The Best 21 Inch Carry On Luggage For 2024

Sarah Combs By, Sarah Combs
Updated
Best 21 Inch Carry On Luggage
Best 21 Inch Carry On Luggage

Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall: Amazon Basics Hardside Spinner Luggage

With a sturdy telescoping handle, this Amazon Basics 21-Inch Hardside Spinner luggage for work travel, weekend getaways, or as international carry-on is easy to handle and comfortable to maneuver. The hardside spinner luggage boasts a fully lined 150D polyester interior organizer with a divider and three zippered pockets for storing smaller items. 4 double spinner wheels ensure smooth-rolling mobility in any direction. Read Review

2. Runner Up: Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage

With a lightweight, versatile design, the Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage is a great choice for travel. With four spinner wheels, it's easy to maneuver on any surface. Plus, the exterior is lined with durable fabric and includes two external compartments for easy packing. Inside you'll find an adjustable hold down strap for convenient packing and plenty of pockets for your smaller items. Read Review

3. Best Durable: SwissGear Sion Softside Expandable Luggage

With the SwissGear Sion Softside Expandable Luggage, you can pack all your essentials without worry. This durable, spinner-style suitcase is made of a tough polyester fabric and features fully lined interior storage spaces for keeping clothes neat and wrinkle-free. The durable handle is also retractable, which makes getting through tight airport terminals or down narrow airplane aisles easier than ever. Read Review

4. Best Material: DELSEY Paris Helium Aero Hardside Expandable Luggage

The Delsey Helium Aero Hardside Expandable Luggage is lightweight, durable and easy to maneuver through airport terminals. It's made of polycarbonate for strength and resilience to cracking or breaking. With a metallic finish, it's sure to be eye-catching as it goes through the baggage claim carousel. Four spinner wheels assuring a stable base while multi-directional rolling allows this bag to move with ease. Read Review

If you are heading to some amazing place for the first time, a week long holiday or just a simple weekend getaway, carrying your luggage can become quite a hassle. It doesn’t help that most of us live in cities where space is at a premium and the weight restrictions are even more stringent. This makes it all the more difficult when we don’t know exactly what to look for when buying our luggage.

Fortunately, there are some helpful tips that can make things easier. In order to help you find the best carry-on travel case that meets your needs, here are some factors you should keep in mind: - What type of trips will you be taking? Do you plan on staying close to home so restriction free access will not be necessary? Are you looking for something lightweight and compact? Do you need something with extra storage capacity? It is important to know what type of trips we are going to take with our luggage beforehand so as to get the right kind of case.

You can count on our team of experts who have spent over 17 hours conducting surveys through 4,632 real customer reviews. Because of this, we came to the conclusion that the best-reviewed product is Amazon Basics Hardside Spinner Luggage. And Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage is another choice for you while keeping the product's quality and functionality.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Amazon Basics Hardside Spinner Luggage
Our Score:
9.7
Amazon Basics
  • Sturdy telescoping handle for comfortable maneuvering and a securely mounted short handle for easy lifting
  • Hardside spinner luggage for work travel, weekend getaways, or as international carry-on
  • Product dimensions: 10 x 14.9 x 22 inches (LxWxH, including wheels); interior dimensions: 9.6 x 13.3 x 18.5 inches (LxWxH)
  • Expandable for up to 15% more packing space when needed
  • Fully lined 150D-polyester interior organizer with divider, plus 3 zippered pockets for storing smaller items
  • 4 double spinner wheels ensure smooth-rolling mobility in any direction
  • Includes a 21-inch hardside spinner with a protective extra-thick ABS hard shell and scratch resistant navy blue finish
TOP Choice #2 Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage
Our Score:
9.5
Travelpro
  • Interior dimension: 21 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches Exterior dimension: 23 inches x 14.5 inches x 9 inches; Volume : 46 liter
  • Weight: 5.4 lbs.
  • A half pound lighter than maxlite 4, this ultra lightweight 21 inch spinner meets carry on size restrictions for most domestic airlines. H20 Guard protects the interior lining from moisture
  • 4 wheel spinners rotate 360 degree for a smooth roll. Lightweight, sturdy PowerScope handle stops at 38 inch and 42.5 inch features a patented contour grip with rubberized touch points for easy maneuvering. Unique bottom tray design increases durability
  • Limited Lifetime Coverage plus trusted companion promise, which covers the cost of repair for damage from airline or other common carrier for 1 year
  • Expands up to 2 inch to maximize packing capacity. Features low profile top, side and bottom carry handles, two exterior compartments, full length interior lid pocket, side accessory pocket and adjustable hold down straps for packing convenience
TOP Choice #3 SwissGear Sion Softside Expandable Luggage
Our Score:
9.3
SwissGear
  • Secure and Durable: Expandable travel case gives you ample parking space and made from a durable, scuff-resistant polyester fabric with fully lined interior; also features adjustable tie-down straps for securing garments in place
  • Effortless Organization: This luggage bag maximizes packing efficiency with a removable zippered wet bag, large mesh lid pocket, and packing pocket for holding small items and accessories
  • Multiple Front Panel Pockets: Featuring front pockets with a built-in ID tag, this ergonomically expandable luggage measures 22.75 x 14.25 x 10.25 inches including wheels and handles; packing dimensions are 21 x 12.75 x 10.25 inches
  • Convenient Side Handles: With reinforced padded top handle with an integrated side and bottom handle, this roller suitcase makes lifting and carrying your luggage easy
  • Rolling Suitcase: Get through a crowded airport or down narrow airplane isles easily with this stylish carry-on luggage with 360-degree multi-directional spinner wheels and a locking retractable push/pull handle
  • Lightweight and durable polycarbonate shell that is extremely resilient to cracking or breaking; manufactured with an eye catching deep metallic finish
  • Recessed "one-button" locking handle system for great maneuverability; 21 inch carry on size is perfect for weekend getaways and short business trips
  • Integrated 3-dial TSA approved combination lock for security; suitcase expands up to 2 inches for additional packing space
  • Keeps items secure and wrinkle free with two large fully-lined compartments and web straps; multiple pockets allow easy access and organization
  • Helium Aero models are backed with a 10 year limited warranty
  • Four spinner wheels assuring a stable base with multi-directional rolling with zero weight on your hand for easy travel
  • Backed by our built for a lifetime limited worry free warranty that covers the cost of repair for damage from airline or other common carrier for the life of the bag after registration under the trusted companion promise
  • Precision glide system includes contour grip, 4 stop adjustable powerScope handle and magnatrac spinner wheels for precise control and effortless roll
  • Expandable carry on spinner suitcase with external USB port and dedicated powerbank pocket meets faa regulations for carry on and checked baggage. Powerbank not included. The volume is 46 liters
  • Case Dimensions: 21x14x9, Overall Dimensions: 23.5x14.5x9, Weight: 7.8 pounds
  • Fold out suiter packs clothes wrinkle free. Interior tie down system includes built in accessory pockets and TSA compliant, removable quart sized wet pocket for toiletries. Leather top and side carry handles plus bottom cup provide carrying options
  • Recessed 3-dial TSA approved combination lock for security; unique brake system locks two front wheels to prevent bag from rolling away
  • Deluxe interior featuring removable hanger and laundry and shoe bags; two large lined compartments with web straps to keep items secure and wrinkle free
  • Four spinner wheels assuring a stable base with multi-directional rolling with zero weight on your hand for easy travel
  • Recessed "one-button" locking handle system for great maneuverability; 21 inch carry on size is perfect for weekend getaways and short business trips
  • Lightweight and durable 100% polycarbonate shell that is extremely resilient to cracking or breaking; designed with stylish faux leather accents
  • Maximizes carry-on sizer bin restrictions. May need to check if over packe. Includes a zip-in garment organizer and additional coordinating zip-in organizers available for purchase separately: laundry organizer, suiter organizer
  • PrecisionGlide System for precise control and roll includes a Patented Contour Grip, a Patented PowerScope Extension Handle that adjusts to multiple heights while minimizing wobble and self-aligning magnetic wheels that roll straight in any direction
  • Supra zipper heads are engineered to resist damage from daily use. Cushioned, low-profile top and side carry handles along provide comfortable carrying option. Backed by our built-for-a-lifetime limited warranty with our trusted companion promise
  • The expansion increases up 2". High-density ballistic nylon with DuraGuard coating resists stains. Built-in protection includes corner armor, skid guards and durable wheel housings. Removable, TSA-compliant toiletries bag included
  • Case Dimensions: 21x14.75x10; Overall Dimensions:23x15.5x10
8 DELSEY Paris Chatelet Air Hardside Luggage
Our Score:
8.6
DELSEY Paris
  • Recessed "one-button" locking handle system for great maneuverability; 21 inch carry on size is perfect for weekend getaways and short business trips
  • Deluxe interior featuring removable hanger and laundry and shoe bags; two large lined compartments with web straps to keep items secure and wrinkle free
  • Four spinner wheels assuring a stable base with multi-directional rolling with zero weight on your hand for easy travel; 20% lighter than Chatelet with Brake
  • Lightweight and durable 100% polycarbonate shell that is extremely resilient to cracking or breaking; designed with stylish faux leather accents
  • Recessed 3-dial TSA approved combination lock for security; features patented zip SECURITECH 2, a closing system that is 3 times more resistant to intrusion than a conventional zipper
  • Interior: patent-pending wireless charging pocket for easy power-ups, USB port (battery not included), tri-fold suiter, wetpak pocket for toiletries or gym clothes, RFID Pocket to protect sensitive data, plenty of built-in organization. Exterior: premium 100% Ballistic Nylon with reinforcements throughout, leather touchpoints for distinctive style.
  • Integrated TSA-approved lock for added security. Textured zipper pulls for a solid grip.
  • Meets carry-on requirements for most major airlines.
  • Exterior Pockets for organization. Handles: contoured grip handle for comfort and ease of use.
  • Wheels: samsonites signature split sphere dlx wheels for smooth glide and maneuverability. 10-Year Global Manufacturers .
  • Patented SECURITECH zip proven to be 3 times more resistant than a standard zipper; Dual density, silent-core double spinner wheels for a smooth rolling ride
  • Roomy interior offers tie-down straps, and zipped divider with lined pocket and shoe pockets; elegant vegan leather accents with contrast stitching
  • St Tropez models are backed with a 10 year limited warranty
  • Lining can be removed and machine washed for easy cleaning; 21 inch carry on size is perfect for weekend getaways and short business trips
  • Fabric type: 100% Polycarbonate
  • Constructed of lightweight and shock resistant polycarbonate that is extremely resilient to cracking or breaking
  • Integrated 3-dial TSA approved combination lock for security; expands up to 2 inches for additional packing space

What Are the Key Factors for Customers to Follow to Pick best 21 inch carry on luggage?

A range of influences contributes to the best 21 inch carry on luggage. Depending on the product, there are several ways to study it. As a result, we've come to lend a hand, offer advice, and offer answers to these issues.

A thorough search of trustworthy websites should be conducted using as many resources as feasible. Our experts use high-tech tools and a well-tuned product listing system to provide a sort of service.

It'd also be fascinating to go more into the development and analysis of these aspects. Consider the following tips in mind:

Handles

Practicality is enhanced by suitcases that have handles at the top and sides. This extra handle along with the towing handle makes it much simpler to lift your suitcase onto and off luggage racks, check-in scales, and baggage carousels.
Top handles can extend into several positions to provide maximum comfort. When not in use, they can be retracted for easy pushing down.

Size

Cases up to full-size: How easy will your suitcase fit into the car's boot if you plan to drive to the airport? It will it be possible to carry the bag around in crowds? There's also the baggage rack at the airport bus. You could hoist it onto the top. You might consider a lighter option if your travels are less than two weeks. A piece of luggage should be durable enough to endure rough transit conditions, yet not cause you pain.
Hand luggage is allowed on most airlines. Some allow for a second hand bag, such as a backpack, or sling bag. A suitcase that is "cabin-size" does not necessarily mean that it can fit into a cabin. Although there are restrictions on size, many airlines will accept suitcases up to 56x45x25 cm.

Weight

Checked luggage: Full-size bags are allowed, but the weight limits vary by airline (see below). Excess baggage fees can be very high so make sure your bag isn't too heavy. Regular flyers might find it useful to purchase luggage scales. Keep in mind, however that you will need to pack more outfits if your suitcase is empty. We found that the best suitcases were as light as 2.3kg empty. Bulkier options weighed in at around 6.2kg.
Hand luggage: Some airlines may have restrictions on the weight of cabin cases. You don't have to give up books, souvenirs and gifts if you choose a lighter cabin bag or fly with an airline that is more flexible.

Wheels

Four-wheelers are the most common type of suitcase. Sometimes called spinners. This means that you don’t need to tip your bag before you tow it. It can also be wheeled along with you. Two-wheeled suitcases tend to be slightly larger and are easier to lift over kerbs. However, spinners offer more versatility.

Storage

There are many internal pockets that you can find in both hard-shell and soft-sided luggages. These include small pockets with integrated zippers and large pouched pockets that will hold a laptop. You can also have removable laundry bags or garment sections to keep your suit jackets from tearing. Soft-sided suitcases are often equipped with external pockets that can be used to store easy-access items.

Security

Traveling with your padlock is important. However, it is recommended that you have one with Transport Security Administration (TSA).
The locks are branded with the TSA red logo and include a universal masterkey.
The TSA is the only one that has this copy. This key allows American airlines security personnel to access your luggage and inspect its contents, without risk.
They can open the lock if they are unable to do so.

Expandability

A lot of suitcases have an expandable panel that can be removed to give you at least 10% more packing space. If you're looking for last-minute souvenirs and gifts, some of our top-scoring full-size and cabin suitcases can be expanded.

FAQs

Are The Inside Pockets Useful?

Your clothing and personal belongings should be contained in your luggage. Bags with too many pockets end up being useless. Think about what you prefer to pack before you go ahead and click the buy button. You may not want a large zippered lid, so make sure you have a bag that has a great design. Look for suitcases with shoe compartments. Your bag should maximize its space. If your features aren't clear, it won't work.

What Size Suitcase Is Considered Oversized?

While baggage size regulations vary from one airline to the next, most airlines allow luggage to be checked up to 62 inches in length. These airlines would consider bags exceeding these limits to be excessive.

Is The Rolling Handle Double Barred?

You may prefer to carry a rolling bag, but the main part of a suitcase is its handle. Some brands still make luggage that has a single pull handle. Single bar bags are less sturdy than double-bar rolling bags. This feature can fail to work when you're rushing through an airport. You will be in the middle of an arm workout while carrying your bag. This can be avoided by purchasing a bag that has a double-bar handle.

What Is The Importance Of Luggage?

Because you need to travel a lot, you can also take the bag with you. A well-designed luggage bag will make an impression on other people. Bags are more than just bags. They can also be a fashion statement.

How Much Does It Weigh?

You should look beyond the features and attributes of the bag's pockets when you search for a travel suitcase. Check out the weight of the bag without any contents. This is a mistake I've made more times than once. A bag too heavy to carry around is a temptation that I make love to. You will need to ensure that your bag is light, especially for travelers who want to save baggage fees. Look for bags that claim to be lightweight, or give you an accurate weight. It will not be possible to carry a heavy bag on an airplane from Hawaii, or at train stations across Europe.

What Is The Most Durable Luggage?

Polycarbonate and ABS are the most reliable luggage materials on the market. While the former is more sturdy, it's usually lighter. Both durable and lightweight luggage can be constructed from both.

Is Hard Or Soft Luggage Better?

Because it is lighter than heavy luggage, soft luggage is more popular. Because of the use of lighter materials in hard luggage, this has been changed. It really depends on personal choice as to which option is better. Many soft luggage has expandable and external pockets. Hard luggage, on the other hand offers greater protection and durability.

We decide facts since we are product consulting professionals with extensive expertise. Even so, we maintain and update the list of best 21 inch carry on luggage so the information is correct and up to date.

After reading this article, you should discover that selecting a best 21 inch carry on luggage that is both handy and economical to you is not difficult. Please don't hesitate to contact us if you require assistance.


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About Sarah Combs

Sarah Combs
Sarah Combs is a visual editor who loves to travel and hike. She enjoys taking photographs of her journeys, which help her to remember the beautiful places she's been to. Sarah is grateful for the opportunities that she has had to see the world and looks forward to continuing to explore new places in the future. Sarah is the editor of CampfireHQ since 2021 and has written on a variety of topics, from camping, and hiking to other outdoor guides.

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