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The impressively durable material didn't dent upon being whacked with a bat, though it did sustain a few scratches when we threw it off the table. This hardside suitcase has a lightweight yet sturdy polycarbonate shell. We also liked the stylish Bigger Carry-On Flex from Away. What to Consider: It might not meet carry-on sizing requirements in the expanded configuration, and the exterior might scratch under heavy use. Why We Love It: This carry-on has a lightweight yet sturdy shell and two main compartments with a compression system, making it easy to fit and organize all your stuff. A few more internal pockets would have been nice as well, but in the end, we think the durable design is worth the investment.ĭimensions: 23 x 14.5 x 9.5 inches | Weight: 8.5 pounds | Expandable: Yes | Smart: Yes Keep in mind, of course, that this makes it a bit harder to fit in an overhead bin. Our testers had no issue packing the clothes and shoes on our list when they had expanded the suitcase. The adjustable handle feels solid while offering a comfortable grip, and thanks to the self-aligning spinner wheels, the whole thing rolls smoothly - though it takes a little more elbow grease to maneuver it on carpeted floors. Its durable polycarbonate shell stood up well to being hit with a bat and pushed off a table. Travelpro's Platinum Elite Hardside Spinner was a close runner-up to the Samsonite Freeform. What to Consider: The price is a little steep, and we wish it had a few more zipper pockets within the main compartment. Why We Love It: This thoughtfully designed carry-on has a comfortable handle, a sturdy polycarbonate shell, and four self-aligning spinner wheels. Considering the reasonable price, durable construction, and spacious capacity, we think it's a great choice for frequent fliers and anyone in need of a high-quality carry-on.ĭimensions: 21 x 15 x 10 inches | Weight: 5.6 pounds | Expandable: Yes | Smart: No We wouldn't stress about accidentally rolling it into a puddle either. After hitting it with a bat, the polycarbonate (high-strength thermoplastic) shell was scuff-free and showed virtually no signs of damage. Our testers loved the sleek, minimalist-modern design of the Freeform, which comes in 12 hues ranging from white to mint to merlot. We wish this carry-on had a zippered section or removable bag for dirty laundry, but it does have a separator to keep your shoes away from your clean clothes. We were able to pack enough clothes for a four-day trip, including two pairs of shoes, multiple jackets, and two toiletry bags - no expansion needed. This all-star suitcase has various pockets within the main compartment, and it expands a couple of inches when you need extra space. We also like that the aluminum telescoping handle extends and locks with the push of a button. Earning perfect scores in all our tests, it's easy to maneuver on two or four wheels and rolls smoothly on various surfaces, including carpet and hard flooring. We tried lots of excellent suitcases, but the Samsonite Freeform Hardside Spinner was a clear winner. What to Consider: There's no designated zippered section for dirty clothes. Why We Love It: Earning perfect scores in all tests, this all-star carry-on has a spacious capacity, a super-durable thermoplastic shell, and smooth-rolling wheels. Our number one pick is the Samsonite Freeform Hardside Spinner, an exceptionally durable, smooth-rolling suitcase with a compact design and an expandable capacity.
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The results of these tests were considered along with the price, weight, dimensions, materials, and smart features to narrow it down to the best carry-ons currently on the market. (Read more about how the tests were performed below.) We packed them up, spun them around, hoisted them overhead, rolled them over various surfaces, and whacked them with a baseball bat to see how they'd hold up in a real-life setting. With this in mind, we tested nearly 120 carry-ons, including suitcases, duffles, weekenders, backpacks, and underseat bags, to see which models check all the boxes. But besides allowing you to bypass checked baggage, what makes a high-quality carry-on? If you ask us, it's about capacity, maneuverability, durability, and design. And even if you travel only occasionally, you'll be glad to have one on hand. Every frequent flier needs a good carry-on.
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