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
No, actually, there are so many stylish options on the market that’ll complete an airport OOTD. Dagne Dover, Away, 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 for 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 13 of the best carry-on bags of 2024 below, so you can jet set in style.
Our mission at StyleCaster is to bring style to the people, and we only feature products we think you’ll love as much as we do. Kipling is a StyleCaster sponsor, however, all products in this article were independently selected by our editors. Please note that if you purchase something by clicking on a link within this story, we may receive a small commission of the sale.
Best SoftsideKipling Darcey Small Carry-On Rolling LuggageDimensions: 14″ L x 22″ H x 9.5″ DCompartments: 1 front zip pocketWarranty: The Kipling Limited Warranty covers any defects in materials or workmanship for one year from the date of purchase.Weight: 5.33 poundsCapacity: 37LIf you’re looking for a softside suitcase that has four 360-degree spinning wheels, drop Kipling’s Darcey Small Carry-On Rolling Luggage straight into your cart. The padded top carry handle, side carry handle, and adjustable packing straps make this suitcase a breeze to tote around. Plus, it comes with a handy luggage tag so that you can keep track of your belongings at baggage claim.
Best DuffelNarwey Foldable Travel Duffel BagDimensions: 18 x 13 x 6.3 inchesCompartments: 1 exterior pocketWarranty: NoWeight: 3.53 ouncesCapacity: N/AIf you’re shopping on a budget, don’t fret, there are plenty of affordable carry-ons on Amazon, like the Narwey Foldable Travel Duffel Bag
($10 is game over in my eyes). Though it doesn’t have all of the bells and whistles of its pricier counterparts, it does feature an exterior zipped pocket, is super lightweight, and can be folded up neatly. If you’re anticipating a whole lot of shopping on vacay, this duffel is so easy to tuck into your other bag or suitcase so you can fill it up with goodies on the way back.
Best HardsideOpen Story Hardside Carry On Spinner SuitcaseDimensions: 21.75″ Inches” (H) x 14.25″ Inches” (W) x 9″ (D)Compartments: 1 interior mesh compartment, 1 interior zipper compartmentWarranty: 1 Year Limited Warranty. To obtain a copy of the manufacturer’s or supplier’s warranty for this item prior to purchasing the item, please call Target Guest Services at 1-800-591-3869.Weight: 7.3 poundsCapacity: 100 poundsThis hardside carry-on suitcase from Target is a personal favorite. Why? Because it’s an Away luggage dupe. You can see it in the bag’s simple and sleek exterior, along with its specs. The suitcases have near-identical dimensions and weights, but what really sets the Target version apart is that it can hold up to 100 pounds of belongings inside. I’ve owned this piece of luggage for over two years now and can never go back to my old Jansport backpack.
Dagne Dover Neoprene/Landon Carryall BagDimensions (for Large): 16.5” L x 9” W x 11” HCompartments: 1 laptop sleeve, 2 air mesh pockets, 1 large interior zipper pocketWarranty: NoWeight: 3 pounds 1 ounceCapacity: 29LDagne Dover is known for its ultra-chic bags that prioritize organization, and one of the brand’s bestsellers, the Neoprene/Landon Carryall Bag, is a must-have. Depending on what size you go with, it features a tablet and laptop sleeve, an exterior pocket, a crossbody strap, a mesh pouch, a detachable key leash, three interior pockets, a shoe bag, and a trolley sleeve for slipping it over your rolling suitcase. Wherever you’re headed and whatever you’re packing, this carryall has got you covered. It comes in sizes XS through XL and 15 colors, so pick your player.
Photo: BAGSMART.Best BudgetBAGSMART Travel Duffle bagOn Sale 5% offDimensions: 18.5″ (L) x 8.7″ (W) x 11″ (H)Compartments: 9 multifunctional pocketsWarranty: NoWeight: 1.52 poundsCapacity: 30LIf you’re all about simplicity and saving money, shop this versatile duffle bag
. Nobody will guess you got it for $36 on Amazon. The quilted material adds an elevated flair, and there are several pockets and compartments so that you don’t lose your passport at the bottom of your bag.
Photo: Béis.Best TikTok-ViralBéis The Convertible WeekenderDimensions: W 19″ x D 10″ x H 16″Compartments: 1 exterior double zip removable bottom compartment, 1 external zip pocket, 1 interior padded laptop sleeve pocket, 1 interior large zip pocket, 2 interior small slip pocketsWarranty: NoWeight: 3.86 poundsCapacity: 49LThere’s been a lot of hype over Shay Mitchell’s brand, Béis. The buzz is well-deserved because the bags are so functional and well-designed. Think of every travel essential you might have and there’s a distinct place for it in The Convertible Weekender. Check out the fully removable bottom compartment that also serves as a packing cube (perfect for your shoes that got dirty from all that sightseeing!). A removable, padded laptop sleeve, a key fob, organizational pockets and a trolley sleeve will have you headed out the door and through TSA in a flash.
Lululemon City Adventurer Large Duffle BagDimensions: 18.1″ x 9.3″ x 11.6″Compartments: 1 exterior pocket, 1 exterior zippered pocket, 1 exterior padded pocket, 1 expandable pocket, interior pocketsWarranty: NoWeight: N/ACapacity: 29LGo from work to the gym and your apartment to the airport with this duffle bag from Lululemon. It features a trolley-compatible sleeve, an exterior padded pocket for a 16-inch laptop and even a separate compartment for your sweaty gym clothes or dirty laundry. Now that is practicality at its finest.
Dagne Dover Dakota BackpackDimensions: 13.25” L x 5.25” W x 17.5” HCompartments: 1 laptop sleeve, 1 phone pocket, 2 interior air mesh pockets, 3 interior front panel zipper pockets, 1 front zipper pocketWarranty: NoWeight: 2 pounds 12 ouncesCapacity: 20LSpeaking from personal experience, this puffy backpack is the perfect traveling companion. I love that it slides right onto my rolling suitcase but is also comfortable to wear on my shoulders for long periods of time. The Dakota Backpack can fit a lot more than I expected and has so many compartments and pockets that organize my belongings. It’s also made from 23 percent recycled plastic bottles—a huge bonus! The bag comes in three sizes and six colors, and I don’t see myself swapping this bag for another one any time soon.
Photo: Dagne Dover.Dagne Dover Indi Diaper BackpackDimensions: 12.25” L x 7” W x 13.75” HCompartments: 1 air mesh pocket, 1 bottle holder, 2 mesh slip pockets, 1 slip pocket, 1 front zipper pocketWarranty: NoWeight: 4 poundsCapacity: 17LHear me out: Diaper bags might be the way to go if you prefer to travel hands-free and with the most organized bag of the bunch. Shop the Indi Diaper Backpack in sizes S to L and in six of Dagne Dover’s signature colorways. It comes with so many compartments, pockets and add-ons that’ll have you prepared to face any travel SOS.
Photo: Paravel.Paravel Grand Tour DuffleOn Sale 33% offDimensions: 20″ x 11″ x 10″Compartments: 2 exterior slip pockets, 2 interior zip pocketsWarranty: NoWeight: 4 poundsCapacity: N/AThis travel bag screams “Do not disturb—I’m off to Europe.” It’s made from Paravel’s spill-proof EcoCraft Canvas and recycled vegan leather. Spill-proof is definitely something to look out for when buying a new carry-on, in case of accidental toiletry or snack leakages. According to the brand, it can fit four to five sweaters, four to five pants or dresses and a week’s worth of shirts, socks and underwear. What can’t you fit in this duffle? Even better, get your initials monogrammed in paint or embroidery—how chic!
Photo: Monos.Best Splurge-WorthyMonos Metro WeekenderDimensions: 19.25″ × 10.25″ × 14.75″Compartments: 1 laptop compartment, 1 interior zippered pocket, 1 interior end pocket, 2 interior side pockets, 1 lower zippered compartmentWarranty: All Metro bags are backed by a 2-year limited warrantyWeight: 5.18 pounds (nylon) / 5.34 pounds (vegan leather)Capacity: 47.5LComing in vegan leather or nylon, the Metro Weekender is one of the classiest picks on this list. Both materials are water and scratch-resistant, and the trolley sleeve converts into a pocket when it’s not in use. What’s more: There’s a separate zippered compartment at the bottom for shoes and dirty clothes—drawstring bag included!
Photo: Longchamp.Best StylishLongchamp Le Pliage Expandable DuffleDimensions: 17.7″ (L – measured at the base of the bag) x 13.8″ (H) x 9.1″ (W)Compartments: 1 interior zipped compartment, 1 zipped pocketWarranty: NoWeight: 1.56 poundsCapacity: 50LThis is no ordinary duffle, and we say that because it expands and contracts to adjust the shape and size of the bag. Plus, you get Longchamp’s signature water-resistant nylon and leather trim combo—luxe indeed!
Dimensions: 14″ x 15.25″ x 8.25″Compartments: 1 main zip compartment, 2 front zipper pockets, 1 back zipper pocketWarranty: NoWeight: 0.8 poundsCapacity: N/AThis is the only overnight bag you’ll ever need. The front two pockets are tall enough to fit water bottles, sunscreen, bug spray, or anything else you might need for a weekend trip. The center pocket is huge and can fit multiple outfits, including shoes. The best part? When you’re not using it, the bag completely collapses and folds into itself for easy storage, which is perfect for anyone who lives in a small space or who just doesn’t want their luggage storage to take over their closets. Since this bag has a trolly sleeve, it will easily slip onto your carry-on luggage for secure access at the airport. Grab it in any of the nine different colors for just $54 now.
