Unearth The Voyage
Fall trips and holiday travel mean crowded airports, tight schedules, and the need for luggage that won’t let you down. A reliable carry-on suitcase can make the difference between a smooth journey and a stressful one. Whether you’re heading to a cozy cabin for Thanksgiving or catching a flight for winter break, the right bag keeps your belongings safe and your travel hassle-free. Check out these top picks that combine durability, smart features, and traveler-approved performance.
1. Away The Bigger Carry-On
Condé Nast Traveler calls this one of the best carry-ons for 2025, and it’s easy to see why. The hard-shell exterior protects your belongings from bumps and rough baggage handlers, while the roomy interior gives you space for everything you need on a long weekend trip.
Inside, a compression panel keeps clothes organized and prevents items from shifting around. The smooth spinner wheels glide effortlessly through busy terminals, making navigation a breeze even when you’re rushing to catch a flight.
If style and functionality top your list, this suitcase delivers on both fronts without compromise.
2. Samsonite Freeform Carry-On Spinner
Weight matters when you’re hopping between flights or navigating train stations. Travel guides in 2025 highlight this bag as a top pick for travelers who want to pack light without sacrificing durability.
The polycarbonate shell withstands the wear and tear of frequent travel, yet it won’t weigh you down before you even start packing. Spinner wheels move smoothly in any direction, and the size fits comfortably within most airline carry-on restrictions.
Frequent flyers appreciate how this suitcase balances toughness with a feather-light feel, making every trip a little easier on your arms and back.
3. Samsonite Outline Pro Carry-On Spinner
National Geographic named this the best overall carry-on luggage for 2025, a title earned through serious testing. Built with a polypropylene shell, it handles rough treatment from baggage handlers and still looks great after multiple trips.
An expanding option gives you extra packing room when you need it, perfect for bringing home holiday gifts or souvenirs. Organizer compartments keep smaller items accessible and prevent the dreaded suitcase explosion when you unzip it at your destination.
Heavy packers and holiday travelers find this bag especially useful when every inch of space counts during busy travel seasons.
4. Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Expandable Spinner
OutdoorGearLab recommends this bag for its construction quality and practical design features. Soft-side luggage offers flexibility that hard-shell cases can’t match, squeezing into tight overhead bins when flights are fully booked.
Thoughtful compartments separate clean clothes from dirty ones, business documents from casual gear, making it ideal for trips that blend work with holiday fun. Durable wheels handle cobblestone streets and airport tiles equally well, rolling smoothly wherever your journey takes you.
Business travelers heading home for the holidays appreciate how this suitcase adapts to different travel needs without missing a beat.
5. Calpak Terra Carry-On
Condé Nast Traveler picked this as the best lightweight carry-on for 2025, and that distinction matters when you’re navigating crowded terminals or rushing between gates. Lifting a heavy suitcase overhead gets old fast, especially on longer travel days.
This bag keeps weight to a minimum while still offering enough room for fall getaways or holiday escapes. The compact design fits easily in smaller overhead compartments, and the functional layout ensures you can find what you need quickly.
Travelers who value ease of movement over maximum packing space find this suitcase hits the sweet spot between convenience and capacity.
6. Delsey Paris Cruise 3.0 Carry-On
Featured in 2025 luggage guides, this soft-side option combines French style with practical travel features. Dual-density wheels absorb shocks and roll quietly, a welcome feature when you’re navigating early morning airports or late-night hotel hallways.
A built-in TSA lock provides security without the hassle of separate padlocks, and organizer pockets keep essentials within easy reach. The aesthetic appeal sets it apart from generic luggage, making it easy to spot on baggage carousels.
Travelers who appreciate a blend of convenience and visual appeal find this suitcase checks all the right boxes for stress-free holiday journeys.
7. Quince Small Carry-On Suitcase
Real Simple spotlighted this budget-friendly option in 2025 for delivering quality without the premium price tag. Not everyone needs high-end luggage, especially if you only take one or two trips each season.
Despite the lower cost, this suitcase offers durability and a lightweight build that rival pricier competitors. The construction holds up well to typical travel wear, and the size works for quick getaways or extended weekends.
Smart shoppers planning seasonal trips appreciate how this bag provides solid performance and reliability without draining their travel budget for other holiday expenses.
