How to Choose the Right Carry-On for Your Next Trip Posted on 7 April 2025 By Brody Armstrong Posted in best carry-on bags, Briggs & Riley, carry-on luggage, Dekine, guide, Osprey, Pacsafe, Samsonite, Thule, travel gear, travel tips, Travelon, Travelpro Choosing the right carry-on luggage can streamline your travel experience, save you time, and keep your essentials organized and secure. This guide breaks down key factors to consider, including size, materials, layout, wheels, and security features while highlighting trusted travel brands like Samsonite, Thule, Pacsafe, Briggs & Riley, and more, all available at Urban Traveller. When it comes to travel, your carry-on is more than just a bag. It's your mobile base of operations! Whether you're zipping through a busy airport, navigating the cobblestone streets of Europe or hopping between cities on business, the right carry-on can make all the difference. But with so many materials, features and styles on the market, how do you know what's right for you? At Urban Traveller, we're all about helping the modern explorer travel smarter. In this guide, we'll break down what to consider when choosing a carry-on, along with some of our top brand recommendations, so you can pack with confidence for your next adventure! Know the Airline Carry-On Size Limits Different airlines have different carry-on size requirements, which may vary depending on your destination and ticket class. In Canada, most airlines allow carry-ons up to 21.5" x 15.5" x 9" (55 x 40 x 23 cm), including handles and wheels. U.S. airlines typically permit slightly larger sizes, around 22" x 14" x 9" (56 x 36 x 23 cm). Meanwhile, many European and international carriers enforce stricter limits, often around 21.6" x 15.7" x 7.8" (55 x 40 x 20 cm). Since these standards can vary, even between domestic and international flights on the same airline, it’s always best to check your airline’s carry-on policy before you pack. For international or low-cost carriers, consider going a little smaller (like 20") to avoid gate check surprises. Samsonite carry-ons are known for adhering to international size standards and come in a wide range of styles to suit any trip. So if you're worried about carry-on size checks, it's a good place to start! Hardside vs. Softside: What’s Better? Hardside Hardside cases, made from materials such as polycarbonate, are sleek, protective and typically more water resistant. They can be great for: • Business travel • Tech protection • Easy cleaning Softside Softsides are made of ballistic nylon or polyester and offer flexibility and extra compartments. Perfect for: • Frequent flyers • Over-packers • Carry-on expandability Check out Briggs & Riley, Samsonite, and Travelpro for both ultra-durable hardside models designed for rugged reliability and modern styling, and soft side models made for effortless packing and expandability. Consider the Interior Layout Your packing style should guide your layout preference. Some bags feature a 50/50 split, while others have a deep cavity with zippered sections and compression panels. • Need laptop storage? Look for front-access compartments, like in Briggs & Riley's Torq 2.0 series or the Samsonite Silhouette 18 Carry-On. • Want to stay organized? Briggs & Riley’s Baseline series and Travelpro's Platinum Elite feature garment panels and built-in suiter sections to keep everything where it should be! • Packing cubes lover? Opt for a clamshell hard case with clean interior panels, something Samsonite excels at, especially with their new Uplift Hardside Spinner Exp Carry-on Weight and Durability Matter Every kilogram counts when you’re lifting your bag into an overhead bin or sprinting through a terminal. • Hardsides like those from Samsonite, Briggs & Riley and Travelpro balance weight and strength. • Softsides from Travelpro or Samsonite are designed with lightweight, tear-resistant fabrics. Look for reinforced corners, heavy-duty zippers, and telescoping handles that glide smoothly, especially if you’re a frequent traveler. Wheeled Luggage vs. Travel Backpacks If your travels take you beyond airports and into more rugged terrain like cobblestone streets, dirt roads, or long walks between train stations, a traditional wheeled carry-on might not be your best option. That’s where travel backpacks come in. Designed for mobility, comfort, and flexibility, these hybrid travel packs balance structure and freedom of movement. Wheeled Luggage Wheeled luggage is best for urban travel and business trips, airports and hotels, packing organization, and easy maneuverability. Ideal for people who desire: • Smooth rolling through terminals • Structured interiors for organized • A professional and polished appearance Explore options like the Samsonite and Briggs & Riley collections for durable and stylish wheeled luggage. Travel Backpacks Travel backpacks, especially those with built in hip-straps, are ideal for backpacking, adventure travel, and mixed urban/outdoor trips. They're also superb for carrying your luggage over long distances or rough terrain, and allowing for hands-free movement. Some benefits of travel backpacks include: • Ergonomic hip straps distribute weight away from your shoulders • More flexible for unpredictable environments • Ideal for travelers who pack light and stay mobile Check out the Dakine Verge for an urban-friendly travel pack, or go more adventure-ready with the Thule Landmark or Osprey Farpoint and Fairview, both built for long-term comfort and carry-on compliance. Bottom line:If you're headed to major cities and need structure, wheeled luggage is a great choice. But if you're off the beaten path or hopping between destinations, a travel backpack with a supportive hip strap may offer the freedom you need. Wheels: Two vs. Four This often-overlooked feature can make a big difference in your travel experience. • Two wheels (rollers): Easier to maneuver on uneven surfaces with plenty of options from Dakine. • Four wheels (spinners): Offer 360-degree movement to glide through terminals, a signature feature of Samsonite, Briggs & Riley, and Travelpro. If you’ll be navigating cobblestone streets or trekking through unfamiliar terrain, a hybrid like Osprey's Farpoint wheeled travel pack might be the sweet spot you need, allowing you to roll or carry with ease! Security Features You’ll Actually Use Security shouldn’t be an afterthought. Consider looking for: • TSA-approved combination locks • RFID-blocking pockets (to protect your passport, credit card, and other valuables) • Hidden compartments or lockable zippers Pacsafe carry-ons are specifically designed with anti-theft technology, perfect for security focused adventurers and solo travelers. And for peace of mind during long-haul travel, Travelon bags are another excellent option, blending lightweight design with thoughtful safety features. Style and Personality Style matters, your luggage should feel like an extension of you. Whether you're after a sleek professional look, a pop of color, or something adventure-ready, Urban Traveller offers curated collections to match your aesthetic. • Minimalist professionals: Go with Samsonite or Briggs & Riley. • Urban adventurers: Look into Thule or Pacsafe. • Weekend explorers and backpackers: Dakine and Osprey offer rugged, stylish gear that handles rougher terrain. Bonus Features That Make Travel Smoother Some of these extras may seem small, but can really elevate your trip! • USB charging ports (look for models with a pass-through charging system). • Expandable zippers for flexible packing days. • Water-resistant pockets for toiletries or swimwear. • Integrated garment holders to keep clothes wrinkle-free. Many Briggs & Riley and Travelpro bags offer some these features without over complicating the design. Final Thoughts: The Best Carry-On Is the One That Works for You Choosing the right carry-on isn’t about following trends, it’s about finding the bag that works for your travel style, needs, and destinations. Here’s a quick recap of what to look for: • Airline-compatible size. • Durable yet lightweight materials. • Smart interior organization. • Smooth, stable wheels or hands-free travel packs. • Security and anti-theft features. • A style that fits your personality. At Urban Traveller, we stock only the most trusted names in travel. From Samsonite to Thule, Osprey to Pacsafe, and everything in between! Explore our collection and discover your perfect travel companion.