7 Carry-On Suitcases Travel Bloggers Actually Use (2025 Tested)

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By A.M. Murrow

Choosing the right carry-on suitcase can make or break your travel experience. Travel bloggers put their luggage through serious tests – from cramped airplane overhead bins to bumpy cobblestone streets around the world. After months of real-world testing and countless miles traveled, these seven carry-on suitcases have proven themselves worthy of professional travelers’ trust and recommendation.

1. Monos Carry-On Pro

© Travels With Elle

Sleek design meets practical function in this Instagram-worthy suitcase that doesn’t sacrifice substance for style. Travel bloggers consistently praise its buttery-smooth 360-degree wheels that glide effortlessly through busy airports.

The polycarbonate shell withstands rough baggage handling while maintaining its sophisticated appearance. What sets this apart is the front laptop compartment that makes security checkpoints a breeze.

Weighing just 7.8 pounds with 36 liters of capacity, it’s perfect for frequent flyers who demand both elegance and efficiency. The trade-off? That convenient front pocket does eat into your overall packing space.

2. TravelPro Platinum Elite Expandable Spinner

© Travelpro

Flight crews and business travelers have sworn by TravelPro for decades, and bloggers are catching on to this industry secret. The soft-sided flexibility adapts to awkward packing situations while organized compartments keep everything in its place.

At 46 liters when expanded, it offers serious packing power without feeling bulky during transport. Multiple zippered sections mean you can separate clean clothes from dirty laundry or keep work documents easily accessible.

Weighing 7.8 pounds, it strikes an excellent balance between durability and weight. Just remember that expanding it might push dimensions beyond strict airline limits, so measure twice before your flight.

3. Away The Carry-On

© Away Luggage

Minimalist aesthetics meet maximum functionality in this blogger favorite that launched a thousand travel Instagram posts. The clean lines and premium materials make it equally at home in business class or backpacking through Europe.

Smooth-rolling wheels and a sturdy polycarbonate shell handle everything from city breaks to week-long adventures. At 39-40 liters capacity and 7.5 pounds, it hits the sweet spot for most travelers’ needs.

The streamlined design means everything goes into the main compartment – no front pocket here. This forces you to pack smart but maximizes interior space for your belongings.

4. Carl Friedrik The Carry-On X

© Travel Away

Luxury meets practicality in this premium option that turns heads in airport lounges worldwide. Leather accents and whisper-quiet wheels give it an upscale feel that justifies the higher price point.

Business travelers love the front laptop pocket for easy security access, while the 43-liter capacity handles extended trips with style. The sophisticated design photographs beautifully for travel content creators.

At 9.5 pounds, it’s heavier than most competitors, but the build quality shows in every detail. This investment piece is for travelers who view their luggage as an extension of their personal brand and don’t mind paying for premium craftsmanship.

5. Quince Small Carry-On Suitcase

© Wardrobe Oxygen

Budget-conscious bloggers discovered this hidden gem that delivers premium features without the premium price tag. The polycarbonate shell and smooth spinner wheels rival much more expensive options.

Minimalist travel enthusiasts appreciate the 40-liter capacity and lightweight 7-pound frame that won’t eat into airline weight limits. Quality control matches what you’d expect from brands costing twice as much.

The finish isn’t quite as polished as higher-end competitors, but for travelers prioritizing value over prestige, this delivers exceptional bang for your buck. Smart shoppers who research thoroughly often end up choosing this over flashier alternatives.

6. Samsonite Freeform Hardside Spinner

© Upgraded Points

Sometimes the classics become classics for good reason, and this reliable workhorse proves that point beautifully. Bloggers trust Samsonite’s global reputation and widespread availability when traveling to remote destinations.

The Freeform model stands out as one of the lightest hardshell spinners at just 6.5 pounds while maintaining the durability Samsonite is known for. With 39 liters of space, it handles most travel needs efficiently.

The design won’t win style awards compared to boutique brands, but it gets the job done reliably trip after trip. For travelers who prioritize function over fashion and value proven reliability, this remains a solid choice.

7. July Carry-On

© Travel + Leisure

This Australian brand has quietly built a devoted following among travel bloggers who appreciate its whisper-quiet wheels and rock-solid construction. The customization options, including personal monograms, add a personal touch that mass-market brands can’t match.

At 42 liters capacity and 7.4 pounds, it offers generous space without weight penalties. The attention to detail shows in every component, from the smooth zippers to the sturdy telescoping handle.

Limited regional availability can make purchasing challenging depending on your location, but those who manage to get one rarely regret the effort. It’s become something of a cult favorite among discerning travelers.