The Best Expandable Carry On Luggage For 2024

Katie Finn By, Katie Finn
Updated
Best Expandable Carry On Luggage
Best Expandable Carry On Luggage

Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall: Rockland Melbourne Hardside Expandable Spinner Wheel Luggage

The perfect size bag for a quick weekend getaway or extended vacation, the Rockland Melbourne Hardside Expandable Spinner Wheel Luggage is the original carry-on luggage line. It's lightweight yet extremely durable ABS material and sturdy ergonomic aluminum telescoping handle make it perfect for travel. Read Review

2. Best Bang For The Buck: Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage

The Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggag, Carry-On 20-Inch, Black is a great option for those looking to stay light during travel. This carry-on bag offers a sleek design with plenty of space to hold everything you need for your next trip. With its micro-diamond polycarbonate texture, this luggage is durable and scratch resistant so it's perfect for your next trip. Read Review

3. Best Flexible: Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage

Lightweight, durable, and strong, this Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage is the perfect travel companion. A half pound lighter than maxlite 4, this ultra lightweight luggage meets carry-on size restrictions for most domestic airlines. The H2O Guard protects the interior lining from moisture and unique bottom tray design increases durability. Unique spinner wheels rotate 360 degrees for a smooth roll. Read Review

4. Best Style: Samsonite Winfield 3 DLX Hardside Expandable Luggage

Samsonite bags are meticulously crafted and rigorously tested to ensure durable, reliable travel. This bag comes with a 10-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. With four multi-directional oversized spinner wheels that provide effortless mobility, this lightweight carry on features self retracting carry handles designed to maintain a low profile when they're not needed. Read Review

Finding the right carry on luggage is important. You need something that can be compacted and easily stored before heading to your next destination. The best carry on luggage will also have compartments for storing different articles. You should always check the dimensions of the bag before purchasing. Some bags are small in size, but have large compartments which will make it difficult to find things in it after packing it up.

Check the dimensions of these bags before you purchase them, so you don’t end up disappointed. If you plan on traveling with multiple people or if you want your bag to last longer than a few trips, then an expandable travel satchel is what you should get. The best expandable carry on luggage has a lot of benefits when compared to non-expandable bags. Read below for more details about this type of bag and why they are ideal for long-term travelers.

Our team spent about 19 hours researching, sifting, and selecting many high-quality models. As outcome, We think the best expandable carry on luggage is Rockland Melbourne Hardside Expandable Spinner Wheel Luggage. In addition to the other suggestions on this list, which are equally deserving of your consideration, we have also compiled a helpful buyer's guide to assist you in making your decision.

Our Top Picks

Multi-directional double spinner wheels

Carry-On meets these airlines' size restrictions: United, American, Delta, Southwest, Allegiant

Interior mesh zip pocket and elasticated pocket

Lightweight yet extremely durable ABS material

Sturdy ergonomic aluminum telescoping handle

22"X13. 5"x9" (with wheels)

TOP Choice #2 Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage
Our Score:
9.6
Samsonite

PUSH-BUTTON locking handles provides easy maneuverability when extended out from the suitcase, and stores neatly inside when not in use

FOUR, MULTI-DIRECTIONAL OVERSIZED SPINNER WHEELS for effortless mobility, re-engineered lightweight

20" SPINNER LUGGAGE maximizes your packing power and meets most carry-on size restrictions for those traveling domestically and looking to stay light

10 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY: Samsonite products are rigorously tested to ensure our products meet stringent standards. This bag comes with a 10-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.

PACKING Dimensions: 19" x 14.5" x 9.5", Overall Dimensions: 22" x 15" x 9.5", Weight: 6.81 lbs.

EXPANSION to allow you to pack more items and compression keeps clothing neatly pressed

MICRO-DIAMOND POLYCARBONATE texture is extremely scratch-resistant, keeping cases beautiful trip after trip

BOOK OPENING CASE with mesh divider and cross straps in main compartment with a zipped modesty pocket

SIDE-MOUNTED TSA LOCKS act to deter theft, ensuring that only you or a TSA agent have easy access to your belongings when traveling

TOP Choice #3 Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage
Our Score:
9.5
Travelpro

Limited Lifetime Coverage plus trusted companion promise, which covers the cost of repair for damage from airline or other common carrier for 1 year

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

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

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

Weight: 5.4 lbs.

Interior dimension: 21 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches Exterior dimension: 23 inches x 14.5 inches x 9 inches; Volume : 46 liter

NEW FOUR POCKET REVERSIBLE panel that maximizes organization without extra bulk or weight

20" SPINNER LUGGAGE maximizes your packing power and meets most carry-on size restrictions for those traveling domestically and looking to stay light

1.5" EXPANSION to allow you to pack more items and compression keeps clothing neatly pressed

PACKING Dimensions: 20.0" x 14.25" x 9.5", OVERALL Dimensions: 22.5" x 14.5" x 9.5", Weight: 6.97 lbs.

100% POLYCARBONATE that’s tough and scratch resistant

FOUR, MULTI-DIRECTIONAL OVERSIZED SPINNER WHEELS for effortless mobility, re-engineered lightweight

10 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY: Samsonite products are rigorously tested to ensure our products meet stringent standards. This bag comes with a 10-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.

SELF RETRACTING carry handles that maintain a low profile when not in use

SIDE-MOUNTED TSA LOCKs act to deter theft, ensuring that only you or a TSA agent have easy access to your belongings when traveling

This carry-on luggage has low profile top and side carry handles along with bottom grip provide multiple carrying options. Roomy main compartment expands 2” to maximize packing capacity when needed for this hard luggage

Overall Dimensions: H: 23 in. W: 14.5 in. D: 9.5 in.; Case Dimensions: H: 19.75 in. W: 13.75 in. D: 9.5 in.; Weight: 6.3 lbs. Durable hard case luggage backed by Travelpro built for a Lifetime Limited Warranty with our Trusted Companion Promise which includes the cost of repair for damage caused by an airline or other common carrier for the first year after registration

This lightweight luggage has 100% Polycarbonate hardshell engineered for impact-absorbing flexibility with a stylish outer finish that helps reduce visible scratches and scuffs. Built-in lock allows TSA authorities to safely unlock and relock this carry on suitcase for inspection when needed (default code set at 0-0-0)

This hard shell carry on luggage has interior zippered divider panels and accessory pocket to keep contents organized, separated, and secure while the interior lining with H20 guard is made of 100% post-consumer recycled plastic bottles to help reduce environmental waste

Sizer bin carry on luggage with spinner wheels tested to fit in the overhead bins of most major domestic airlines while allowing for more packing capacity. Hard shell luggage with 8 Spinner wheels that rotate 360°, providing superior maneuverability and a smooth glide in every direction

6 Kenneth Cole Reaction Renegade 20” Carry-On Luggage
Our Score:
9.0
Kenneth Cole REACTION

Ergonomically designed retractable trolley handle

Weight - 7.35 lbs.

Packing Dimensions - 20" H x 13.5" L x 8.5-10.5" D.

8-wheel multi-directional spinners for effortless handling

Overall Dimensions - 22" H x 14" L x 9-11" D.

Main compartment interior features several zippered organization pockets elastic shoe pockets and a garment restraint panel

Sleek and stylish exterior with corner guard reinforcements helps protect your bag from damage

Expands an additional 2 inches

FOUR, MULTI-DIRECTIONAL OVERSIZED DUAL SPINNER WHEELS for effortless mobility, re-engineered lightweight

10 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY: Samsonite products are rigorously tested to ensure our products meet stringent standards. This bag comes with a 10-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.

20" SPINNER LUGGAGE maximizes your packing power and meets most carry-on size restrictions for those traveling domestically and looking to stay light

STAY POWERED UP Enjoy the luxury of a charging system that travels with you, designed to connect with your preferred battery

PACKING Dimensions: 19.6”x 14.75” x 9.5”, OVERALL DIMENSIONS: 22.5” x 15.5”x 9.5”, Weight: 7.5 lbs.

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

Case dimensions: 21x14x9, Overall dimensions: 23.5x14.5x9, Weight: 7.8 pounds volume - 46 Liter

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

Lightweight and durable polycarbonate shell that is extremely resilient to cracking or breaking; with an integrated padded sleeve for up to a 15.6 inch laptop

Perfect roll double spinner wheels assure smooth maneuverability and keep zero weight on your arm off-center wheel axles provide a wider and more stable base

Features a large, convenient front pocket with integrated padded sleeve for a 156 inch laptop and two zippered mesh pockets roomy main compartment expands 2 inches

Titanium models backed with a 10 year limited warranty

Integrated 3-dial TSA approved combination lock for security; suitcase expands up to 2 inches for additional packing space

Four spinner wheels assuring a stable base with multi-directional rolling with zero weight on your hand for easy travel; manufactured with a scratch resistant matte finish

Keeps items secure and wrinkle free with two large fully-lined compartments and web straps; zippered pocket for delicate items and accessories

Recessed "one-button" locking handle system for great maneuverability; 19 inch carry on size is perfect for weekend getaways and short business trips

Recessed TSA-accepted combination lock provides secure travel and allows only TSA agents to open and inspect your bag without damaging the lock worldwide limited 10 year warranty

Fully lined interior offers two packing compartments with tie-down straps on one side and a zippered divider on the other side to minimize shifting of contents zippered pocket holds delicate items and accessories

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

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

Case Dimensions: 21x14.75x10; Overall Dimensions:23x15.5x10

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

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

Factors Related To best expandable carry on luggage You Should Focus On For The Most Efficient Purchase

best expandable carry on luggage will be discussed in-depth, and all of its characteristics will be closely investigated so you can determine whether or not it is ideal for your needs. It will save you time and effort since our guide to the best can assist you as much as possible.

Please read the following guide for easier select best expandable carry on luggage in 2024:

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

FAQs

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.

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.

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.

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 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 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.

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.

Conclusion

The considerations outlined in this blog post should demonstrate that best expandable carry on luggage is worth the money and then some. If you want a different model but still want performance, the long-lasting investment which provides you with years of enjoyment, you have no choice but to check Travelpro Platinum Elite Hardside Expandable Luggage that is available.


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About Katie Finn

Katie Finn

Katie Finn is a freelance writer who loves to explore the world and go camping. She's also an editor for CampfireHQ, where she enjoys writing about wildlife and camping tips. She also has a passion for reading and learning new things, which she often incorporates into her writing.

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