When traveling, there are plenty of positives to having your bags checked: you get more space, you can bring liquids, and you don’t need to lug your bag around the airport. However, there are many negatives associated with checked luggage as well–most notably, the risk of your belongings being “lost” in transit. It’s for reasons like these that many travelers have converted to the carry-on life, and here’s why you should consider it too.
The best carry-on luggage for men makes travel simpler, not more complicated. First off, you get to skip that enormous line to drop off your luggage. You also get to have your belongings with you at all times. And, if you’re anything like me, it forces you to leave your closet at home–seriously, you don’t need that many pairs of underwear.
Now, there are several different kinds of carry-on luggage, so it’s good to determine what you plan to use yours for and what your travel habits look like. This list features a little bit of everything to give you the most variety in your search. So, whether you’re looking for a small tech bag or a heavy-duty hardshell suitcase, you’re in the right place.
Now, how about we pack our bags and take flight with this list of the best carry-on luggage for men?
Key Takeaways
To compile this list, I sifted through dozens of luggage options and bags that fit the carry-on criteria. I also considered factors such as luggage type, size, and additional features that ultimately led me to these 8 contenders. Overall, I’ve concluded that the best carry-on luggage for men comes from Tropicfeel with the Lift 40L Rollerbag. The Peak Design 35L Travel Duffel also serves as a fantastic option, with tons of attention put into the smallest details.
Our Top Picks
Why it’s great: Tropicfeel has quickly become synonymous with modular travel gear, which is exactly why the Lift 40L Rollerbag tops this list of the best men’s carry-on luggage. This bag features a base capacity of 40 liters; however, it can be expanded up to 82 liters. The 80mm rubber wheels allow for a smooth ride when rolling, but this bag also features straps that can convert it into a backpack if needed.
How to use it: This bag is the definition of versatile. It can be used in tandem with several Tropicfeel accessories, such as a smart packing cube, toiletry bag, laundry bag, etc.
Who is it for: This bag can serve as the perfect companion for anyone who frequently travels with carry-on luggage and wants a ton of versatility for all kinds of trips.
Flaws but not deal breakers: Much of the versatility with this bag comes from the accessories that are all sold separately. The price can rack up quickly depending on how many of these accessories you want to add.
Size: 20.5” x 14.1” x 8.6” | Shell: Soft | Colors Available: 4 | Wheels: 2 | Compartments: 3 | Extra Features: Backpack Straps & Modular Accessories
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How to use it: This bag features a cavernous main compartment which can be used to carry all of your clothes and more. The d-rings that line the top of the bag also allow for some solid expansion if you have a lot of cargo.
Who is it for: This would be an excellent bag for anyone who desires something classy yet versatile. Not to mention, it’s also available in canvas, nylon, and jacquard materials to fit different material preferences.
Flaws but not deal breakers: While the main compartment does feature several pockets for organization, there is no dedicated laptop pocket.
Size: 20” x 9” x 11”| Shell: Bag | Colors Available: 10 | Wheels: N/A | Compartments: 1 | Extra Features: Expandable Size & Backpack Straps
Why it’s great: The Canway Travel Duffel is one of my go-to options when bringing carry-on luggage for a short trip. This bag offers tons of different pockets and compartments, both big and small, to organize just about anything you may carry. This duffel can also be packed down and zipped into a small square, which makes it even easier to store in your hotel room or at home.
How to use it: This bag features a large main compartment, a separate footwear compartment, and a host of pockets to aid in the packing process.
Who is it for: This is a super solid bag for anyone on a tight budget. It’s also offered in different sizes that range from 25 liters to 115 liters for every kind of traveler.
Flaws but not deal breakers: In my experience, it’s pretty difficult to pack this bag down into a square, and the whole process could take some time. I typically don’t fold this bag up unless I absolutely need to.
Size: 26.3” x 13.7” x 12.2” | Shell: Bag | Colors Available: 13 | Wheels: N/A | Compartments: 2 | Extra Features: Separate Footwear Compartment & Packable Design
Why it’s great: SwissGear is a prominent figure in the travel space, known for high-quality luggage like the Sion Softside Roller Bag. This bag features a multitude of pockets, both internal and external, to keep all of your belongings organized. The retractable pull handle and 360-degree wheels also make it a breeze to carry throughout the airport and at your destination of choice.
How to use it: This roller bag is fairly standard, featuring a large main compartment and additional zippered compartments for storage. Each pair of zippers is also compatible with a lock if you want an extra layer of security for your luggage.
Who is it for: This bag is for those who want something simple–a travel staple, if you will. There aren’t any major technological features with this bag as it is built to simply get the job done.
Flaws but not deal breakers: The quality of this bag is a bit questionable for long-term usage, with the handle and wheels being the weakest links.
Size: 22.7” x 14.2” x 10.2” | Shell: Soft | Colors Available: 7 | Wheels: 4 | Compartments: 4 | Extra Features: Expandable Main Compartment & Multi-Directional Wheels
Why it’s great: This Convertible 2-in-1 Garment Bag from Modoker is designed to keep your formal attire wrinkle-free while on the go. This bag can fit a full suit, dress shoes, and other personal belongings with ease. There’s also an external pocket on the side that can carry a passport, pens, and other essentials for easy access.
How to use it: This bag can be carried via the shoulder sling or the pair of handles on top, which can be connected for a more comfortable grip. Once you reach your destination, this bag can be opened up completely and hung to keep your clothes looking crisp.
Who is it for: If you frequently travel for work, or maybe a destination wedding here and there, this bag would be an excellent choice to keep your formal clothes in good shape.
Flaws but not deal breakers: Unfortunately, you can’t put in or take out your suit without first unzipping the entire bag, which can be pretty inefficient at the very least.
Size: 22” x 12” x 11” | Shell: Bag | Colors Available: 1 | Wheels: N/A | Compartments: 4 | Extra Features: Wrinkle-Free Suit Storage & Shoe Compartment
Why it’s great: This 35L Travel Duffel from Peak Design lives up to the brand name, with an array of technological features to make travel easy. This bag has a high-visibility nylon interior for low-light situations, while the bottom is made with a 900D waterproof liner for protection against the elements. Not to mention, there are a ton of accessories that can be bundled with this bag to fit all of your personal needs.
How to use it: This bag can be carried by the handles or the shoulder strap, like any standard duffel bag. The handles can also be slung over your shoulders to be carried as a backpack.
Who is it for: This is perfect for anyone desiring a bag with plenty of technology incorporated into it. It’s also great for people who may need to carry technology with them, like camera gear.
Flaws but not deal breakers: The magnets that hold the handles together are a bit weak, so they may come loose easily. Luckily, the handles can be detached if you don’t want them jostling around while you carry the bag by the shoulder strap.
Size: 22″ x 14″ x 10″ | Shell: Bag | Colors Available: 2 | Wheels: N/A | Compartments: 1 | Extra Features: Detachable/Magnetic Handles & Modular Accessories
Why it’s great: Monos has developed one of the best hard shell carry-on options out there with the Carry-On Pro suitcase. This case features a built-in compression pad, perfect for protecting large flat items such as a laptop or a book. The TSA-approved lock also adds an extra element of security if you ever need to use this as a checked bag.
How to use it: This suitcase can be used as a carry-on option when transporting delicate items or if you just prefer extra security.
Who is it for: This suitcase is for people who prefer the security of hard-shell carry-on luggage. Monos also offers this suitcase in several different sizes and variations to fit as many needs as possible.
Flaws but not deal breakers: The front compartment is pretty narrow and doesn’t offer a whole lot of space. It’s unable to fit large items (even some laptops) and is better suited for small items like a passport.
Size: 22″ × 14″ × 9″ | Shell: Hard | Colors Available: 13 | Wheels: 4 | Compartments: 3 | Extra Features: TSA Lock & Removable Compression Pad
Why it’s great: This Béis Duffel Bag is one of the best daily commuter options out there with a sleek, modern design. It features a few basic necessities, such as a key leash, trolley flap, and external water bottle holder. The bottom panel is also made of tough plastic, with metal feet that can keep your belongings protected from water and anything else that this bag may come in contact with.
How to use it: This bag has a large compartment as well as several internal and external pockets that can be used for everyday carry or travel necessities.
Who is it for: If you want an everyday bag that can easily convert into a carry-on option, this is the bag for you. It’d also be a great choice for pilots and flight attendants who are consistently on the go.
Flaws but not deal breakers: There is a dedicated laptop compartment in this bag, although it doesn’t feature much padding beyond the bottom panel. You may want to use a laptop sleeve or case for extra protection.
Size: 21.5″ x 9″ x 12″ | Shell: Bag | Colors Available: 2 | Wheels: N/A | Compartments: 2 | Extra Features: Tough Bottom Panel & Key Hook
Buying Considerations For The Best Carry-On Luggage For Men
Type
First off, there are several different types of carry-on luggage. You have both hard and soft suitcases as well as many different bags. Personally, I feel bags are the best type of carry-on luggage because they generally offer way more space and versatility than any other option. Hard cases are typically better suited for checked luggage because it’s thrown around without much concern during the loading process. Since you have carry-on luggage with you pretty much at all times, you can get away with a bag that offers less overall protection but more space in return. Of course, this is all personal preference, and you may love having a hard case. Those who are minimalistic travelers may not even need that much space and could benefit from something like a rucksack or messenger bag.
Size/Capacity
The size and capacity of your carry-on luggage also play a crucial part in the decision-making process. The standard dimensions for most carry-on luggage are 22 inches long, 14 inches wide, and 9 inches tall (45 linear inches). However, these measurements could vary depending on the airline and where you’re traveling. In my experience, I’ve never had an issue with carry-on luggage that is slightly larger than these dimensions, but I almost always travel with a duffel bag. Of course, the size of your carry-on luggage directly impacts how much you can store in it as well. If you’re a heavier packer, it’s best to go with something that fits the largest dimensions possible, but if you’re a light packer, you get away with a smaller carry-on.
Additional Features
Any additional features your carry-on bag has built-in can also make a substantial difference while traveling. Over the years, different luggage brands have made massive strides in the travel industry, modernizing luggage with all kinds of different features. So, it’s important to determine what you value most in your carry-on luggage. Do you want a high-tech option with a ton of versatility, or are you more comfortable with a tried and true classic? It also depends if you’ll primarily be using this carry-on for work travel or if it’ll just be a vacation bag.
Why You Should Trust Us
Ryan Jamison’s contributions to FashionBeans highlight his expertise in men’s fashion, from detailed footwear reviews to stylish travel attire recommendations. His coverage, including the versatile Thursday Boots and essential travel clothing for men, underscores his ability to blend functionality with style. Jamison’s work is more than just product reviews; it’s a deep dive into the lifestyle and practicality of fashion choices, making his recommendations particularly reliable. His articles stand as proof of his in-depth understanding of what modern men need from their fashion and grooming products, making him a trusted voice.
Final Verdict
Overall, the Tropicfeel Lift 40L Rollerbag earns the title of the best carry-on luggage for men. This bag is like a chameleon, able to be altered in order to meet just about any needs you may have when traveling. The Peak Design 35L Travel Duffel is another high-tech choice that makes the most out of every single design detail.
FAQ
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The best kind of carry-on luggage depends on your personal needs and preferences. Some people don’t carry much, so they can get away with something like a large backpack while traveling. Others may need a bit more space and would benefit from a duffel bag or suitcase.
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The standard dimensions for domestic carry-on luggage are 22 inches long, 14 inches wide, and 9 inches tall (45 linear inches). Whether or not these dimensions are actually reinforced is ultimately determined by the strictness of the airline. I’ve brought bags that exceed these dimensions on multiple airlines, and I’ve never run into any issues with sizing. Of course, international flights use different dimensions, so take that into consideration before purchasing any bag designated for air travel.
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Personally, I feel soft luggage and bags are ideal when choosing to go with carry-on. Hard shell luggage is primarily built to protect your personal items as they go through the not-so-delicate security checking process. With carry-on luggage, you have possession over it at all times, so you don’t need to worry about it being manhandled by anyone else. Not to mention, soft luggage and bags generally offer much more flexibility than hard luggage.
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