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January 17, 2024

Your Ultimate Guide to Best Carry-On Luggage in 2023 | Luggage

Find the perfect carry-on for your next trip with our guide to 2023's top-rated luggage and backpacks, ideal for weekend getaways and streamlined travel.
Your Ultimate Guide to Best Carry-On Luggage

Your Ultimate Guide to Best Carry-On Luggage in 2023 | Luggage

Traveling is about more than just reaching a destination; it's also about how we get there. For frequent fliers and the occasional weekend trekker alike, having the best carry-on luggage or backpack can make all the difference. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore top picks for travel gear in 2023, focusing on design, durability, and, above all, functionality.

Luggage and Backpack Options: Hard-side vs Soft-side

Luggage comes in all shapes and sizes, from compact carry-ons to expansive checked luggage. It's important to choose the right suitcase for your travel needs. Hard-side or hard-sided luggage, typically made from materials like polycarbonate, provides a sturdy shell to protect your belongings. Brands like Samsonite and Delsey offer high-quality hard-side luggage sets, known for their durability and wear and tear resistance.

On the other hand, soft-side luggage and backpacks offer flexibility and expandability. For instance, the Cotopaxi Allpa travel bag, available in both 35-liter and larger sizes, has a tough, water-resistant exterior and a spacious main compartment. Its organizational features include a padded laptop sleeve and internal pockets, making it an ideal weekender or even weeklong travel companion.

Luggage Compartments: Maximizing Your Packing Space

An essential factor in selecting luggage is the compartment design. A well-organized main compartment with dividers and zippered pockets can significantly improve packing efficiency. The best carry-on luggage often features a clamshell design, making packing and unpacking easier. A standout example is the Away carry-on with its spacious main compartment that’s big enough to hold several pairs of shoes and days' worth of clothes.

Most carry-on bags now come with dedicated laptop sleeves. These provide a secure and padded space for your device, ensuring it's protected during transit. A model that strikes the balance right is the Bigger Carry-On from Away, offering a padded laptop sleeve, an easy to clean polycarbonate shell, and even a hidden laundry bag for dirty clothes.

The Importance of Travel Accessories: Packing Cubes, Toiletry Bags, and More

Travel accessories, like packing cubes and toiletry bags, add layers of organization within your luggage. Packing cubes, in particular, help distribute the weight evenly in your suitcase or backpack, making them easy to maneuver. They also segregate your items, preventing your clean clothes from mingling with dirty laundry.

Toiletry bags are another must-have travel accessory. They ensure your personal care items are compactly organized, accessible, and contained, should any leaks occur. For the frequent flier, TSA-approved toiletry bags can make navigating airport security a breeze.

Spinner Wheels, Shoulder Straps, and More: Ensuring Comfort and Mobility

Whether you're navigating through the airport or getting your suitcase into the overhead bin, easy mobility is crucial. Luggage with spinner wheels offers a smooth glide across surfaces. For backpacks, look for adjustable shoulder straps that contour to your body for maximum comfort.

Durability is just as important, especially for heavy use. Look for luggage with a lifetime warranty, like some offered by Calpak and Delsey.

The Best Carry-On Luggage and Backpacks of 2023

Based on design, usability, durability, and user reviews, here are our top picks for the best carry-on luggage and backpacks in 2023:

  1. Best Overall: The Away Bigger Carry-On comes with several practical features like an ejectable charger, a TSA lock, and a laundry bag. Its size is compliant with most U.S airline standards, and it's roomy enough to fit a week's worth of clothes.
  2. Best Carry-On Backpack: The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is an excellent choice. Its design is enticing, featuring a clamshell opening for easy packing and unpackable adventures, as well as stowable backpack straps for easy carrying. It's also equipped with a separate compartment for a laptop and a zippered compartment for shoes or dirty clothes.
  3. Lightweight Luggage: For those who prioritize lighter weight, the Samsonite Freeform is a top contender. Despite its light weight, it doesn't compromise on space or durability.
  4. Best for Organizational Features: The Calpak Luka Duffle has a spacious main compartment, zippered external and inner pockets, and a padded laptop sleeve. It's perfect for weekend trips or as a gym bag.
  5. Best Hardside Luggage: Delsey's Helium Aero line offers robust hardside luggage options. They come with TSA-approved locks, easy maneuverability due to their spinner wheels, and a spacious interior that's well-organized, making it an excellent option for any trip.

Conclusion: Choosing the Best Carry-On for Your Needs in 2023

Selecting the best carry-on luggage or backpack in 2023 comes down to your personal needs and style. With a plethora of options out there, you should consider your packing habits, the duration of your trips, and the items you need to pack. Don't forget about those handy travel accessories, which can make all the difference in keeping your luggage organized.

In the end, the best carry-on will be one that withstands the test of time, offers easy mobility, and meets your packing needs. So pack your bags and set off on your next adventure with confidence and style.

Please note, it's essential to check the dimensions and weight limits of your airline before purchasing your carry-on luggage to avoid any unwanted surprises at the airport. Safe travels!

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