The Best Inexpensive Carry On Luggage For 2024

Hailey Abbott By, Hailey Abbott
Updated
Best Inexpensive Carry On Luggage
Best Inexpensive Carry On Luggage

Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall: Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage

This carry-on soft-sided spinner is so light, it flies. With one of our lightest wheeled carry-ons, this suitcase is perfect for a quick trip or long weekend away. Made from durable Ballistic weave, the TravelPro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage with 4 Spinner Wheels offers maximum protection at a weight that's still only 5 pounds. Read Review

2. Runner Up: Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage Carry-On

The Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Luggage with Spinner Wheels is a carry-on suitcase with a hard outer shell, and features expandable space. The multi-directional spinner wheels make it easy to maneuver through the airport, while the scratch resistant textures provide a visual impact and keep your bag looking brand new. Read Review

3. Best Versatile: Wrangler 20" Smart Spinner Carry-On Luggage

The Wrangler 20" Smart Spinner Luggage is the ideal carry-on for business or pleasure. Featuring a durable, lightweight design with professional aluminum spinner wheels, this carry-on luggage is easy to navigate and rolls smoothly. With a USB charging port, this bag can be fully charged in just 3 hours on the go. Read Review

4. Best Comfortable: U.S. Traveler Rio Rugged Fabric Expandable Carry-on Luggage Set

The U.S. Traveler Rio 2-Piece Expandable Carry-On Luggage Set is the perfect for your next trip. This durable and stylish hard-shell luggage set features a front zippered pocket and a top zippered compartment with two adjustable straps for easy transporting. Its lightweight design makes it easy to carry, but tough enough to handle the wear and tear of travel. Read Review

Finding the right carry-on luggage that makes sense for your needs can be tough. We know because we’re there with you every step of the way. Carrying on luggage has become more and more important as airlines limit the amount of luggage you can bring with you on a flight.

In order to reduce costs and make sure everyone flies comfortably, most airlines now require a specific type of carry-on luggage that meets certain dimensions, weight limitations, and other storage requirements. There are several affordable options available if you’re looking for a reliable piece of affordable carry-on luggage that won’t break the bank. Keep reading to find out more about these affordable options and which one is right for your needs.

Our team had to focus on researching for 16 hours to get such results for readers. This type of study uses customer star ratings and customer interviews on their product experiences. As result, We think the best inexpensive carry on luggage is Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage. We also show the other fantastic alternatives with a complete guide which is worth your consideration below.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage
Our Score:
9.7
Travelpro

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

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

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

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

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

Weight: 5.4 lbs.

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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 Wrangler 20" Smart Spinner Carry-On Luggage
Our Score:
9.5
Wrangler

Patented 3-in-1 cup holder, USB port, and phone holder located in back of luggage for travel convenience

Expands for extra packing capacity

Double spinner wheels that allow complete 360 degree movement

20" Carry-on: 20" H x 13. 5" L x 11" W, 6. 92 lbs.

Fully-lined interior with accessory pockets

Expandable feature that offers more packing capacity

Piggy-bag-strap for easy-carrying the tote bag together

Elegant fully lined interior with tie-down straps and large interior meshed zipper pocket

Dimensions : Tote Bag measures 14"W x 10"H x 6"D ; 1.3 lbs and the rolling bag measures 21"H x 13.5"W x 8.5"D (Expands to 10.5""D); 6.6 lbs

Polyester construction

Inline skate wheels, reinforced wheel housing

Internal deluxe retractable push-button, Self-locking handle system for easy maneuvering

Adjustable and detachable non-slip padded shoulder strap on tote

Fully-lined interior with accessory pocket

Multiple modern color options

Push-button recessed locking handle system

Double spinner wheels allow complete upright 360º mobility for free-weight rolling

Expands for extra packing capacity

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

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

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

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

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

Expandable for up to 25% additional packing capacity; solid, strong zippers; telescoping handle for comfortable maneuvering; securely mounted short handle

Weight: 5.51 lbs.

Softside design can collapse a bit to fit more easily into tight spaces (compared to hardside)

Outer dimensions (including wheels): 14.7 x 9 x 21 Inches; Interior dimensions: 13.7 x 7.8 x 17.32 Inches

Fabric lining for added protection from scratches and snags; 150D-polyester interior organizer with 3 zippered pockets for conveniently storing smaller items

360-degree spinner wheels ensure smooth-rolling mobility in any direction

Interior capacity: 31 Liters

21 inches high (including the wheel); softside spinner luggage for weekend getaways or as international carry-on

8 LEVEL8 Grace EXT Carry On Luggage
Our Score:
8.7
LEVEL8

LIGHTWEIGHT YET DURABLE shell made of quality PC+ABS materials, designed with a 3-layer micro-diamond textured surface which provides anti-scratch technology and outstanding durability.

FRONT LAPTOP COMPARTMENT to safely store and easily access electronics. Separate your electronics from clothing. Suggested laptop size 15.6 inches and under.

8 RUBBER-COVERED 360-DEGREE SPINNER WHEELS and sturdy ergonomic aluminum telescoping handle for effortless mobility.

EXPANDABLE Grace EXT (6576 Series) thoughtfully designed for extra packing capacity.

RECESSED TSA COMBINATION LOCK provides security during international travel.

SPACIOUS INTERIOR features cross straps and dividers for ease-packing.Multiple pockets to keep belongings neatly organized.

OVERALL DIMENSION: 21.8” x 14.5” x 9.8” (Including wheels and handles). Expands an additional 1.57” width. Weight: 9 lbs. Packing Capacity: 36 L to 42L. Perfect for business short trip.

Interior mesh zip pocket and elasticated pocket

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

Multi-directional double spinner wheels

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

Sturdy ergonomic aluminum telescoping handle

Lightweight yet extremely durable ABS material

20" Carry On Vertical Gemstone Luggage Meets Domestic and International Airline Regulations

Patent pending unique 3D Gemstone design system with attractive, eye-catching features

8 Wheel (4 dual wheel) spinner system for improved mobility and no tension on the traveler's wrist

Mounted TSA Approved Locking System for extra security

Top and side carry handles. Fully-lined interior with additional waterproof pocket and compression straps

Tips for choosing the most appropriate model among the list of best inexpensive carry on luggage

Perhaps as a customer, you may be looking for a best inexpensive carry on luggage that may provide you with just what you want, such as being environmentally friendly, freely selected, and so on.

In this section, we will discuss with you the buying guides and main factors to consider when planning to buy the product from e-commerce websites, so that when the time comes to make your final selection, everything would be laid out in front of you.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

FAQs

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

Conclusion

In summary, the best inexpensive carry on luggage is the one that will provide you with exactly what you want. Provided that you are not satisfied with the models listed above, we propose Rockland Fashion Softside Upright Luggage for you. 

If you are unclear about how to select an item for yourself or someone else at any time in this post, please let us know! Our team of professionals is always pleased to help you find the best match.


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About Hailey Abbott

Hailey Abbott
Hailey Abbott is an outdoor enthusiast and freelance writer for CampfireHQ. She has a passion for hunting and fishing, which she often enjoys with her family and friends. Hailey also enjoys staying active through sports such as golf, basketball, and softball. Hailey has worked as an editor for several years, providing content that is both accurate and engaging. She has also had the opportunity to interview numerous experts in various fields. This wealth of experience gives her a unique perspective when writing about the outdoors and other topics.

Read Hailey's full bio