12 Carry-On Suitcases Perfect for International Flights (2025)

Packing Tips
By A.M. Murrow

Planning an international trip means choosing luggage that can handle long flights, tight overhead bins, and different airline rules. A great carry-on suitcase makes travel smoother by keeping your essentials close and organized. Whether you’re flying to Europe, Asia, or anywhere across the globe, the right bag can save you time, money, and stress at the airport.

1. Away The Carry-On

© Good Housekeeping

Travelers everywhere swear by this sleek hardshell option that combines durability with smart design. Built from polycarbonate material, it withstands rough baggage handlers while protecting your belongings inside.

The built-in battery lets you charge phones during layovers, though it’s removable for airline compliance. Four spinner wheels glide smoothly through crowded terminals, and the interior compression system keeps clothes wrinkle-free.

Available in numerous colors, it fits most international airline size restrictions perfectly.

2. Samsonite Winfield 2

© Amazon.com

With a reputation spanning decades, Samsonite delivers reliability that frequent flyers trust completely. This particular model features a brushed pattern that hides scratches beautifully, keeping your bag looking new trip after trip.

Lightweight construction means you won’t struggle lifting it into overhead compartments, even when packed full. Side-mounted TSA locks provide security without adding bulk or weight.

The spacious interior includes cross straps and zippered dividers for organized packing on long journeys.

3. Travelpro Platinum Elite

© Travelpro Aviation Professionals

Flight crews around the world choose Travelpro for one simple reason: it survives constant use without falling apart. This softside carry-on expands an extra two inches when you need room for souvenirs or extra layers.

High-quality zippers rarely jam, even after hundreds of trips through security checkpoints. Self-aligning magnetic wheels roll quietly and smoothly across tile, carpet, and pavement alike.

External USB port connects to your power bank inside, keeping devices charged throughout your journey.

4. Briggs & Riley Baseline

© Briggs and Riley

Imagine a suitcase that expands to hold 34% more without exceeding carry-on dimensions—that’s exactly what this innovative design accomplishes. The patented expansion-compression system is pure genius for travelers who tend to overpack or shop abroad.

Lifetime warranty covers everything, even airline damage, which practically never happens with other brands. Ballistic nylon exterior resists tears and stains better than most materials on the market.

Wide-set wheels improve stability when navigating uneven airport surfaces or cobblestone streets.

5. Rimowa Essential Cabin

© Neiman Marcus

Luxury meets functionality in this iconic aluminum-looking polycarbonate design that turns heads in every terminal. Grooved exterior styling has become instantly recognizable among seasoned international travelers worldwide.

Multiwheel system uses ball-bearing technology for effortless 360-degree movement through tight spaces. Flex divider system inside adapts to different packing needs, from formal wear to casual vacation clothes.

TSA-approved lock integrates seamlessly into the sleek design without compromising the minimalist aesthetic travelers adore.

6. Delsey Paris Helium Aero

© Amazon.com

French engineering shines through in every detail of this surprisingly affordable yet high-performing carry-on option. Expandable design adds two inches of packing space when you unzip the hidden expansion panel around the middle.

Lightweight frame construction means it weighs just over six pounds empty, leaving more room for your weight allowance. Double spinner wheels distribute weight evenly, reducing strain on your arms during long walks between gates.

Integrated TSA lock and split interior design offer security and organization simultaneously.

7. Eagle Creek Tarmac

© Eagle Creek

Adventure travelers need gear that transitions seamlessly from airplane to remote destinations, which this hybrid bag handles brilliantly. Convertible design lets you carry it like a backpack or roll it traditionally depending on terrain conditions.

Durable water-resistant fabric protects contents during unexpected weather or rough handling situations. Lockable zippers and hidden pockets secure valuables like passports and electronics in separate compartments.

Multiple grab handles positioned strategically make lifting into overhead bins easier from any angle or position.

8. Calpak Hue

© Apartment Therapy

Bold colors and modern patterns make this carry-on stand out on baggage carousels and in overhead compartments everywhere. Hardshell polycarbonate construction provides excellent protection while maintaining surprisingly light weight for its size.

Interior compression boards keep clothes flat and organized throughout turbulent flights and frequent unpacking. 360-degree spinner wheels maneuver effortlessly through narrow airplane aisles and crowded boarding areas.

Did you know? Calpak offers free monogramming, helping you identify your bag instantly among similar-looking luggage.

9. Victorinox Spectra 2.0

© ITSLIQUID

Swiss precision engineering extends beyond watches into luggage design with this exceptionally well-crafted carry-on option. Eight wheels instead of the standard four provide unmatched stability and smooth rolling across various airport surfaces.

Antimicrobial lining keeps interiors fresh even after multiple trips without washing or airing out. Deep-curved design maximizes internal packing space while maintaining compliant external dimensions for international regulations.

Dual-access design allows quick retrieval of items from either side without fully unpacking everything inside.

10. Osprey Ozone

© Gearhead Outfitters

Backpack specialists bring their expertise to wheeled luggage with this incredibly versatile and durable carry-on creation. Reinforced corners and base protect against impacts that would damage lesser bags during rough handling procedures.

Retractable handle tucks completely inside when using the integrated backpack straps for hands-free carrying. Compression straps cinch down contents to prevent shifting during flight, keeping fragile items safer throughout your journey.

Lockable sliders on main compartment provide security while maintaining easy access when you need something quickly.

11. Monos Carry-On

© Monos

Canadian design meets Japanese craftsmanship in this beautifully minimalist yet incredibly functional travel companion. Vegan leather details add sophistication without sacrificing the lightweight benefits of polycarbonate shell construction.

Aerospace-grade aluminum handles telescope smoothly and lock securely at your preferred height setting. Interior compression pad and antimicrobial lining work together to keep clothes fresh and wrinkle-free during extended trips.

Whisper-quiet Hinomoto wheels glide silently through terminals, never announcing your arrival or disturbing fellow passengers nearby.

12. July Carry On

© Lane Crawford

Australian innovation brings fresh thinking to luggage design with features travelers didn’t know they needed until now. Front pocket provides laptop access without opening the main compartment during security checks or quick stops.

Ejectable battery pack charges devices multiple times while remaining airline-compliant and easy to remove when required. Scratch-resistant polycarbonate shell maintains its appearance despite rough treatment from baggage handlers and tight storage spaces.

Interior includes garment folder, compression system, and laundry bag—everything needed for organized international travel adventures.