Not every good product can claim the title of best in class, but there are several bags we’ve tested that get our approval.
Samsonite Outline Pro Carry-On Suitcase for $200:This is a four-wheeled hardside carry-on suitcase with spinner wheels, made from a durable polypropylene outer shell. Notable features include an interior fabric made from 100% recycled plastic bottles and a “WetPak” storage pocket to keep wet items separate from the rest of your luggage.
Osprey Ozone 40L Backpack for $280: Osprey claims this bag, which weighs 2kg, is the lightest carry-on bag available. Plus, it’s made from Bluesign-approved 400D recycled nylon and is DWR-treated. It’s light enough to easily lift over my head, and I’ve checked it in a few times, too.
Gregory Alpaca Duffel Bag 40 for $140:This duffel bag weighs just 2.7 pounds, but its water-resistant fabric and extraordinarily sturdy (albeit plastic) buckles make it a solid bag for adventures. There’s an exterior pocket for storing shoes or dirty clothes. The backpack straps aren’t stowable (you have to unbuckle them), but they may be the most padded and comfortable straps I’ve found on a duffel bag. Exterior daisy chain closures and an interior zipper pocket round out the impressive list of features.
Land’s End Waxed Canvas Tote Bag for $180:Most canvas bags today 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-school charm that this waxed canvas bag does.
Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler 40L Cargo Truck for $107: This bag weighs 1 pound, 13 ounces, which is barely heavier than air. It also has backpack straps that stow away in a front pocket.
Skyway Epic Carry-On Luggage for $80: At 3.1kg, the Epic is about average weight. The handle is a bit more delicate than our top pick, and the Travelpro’s wheels roll a bit better. Still, the Epic is a solid choice.
Target Signature Weekender Bag for $81:The Weekender, which looks like a combination between a tote and a duffel bag, has a structure that product reviewer Louryn Strampe says can get a bit too stuffy, so keep that in mind if you plan to bring it on a plane as a carry-on. However, she appreciates its durability and numerous internal pockets for organization, as well as its fairly long five-year warranty.
Solgaard Plus Carry-On Wardrobe for $275: It’s a tiny A bit more than most airlines list as maximum dimensions, but the difference is so small that it’s accepted 95 percent of the time. WIRED reviewer Louryn Strampe praises its optional clip-on clothing organizer, which allows for efficient packing. The built-in TSA lock is easy to use, and there’s an internal pocket for a power bank. This suitcase is included in our guide to favorite recycled products.