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Best carry-on suitcase: our top 5 suitcases tested

Written by: R2B Store

Looking for the best carry-on suitcase for your next trip? Whether you're going on a weekend getaway or a city break, a lightweight carry-on with sturdy wheels and plenty of space is essential. You can choose from soft-shell and hard-shell models, each with their own advantages. And with so many options on the market, choosing isn't always easy.


That's why we've compiled a selection of the best suitcases available today. In this blog post, you'll find our top 5 carry-on suitcases, each tested for sturdiness, ease of use, and size. Whether you're looking for a carry-on trolley for Transavia or an ideal carry-on suitcase with a TSA lock for international flights, we'll help you make the right choice. This way, you'll be well-prepared for your trip with a suitcase that's sturdy, practical, and easy to maneuver.

The top 5 best carry-on suitcases at a glance

1. The Best Carry-On Suitcase of 2025 - NORTVI. Essential Sand White

This lightweight suitcase is made of high-quality, environmentally friendly polycarbonate with a unique NORTVI structure. The material is exceptionally strong and virtually unbreakable—ideal for frequent travelers.


The carry-on suitcase is equipped with NORTVI's Silent Run wheels, renowned for their whisper-quiet operation, smooth performance, and long lifespan. With a 36-liter capacity, the Essential offers the largest interior space in its class. The clever interior features dedicated packing compartments for optimal organization and efficient packing.


Whether you're on a short business trip or a weekend away, this durable carry-on suitcase is the perfect companion.


Lightweight and sturdy – ideal for travel
Our tests showed that the suitcase feels sturdy, despite its light weight. The shell absorbs impacts well, and the wheels roll smoothly over various surfaces. For those looking for the best carry-on suitcase that's both stylish and functional, this is an excellent choice.


Convenient layout for organized travelers
What struck us was how practical the layout is: two large compartments and a mesh divider ensure your clothes, laptop, and toiletries stay neatly organized. Even with a full suitcase, items stayed securely in place. Perfect for travelers who want to pack organized.


Suitable for almost all airlines
With dimensions that meet the standard requirements of almost all airlines, this carry-on suitcase is a safe choice. Whether you're traveling with Transavia or KLM, your suitcase simply goes on board. And thanks to the four wheels and adjustable handle, it remains easy to maneuver.

2. The Best Lightweight Carry-On Suitcase: TRVLMORE Carry-On Suitcase 38L

The TRVLMORE carry-on suitcase is compact, sleek, and ideal for a weekend getaway. It has a 38-liter capacity, a TSA lock, four wheels, and a sturdy ABS shell. At just 2.4 kg, it's a lightweight carry-on that's easy to take with you. Despite its low price, the suitcase feels very sturdy.


Good price-quality ratio
During our test, we noticed that this suitcase offers a lot for a relatively low price. The finish is neat, and it feels solid during daily use. An excellent choice if you're looking for an affordable suitcase without compromising on quality.


Trolley easy to handle at airports
Thanks to its four wheels, the suitcase rotates smoothly in all directions. This is a major advantage, especially in busy airports. You can even maneuver this trolley effortlessly in narrow aisles.


Fits most airlines in the cabin
The TRVLMORE meets the maximum carry-on size requirements for most airlines. So you don't have to worry about whether your luggage will be allowed on board. This makes it a great carry-on trolley for frequent flyers.

3. Best Travel Suitcase Hand Luggage: Onyx Hand Luggage Suitcase 33L

The Onyx Cabin Suitcase combines compact size with smart functionality and a modern design. With its 33-liter capacity, this suitcase is perfect for short trips or business trips, allowing you to easily carry all your essentials. The sturdy design and smooth-rolling wheels make every journey much more comfortable.


Handy size of 33 liters 

Ideal as carry-on luggage for airplanes, so you can take your suitcase into the cabin without worry. Despite its compact size, the suitcase offers ample space for clothes, shoes, and essential accessories.


Strong and durable material

The suitcase is made of high-quality materials that protect against scratches and bumps. This way, your luggage remains well-protected, even during intensive use or multiple flights.


Smooth wheels and practical design

Thanks to the 360° rotating wheels and sturdy telescopic handle, you can easily maneuver the suitcase through busy airports or narrow streets. This makes traveling not only comfortable but also stress-free.

4. The Best Carry-On Suitcase with Pouch: SKYCASES Travelin' Charm Carry-On Suitcase

The Skycases Travelin Charm is a charming, lightweight suitcase weighing just 2.5 kg with a 40-liter capacity and a plastic shell. Measuring 54 x 35 x 21 cm, it meets the maximum dimensions of most airlines for carry-on luggage. The suitcase is equipped with a combination lock, four wheels, and a free pouch for additional small items. Its bright pink design and sturdy construction make this a carry-on suitcase with flair and functionality.


Compact size and generous capacity
Our tests showed that this suitcase packs a surprisingly large amount, despite its compact size. Ideal for weekend getaways or city breaks, it comfortably accommodates your clothes, laptop, and toiletries. It's an ideal choice if you're looking for a carry-on trolley that's both lightweight and spacious.


Stylish and sturdy design
The hard shell feels solid and protects your valuables while traveling. Despite its soft exterior, the suitcase retains its shape, even with light bumps or pressure in the luggage compartment. This keeps your carry-on luggage neat and secure.


Ease of use with lock and handy accessories
During our experience, we were impressed by the ease of use of the integrated combination lock and the smooth running of the wheels. The free pouch is a welcome addition for keeping small items or documents organized. This type of suitcase offers both convenience and extra accessories for a worry-free trip.

5. The Best Soft Carry-On Suitcase: Eastpak Tranverz S

The Eastpak Tranverz S is a soft carry-on suitcase with a flexible exterior and a 42-liter capacity. Compression straps keep your luggage compact while traveling. The suitcase has two compartments and is ideal for short city trips. You can easily take it on the plane as carry-on luggage.


Soft suitcase with practical layout
Our test showed that the dual compartments and compression straps are ideal for those who want to stay organized. Your clothes stay securely in place, even during a rough flight. The soft shell offers a bit more flexibility than hard-shell suitcases.


Easy to store
Because this soft carry-on suitcase has a bit of give, it's easier to fit into crowded overhead bins. It also takes up less space at home. Ideal for those with limited storage space.


Sturdy materials and smooth driving behaviour
Despite its soft exterior, the Eastpak Tranverz S feels sturdy. The high-quality wheels roll smoothly over various surfaces. This stylish suitcase is a must-have for frequent air travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Best Carry-On Suitcases

What should I pay attention to when looking for a carry-on suitcase?

When looking for a carry-on suitcase, it's important to consider dimensions, weight, material, and layout. The dimensions should fall within the guidelines of most airlines so you can easily take the suitcase on board. A lightweight suitcase is also preferable, as it allows you to take more items without exceeding the maximum weight. The type of wheels, handles, and storage compartments also play a role in ease of use. Always choose a type of suitcase that suits your travel style: soft, hard, with front pockets, or extra reinforcement.

What is a TSA lock and why is it important?

A TSA lock is a specially approved lock that can be opened by US customs officers without breaking the lock. So, if you're flying to or through the US, a TSA lock is essential. It's also a secure way to protect your luggage for other destinations. It prevents unauthorized access and ensures you can travel with peace of mind. Most models in our top 5 come standard with a TSA lock.

Why is a lightweight suitcase useful for hand luggage?

A lightweight suitcase allows you to take more luggage without exceeding the weight limit. Many airlines only allow carry-on luggage to weigh 8 to 10 kilos. If you choose a heavy suitcase, you'll have less for your personal belongings. A lightweight carry-on suitcase is also easier to lift, especially if you need to place it in an overhead compartment. That's why we've paid special attention to weight in our blog when evaluating suitcases.

Which type of suitcase is best for carry-on luggage: hard-sided or soft-sided?

The best type of suitcase depends on your preferences. A hard-shell suitcase offers better impact protection and is water-resistant, while a soft-shell suitcase is often lighter and more flexible in small spaces. Soft-shell suitcases also often offer convenient front pockets, ideal for items you need to access quickly. Our top 5 includes both options, so you can make an informed choice based on your needs and travel habits.

Does every carry-on suitcase fit every airline?

Not every carry-on suitcase is suitable for different airlines . The permitted dimensions can vary by airline. Therefore, when looking for carry-on luggage, it's wise to pay attention to the maximum dimensions and weight allowed by your preferred airline. Many suitcases are designed according to standard dimensions, but it's always a good idea to double-check. In our top 5, we've selected suitcases that are easily accepted on board with most major airlines.

What are the Top 10 Best-Selling Hand Luggage Suitcases on Bol.com?

Didn't find what you were looking for in our top 5 best monitor arms? Then check out the top 10 best-selling carry-on suitcases here.  bol.com , which also includes the American Tourister and the Onyx hand luggage suitcase .