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Wole Femi Asaolu
- September 15, 2023
If you’re constantly on the go, you know the importance of having the best carry-on luggage for frequent flyers.
You also know how hard it is to find the perfect bag that meets all your needs.
After all, if your bag is too big, you’ll have to check it and risk losing it or having it damaged. If it’s too small, you won’t be able to fit everything you need. And, if it’s not comfortable to carry, you’ll be miserable lugging it through the airport.
With that in mind, here are 15 of the best carry-on bags for frequent flyers.
What is the best carry-on luggage for frequent travelers?
In our opinion, the best carry-on luggage for frequent flyers are the Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Carry-On for those in favor of suitcases, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack if you prefer backpacks, and the Samsonite underseat Carry-on if you want an underseater. Each of these options is lightweight, durable, and is sure to help you avoid checked baggage fees.
If you’re still not sure about these three bags, don’t worry.
There are other options of suitcases, backpacks, duffel bags, underseaters, and even a garment bag that are equally suited for frequent travelers.
Read on to see these alternatives and a detailed account of why they made the list of the best carry-on luggage for frequent travelers!
See the full options below:
Best carry-on luggage for frequent flyers 2022
Here is a preview of the top 15 best carry-on luggage for frequent flyers:
Best carry-on luggage for frequent flyers (suitcases)
- Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Carry-On Spinner
- Monos Carry-On Pro
- Briggs & Riley Baseline Carry-on
- Amazon Basics Hardside Carry-on Spinner Suitcase
- Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable
Best carry-on luggage for frequent flyers (backpacks)
- Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack
- Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L
- Tortuga Outbreaker 45L Backpack
- Asenlin 40L Travel Backpack
- Nomatic Travel Bag
Best carry-on luggage for frequent flyers (underseaters, garment bag & duffels)
- Patagonia Black Hole 40L Duffel Bag
- Kipling Bori Duffle Bag
- Samsonite Underseat Carry-on with USB Port
- Calpak Hue Mini Carry-On Luggage
- Modoker Convertible Garment Bag
In this section, we’ll be talking about suitcases that you can rely on to survive many trips.
Whether you prefer softside or hardside suitcase, there’s an option on this list for you!
If you’re a frequent flyer, you know how important it is to have luggage that can keep up with you.
You need something durable, lightweight, and functional for frequent use.
And, in our opinion, the Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Carry-On is the best carry-on luggage for frequent flyers because has all these features, and more.
This suitcase is carry-on sized, which means it will fit in the overhead bin on most airplanes.
Also, it is a bestselling luggage that comes highly recommended with tons of positive feedback and over 3,200 global ratings from users on Amazon who mostly like how durable, spacious and convenient it is to use.
And from my research, I found that the Platinum Elite carry-on is usually among the top recommendation for best carry-on luggage by reviewers, including Wirecutter, Travel + Leisure, Good Housekeeping, Insider.com, and TripSavvy.
The exterior is made from high-density nylon fabric with water-resistant zippers and a DuraGuard coating, which resists stains and abrasions.
The interior is spacious and features two separate compartments with compression straps to keep your belongings in place.
Additionally, it has a deluxe tie-down system, integrated accessory pockets, and a TSA complaint quart-size wet pocket for your toiletries.
There’s even a fold-out suiter for you to transport your suits or dresses, wrinkle-free.
Plus, it’s expandable by 2”, so you can pack even more into it if needed.
So, if you’re looking for the best carry-on luggage for frequent travelers that can do it all, the Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Carry-On is a sure bet.
What we also love
This carry-on bag from Travelpro also comes with convenient features.
It has a built-in USB port with a power bank pocket that adheres to FAA regulations, so you can charge your devices on the go.
Additionally, it features a self-aligning spinner wheel system that makes it easy to maneuver through airport security, even when fully packed.
It also has a height-adjustable PowerScope handle with cushioned touch points for a comfortable grip that makes it easy to transport.
What’s more?
The Platinum Elite is stylish and looks sophisticated thanks to its genuine leather accents, chrome zippers, and 7 color options you can pick from!
What’s not great
The Platinum Carry-On is a great piece of luggage, but there are a few potential drawbacks.
For one, it may be too big for some budget airlines.
If you’re flying on a budget airline that has a strict size restriction, the Platinum Carry-on may be considered too large because it measures 23.5” x 14.5” x 9” against the standard 22” x 14” x 9” size.
So I advise you to double-check to make sure the carry-on will meet their size restrictions.
Another potential downside is that it’s easy to overpack and end up with a heavy bag.
Because the carry-on is expandable, it can be tempting to pack a lot into it, which may end up exceeding the airline’s restrictions on size, or being too heavy for you to manage.
Be mindful of your packing strategy and try not to overload the suitcase. Otherwise, you’ll be struggling to lift it into the overhead bin or lug it through the airport.
Another top recommendation for the best carry-on luggage for frequent flyers is the Carry-On Pro from Monos.
What sets the Monos Carry-On Pro apart from other carry-on luggage is its built-in front compartment. Since you’re always on the go, you’ll like that it allows you easy access to your belongings, so you don’t have to dig through your suitcase to find what you need.
This front compartment has three interior pockets that can fit a 15″ laptop, tablet, or magazine, as well as three zippered pouches for smaller items.
This Carry-On Pro is also made with durability in mind.
It features a water-resistant exterior and an impact-resistant aerospace-grade, German polycarbonate hardshell that can handle being thrown around in airplanes or storage compartments.
This is a feature that a frequent traveler would appreciate because the last thing you want is a bag that is bent up and useless after a few trips.
The lockable YKK reverse coil zipper is another bonus, as it keeps your belongings safe and secure while in transit.
And speaking of security, the Carry-On Pro comes with a TSA-approved lock!
This bag is also perfect for those who like to pack light!
It has a 36L carrying capacity that can fit items for a 2-5 day trip.
The interior is lined with a soft 350D anti-microbial fabric that not only resists bacteria growth but also helps protect your belongings from scratches.
On the inside, you’ll see two compartments with a built-in compression pad, a laundry bag, and two shoe bags that make the process of packing and unpacking easier.
The compression pad allows you to compress your clothing so that it takes up less space in your suitcase, while the laundry bag allows you to separate your dirty clothes from your neat wear.
Not only does it make the process of packing and unpacking easier, but it also helps you avoid checked baggage fees.
This 22″x 14″ x 9″ carry-on is compliant with most airlines’ size restrictions and is designed to fit into the overhead bin compartment of most airlines, making it one of the best carry-on luggage for frequent travelers.
So whether you’re flying across the country or flying around the world, the Monos Carry-On Pro is perfect for any journey!
What we also love
The Monos Carry-On Pro also features whisper-quiet 360° spinner wheels that make it easy to maneuver in tight spaces, so you won’t have to worry about lugging around a heavy suitcase.
And the telescopic handle can be adjusted to 4 different heights settings, which means everyone from small children to tall adults can easily pull it along.
And, for those who are looking for something extra special, the Monos Carry-On Pro also comes with ultra-microfibre vegan leather details for added sophistication.
What’s not great
The Monos Carry-on Pro is a bit heavy at 7.8 pounds, which might be a downside, especially when you want to lift it into the overhead bins or onto luggage racks.
Additionally, the light-colored options tend to get dirty easily or show more scuffs and scratch marks over time if you’re not careful about keeping them clean.
To avoid this, you may be better off going for darker-colored suitcases with colors like midnight black, storm grey, ocean blue, and olive green.
Related: Is Monos a good luggage brand?
Related: Is Monos luggage better than Away?
Let’s be honest— nobody wants to spend their hard-earned money on replacing their carry-on every year.
The best carry-on luggage for frequent travelers should not only be able to hold all of your belongings, but it also needs to be durable enough to withstand being thrown around.
That’s where the Briggs & Riley Baseline Carry-on comes in.
At 22 x 14 x 9 inches, this piece of luggage is the perfect size for carrying on an airplane, and also has several features that make it ideal for frequent flyers.
For starters, this suitcase is built to last.
Briggs and Riley is known for using the best materials for making bags that will last you for a long time, and the Baseline is no exception. This one is made with smooth-rolling YKK zippers and durable ballistic nylon fabric that will stand up to years of wear and tear.
And with their unconditional lifetime warranty, it, therefore, won’t be surprising if your Baseline lasts you for a long, long time.
One of the best features of this carry-on is the CX Compression-Expansion Technology which gives an additional 34% carrying capacity when expanded. This allows you to pack more without having to worry about the suitcase becoming too heavy or bulky.
It also has a built-in tri-fold garment folder that can hold 1 or 2 suits – perfect for business travelers. And if you need to pack extra shoes or other items, there are compression straps that will keep everything secure.
With all these features, you see that this understated piece of luggage is perfect for regular travelers or anyone who wants a no-fuss experience when packing and unpacking.
But that’s not all.
This carry-on also has an aircraft-grade aluminum telescoping handle with multiple stop heights, so you can adjust it to your preferred setting.
Plus, the spinner wheels make it easy to maneuver through an airport terminal.
And because we know how important it is to keep your belongings safe while traveling, this carry-on comes with corner-guard protection and a TSA lock.
What we also love
If you’re looking for a classic carry-on that will never go out of style, the Briggs & Riley Baseline is your guy.
Plus, it is available in three colors, so you’re sure to find one that fits your style.
For added convenience, there is also a hide-away leather ID tag.
And if you’re worried about your phone dying while on the go, there’s no need. This carry-on has a PowerPocket that stores battery packs and cell phones for charging.
What’s not great
The Briggs & Riley Baseline is a great carry-on option, but it does have a few drawbacks.
First, it is one of the most expensive options on the market. Second, at 9.7 lbs, it is heavier than many other carry-ons on this list.
Overall, the Baseline is a high-quality bag that will serve you well for many trips.
This suitcase from Amazon Basics is the best carry-on luggage for frequent flyers looking for something affordable and functional.
Whether you’re regularly on the move for business trips, or international trips, this hardside luggage has features you’ll like.
The Amazon basics suitcase is constructed from ABS hard shell material, which is quite strong and scratch-resistant. Although not as durable as a polycarbonate material, you can however be sure you’re your belongings will be safe and sound no matter where you take them.
Additionally, the suitcase comes with 4 double-spinner wheels that make maneuvering through busy airports a breeze.
Plus, the sturdy telescoping handle makes it easy to pull your suitcase behind you without having to worry about it breaking or collapsing.
Once you reach your destination, unpacking is a snap thanks to the fully lined 150D polyester interior organizer with a divider.
This feature keeps all of your clothes and belongings organized and in place so you don’t have to rummage through your suitcase in search of specific items.
Plus, there are 3 zippered pockets on the inside of the suitcase perfect for storing smaller items such as toiletries, jewelry, or electronics.
If you find yourself packing more than you anticipated, don’t worry – this suitcase is also expandable for up to 15% more storage space.
That way, you’ll never have to leave anything behind.
What we also love
This carry-on from Amazon is affordably priced without sacrificing quality or durability. Thus, making it an unbeatable value for frequent flyers.
Don’t take our word for it though – this suitcase has received high marks and over 25,000 five stars ratings from Amazon reviewers, and is sure to exceed your expectations.
What’s not great
The Amazon Basics hardside carry-on 21″ spinner suitcase is a great option for those looking for an affordable luggage piece.
However, it has its drawbacks.
The Amazon Basics hardside does not have a TSA lock, which could be inconvenient if you’re traveling to a destination where security screenings are mandatory.
Additionally, some users have noted that the suitcase is not particularly sturdy compared to premium suitcases like the Away Carry-on, and can be prone to damage if not handled with care.
But if you’re looking for a bag that is affordable, and packed with features that make traveling a breeze, then the Amazon Basics Hardside Carry-on 21″ Spinner Suitcase is your guy.
The Samsonite Freeform Expandable Carry-on is the perfect solution for frequent travelers who want to avoid checked baggage fees and enjoy the convenience of carrying everything they need with them on the plane.
First and foremost, the carry-on is the perfect size for carrying on the plane. It meets most carry-on size restrictions, so you won’t have to worry about checking it at the gate.
And at just 6.5 pounds, it’s one of the lightest carry-ons on the market.
This means you will be able to lift the case into the overhead bin compartment with ease.
But don’t let its lightweight design fool you—this piece of luggage is built to last.
Samsonite products are rigorously tested to ensure that they meet stringent standards, and this carry-on is no exception.
This hardshell exterior is made from lightweight yet durable polypropylene material, which protects your belongings from being crushed.
Plus, it comes with a 10-year warranty so you can rest assured that it will withstand the rigors of modern travel.
The Freeform also comes with some handy features that make packing a breeze.
It has a cross ribbon and divider system that keeps your belongings organized, as well as multiple pockets for storing small items.
And because it’s expandable, you’ll have plenty of room for all of your belongings—even if you end up picking up souvenirs on your trip!
What we also love
The Samsonite Freeform Carry-on also has some great functional features that make it perfect for frequent travelers.
For example, it has a TSA lock, which will give you peace of mind knowing that your belongings are safe and secure.
In addition, the push-button locking handle and double wheels make maneuvering through crowded airports a breeze.
And like the Briggs & Riley carry-on, this one also comes with a built-in ID tag—just in case you happen to lose it en route to your destination.
Not to mention, the Freefrom carry-on from Samsonite is one of the highly rated and most stylish carry-on luggage for frequent travelers on Amazon.
Whether you’re a business traveler or a leisure traveler, the Samsonite Freeform Expandable Carry-on is the perfect piece of luggage for your next trip.
What’s not great
The Samsonite Freeform Expandable Carry-on is a great suitcase for short trips or weekend getaways. However, there are a few drawbacks to consider.
First, the polypropylene exterior is prone to scuffs over time. To mitigate this, I advise using a scuff remover.
Also, the carry-on only has a few organizational compartments, so it can be challenging to store all of your belongings in an orderly fashion.
And lastly, there are reports by users on Amazon and reviewers like Clever Journey and Peekathis.com that the wheels of the suitcase are not very durable and tend to break easily.
The backpacks in this section fit in the overhead compartment of most airlines and are comfortable enough to wear for long periods. It also helps that they come with lots of pockets and compartments to help you stay organized on the go.
Plus, these backpacks are great for when wheeling or pulling your luggage isn’t convenient.
Below are the best carry-on backpacks for regular travelers:
Related: Is a Backpack a Carry-on?
Cotopaxi Allpa Travel Pack
If you’re a frequent flyer, you will like the Allpa 35L.
It has a 35L capacity, which is just enough to fit everything you need for a short trip without being too bulky or heavy.
And because it’s carry-on compatible, you won’t have to worry about checking it at the airport or dealing with lost luggage.
The Allpa 35L has a weight-distributing, low-profile harness system. This system ensures that the backpack is comfortable to wear, even when it’s fully packed, and can be easily tucked away when not in use.
The low-profile design also makes it easy to store in the overhead bin on an airplane.
The bag features a suitcase-style, full-wrap zipper opening on the main compartment. This makes it easy to pack, and unpack and ensures that everything stays securely in place while you’re traveling.
The Allpa also has several compartments and pockets to help you stay organized while you travel. There’s a large zippered mesh compartment, a subdivided zippered mesh compartment.
Plus, there’s a shortcut zipper to the main compartment so you can quickly grab what you need without having to unpack everything.
The pack also has a padded laptop and tablet sleeve.
This protects your electronics from being damaged while you’re traveling.
What we also love
One of the best features of the Allpa is its security features.
The YKK zippers are known for their strength and durability, and the lash loops allow you to quickly and easily secure your backpack when you’re not using it.
And it has a built-in rain cover to keep your belongings dry in case of bad weather.
Plus, it comes in a range of colors so you can find the perfect one to suit your style.
What’s not great
The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack waist belt sits high off the hip, which may not be ideal for people on the taller side or those with larger builds.
The Peak Designs Travel Backpack 45L is one of the best luggage for frequent flyers because of how versatile and functional it is.
It was designed with input from professional photographers, so you know it’s got all the features you need to keep your gear safe and organized while you’re on the go.
It features a modular design that allows you to customize the way you pack.
It also has dedicated spaces for all of your travel essentials, including two large water bottle pockets, several interior pockets, and of course, padded laptop and tablet sleeves!
It also has expansion zips to fit more items.
Depending on how much you need to pack, you can alternate between 35 and 45 liters by simply zipping or unzipping the frontmost zipper.
This way, you have the storage space to fit all you need for your trip, be it a daily carry, a weekend jaunt, or a longer vacation.
Best of all, the Travel Pack is carry-on sized approved, because it measures 22 x 13 x 9.5 inches when not expanded. Thus making this bag one of the best carry-on luggage for frequent flyers that you won’t be checked.
And if you’re a photographer, the Travel Bag 45L is a safe and reliable way to transport your fragile devices and photography equipment.
This bag is specifically designed to keep your photo equipment safe, with plenty of room for camera cubes and other accessories.
The pack also has entry points at the top, side, front, and rear, making it easy to access your belongings no matter which way you’re carrying the bag.
And if you’re worried about the rain or snow ruining your backpack, don’t be!
The recycled 400D nylon canvas shell is 100% water-resistant and is also super durable such that the pack will stand up to the rigors of travel and repeated use.
What we also love
This backpack is perfect for carrying everything you need while still being comfortable to wear, no matter how long your journey is.
The straps are adjustable, so you can customize the fit, and the back panel is breathable to keep you cool and comfortable on long flights.
And if that wasn’t enough, it also has axial strap attachments which provide all-day comfort for all body types!
The Peak Design Travel Pack also has multiple carrying options so you can wear it however it is most convenient for you.
You can wear it as a backpack or by hauling it with its easy-to-grab handles.
But even with all those features, it somehow manages to stay sleek and streamlined.
What’s not great
The Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is a well-thought-out backpack, but it does have a few drawbacks.
First, it’s not carry-on compliant when expanded.
So if you’re planning on doing a lot of flying with it, keep that in mind.
Second, it’s quite pricey compared to other backpacks on the market.
But despite those drawbacks, the Travel Pack is still the best carry-on luggage for frequent flyers looking for a high-quality backpack that can accommodate a lot of gear.
The Tortuga Outbreaker backpack has quickly become a popular choice for regular travelers due to its durability and comfortable design.
It meets carry-on size limits, so you won’t have any trouble bringing it on board with you. This is because the pack measures 22 x 14 x 9 inches, and weighs 5.1lbs, which is the carry-on standard size.
And with a 45-liter carrying capacity, this backpack is spacious enough to fit your travel essentials.
The front-loading design with a clamshell opening makes it easy to access everything in your backpack, and the padded laptop and tablet compartment keeps your electronics safe and sound.
Plus, the main compartment opens up wide like a suitcase with lots of mesh dividers and mesh pockets, which means you can easily access your belongings without having to navigate through a maze of straps and buckles.
And if that’s not enough, there are also external compartments for quick access to items like your passport or boarding pass.
The Outbreaker is perfect for anyone who wants maximum comfort on their travels.
It easily adjusts to your height for a perfect fit, and the hip belt takes 80% of the weight off of your shoulders so you can easily walk through the airport without feeling weighed down.
Plus, the padded shoulder straps, sternum straps, and load lifters make it comfortable to wear even when it’s fully loaded.
And if you get hot while wearing it, don’t worry – the breathable back panel will keep you cool and comfortable on long flights.
That means you won’t get tired of lugging it around the airport (or anywhere else).
What we also love
The Outbreaker is one of the best carry-on luggage for frequent travelers that can withstand being around by baggage handlers.
It features durable, waterproof sailcloth construction and lockable, water-resistant zippers that ensure everything inside your bag will stay nice and dry, no matter the weather situation.
So if you’re looking for a carry-on backpack that has it all, look no further than the Tortuga Outbreaker 45L.
What’s not great
The Tortuga Outbreaker has a few drawbacks to keep in mind.
First, the pack is a bit pricey and is designed specifically for frequent travelers. As such, it would be too big to be used for other purposes like daily commutes or hiking.
Additionally, some users have noted that the weight of the backpack can feel cumbersome when carrying it for long periods, especially for those with short torsos.
And finally, the 45L size may be too big for those traveling on strict airlines like Ryanair, Spirit, or Allegiant which enforce a luggage size limit.
The Outbreaker 35L pack might be a better option in that case.
Overall, the Tortuga Outbreaker 45L is an excellent option for frequent travelers who need a lot of storage space.
Related: Backpack Brands You Can Trust
Packing for a trip can be daunting and even more so if you’re a frequent flyer. You want to make sure you have everything you need while also not overpacking.
But don’t you worry.
The Asenlin 40L Travel Backpack comes bearing gifts. Literally.
This affordable backpack comes with three packing cubes, a laptop sleeve, a water bottle/umbrella pocket, and a small front pocket to help with organization.
And if you’re worried about fitting everything inside, don’t be!
This backpack has a whopping 40 liters of space – more than enough to fit a laptop, clothes, toiletries, and more.
As far as dimensions go, the Asenlin 40L backpack meets all the requirements for carry-on luggage.
It measures 18.5″ x 12.5″ x 9.5″, which means it will easily fit in the overhead compartment or under the seat in front of you.
This backpack is made from water-resistant polyester Oxford cloth material and has an explosion-proof zipper.
This means that your belongings will be safe whether it’s raining outside or you accidentally spill something on your bag.
What about carrying comfort, you say?
The padded straps and side buckles make sure it fits snugly against your body, even when packed to capacity.
Another great feature of this backpack is the internal straps that help with organization and the external straps that provide compression.
This means that you can easily organize your belongings inside the bag, and then compress them down so that they take up less space.
What we also love
The Asenlin 40L is one of the best carry-on luggage for frequent flyers on a budget.
This thing is under $50 and is available in multiple colors to fit your style.
People love this backpack, and we think you will too.
But don’t just take our word for it—over 5,000 people have given it a five-star rating on Amazon!
What’s not great
Some users find the straps of the Asenlin 40L Travel Backpack to be uncomfortable, especially when loaded to full capacity, and reviewers like Good House Keeping have mentioned that the water bottle pocket is tight and difficult to use.
However, if you’re looking for an affordable option, the Asenlin 40L travel backpack is a great choice.
