Not every good product can snag the title of best in its category, but there are still a few bags we tested that get our thumbs up.
Osprey Ozone 40L for $280: At 4.47 pounds, Osprey claims this bag is the lightest carry-on suitcase. It’s also made from 400D recycled, bluesign-approved nylon and is treated with DWR. This bag is light enough to easily hoist over my head and has also been checked several times.
Gregory Alpaca 40 Duffel for $140: This duffel bag only weighs 2.7 pounds, but the water-resistant fabric and extremely sturdy (though plastic) buckles make it a sturdy bag for adventures. There is an outside pocket for storing shoes or dirty clothes. The backpack straps are not stowable (you have to untie them), but are perhaps the best padded, comfortable straps I have ever encountered on a duffel bag. Daisy Chains on the outside and an inside zippered pocket round out the impressive list of features.
Land’s End waxed canvas laundry bag for $180: Most duffel bags these days are made of nylon, and while it’s hard to call a material that’s been popular since the 1940s “modern,” nylon bags don’t have the old-world charm that this waxed canvas bag has.
Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler 40L for $149: This bag weighs 1 pound, 13 ounces, which is only slightly heavier than air. It also has backpack straps that can be stored in a front pocket.
Skyway Epic carry-on bag for $160: At 7.1 pounds, the Epic is an average weight. The handle is a little fussier than our top pick, and the Travelpro’s wheels glide a little nicer. Still, the Epic is a solid choice.
Target Signature Weekend Bag for $81: The Weekender looks like a cross between a duffel bag and a handbag and has a structure that product reviewer Louryn Strampe says can become overcrowded, so keep that in mind if you plan to take it on the plane as a carry-on. However, she appreciates the durability and many internal storage compartments, and the fairly long five-year warranty.
Solgaard Carry-On Locker Plus for $345: It is a small slightly more than what most airlines list as maximum dimensions, but the difference is so small that it is accepted in 95 percent of cases. WIRED reviewer Louryn Strampe praises the optional clip-in clothing organizer, which makes for efficient packing. The built-in TSA lock is easy to use and there is an internal power bank compartment. This suitcase is included in our Favorite Recycled Products guide.
Samsonite Outline Pro carry-on for $200: This is a hard-sided spinner carry-on luggage with four wheels, made from a durable polypropylene outer shell. Notable features include an inner fabric made from 100 percent recycled plastic bottles and a ‘WetPak’ storage pocket to keep wet items separate from the rest of your luggage.
Adidas Defender Duffel for $40: If you’re looking for a cheap travel bag that’s suitable for light travel, this is a great way to save $100. The fabric is significantly thinner and less sturdy than other duffels in this guide, and it lacks backpack straps. But to take with you on the train or throw in the trunk of a car, it is sufficient.