Cabin bags have revolutionized the way we travel. With airlines charging extra fees for checked luggage, everyone wants to cram their belongings into little carry-on luggage. But if you want to make sure you can bring as many things as possible without having to waste your time at baggage claim, we recommend getting the best carry on luggage 22 inches. Yep, a 22-inch bag is still considered a carry-on. And if you get the right one, you can pack a lot of stuff! Always make sure to pick your luggage carefully, as it’s not something that should be skimped or compromised on. So, which one is actually right for you? We’ve picked 13 of our favorite 22 in carry on luggage to make your decision easier, so read on!
Table of contents
- ebags Mother Lode Carry-On Roller Luggage
- Traveler’s Choice Pagosa Spinner Luggage
- NINETYGO Carry-On Luggage
- Victorinox WT 6.0 Softside Spinner Luggage
- Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside Luggage
- TUMI Tegra Lite Max International Carry-On Luggage
- Briggs & Riley Baseline Softside CX Expandable Carry-On Luggage
- Travelpro Maxlite 4 Softside Expandable Luggage
- Thule Crossover Rolling Upright Luggage
- TUMI Latitude International Hardside Carry-On Luggage
- OGIO Layover Travel Bag
- Thule Revolve Carry-On Luggage
- Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Carry-On Luggage
- How To Choose The Best Carry On Luggage 22 Inches
- Can you carry-on a 22-inch bag?
- Can I take a 22.5-inch carry-on bag?
- Do airlines really measure carry-on luggage?
ebags Mother Lode Carry-On Roller Luggage
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Easy to maneuver and even easier to pack, there’s no better way to start our list with the ebags Mother Lode Carry-On Roller Luggage. This wheeled, 22 in carry on luggage, is ideal for any quick trip. It’s constructed from twisted poly fabric and boasts an expandable silhouette with an adjustable telescoping trolley handle.
We also fancy the compression-molded EVA bottom that’s both rigid yet flexible. Meanwhile, the smooth-rolling wheels offer effortless mobility. Inside, you’ll find tie-down straps to secure your clothing in place, an interior lid compartment with a zipped mesh panel, and a vibrant orange lining that makes finding your essentials a breeze. There are two front zipper pockets on the outside to hold everything from your passport to your phone.
- What We Love:
- A high-quality and compact option that’s ideal for any quick trip.
- Pros:
- Easy-access compartments
- Huge main compartment
- Smooth-rolling wheels
- Rigid yet flexible EVA bottom
- Adjustable telescoping trolley handle
- Cons:
- Not as popular as other big brands
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Traveler’s Choice Pagosa Spinner Luggage
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Up next is the Traveler’s Choice Pagosa Spinner Luggage. So, what’s so great about this carry on luggage 22 inches? Well, first of all, we really adore its design. It’s simple, modern, and available in 5 different hues that are sure to steal attention. Then, it comes with a built-in USB port and an interior power bank compartment for a quick charge.
As expected from one of the best 22 inch carry on luggage, this item comes with easy-to-maneuver spinner wheels and a multi-stage telescoping handle with a push-button mechanism. We also fancy the top and side rubber carry handles that provide easy lifting and carrying. The compartment is huge, and it features multiple zippered pockets as well. However, our favorite feature is its indestructible polypropylene hard shell that’s abrasion, scratch, and water-resistant!
- What We Love:
- An indestructible 22 in carry on luggage that’s packed with modern features.
- Pros:
- 360-degree spinner wheels
- Built-in USB port and power bank compartment
- Sturdy multi-stage telescoping handle
- Tons of compartments
- Indestructible polypropylene hardshell
- Cons:
- The charging port isn’t the best
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NINETYGO Carry-On Luggage
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With its unusual front opening compartments, the NINETYGO Carry-On Luggage is designed for those who need instant access to their devices, documents, and other items while they travel. We think this 22 in carry on luggage is perfect for business travelers or those who have to take a lot of tech with them. By getting this luggage, you can breeze through security without having to unpack your entire bag to get your stuff out.
The main compartment is also pretty impressive, as it comes with plenty of space for your clothes. Each compartment is held in place by cross straps and zippers to stop your belongings from rolling around during transit. Thanks to its polycarbonate shell, this is one heck of a suitcase and is guaranteed to be completely shockproof.
- What We Love:
- Quirky and unique, this is a nice pick for those who want to be able to access their items at a moment’s notice.
- Pros:
- Unique front opening compartments
- Durable polycarbonate shell
- Surprisingly lightweight
- TSA lock
- Plenty of pockets
- Cons:
- The tech compartment takes up a lot of space
Victorinox WT 6.0 Softside Spinner Luggage
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Victorinox, a world-famous luggage brand, makes the next best carry on luggage 22 inches that we have. Here we have the Victorinox WT 6.0 Softside Spinner Luggage. This 22 in carry on luggage is remarkably flexible and super accessible. The main compartment is far from small and would definitely appeal to all frequent travelers.
Made from extra-strong nylon, this luggage comes with a Swiss-engineered handle system that’s as awesome as the brand’s renowned knives. It also takes inspiration from Japan with Hinomoto wheels that feature Lisof silent tires for quiet and quick maneuverability! Another feature worth mentioning is the dedicated laptop compartment that can fit a 15.4-inch laptop, making it ideal carry-on luggage for business travelers.
- What We Love:
- A perfectly crafted luggage that’s suitable for frequent travelers and businessmen.
- Pros:
- Dedicated laptop compartment
- Swiss-engineered handle system
- Hinomoto wheels with Lisoft silent tires
- Lightweight and sturdy construction
- Comes with a USD port
- Cons:
- Can fall over pretty easily
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Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside Luggage
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Those who fancy expandable soft side luggage should take a look at the Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside Luggage. Whether you have a 3-day trip or a one-week vacation, you can always rely on this carry-on. This best carry on luggage 22 inches are incredibly lightweight, and durable. Not to mention, there are four beautiful colorways that you can choose from!
With an expandable design, the last thing you’ll have to worry about is running out of space. This luggage is made of high-density nylon fabric with a DuraGuard coating that resists stains and abrasions when it comes to construction. We also fancy the chrome zipper heads that are engineered to take beatings. Best of all, there’s an external USB port with a dedicated power bank pocket that meets FAA regulations for carry-on and checked baggage!
- What We Love:
- It’s desigend for travelers who expect top performance without sacrificing style.
- Pros:
- Available in many color options
- Built-in USB port
- Durable zipper heads
- DuraGuard coating
- Expandable capacity
- Cons:
- The handle is a bit flimsy
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TUMI Tegra Lite Max International Carry-On Luggage
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Everyone knows TUMI suitcases are far from cheap, but their quality is definitely top-tier. The TUMI Tegra Lite Max International Carry-On Luggage is the go-to option for travelers hunting for the best carry on luggage 22 inches. It’s entirely made from Tegris – a polycarbonate thermoplastic composite material frequently used in sports gear and NASCAR car components. In fact, TUMI is the only luggage brand with exclusive rights to use this material in its products. Pretty impressive, right?
It doesn’t end there! For better impact resistance, this designer luggage also features corner guards. Meanwhile, the 4spinner wheels will glide smoothly, and the retractable wheel handle is far from flimsy. As the best 22 inch carry on luggage, it also boasts an external compartment that’s big enough to fit your laptop and files. The main compartment is super roomy, and it comes complete with tons of extra pockets.
- What We Love:
- Though pricey, this high-end luggage is incredibly durable and packed with tons of impressive features.
- Pros:
- Durable Tegris material
- Roomy main compartment
- Smooth spinner wheels
- External compartment for laptops and files
- Sturdy zippers
- Cons:
- Pricey
Briggs & Riley Baseline Softside CX Expandable Carry-On Luggage
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If you have a lot to spend, don’t hesitate to get the Briggs & Riley Baseline Softside CX Expandable Carry-On Luggage! Besides offering you three stunning color variations, it’s also available in many sizes. If you’re looking for a carry-on, you can choose between the 19, 21, and 22-inch variations. Not to mention, all of them have smooth spinner wheels and a strong handle.
Made from 1680D ballistic nylon outer fabric, this best carry on luggage 22 inches promises to resist moisture and dirt as well as the wear and tear of travel. The hybrid fiberglass frame is lightweight and provides flexibility, durability, and the ability to retain its shape cleverly. But among all that this 22 in carry on luggage offers, our favorite feature is its patented CX expansion-compression system. It allows you to increase your packing capacity by a whopping 26% while compressing back to the original size to keep the contents secure.
- What We Love:
- A premium, expandable option that has all the features you could wish for.
- Pros:
- Top-notch construction
- CX expansion-compression system
- Can resist moisture and dirt
- Plenty of pockets
- Available in multiple colorways and sizes
- Cons:
- Might be out of budget for many travelers
Travelpro Maxlite 4 Softside Expandable Luggage
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Made from polyester fabric with a stain-resistant coating, the Travelpro Maxlite 4 Softside Expandable Rollaboard Luggage is perfect for travelers that want to get the best 22 inch carry on luggage without going broke. Though it’s not pricey like Samsonite carry-on luggage, it doesn’t compromise on quality. This luggage looks just as good as many of its other more expensive counterparts, and it’s also available in a variety of colors and sizes.
Weighing a super light 6lbs, you’ll have plenty of room to load up all of your belongings. Seen as the best carry on luggage 22 inches, it has an expandable design that dramatically increases interior space. Apart from that, we also love how the spinner wheels allow for easy maneuverability. Plus, the handle is incredibly durable and not flimsy at all!
- What We Love:
- This 22 in carry on luggage is worth exploring if you want to travel light but right.
- Pros:
- Wallet-friendly
- Sturdy handle
- Expandable design
- Lightweight
- Comes in a wide range of colors and sizes
- Cons:
- Can tip over easily
Thule Crossover Rolling Upright Luggage
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Indeed, some soft side suitcases aren’t durable, but that’s not the case with the Thule Crossover Rolling Upright Luggage. It’s a remarkably long-lasting soft side luggage that never ceases to amaze travelers. This luggage features crushproof SafeZone compartments that are perfect for all of your smaller, fragile items. Its exterior is made from nylon, which has a pretty good water resistance without any additional coating. For more water-resistant options, take a look at the best luggage for cruise carnivals!
Like some of the best carry on luggage 22 inches, this one has an expandable capacity and is divided into two packing compartments. The top compartment has a full panel divider with 2humongous zippered pockets, while the bottom one features tie-down straps to keep your clothes in place. On top of that, it comes with a removable suiter section. Speaking of which, don’t forget to take a look at our best weekender bags for suits!
- What We Love:
- A highly durable softside luggage that’s specifically built with travelers in mind.
- Pros:
- Crushproof SafeZone compartments
- Comes with a suiter section
- Expandable capacity
- Good water resistance
- Has a good balance
- Cons:
- A bit hard to pull up the handle
TUMI Latitude International Hardside Carry-On Luggage
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Say hello to another 22 in carry on luggage from TUMI! The TUMI Latitude International Hardside Carry-On Luggage manages to earn high marks for durability. Its outer shell is made with layers of specially woven, self-reinforced polypropylene ballistic material. While it provides a unique aesthetic, it also bends and flexes to fit most overhead bins without getting scratched or damaged.
Weighing only 6.24lbs, this suitcase is exceptionally lightweight! Meanwhile, the 3-stage telescoping handle and four lightweight spinner wheels will add extra support. As for the interior, you can find two packing compartments and mesh tie-down straps to easily fit everything in for the interior. Even better, it’s available in 5 different stunning colors!
- What We Love:
- It’s a pleasing-to-the-eye option that’s durable and exceeds your expectations.
- Pros:
- Available in multiple colors
- Extremely durable
- Nice aesthetic
- Smooth spinner wheels
- Compact and lightweight
- Cons:
- Costs more than many other options
OGIO Layover Travel Bag
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The OGIO Layover Travel Bag will make you feel like you’re starring in a Hollywood action movie! This best 22 inch carry on luggage is small enough to carry on, yet big enough to fit everything you’d need for a week-long trip. Not to mention, it’ll make you look super cool and stealthy! We’re sure most men would instantly fall in love with this product.
Its capacity is a whopping 46L, and there are even compression straps on the inside to help you maximize the space. Oh, did we mention that it’s expandable? Yes, it can expand up to 3 extra inches! Plus, it also comes with tons of pockets with sturdy and smooth zippers. While it’s not light by any means, the wheels and durable pull handle help to make moving it effortless. Overall, we really recommend getting this carry-on luggage with wheels!
- What We Love:
- A well-designed and functional luggage for a week-long trip.
- Pros:
- Expandable capacity
- Plenty of extra pockets
- Smooth and strong zippers
- Wide main compartment opening
- Meets most airline regulations
- Cons:
- A bit on the heavy side
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Thule Revolve Carry-On Luggage
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If what you want is the best carry on luggage 22 inches that’s designed to last and protect your belongings, then the Thule Revolve Carry-On Luggage is your best bet. It’s a hard side luggage made of 100% virgin polycarbonate. There’s really no need to question its durability. Plus, it’s very lightweight for its size and comes with eight spinner wheels for easy mobility on the go.
Meanwhile, the built-in TSA combination locks are some of the best that luggage carriers offer! Speaking of which, have you checked out our best luggage with combination locks? Moving on, this 22 in carry on luggage is available in 3 different colors, and no matter which one you choose, you’ll definitely turn heads! So, what are you waiting for? Go get this luggage now!
- What We Love:
- A sleek and modern luggage that’s designed to last and protect all of your belongings.
- Pros:
- Puncture-resistant zippers
- Smooth spinner wheels
- Available in many sizes and colors
- Come with TSA locks
- Retractable ID slot
- Durable virgin polycarbonate
- Cons:
- Takes up more spae to store
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Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Carry-On Luggage
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Our number one pick is the Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Carry-On Luggage. This best carry on luggage 22 inches allows you to travel light and with no drama! It’s incredibly lightweight and comes with high-performance wheels for easy maneuverability. We also love the sturdy PowerScope Lite handle with stops at 38 inches and 42.5 inches, reducing wobble and ensuring a smooth roll.
As with some of the best 22 inch carry on luggage, this item has an expandable design. It expands up to 2 inches to maximize packing capacity. Of course, there are tons of pockets too! Meanwhile, the polyester fabric is stain-resistant and is water repellant. Plus, it’s available in 8 stunning colors to choose from. Best of all, it’s backed by a limited lifetime warranty.
- What We Love:
- A reliable all-rounder that allows you to travel light and drama-free.
- Pros:
- Available in multiple colorways
- Expandable design
- Sturdy PowerScope Lite handle
- Smooth wheels
- Stain-resistant and water repellant
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Cons:
- Lacks external pockets
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How To Choose The Best Carry On Luggage 22 Inches
If you know what features to look for when you’re getting carry on luggage 21 inches, we’re sure you can pick the right 22 in carry on luggage without much help. But in case you didn’t know, here are the important features that you should consider!
Size
To take your carry-on into the cabin, it has to meet the airline’s size requirements. Different airlines can have different size requirements for cabin luggage, though the standard one is usually 22″ x 14″ x 9″, including the handle and the wheels. Make sure to check what the standard size is for the airlines you fly with the most.
Durability
Hardside luggage is generally more long-lasting. However, it’s heavier and will most likely cost you more. Softside luggage is more flexible, cheaper, and allows you to pack more. However, in terms of durability, it isn’t the best. As you can see, both have their own strengths and weaknesses. So, choosing which one to get depends on your needs and preferences.
Compartments
Another thing to consider is the number of compartments offered by the luggage. Of course, everyone wants to have a big main compartment, especially if they’re going to have a long trip. However, your luggage should also have extra space to hold some of your small or fragile items. Aside from that, we recommend getting luggage that comes with external easy-access pockets.
Wheels
Nowadays, plenty of suitcases come with four wheels. By purchasing luggage that has four wheels, you’ll be able to maneuver the luggage smoothly on any surface without tilting it. On the other hand, 2-wheel luggage offers less maneuverability. But it’s great when you’re in a rush and have to run to the boarding gate.
Can you carry-on a 22-inch bag?
Yes, you can. The maximum dimensions of a carry-on are 22″ x 14″ x 9″. However, we recommend checking the airline’s regulations to be more certain.
Can I take a 22.5-inch carry-on bag?
Well, it depends. Some airlines allow a carry-on that’s 22.5 inches, while others may apply strict rules on carry-on dimensions. The good thing is, most major airlines won’t check the size unless it’s obviously way too big or heavier than their luggage allowance.
Do airlines really measure carry-on luggage?
Here’s a little secret: most airlines don’t actually measure the luggage carried or checked by a passenger! They usually have a rigid sizer in the check-in area, at the boarding gate, and sometimes elsewhere.