How to Choose the Best Carry-On Luggage

With airlines charging for checked bags, many travellers are turning to carry-ons. Whether you're a long-time traveller or preparing for your first flight, the best carry-on luggage fits both your needs and the airline's specifications. But how do you choose carry-on luggage? It's easy to feel overwhelmed with countless options out there. Don't worry — we're here to guide you through the essentials of selecting the best hand luggage.

Types of Carry-On Bags

Understanding the different types of carry-on bags is essential. Whether you prefer suitcases, cabin bags, or duffel bags, each has unique benefits.

Suitcases

Suitcases are a classic choice among the various types of carry-on luggage, and we have options featuring hard or soft shells. They protect your belongings well, especially if you're carrying fragile items. Ours have sturdy wheels and telescopic handles, making them easy to navigate through busy airports. However, they can be a bit rigid when it comes to fitting them into overhead bins or squeezing through tight spaces on public transport.

Cabin Bags

Cabin bags have a soft, flexible structure that allows you to fit them into tighter spaces. Cabin bags typically have enough room for a few days' essentials, making them ideal for short trips. Our models, like the Rhapsody Wheeled Cabin Bag, offer all the organisational features of more structured bags.

Duffel Bags

Duffel bags combine versatility with a casual style. Our Baseline 56cm Garment Duffle delivers the easy transport you want. Duffels are lightweight and expandable, accommodating various packing needs. However, they might not provide the same level of protection as a hard-shell suitcase.

Knowing these options can help your search for the best carry-on luggage, allowing you to select one that matches your travel style and needs.

What to Look For in the Best Carry-On Luggage

Choosing the best hand luggage involves more than just picking the prettiest bag on display. Several factors come into play that can significantly affect your travel experience. The right hand luggage can make a world of difference, especially when navigating bustling airports or racing to catch a flight.

Consider the weight of the bag itself. A lightweight carry-on allows you to pack more without exceeding airline weight limits. It also makes moving your bag around much easier, whether you're lifting it into an overhead compartment or carrying it on public transport.

The material of the luggage is equally important. Hard-shell suitcases, like the Sympatico Essential 56cm Carry-On Expandable Spinner, offer durability and protection against the elements, keeping your belongings safe from unexpected weather or rough handling. Made of tough ballistic nylon, soft-shell options, such as the ZDX Domestic 56cm Carry-on Expandable Spinner, provide flexibility and are less prone to scratches and dents.

Don’t overlook the pockets and compartments, like those available with our Baseline 53cm Carry-On Wheeled Garment Spinner. The best carry-on luggage has enough storage options to keep your items organised, making it easier to find your passport or headphones without turning your bag inside out. Having external pockets is a bonus for items you might need in a hurry.

The Baseline Essential 56cm Carry-On Expandable Spinner is an outstanding example of the best carry-on luggage. With a convenient exterior pocket and smooth-gliding 360º shock-absorbing spinner wheels, it features our patented CX® compression-expansion technology, allowing you to pack more in less space. Plus, the revolutionary Outsider® handle design creates a flat surface for packing, while the ballistic nylon shell delivers good looks and excellent durability.

Where to Buy Carry-On Luggage

Finding the perfect carry-on luggage means choosing a brand that combines durability, style, and value. Briggs & Riley is a name you can rely on. Known for our commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction, we offer numerous carry-on options that meet the highest standards. When you opt for Briggs & Riley, you benefit from:

• Lifetime Guarantee: Briggs & Riley's unique lifetime guarantee covers all functional aspects, even damage caused by airlines, making it a top choice for frequent travellers.
• Innovative Design: The Outsider® handle allows more room inside and provides a smooth surface for packing.
• Industry-Leading Technology: Our luggage features advanced packing solutions like CX® compression-expansion technology, which expands with one touch to accommodate more and then quickly compresses down to the original size.
• Quality Materials: We focus on using high-quality materials such as YKK® zippers and ballistic nylon, crafting bags that withstand the rigours of travel.
• Style and Functionality: Balancing sophisticated design with functional features, Briggs & Riley ensures you travel in style without compromising utility.