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10 Best Carry On Bags

From leading brands and best sellers available on the web.
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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Cabin Max Anode 55x40x20 Cabin Suitcase, Built in Lock, Lightweight Carry On, 8 Wheels, Wet Pocket, Suitable for Ryanair, Easyjet, Paid Hand Luggage Carry-Ons (55 x 40 x 20 cm 40l)

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,104
Size
Weight
Compartments
Size
Surprisingly spacious for its compact size, it holds more than expected, making it ideal for week-long trips.
Weight
Lightweight yet sturdy, it feels secure and durable when handled with care.
Compartments
Internal pockets and dividers make packing and organizing a breeze.
Wheels
The 8 spinner wheels glide effortlessly, allowing smooth navigation through airports and public transport.
Security Features
The built-in combination lock is easy to use and provides peace of mind.

The Cabin Max Anode carry-on suitcase is designed to fit the size requirements of most airlines, including Ryanair and EasyJet, making it a reliable choice for frequent flyers who want to avoid checked luggage fees. Measuring 55 x 40 x 20 cm, it meets strict cabin baggage rules, and its lightweight design at around 2.2 kg helps keep your load manageable. The hard shell ABS material offers decent durability against typical travel bumps and scratches, though it’s not as tough as some higher-end materials like polycarbonate.

One standout feature is its 8 spinner wheels, which provide smooth 360-degree movement, making it easy to navigate busy airports or train stations. The adjustable telescopic handle adds comfort when pulling the suitcase. Inside, the 40-liter capacity is well-organized with packing straps, a divider, and a zipped wet pocket, which is handy for toiletries or damp items. This organization can help you pack efficiently and keep belongings secure.

Security is covered by a built-in 3-digit combination lock, offering peace of mind for your personal items. However, the suitcase’s coil zips, while durable, might not be as robust as heavy-duty lockable zippers on more premium models. Also, at 2.2 kg, it’s fairly light but not the absolute lightest in its class. This suitcase suits travelers looking for a cabin-sized, lightweight, and affordable option with good mobility and thoughtful internal compartments. It’s especially useful for budget travelers who fly with airlines that have tight carry-on rules. If you want a highly rugged shell or the lightest weight possible, you might find other options better, but this model strikes a solid balance between durability, convenience, and price.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,104
Size
Weight
Compartments
Size
Surprisingly spacious for its compact size, it holds more than expected, making it ideal for week-long trips.
Weight
Lightweight yet sturdy, it feels secure and durable when handled with care.
Compartments
Internal pockets and dividers make packing and organizing a breeze.
Wheels
The 8 spinner wheels glide effortlessly, allowing smooth navigation through airports and public transport.
Security Features
The built-in combination lock is easy to use and provides peace of mind.
#2

Cabin Max Suitcase for Easyjet Cabin Bag Size 45x36x20, Carry-ons, Small Carry on Suitcase, Lightweight Hand Luggage (Underseat 30L 45 x 36 x 20 cm)

Rating
9.4
Size
Weight
Material
Size
The suitcase fits perfectly within strict airline size limits, eliminating the hassle of repacking or gate checks.
Weight
Smooth wheels and lightweight construction make maneuvering through airports effortless.
Material
Its sturdy and robust build instills confidence that belongings will be well protected during travel.
Compartments
Built-in compartments and strong zips help keep clothes and toiletries well organized and secure.
Wheels
Smooth wheels and lightweight construction make maneuvering through airports effortless.
Handles
The extendable handle adjusts comfortably to different heights, making it easy to pull along for tall travelers.
Security Features
Built-in compartments and strong zips help keep clothes and toiletries well organized and secure.

The Cabin Max Suitcase is specifically designed to meet EasyJet's underseat cabin bag size limit of 45x36x20 cm, making it a reliable choice for travelers who want to avoid extra fees or gate checks. Weighing just about 2.1 to 2.2 kg, it’s lightweight enough for easy handling without adding much burden to your carry-on weight allowance. Made from durable ABS material, it offers a solid build that can handle the bumps of frequent travel.

Inside, the 30-liter capacity is quite spacious for a small carry-on, with useful features like packing straps, a zipped divider, and an additional zipped pocket to help organize your belongings. The suitcase has smooth 360-degree spinner wheels that make moving through airports effortless, which is a real plus if you often navigate busy terminals. While it uses sturdy 10mm coil zips for security, there is no integrated lock included, so you might want to add your own for peace of mind.

This bag is ideal for travelers who prioritize airline compliance, lightweight design, and easy mobility. It may be less suitable if you want more advanced security features or extra carrying comfort.

Rating
9.4
Size
Weight
Material
Size
The suitcase fits perfectly within strict airline size limits, eliminating the hassle of repacking or gate checks.
Weight
Smooth wheels and lightweight construction make maneuvering through airports effortless.
Material
Its sturdy and robust build instills confidence that belongings will be well protected during travel.
Compartments
Built-in compartments and strong zips help keep clothes and toiletries well organized and secure.
Wheels
Smooth wheels and lightweight construction make maneuvering through airports effortless.
Handles
The extendable handle adjusts comfortably to different heights, making it easy to pull along for tall travelers.
Security Features
Built-in compartments and strong zips help keep clothes and toiletries well organized and secure.
#3

Metz for Ryanair Cabin Bags 40x20x25 Underseat Cabin Bag for EasyJet, Ryanair, Wizz Air & More Travel Backpack for Airline Under Seat Carry-Ons, Recycled Polyester, Compression, Durable Hand Luggage

Rating
8.2
Size
Compartments
Weight
Size
Fits perfectly under the seat and in overhead storage, making it ideal for strict airline carry-on limits.
Compartments
Offers surprisingly ample space with multiple compartments that keep belongings organized and easy to find.
Weight
Lightweight design combined with practical features like a water bottle holder makes it a smart travel companion.
Material
The bag feels sturdy and well-made, giving confidence in its durability for travel.
Security Features
The zipped compartments can accept a small padlock for added security if needed.

The Metz for Ryanair Cabin Bag is a smart choice if you need a compact, lightweight carry-on that fits Ryanair’s underseat size limits (40x20x25 cm). It weighs only 500 grams, making it easy to carry without adding much bulk. Made from recycled polyester, this bag scores points for being both durable and environmentally friendly. It features a soft shell with water resistance to protect your belongings from light rain.

In terms of storage, it offers 20 litres of space with three pockets, including a front organiser for travel documents and a side bottle holder, helping keep essentials accessible and tidy. The adjustable padded shoulder straps, plus a top handle, make it comfortable to carry as a backpack even when fully packed. However, it doesn’t have wheels, which might be a drawback if you prefer rolling bags for longer walks through airports. Security-wise, it has zipper closures but no lockable compartments, so you might want to add a small padlock if needed.

This bag is best suited for travellers who want a straightforward, eco-friendly backpack for short trips and strict carry-on limits, especially on low-cost airlines like Ryanair, EasyJet, and Wizz Air. Its compact size and practical features help maximise packing space but may feel limited if you need more volume or wheeled convenience.

Rating
8.2
Size
Compartments
Weight
Size
Fits perfectly under the seat and in overhead storage, making it ideal for strict airline carry-on limits.
Compartments
Offers surprisingly ample space with multiple compartments that keep belongings organized and easy to find.
Weight
Lightweight design combined with practical features like a water bottle holder makes it a smart travel companion.
Material
The bag feels sturdy and well-made, giving confidence in its durability for travel.
Security Features
The zipped compartments can accept a small padlock for added security if needed.

Buying Guide for the Best Carry On Bags

Choosing the right carry-on bag is essential for a smooth travel experience. The perfect carry-on should be easy to handle, fit within airline size restrictions, and accommodate your travel essentials. When selecting a carry-on bag, consider factors such as size, weight, material, compartments, and additional features that suit your travel style and needs.
SizeSize is crucial because airlines have specific restrictions for carry-on luggage dimensions. Typically, the maximum size is around 22 x 14 x 9 inches, but this can vary by airline. It's important to check the airline's policy before purchasing. If you frequently travel with different airlines, opt for a bag that meets the most restrictive size requirements. Consider your packing habits; if you pack light, a smaller bag might suffice, but if you need more space, ensure it still fits within the limits.
WeightThe weight of the carry-on bag itself can impact how much you can pack without exceeding airline weight limits. Lighter bags allow you to pack more items without going over the limit. Bags typically range from 4 to 10 pounds. If you tend to pack heavy, choose a lighter bag to maximize your packing capacity. Conversely, if you pack minimally, the weight of the bag may be less of a concern.
MaterialThe material of a carry-on bag affects its durability, weight, and appearance. Common materials include hard-shell plastics like polycarbonate, which offer protection for fragile items, and soft fabrics like nylon or polyester, which are lighter and more flexible. If you prioritize durability and protection, a hard-shell bag might be best. For those who value flexibility and lighter weight, a soft-sided bag could be more suitable.
CompartmentsCompartments help organize your belongings and make it easier to access items during travel. Some bags have multiple pockets and dividers, while others have a more open design. If you like to keep your items organized and separate, look for a bag with several compartments. If you prefer a more open space for packing, a bag with fewer compartments might be ideal.
WheelsWheels on a carry-on bag can significantly affect ease of transport. There are two main types: two-wheel and four-wheel (spinner) designs. Two-wheel bags are better for rough terrain and pulling behind you, while four-wheel bags offer more maneuverability and can be pushed alongside you. Consider your travel habits; if you often navigate crowded airports, a four-wheel bag might be more convenient. For those who travel on uneven surfaces, a two-wheel design could be more practical.
HandlesHandles are important for comfort and ease of use. Look for a bag with a sturdy, adjustable telescopic handle that suits your height. Some bags also have side and top handles for easier lifting. If you frequently lift your bag into overhead compartments, additional handles can be beneficial. Ensure the main handle is comfortable to grip and extends to a height that allows you to maneuver the bag without straining.
Security FeaturesSecurity features like lockable zippers or built-in TSA-approved locks can help protect your belongings. These features are particularly important if you carry valuable items. If security is a priority, look for bags with these features. For those who don't carry valuables, basic zippers might suffice, but having some level of security can provide peace of mind.