From international getaways to Europe and Asia to road trips and interstate train travel, Forbes Vetted editors spend plenty of time on the move. As such, we have strong opinions on the best luggage to check, wheel and haul on our journeys. We named Away’s The Bigger Carry-On as the best carry-on suitcase because it has plenty of packing real estate within its durable polycarbonate shell—plus, it comes in a slew of eye-catching shades. If you’re looking for a rugged but sleek checked option, the July Checked Luggage has an 80-liter capacity, reinforced corners and distinctive color options that’ll pop on the luggage carousel.
Dimensions: 22.7 x 15.4 x 9.6 inches | Weight: 7.9 pounds | Capacity: 49L | Materials: Polycarbonate shell, aluminum trolley handle | Wheels: 360-degree spinners | TSA lock: Yes | Colors: 12 | Warranty: Limited lifetime | Notable features: Interior compression, underside handle, removable laundry bag, free personalization
Best for:
Efficient packing, thanks to an interior compression system
Week-long trips or longer, depending on your packing style and the season
Skip if:
You like to stand out—this suitcase is popular among travelers
Away’s polycarbonate shell suitcases are lightweight and highly functional. Named the top pick in our guide to the best carry-on luggage, The Bigger Carry-On can easily fit into most overhead bins while allowing for about week’s worth of packing space, compared with The Carry-On’s slightly smaller capacity. (Away’s comparison guide lays out the differences in all four of its carry-on suitcases.)
Quiet Wheels And A Well-Executed Compression System
The Bigger Carry-On has quiet, easy-rolling wheels, an underside grab handle and a removable laundry bag. Away’s signature compression system, complete with adjustable straps, allows you to pack a good amount inside. As for color variety, there’s something for everyone, from muted gray to vibrant pink.