Best carry-on luggage in Australia 2024

The best luggage in Australia

• Best overall carry-on luggage: Samsonite Winfield 2
• Best cheap carry-on luggage: Amazon Basics Standard Premium Hardside Spinner Luggage
• Best carry-on backpack: Travelon Anti-theft Classic Large Multipurpose Backpack
• Best cheap carry-on backpack: Ecohub Cabin Bag
• Best carry-on luggage for international travel: Victorinox Spectra 2.0 Dual-Access Global Carry-On
• Best lightweight carry-on luggage: Samsonite Underseat Carry-on Spinner with USB Port
• Best cabin luggage: American Tourister Airconic Hardside Spinner Suitcase
• Best hard case luggage: Delsey Paris Helium Aero
• Best durable carry-on luggage: Victorinox Spectra 2.0 Dual-Access Global Carry-On
• Best colourful carry-on luggage: Antler Clifton Hardside Suitcase
• Best durable carry-on luggage: Samsonite Oc2lite Spinner Suitcase
• Best carry-on duffel bag: Rockland Revolution Hardside Rolling Computer Case
• Best expandable carry-on luggage: Samsonite Foldaway Packable Duffel Bag
• Best carry-on luggage for business trips: Samsonite Underseat Carry-on Spinner with USB Port
• Best luxury carry-on luggage: Delsey Paris Chatelet Hardside Luggage

Selecting the perfect carry-on luggage can make all the difference in your travel experience. When choosing a carry-on, consider elements like size, weight, durability, and design. Most airlines have specific guidelines for carry-on size, so choosing a bag that fits these dimensions is essential.

Lightweight luggage can make navigating through busy airports much easier, while durability is key to withstand the wear and tear of travel. Design features such as compartments for electronics, smooth-rolling wheels, and comfortable handles can also greatly enhance your travel experience.

For this guide, our team has carefully reviewed carry-on luggage from the best brands on the market. We picked options based on their features, fit, and price. We also considered customer reviews and ratings to come up with what we believe are the 13 best carry-on luggage you can get right now.

Read our full methodology below.

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The Samsonite Winfield 2 shines as the best overall carry-on luggage in its class, boasting a staggering 4.5-star rating from over 7,000 reviews on Amazon.

Crafted from 100% polycarbonate material, it's both durable and versatile, ensuring it withstands the rigours of travel. Weighing in at just 3kg, it features a retractable handle and four multi-directional wheels, making it a breeze to maneuver.

One of the standout features is its impact-resistant shell, designed to protect your belongings. Its fully lined interior offers divided compartments, making packing both efficient and organised. Side-mounted TSA locks add an extra layer of security that customers appreciate, granting them peace of mind while travelling.

Some customers reported that the handle doesn't fully retract, which could inconvenience some travellers. Additionally, while the compact size is generally a plus, it may be too small for those embarking on longer trips or needing to pack a lot of items.

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The Amazon Basics Standard Premium Hardside Spinner Luggage is our pick for the best budget-friendly option. Meeting the cabin bag restrictions for Europe's most widely-used airlines, including Ryanair, Vueling, EasyJet, and more, this suitcase is the ideal companion for weekend getaways and flights.

It includes 4 double spinner wheels for smooth 360° rolling, a scratch-resistant ABS hard shell for added durability, and a robust interior organiser made from 150D polyester with three separate zippered pockets. This suitcase is compact, with dimensions of 55 x 40 x 20 cm, yet holds a generous volume of 27L.

Despite this luggage's 4.5 out of 5-star rating on Amazon, potential buyers should be aware of two minor inconveniences. Some users have reported that the wheels may not be as smooth as those of other similar products. Additionally, there have been occasional mentions of issues with durability.

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The Travelon Anti-theft Classic Large Multipurpose Backpack garners a strong rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars on Amazon, a testament to its exceptional utility and security features.

It has anti-theft features, such as locking compartments and slash-resistant construction, providing peace of mind to the modern traveller. The main compartment is roomy, capable of holding large items, and even includes a fleece-lined pocket designed specifically for a laptop up to 15.6 inches. Further enhancing its appeal are the RFID blocking card and passport slots in the front compartment, a valuable addition in an age of increasing digital theft.

Some users have reported that the straps can dig into the shoulders during extended use, and while the air mesh back panel and backpack straps are excellent, a more padded design might offer improved comfort. Nevertheless, the Travelon Anti-theft Classic Large Multipurpose Backpack is a top contender for the best carry-on backpack, expertly marrying security, organisation, and convenience.

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With a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars on Amazon, we recommend the Ecohub Cabin Bag as the best carry-on backpack option if you're on a budget.

The bag size is perfect for several airlines/The main compartment's suitcase-like opening and external pockets make it extremely user-friendly, ensuring quick access to essentials while also keeping them organised. Plus, the backpack comes with a USB charging port, a feature that is a real game-changer for those long journeys.

The shoulder straps are thick and lined with padding, but some users have found them to be slightly uncomfortable after prolonged use. Additionally, although light, the bag's weight of 0.55kg can be a concern for those who prefer an even lighter bag for their travels.

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The Victorinox Spectra 2.0 Dual-Access Global Carry-On has a stellar rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars on Amazon. It offers a myriad of features designed to enhance the travel experience.

A versatile carry-on, this luggage piece offers a quick-access lockable front compartment that conveniently holds both a laptop and a tablet. The zippered mesh divider wall stretches for effortless packing, and the X-shaped compression straps secure folded items over a wide surface area. Notably, the bag has a Travel Sentry-approved lock, providing security without impeding TSA inspections.

The comfort grip, one-touch, dual-trolley aluminium handle system locks into three different positions, accommodating travellers of various heights. The dual-caster wheels provide a smooth roll across any surface, offering 360° maneuverability and zero weight-in-hand.

However, there are a couple of considerations to keep in mind. The Victorinox Spectra 2.0 Dual-Access Global Carry-On has a hefty price tag of $800, which may not suit all budgets. Also, the power bank for the USB charging port is not included, which could be an added expense for some travellers.

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The Samsonite Underseat Carry-On Spinner with USB Port is our pick for the best lightweight carry-on option in the crowded travel gear market. Weighing in at a mere 2.5kg, it comfortably fits under the seat or in the overhead bin of most aircraft, making it an ideal companion for those constantly on the move.

Its thoughtful design includes a USB port for charging electronics on the go, a 3-height top handle that ensures easy lifting, and a pass-through band for attaching it to a larger wheeled bag. The main compartment houses a spacious, padded area for a laptop (up to 13.3 inches) and ample exterior pockets for smaller items. The bag's smooth spinner wheels make for effortless hauling, and its durable construction promises reliable protection for your belongings.

However, for all its advantages, the bag comes in only one size, which might be a limitation for those planning longer trips. Some also found the top handle a bit cumbersome to hold. These aside, it carries an impressive rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars on Amazon, with over 5,000 reviews, underscoring its widespread appeal.

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The American Tourister Airconic Hardside Spinner Suitcase is constructed from resilient polypropylene. It features a scratch-resistant texture, ensuring it stays in great condition, even after numerous trips.

Another excellent feature is the water-repellent coated zipper, which provides an extra layer of protection for the contents inside. The double wheels offer effortless movement, a convenience you'll appreciate when navigating crowded airports. Inside, it's well-equipped for organised packing, thanks to a fully lined interior, dual straps, and a zipped divider. This suitcase also comes with a recessed 3-digit TSA lock for extra security.

This suitcase has earned it an outstanding rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars on Amazon. However, no product is without its flaws. While the water-repellent zipper is a fantastic feature, the suitcase is not advertised as waterproof. This could potentially be a concern in particularly wet climates.

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The Delsey Paris Helium Aero is undoubtedly a top pick when it comes to hard case carry-on luggage. It has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars on Amazon, demonstrating the high level of customer satisfaction associated with this product.

The suitcase is well-designed with a large, easily accessible front compartment with a padded sleeve for a laptop of up to 15.6 inches and two zippered mesh pockets for accessories, toiletries, or last-minute items.

Its superior maneuverability, courtesy of the double spinner wheels that keep zero weight on your arm, is also a fantastic addition. This suitcase's capacity is unmatched, expanding up to 2 inches for additional packing space. This feature is extremely helpful for fitting in those extra souvenirs on return journeys.

But despite being a top-rated product, it is relatively heavy, weighing in at 8.2 lbs, which for some, is too much to handle. Another potential drawback could be its size. With overall dimensions of 21.25 x 14 x 9 inches, it might not meet carry-on size restrictions for all international airlines.

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The Victorinox Spectra 2.0 Dual-Access Global Carry-On is also our choice for the best durable option available in the market. It has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars on Amazon.

With a lightweight construction of just 3.2kg, it provides ample space without compromising on convenience. It can accommodate up to a 15.6" laptop and still leaves plenty of room for your garments. The quick-access door and sturdy top handle further enhance its usability, making it effortless to hoist the luggage overhead.

This carry-on also has a robust hard side. It assures that your belongings remain safe from any impact, offering peace of mind during travel. The smooth-rolling 4 double wheels are another highlight, facilitating easy navigation through bustling airports.

Despite its numerous strengths, it's worth noting a minor drawback. According to some users, the C-shape opening can be tricky to use in a hurry.

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The Antler Clifton Hardside Suitcase is a brilliant choice for a colourful carry-on, offering an eye-catching aesthetic without sacrificing functionality.

This suitcase comes equipped with a host of innovative features, including a twist-grip handle for comfortable maneuverability, a secure zip to safeguard belongings, and double-spinner wheels for seamless mobility. The added water-resistant pocket provides an extra layer of protection for essential items. With an expanded capacity of 83L, this carry-on ensures ample space for all travel necessities.

While the Antler Clifton Hardside Suitcase is indeed a remarkable product with a high rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars on Myer, some customers still reported a few issues. Firstly, the suitcase's fabrication in Polycarbonate, though durable, might not sit well with travellers who prefer a softer, more flexible material. Secondly, despite the 10-year manufacturer warranty, there have been rare instances of customers experiencing difficulties with the warranty claim.

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With a stellar rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars on Amazon, it is clear that the Samsonite Oc2lite Spinner Suitcase has succeeded in meeting the needs of travellers worldwide.

The suitcase's praised features include its expandability for increased packing space and the 360-degree multidirectional spinner wheels that allow seamless maneuverability. The integrated 3-digit TSA combination lock offers security, and functional elastic cross ribbons ensure that packed items remain secured throughout the journey. This new Oc2lite, with its improved lightweight and durable polypropylene case, maintains the popular Octolite shell and includes expanders for added packing capacity.

But while the double wheels provide stability and easy maneuverability, some users have found them a bit too sensitive, leading to instances of the suitcase rolling away on slight inclines. Furthermore, while the anti-theft security zips are a nice touch, the absence of a keyhole for the TSA lock means that if the combination is forgotten or the lock mechanism fails, there is no backup way to open the suitcase.

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The Rockland Revolution Hardside Rolling Computer Case is an exceptional choice if you're looking for the best carry-on for laptops. It scores an impressive 4.4 out of 5 stars on Amazon, a testament to its quality and functionality.

Its padded compartment provides optimal protection for laptops and other electronics, ensuring they stay undamaged during transit. The lightweight polycarbonate material offers solid impact protection, and the smooth, silent dual-wheel casters make navigating busy airports a breeze.

This carry-on is functional and compact, fitting into most overhead bins and easy to store when not in use. The one-touch aluminium handle is user-friendly, easy to retract, and comfortable to hold for extended periods.

It is worth noting that the shiny finish on the durable hardshell exterior may not appeal to all users, as aesthetics are a subjective matter.

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We picked the Samsonite Foldaway Packable Duffel Bag as the best carry-on duffel bag on the market today, with a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars on Amazon.

Constructed from reliable 600 denier PU, this bag showcases immense durability and resilience, promising to withstand the trials of travel. Its large main opening is a notable feature, capable of accommodating all the extra souvenirs gathered during a journey. The adjustable shoulder strap adds to its convenience, allowing for comfortable transport.

Despite its spaciousness, users have noted that it can be somewhat challenging to organise due to the lack of internal compartments. Additionally, it requires a bit of effort to fold the bag back into its compact storage pouch.

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For business trips, a carry-on with tons of space and a sleek design is your best bet. That's why we selected the Samsonite Underseat Carry-on Spinner with USB Port as the top option. It has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars on Amazon.

This Samsonite carry-on luggage only weighs 2.5kg, making it a lightweight option that fits under your seat and overhead in most planes. There is a USB port that allows you to charge your electronics on the go, making it an ideal choice for busy people. Additionally, it features a 3-height top handle for easy lifting, and you can even attach this carry-on to a larger wheeled bag using the pass-through band on the back.

This luggage's main storage has a padded laptop compartment that fits a laptop up to 13.3". It also has spacious exterior pockets for stashing smaller paraphernalia. The spinner wheels are smooth, which makes hauling the luggage effortless. And because the luggage is made of sturdy material, you'll be sure that it can take a beating and protect your valuables. This only comes in one size, which may be too small for longer trips.

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Why we chose it

When it comes to luxury, you can't go wrong with the Delsey Paris Chatelet Hardside Luggage. This carry-on has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from over 2,000 Amazon customers.

Made of a lightweight 100% polycarbonate material, the Chatelet has a resilient hard shell that won't easily crack or break. The exterior also has faux leather accents with corner protectors for extra durability. For your convenience, the luggage has dual-density, double-spinner wheels and the brand's patented SECURITECH zip – a closing system that the brand claims to be 3 times more resistant to intrusion than a conventional zipper.

To protect your clothes, there is a fully-lined interior coated with SILVADUR technology, providing odour control. The luggage also comes with a removable hanger and laundry and shoe bags as well as 2 large, lined compartments with web straps. The Chatelet comes in various sizes to fit any of your travel requirements, starting at $539.99.

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Why should I use a carry-on bag?

Carry-on luggage can make flying easy and convenient. The benefits of using a carry-on bag include:

• Save time. If you only bring a carry-on bag on your next flight, you won't have to wait in line to check your bags or spend an extra half an hour waiting for your bags to be unloaded after you land. If you aren't going away for too long, a well-packed carry-on bag can save you a lot of time. Keep in mind, there are some items that you cannot pack in a carry-on bag.
• Access your essentials. Having a carry-on bag with designated compartments for passports, valuables and other documentation can remove one layer of travel-related stress and make sure all your essentials are within reach at all times.
• Make flights more comfortable. With carry-on luggage, you can easily pack a book for taxiing, a pillow for overnight flights, toiletries to freshen up and an extra jumper for when the air conditioner is cranked all the way up. Having a few comforting items on hand on a long flight can be a lifesaver.

Soft vs hard bags

Soft-sided bags form the majority of the luggage market and are often made from nylon or canvas-like materials. Hard-sided, or hard-shell, cases are traditionally made from polycarbonate and can offer sturdier protection for your belongings.

Each case type has its advantages and disadvantages.

	Pros	Cons
Soft-side	Flexible Lightweight Extra pockets and compartments	Can rip if low quality Less protection Harder to find four-wheeled models
Hard-side	Protective Often comes with built-in locks Flat lay packing	Inflexible Prone to scratches and dents Does not typically include side pockets

How to compare carry-on luggage

Basic carry-on luggage can start at around $35, while more-expensive options from luxury retailers can set you back over $1,000 or more.

When choosing carry-on luggage, consider the following features:

Carry-on weight limits

Many airlines enforce strict weight limits for carry-on luggage, with most Australian airlines capping carry-on luggage at 7kg. These limits are put in place to ensure that there is space on board for all passengers to safely stow a piece of carry-on baggage. Weight limits can depend on the ticket you've purchased and often vary from airline to airline. Check your carrier's policy before you start packing, especially if you're changing airlines mid-journey. Next time you travel, check out the best airlines for baggage in Australia to see if you can bring more while paying less.
Carry-on luggage allowances for Australian airlines

Frequently asked questions

• What is the best luggage brand?

  We picked Samsonite as the best luggage brand. Samsonite is known for its quality craftsmanship and their commitment to producing durable, stylish products. Their selection of different sizes and styles gives customers plenty of choices when picking the right bag for their needs. And with a wide variety of colours available, you can find something that matches your personal style.

• What is the best luggage?

  We picked the Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Luggage as the best luggage available online.

• What is the standard size of carry-on luggage?

  The standard size of carry-on luggage is 56cm (height) x 36cm (width) x 23cm (depth).

• What should I look for in a hardside suitcase?

  Look for hardside luggage made of polycarbonate or ABS material for impact protection. You might also want to consider options with divided compartments, expandable storage and smooth wheels.

• How do I clean my luggage's interior?

  Before cleaning your luggage's interior, make sure all compartments are empty. Mix dishwashing soap and warm water to create a cleaning solution. Using a soft bristle brush, work the solution through the interior's fabric. Next, use a clean cloth dampened with warm water to rinse off the mixture. Let the luggage air dry or use a blow dryer to speed up the drying process.
  Check your luggage's care label for more information about cleaning your bag's interior.