Travelling can be an incredible experience, whether you’re exploring the amazing locations and experiences we have available to us here in Australia, or are zipping around the world to spend a few weeks in Europe.
Either way, if you’re planning on flying you’ll want to have carry-on luggage that is light, and meets the required dimensions for sizing limitations of airlines like Jetstar and Qantas.
Samsonite Firelight Hard Side Spinner Carry On Suitcase
Samsonite is one of the leading names in luggage for many reasons, and all of them are evident in this high quality piece of travel gear.
The wheels spin 360 degrees making it easy to manoeuvre through tight areas while the hard exterior ensures all the contents are protected.
Security is guaranteed with the 3-point TSA combination lock, and elastic ribbons in the storage area ensure items stored inside are secured in place.
Pros
- Hard Shell For Extra Security
- 3-Point TSA Lock
- Organize your packing easily with the divider pad
Cons
- 2kg makes this heavier than soft-shell carry-on bags
Caribee Fast Track VI 32L Cabin Bag
A durable cabin bag that comes with a number of great features, including a rear-zipping laptop pocket to keep your electronics easily available.
In addition, it contains an EVA Shock Guard that protects your laptop from static discharge, and has a built-in compression system to conserve as much space as possible.
Front-mounted organiser pocket keeps you on the go while the luggage strap allows you to connect it to the trolley with ease.
Pros
- Dedicated laptop pocket
- Shock guard to protect laptops
- Front pocket organiser panel
Cons
- Doesn’t fully open like a suitcase would
- Harness cannot be adjusted for height
Samsonite Oc2lite Hardside Spinner Suitcase
Featuring one of the smoothest rolling mechanisms available, the Samsonite Octolite is a pleasure to use.
Not only does this stylish suitcase look great, but it is very lightweight and durable, making it your perfect travel companion.
Other features include size expanding functionality, elastic cross straps to secure packed items and an integrated 3 digit TSA combination lock.
Pros
- Smooth rolling
- Lightweight and durable
- 3-Point TSA Lock
- Size expander to increase capacity
- Elastic cross strap to secure items
Cons
- 2.6kg in weight
- Expensive
Plambag Canvas Carry on Duffel Bag
We fell in love with this bag based on its appearance alone. There’s something about travelling with a canvas bag that shares the same shade of brown as authentic leather that just works.
It also comes with an incredible range of features including exterior electronics pockets, a magnetic snap pocket on the front, and a durable bottom.
The base of the bag features four plastic feet help keep it above the dirt and grime.
Pros
- Durable canvas material
- Multi-functional and spacious
- Versatile carry options (Handles and straps)
Cons
- Canvas material not waterproof
- No backpack option
- No locking pockets
Hexin Carry On Luggage
This high-capacity model is made from a lightweight and durable material that protects its contents from the weather while remaining easy to pack away when it’s all unloaded.
It’s also available in an impressive array of colours and has enough interior storage to make packing for travel a cinch.
Two external pockets provide easy access options and the zippers have large pulls for ease of use.
Pros
- Durable and waterproof material
- Lightweight and collapsible for storage
- Multiple color options
Cons
- Fabric construction provides minimal protection for electronics
- Not suitable for luggage, only carry-on
Carry-On Luggage Buyer’s Guide
The Correct Sizing For Your Airline
This is absolutely the most essential part of picking the right carry-on luggage. Whether you’re shopping Samsonite or the cheapest luggage you can find they won’t do you any good if they’re too large for your airline.
All airlines have their own carry on requirements, and there’s no standard size for carry-ons so make sure yours fits for your airline.
Some airlines also allow a second carry-on that can be slipped under the seat in front of you, so pay attention!
Light And Easy To Transport
When you’re selecting carry-on luggage you want to ensure that it’s going to be easy to move around. This means that your luggage needs to be light (but durable) and equipped with features that will keep you on the go.
Wheeled suitcases are a great option thanks to the ease of transporting them over long distances, like the airport causeway.
Carry-on backpacks are another choice that will leave your hands free while you keep your essentials on hand.
Durable Materials
One of the hardest decisions to make is to go with a durable design that will protect its contents, such as can be found with hard-sided pieces, or to go with a soft-sided material that will break down for easy storage when you reach your destination.
There are, of course, options between these two extremes, such as those that have a hard front and back but also have soft sides so you can flatten them easily.
There’s no right or wrong answer as to which is the best option, so long as it remains light and meets the sizing requirements of your airline.
Verdict
All of these carry-ons can be a great selection for those looking at their next great adventure, but that didn’t stop us from picking out a ‘best of’ option from the list.
For us, the Samsonite Firelight Spinner Suitcase hits the sweet spot thanks to its durable design, ease of transport, and all around functionality that makes your trip a breeze!
Our “Best Value” selection out of the above list is the Caribee Fast track VI32L Cabin Bag.
Compact, durable, and affordable it really hits all the marks for a great travel experience.
It may not be a hard case or even a partial hard case, but that’s one of its biggest benefits and drawbacks in one go.
