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Mastering the art of traveling light requires the right kit. As airlines increasingly view overhead locker space as prime real estate, your carry-on luggage needs to be smarter than ever.
The best carry-on and carry-on luggage should be sturdy enough to survive the mad rush to Heathrow, roomy enough to accommodate a long weekend, yet compact enough to satisfy even the grumpiest Ryanair ground staff. Get it wrong and you’ll face the indignity and expense of baggage inspection.
As a travel writer, I lug dozens of boxes through cobblestone streets and stuff them into sizers to find bags that are truly suitable for long-distance travel. Tested options over thousands of miles Best luggage brandI’ve pared down my luggage list to one that fits within most airlines’ baggage allowances, is comfortable to use, and most importantly, stores your belongings safely and securely.
Whether you’re heading out on adventures and need a roomy bag you can throw on your back, or you’re a frequent flyer and looking for a bag to last a lifetime, I’ve found the best carry-on bags for all budgets and types of travelers.
We’ve also been tested by experts Best checked luggage for your next long trip.
Read more: 10 Best Packing Boxes to Keep Your Luggage Organized
The best carry-on bags of 2026 are:
- Best Overall – Victorinox Spectrum 3.0 Expandable Global Carry-On: £495, Victorinox.com
- Best budget buy – Cabin Max Anodized Carrying Case: £49.95, Amazon UK
- Best budget seat bag – Cabin Max Equator X 20l: £19.95, Amazon UK
- best backpack – Antlers found: £140, Antler.co.uk
how i tested
I carried all the luggage on at least one short-haul flight across Europe, dragging them through airports and city streets to test real-world durability. I packed each plane with clothes and tech to measure interior storage space while checking dimensions against the major airlines’ strict cabin allowances. Finally, I evaluated comfort and handling, making sure the wheels didn’t stick, the handles stowed away smoothly, and the straps on the pack didn’t get bogged down during long hauls.
Read more: 7 Best Wheeled Backpacks, Tried and Tested for a Smooth Ride
