For frequent travelers, the importance of a good quality carry-on bag really can’t be overstated. You need a durable bag to protect your possessions and withstand the wear and tear from flying. If you opt for a low quality bag, the chances are you’ll find yourself having to replace it often. In the long run, it’s definitely worth investing in a well-crafted bag that will last and last. In fact, many of the following carry-on luggage items come with a lifetime guarantee.
Unpopular opinion alert: you might be surprised that I’m not featuring any Rimowa products in this article. Rimowa is one of the most aspirational brands in the luxury luggage industry, but to be honest, I was very disappointed with my suitcase. It breaks my heart to say it, but it really didn’t live up to the hype. I was expecting a top-quality bag but it very quickly began to show scuffs and scratches. It was also clunky and awkward to open, and I prefer a more ergonomic design. In the end, it just didn’t stand up to any of my other carry on bags, despite some of them being significantly more affordable.
Now that that’s out of the way, let’s dive into the best carry-on luggage for luxury travelers!
Sleek, stylish and functional, this cabin suitcase features an aerospace-grade polycarbonate shell, so you can be sure that it will withstand turbulence and mad dashes through the airport. The 360 spinner wheels mean that the H5 will glide easily behind you, even on uneven terrain. It also comes with a TSA-approved padlock for extra security.
This carry-on case also makes it easy to stay organized. There’s a laundry bag inside so that you can separate clean and dirty clothes, which is an ulta-convenient feature that I really appreciate. Perhaps best of all, there’s a removable power pack that will fully charge your phone six times, so you’ll never have to worry about running out of battery. In my opinion, this suitcase punches well above its price tag.
The name ‘Tumi’ is synonymous with quality. Made from SRPP Ballistic fabric, this suitcase is virtually indestructible. On top of this, it also proves that style and functionality aren’t mutually exclusive; it’s so aesthetically pleasing that you’d never know it’s virtually bulletproof. The Tumi Latitude Carry-On comes in a variety of attractive colors, my personal favorite being ‘blush’. Each bag also comes with a one-of-a-kind Tumi Tracer code so that you’ll be able to find it more easily if the airline loses your bags.
Paravel’s slick Aviator suitcase is a perfect choice for ethically conscious consumers. It’s made from high quality vegan leather, recycled polycarbonate and upcycled water bottles. Honestly, though, the reason I love it is that it looks so elegant and helps to create an effortless airport style.
If you want a carry-on case that feels indestructible, the Briggs & Riley Torq 21-inch is perfect for you; it feels like the kind of bag a spy might have. Not only does this product come with a lifetime guarantee for ultimate peace of mind, it also features an aircraft-grade aluminium handle and a strap system to allow you to tow along any extra bags. Briggs & Riley luggage really does take functionality to the next level.
Bottega’s woven leather trolley is an excellent investment for luxury travelers who are fashion-forward, but prefer something a little more understated than your classic Louis Vuitton bag. This gorgeous case is for those who truly appreciate fine leather craftsmanship. It’s a lovely, high-quality piece that will set you apart at the airport and last you for years to come.
Which piece of carry-on luggage is your favorite? Let me know in the comments below, and don’t miss this carry-on packing guide.