space to pack your stuff. You can comfortably fit everything that you’ll need for your trip. Another great thing is that there are a variety of options available to suit different needs.
However, before rushing off to splurge on carry-on luggage, read our buyer’s guide below. It will help you make the right choice. We’ve also reviewed what we think are the 13 best carry-on luggage for men to help narrow down your choices.
Table of contents
- Rockland Luggage Melbourne 20-Inch Expandable
- Olympia Apache LI 21″ Carry On Spinner
- Travelers Club Chicago Hardside Expandable Spinner Luggage
- Coolife Luggage Suitcase Carry-On Hardside
- Delsey Paris Chatelet
- AmazonBasics Underseat Luggage
- Handmade Leather Travel Duffel Bag By Rustic Town
- Ben Sherman Nottingham
- AmazonBasics Hardside Spinner Luggage
- Samsonite Freeform Expandable Hardside Luggage
- BANGE 45L Carry-on Backpack
- Travelpro Luggage Maxlite 5 22″ Lightweight Rolling Garment Bag
- Briggs & Riley Baseline Spinners
- How To Choose The Right Carry-On Luggage For Men
- Final Thoughts
Rockland Luggage Melbourne 20-Inch Expandable
13
With over 3,000 customer ratings on Amazon, the Rockland Luggage seems to be one of the more popular carry-on luggage options. This extremely lightweight carry on luggage is made of ABS, which makes it much lighter than polycarbonate. The material is durable so you don’t have to worry about your suitcase falling apart soon. You can be sure that your luggage will be safely secured with this one.
If you’re looking at affordable carry on luggage for men then we highly recommend this luggage. With its 8 multi-directional spinner wheels that rotate 360 degrees, maneuvering this suitcase is a breeze. Another feature we liked about the Rockland is the excellent organization inside. Pockets on the interior help you organize the smaller stuff so that it stays secure.
The suitcase also has expandable technology. This does not mean that you should stuff the suitcase though. What this means is that when you’re not packing too much, the suitcase won’t appear too big. Although it expands, you don’t want to be unpleasantly surprised if you can’t fit the suitcase into the overhead bin.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight but durable
- Easy maneuverability with 8 multi-directional spinner wheels
- Interior mesh and pockets
- Fully Lined
- Sturdy zippers
Cons
- The bag may not fit into all overhead compartments, especially if you expand it.
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Olympia Apache LI 21″ Carry On Spinner
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We recommend this great-looking suitcase for those who want to add that ‘oomph’ factor to your carry on luggage. Available in a range of 9 different combination colors, the stylish suitcase is great for any type of travel. Made from rugged ABS, this durable material makes the suitcase lightweight and also ensures that it will last. The four spinner wheels and aluminum push handle help in easier mobility. We liked that the push handle is color-coordinated with the bag, making it look that much more trendy.
What caught our fancy about Olympia Apache is the patented hidden compartment within the expandable section. You can conveniently slip your laptop into this hidden compartment without anyone knowing it’s there. It makes it easy when you have to go through security. The elegant interior is also a standout in this suitcase. With an internal divider, interior zip mesh pocket, and buckle tie-downs, you can be sure that your belongings will be well secured. A detachable TSA 3-1-1 wet zip pouch is also included in the fully padded interior.
Pros
- Great looking exterior
- Lightweight and durable
- Expandable to an additional 20%
- Elegant interior
- Four-wheel spinner for better maneuverability
- Hidden Pocket
Cons
- pers are a little difficult and flimsy
- The two heights that the handle moves up to may not be convenient for everyone
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Travelers Club Chicago Hardside Expandable Spinner Luggage
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Travelers Club Chicago Hardside Expandable Spinner Luggage is probably one of the most convenient because of its compact size of 18″ (20″ with wheels). You can be sure that it will fit into the overhead bin of any airline. It’s super light yet sturdy as the material used is ABS with an impact-resistant hard shell.
The bag looks sleek and has reinforced corners. Four swivel wheels turn smoothly enhancing maneuverability. It also has solid zippers and a combination lock with instructions to set it.
Given its compact size, we recommend this carry on for weekend trips as it doesn’t accommodate too much. Men’s clothes are generally bulkier so it’s going to be a tight squeeze if you plan for a longer trip. We especially like the ‘sandwich’ design on the inside which makes packing so much simpler. There is no denying that two compartments help in better organization.
Pros
- The large zipper pocket on the inside which divides the bag in two. For a compact bag, this makes a lot of sense
- Built-in combination zipper lock for greater security
- 3-year warranty for manufacturing defects
- Lightweight but sturdy case construction
- Wheels turn easily for maneuverability
Cons
- The zipper lock can be a little hard to operate with a stuffed bag
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Coolife Luggage Suitcase Carry-On Hardside
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Crafted from scratch-resistant material, this stylish Coolife Luggage Suitcase Carry-On Hardside is built for comfort and convenience. It has a good spacious compartment and a packing divider for better organization. It also expands for added packing. The completely lined interior also has organizational pockets and compression straps to keep your belongings secure.
The lightweight construction of this suitcase fits all airline cabin baggage specifications. It has an extra durable composite polycarbonate shell for additional security. The 4 spinner wheels and ergonomic handle help in easier maneuverability. While this suitcase ticks all the right boxes for travel, what stood out for us was the elegant design. You can choose from 7 different colors to add some spark to your travel.
Pros
- Made from an extra durable composite polycarbonate shell
- 4 spinner wheels for better mobility
- A multi-stage retractable trolley system
- Limited 5-year manufacturer warranty
Cons
- The zipper is a little weak
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Delsey Paris Chatelet
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If you’re looking for luxury carry-on luggage for men then we recommend Delsey Paris Chatelet. It’s not as lightweight as the other luggage we’ve reviewed, the reason being it’s made from a higher-grade material. However, the 100% Virgin Makrolon polycarbonate that has been used makes it quite indestructible. Besides its good resistance to extreme temperatures, it can also stand up to heavy knocks.
We think this is one of the best carry-on luggage with wheels because of its unique brake system and efficient wheels. The brakes on the two front wheels keep the bag firm if the back wheels are being used. The wheels too are super smooth, ensuring great maneuverability without any squeaky noises.
Although the exterior looks great with the faux leather accents, the special touches on the interior made a greater impression on us. A luxurious fully lined red interior with two packing compartments and tie-down straps will hold your belongings firmly. There are also two small interior bags and a hanger for better organization. The bag also has a recessed integrated TSA-approved lock, zip security, and a tracking plate to recover lost luggage.
Pros
- Highly durable exterior
- Smooth wheels with a unique braking system
- Two packing compartments on the fully lined interior
- Small organization bags and hangers
Cons
- The material marks easily so it’s a good idea to get a cover for it
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AmazonBasics Underseat Luggage
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For men constantly on the go who are looking for something compact, we think AmazonBasics Underseat Luggage is a great option. The well-designed exterior and durable polyester material make this a stylish carry-on luggage option. It may look quite compact with its 13 x 13 x 9 dimensions but it’s convenient enough to fit all that you need for your business trip.
The main compartment is spacious enough to carry your clothing and a spare pair of shoes. Smaller items can be organized neatly in the interior pockets, and there are quite a few of these. For us, the icing on the cake with this one was the detachable toiletries holder with four zipper compartments. It also has a handle so you can hang it conveniently on the back of a door. The front organizer is also very handy for storing your essential travel documents like tickets, a passport, or a magazine.
The telescoping handle is also great as it can be locked into place for storing or pulled out with the push of a button. It pulls out to 3 different heights so it can be adjusted accordingly. This bag is also easy to maneuver as the inline skate wheels fitted onto the bottom help in effortless transportation from one place to the other. The best thing about this bag is that it fits perfectly under the seat.
Pros
- Convenient to store under the seat or in the overhead bin
- The wheels are quite sturdy and help in effortless transportation
- Sleek design
Cons
- The handle occupies space inside the bag which gives you a little less packing space
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Handmade Leather Travel Duffel Bag By Rustic Town
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Some of us who are used to hopping on and off flights would rather sling a bag over our shoulders and get on with the journey, rather than drag something along. Handmade Leather Travel Duffel Bag By Rustic Town is a great carry on bag for those who love class but are so notoriously late that they’re running to catch almost every means of transport. This sturdy bag can just be flung into the back of a cab or pushed under the seat of a plane with no issues.
Don’t be fooled by its size as you can pack much more in it than you think. There are plenty of additional pockets for organizing smaller items. The two quick-access pockets are great for storing essentials within easy reach.
Made from genuine buffalo hide, and handmade by Indian artisans, the bag not only looks good but is also pretty durable. The straps are stitched with sturdy hooks, the YKK zippers move freely and the thick cloth lining on the inside all add to the great quality of this bag. We were pleasantly surprised by how the softness of the bag improved with extended usage.
Pros
- Genuine sturdy leather at a great price
- Extra pockets help in efficient packing
- Strong zippers and good hardware
- Ideal size for quick travel
- Available in two colors
Cons
- The inside lining feels a little loose as it is not stuck to the bag
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Ben Sherman Nottingham
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An extremely lightweight and durable suitcase, the Ben Sheran Nottingham fits comfortably into the airline regulation sizes. Made from a signature polycarbonate shell, this sleek suitcase has been designed to be ultra-durable and water-resistant.
The smooth handling with 4 silent multidirectional wheels is pretty impressive. Added to these are the aluminum telescoping handle with two lock positions and top side easy grab handles. Handling this carry-on luggage becomes effortless, especially when you’re running to catch your flight.
We’re a little biased towards luggage which is designed for better organization and this one ticks all the right boxes too. With two spacious compartments, a removable laundry bag, and three interior pockets, it’s easy to pack. It also comes with a built-in TSA lock for additional security. Another great advantage of buying the Minima is that it comes with a 10-year limited warranty.
Pros
- Lightweight and durable
- Well-made extension handle helps in better mobility
- Zip up cover divides the case into two halves and keeps belongings secure
- The elegant design gives it a stylish edge
Cons
- The luggage handles are a little small to grip firmly
- Much higher priced than most bags in this range
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AmazonBasics Hardside Spinner Luggage
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AmazonBasics Hardside Spinner Luggage is another extremely popular carry-on luggage for men with over 3,500 reviews on Amazon. Its 21-inch size makes it perfect for business or weekend trips and is accepted as carry-on with most international flights. Although it’s made from extra-thick ABS it’s still pretty lightweight. The suitcase also has a protective hardshell with a scratch-resistant finish to keep the luggage looking as good as new.
The four double spinner wheels help in better mobility and are also sturdy enough to survive a bumpy road. The telescoping handle is also another plus point on this one. The handle locks into place when extending and can be collapsed for storing. The securely fitted short handle is also a great addition as it helps in easy lifting.
We liked that this one is also designed to open up into two compartments for easier organization. The interior also has three separate zippered pockets which are great for storing smaller things. It is also fully lined for additional protection. Added to all this is the expandability of the material which expands up to 15%. However, we recommend not stuffing the luggage to capacity. There’s no telling if it will fit into the overhead bin if it’s too full.
Pros
- Lightweight with extra-thick ABS
- Lined interior with divider and 3 zippered pockets
- Convenient telescoping handle
- Secure short handle
- Easy to maneuver
- Available in different colors
Cons
- The handle tends to move a lot and doesn’t stay steady
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Samsonite Freeform Expandable Hardside Luggage
4
Samsonite has been in the luggage business for years, so it comes as no surprise that this bag is so well designed. The Samsonite Freeform Expandable Hardside Luggage is extremely lightweight and comes with scratch-resistant textures to ensure that your bag looks as good as new whenever you travel. Available in 6 different colors, the durable material is easy to clean and it does not lose its color even after several uses. Don’t hesitate to go for the white if it catches your eye.
This visually pleasing bag has all the features that you’d want with carry-on luggage. The wider pull handle ensures better maneuverability as it’s more comfortable to use and has a good grip. You can push the handle back into the slot easily with the touch of a button. The spinner wheels also add to the easy movement of the bag.
We like the expandable interior too. The cross ribbon and divider and multiple pockets help in better organization of items in the bag. It also has a recessed TSA combination lock for additional security. We also loved that this bag comes with a 10-year limited warranty. We think any kind of warranty on a product is great and when it comes with such a long warranty, you can be sure of the quality of the product.
Pros
- Bigger push button handles
- Cross ribbon, divider, and multiple pockets for better organization
- 360-degree spinner wheels
- TSA Compatible Combination Lock
- 6 colors to choose from
Cons
- There are no instructions on how to open the combination lock when it arrives for the first time
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BANGE 45L Carry-on Backpack
3
Today there are so many choices for carry-on luggage it’s quite mindboggling. Yet some swear by the quintessential backpack over everything else. Those who prefer having their hands free would rather carry their stuff around than wheel it. So we’ve picked out what we think is one of the handiest carry-on backpacks.
Adjustable side straps give you the advantage of converting BANGE 45L Carry-on Backpack into a compact 26-L or a larger 45-L backpack. The multi-panel airflow design and the padding on the backpack straps make it easy on the back. What made this backpack special for us was that the main compartment opens like a clamshell which makes it easy to pack. Also, the USB charging port is a well-thought-out addition. However, keep in mind that the bag is not a battery. You’ll need to connect your power bank to this to charge your phone.
This backpack meets the standard airline requirements and can comfortably fit into the overhead compartment or under the seat. It’s made from water-resistant durable material and can accommodate a 19-inch laptop.
Pros
- Well designed with a good weight distribution
- Can be converted into a duffel bag for convenience
- Compatible with all airline carryon sizes
- Multipurpose backpack
- Opens up like a suitcase for easy packing
Cons
- The backpack straps can be a hindrance if you’re using it as a duffel bag.
- No side pocket for the water bottle
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Travelpro Luggage Maxlite 5 22″ Lightweight Rolling Garment Bag
2
Travelpro has always been a trusted name in luggage and this rolling garment bag does not disappoint. We feel this Travelpro Luggage Maxlite 5 22″ Lightweight Rolling Garment Bag is perfect for a conference or business trip where you need to have your suits neatly packed and ready to wear. The lay-flat design with padded straps ensures that your suits and shirts remain wrinkle-free during travel. Additional built-in pockets also help in organizing items for easier accessibility.
The bag is made from durable stain and water-resistant polyester fabric. We like that this bag can be rolled along on large wheels which are lightweight and sturdy. The handle is also quite sturdy which makes transporting this lightweight bag a breeze.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight and great construction
- Rolling wheels with a telescoping handle
- Durable stain and water-resistant material
Cons
- The telescoping handle does not adjust to different heights
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Briggs & Riley Baseline Spinners
1
Men who have used Briggs & Riley luggage swear by the top-end quality of their products. The brand has a loyal following, firstly because their bags come with cutting-edge CX expansion technology. You can pack Briggs & Riley Baseline Spinners to maximum capacity and then compress them down to fit into the regulation carry-on size.
The premium quality ballistic nylon fabric and the strong hybrid fiberglass frame make it extremely lightweight and flexible. Reinforced corners and large YKK self-repairing zippers add to the durability of this bag. The handle is on the outside which is a good thing as it gives you a flat packing surface. It also extends to 4 stop heights to suit the individual needs.
We were suitably impressed with all the features of this bag. The built-in garment carrier is ideal for keeping your important garments wrinkle-free. Added to this is the compression strap to secure everything in place. The bag also comes with double spinner wheels to help in easy maneuverability.
When a brand gives you a lifetime warranty you can be sure that you’re investing in a great product. The warranty on this one goes the extra mile because you don’t have to be the original owner to avail of this warranty or show proof of purchase. However, the one downside to something that ticks all the boxes is that it comes at a hefty price. These bags are premium quality with a high price tag.
Pros
- Can be compressed to fit regulation sizes even after packing to capacity
- YKK self-repairing zippers
- The exterior is made from premium quality ballistic nylon fabric
- Handle on the outside with 4-stop heights
- The lifetime warranty with no need for proof of purchase or explanations.
Cons
- The back pocket is pretty small and more for show than anything else.
- It is highly-priced
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How To Choose The Right Carry-On Luggage For Men
When it comes down to choosing good carry-on luggage there are certain things that you need to keep in mind. Most important is the price range that you’re looking at. Carry-on luggage is something that you won’t be investing in every few months so don’t shy away from spending a little extra on good quality.
The kind of men’s carry on luggage that is available today suits every traveler’s needs. From luxury to business carry on luggage and budget luggage, there’s something for everyone. Detailed below are a few things that we took into consideration before deciding on the best carry-on luggage for men.
Quality
We all know that quality makes all the difference to how long a product will last. Good quality products go the distance and that’s what you’ll want when you’re selecting carry-on luggage. There’s definitely no compromising on quality when picking out carry on luggage. So what exactly is a good quality bag?
According to us, a good quality bag should have a sturdy build with a secure locking system. Make sure that zippers are durable and move smoothly, handles are firm and travel locks close well. The interior should have ample room for organizing your things. Pockets and zippers on the inside will help in separating the little things from the big ones.
Material
Carry-on luggage is made from a wide range of materials so choosing the right one can be quite confusing. It’s generally a good idea to choose a suitcase with a hardcover if you have valuable stuff inside. However, make sure that it’s made from a lightweight material like polycarbonate or ABS. If you’re looking for more storage space then a soft side is your better choice. Here also look for a bag that is water and stain-resistant and made from ballistic nylon or cordura. With duffel bags, you’ll probably want something softer. Try to avoid investing in a material that you’re unfamiliar with and stick to the ‘tried and tested.’ Look for a material that is durable enough to last multiple travels.
Style
With the numerous types of bags available, choosing a style that suits your needs is probably the easiest thing. Business travelers would obviously prefer something more slick, like the best carry on luggage for suits or something lightweight. Even if you’re someone traveling by road for business, hard luggage would be a good option. Casual travelers would probably prefer something like a backpack which is easy to lug around. Along with the type of luggage that you’re looking at, keep in mind that carry-on luggage is small. Airlines have certain specifications that have to be adhered to or you’ll find your bag unceremoniously being checked in.
What is carry-on luggage?
Carry-on luggage is the baggage that a person is allowed to carry along with them instead of putting it in the cargo compartment. On a flight, the carry-on luggage is generally stored in the overhead luggage bins or placed under the seat.
What is the maximum size allowed in carry-on luggage?
The standard size for almost all airlines is a maximum length of 22 inches (56cm) and a width of 18 inches (25cm). This size includes wheels and handles. Some airlines allow 24-inch bags but you’ll need to check the airline baggage policy to be sure. The maximum weight allowed is 7kgs for carry-on luggage.
Is it better to take get a suitcase or duffel bag for carry-on luggage?
This is a personal choice but if you’re going to be stationed in one place for long then we recommend a suitcase. The reason is that it’s easier to organize and find things in a suitcase. A duffel bag, on the other hand, is the more practical option if you’re going to be traveling to multiple cities. You can fit these flexible bags into any storage compartment, unlike a suitcase that has a fixed shape.
What is the difference between two-wheel and spinner carry-on luggage?
Two-wheeled luggage can move both ways forward and backward. These make them easier to maneuver on uneven surfaces and save on packing space. However, the downside to this is that your bag is always dragged behind you. On the other hand, spinner suitcases have four wheels that rotate 360 degrees making it more flexible. The bag can be turned in any direction but the disadvantage of these protruding wheels is that they take up more space and can sometimes snap off.
Final Thoughts
It’s not always easy to choose the right luggage no matter what your purpose of travel is. Sometimes we think that a bag is just perfect and then it lets us down mid-trip. So before you decide on investing in good carry on luggage make sure you do your homework. Read up on customer reviews and buyer’s guides before you put down your money on anything. This will ensure hassle-free travel.