Whether you’re gearing up for Fall travel or trying to avoid luggage fees, these carry-on bags are our picks for best of the bunch. If you pack efficiently, the Burton Flight Deck and eBags Motherlode can pack quite a bit of gear. (I recently took the Burton Wheelie on my 6-day trip to North Carolina.) For just the essentials, check out the twill weekenders. And, rounding out the bunch are a luxe hardside and a sleek international wheelie.
BURTON Wheelie Flight Deck
I love my Burton carry-on. The inside is divided into two compartments so you can keep dirty clothes separated for the trip home. The front pocket holds an included laptop bag and there’s a pocket at the top great for easy access to my one quart bag for easy breezy security lines. 9.35 lbs.
$219.95
JW HULME Carry On Suitcase
This carry on suitcase is made of 10 oz. water resistant high count cotton marine canvas and features three large full zip around compartments. There are two adjustable straps inside the middle compartment and and adjustable shoulder strap for carrying. 21″W x 13″H x 7.5″D
$435
TUMI Voyageur Super Léger International Carry-On
This compact wheeled case is designed to meet the carry-on size requirements for travel within Europe and Asia. Also ideal for 1-2 day domestic trips. Made from lightweight nylon with leather trim, it features an adjustable-height telescoping handle, smooth-rolling wheels and two outside pockets for smaller items. 20″ x 15″ x 7.5″.
$395
TITAN LUGGAGE Manhattan 22″ USA Carry-On
This is the hardside carry-on that’s been on my wish list forever. 100% Polycarbonate. 22″ x 14″ x 9″. 7 lbs , 13 oz. Lifetime warranty.
Now $460.76 (Orig. $575.95) at eBags (Suggested Retail: $825.00)
J.CREW Rugged Twill Travel Bag
Cotton Twill. Leather handles. Zip closure. Antiqued brass-finish hardware. Exterior pocket, interior back-wall patch pocket with snap closure. Import. Removable shoulder strap fully extends to 49″. 6″ handle drop. 14 1/2″H x 20 1/2″W x 8 3/8″D.
$168
EBAGS Mother Lode TLS Weekender Convertible
This super lightweight 3.7 lb backpack (“convertible”) was featured in the San Francisco Chronicle Travel section in December 2009: “…Best-of-field award for design, materials and value.” 22″ x 14″ x 9″.
