Disclosure: We may earn a commission if you buy through our links. This never affects our editorial independence. Read our disclosure policy.
We subjected 10 carry-on suitcases to 150+ flights, drop tests, and durability trials. Here are the best luggage brands ranked by durability, design, and value.
Senior Technology Reviewer
Away redefined the carry-on with their polycarbonate shell, built-in USB charger, TSA lock, and laundry bag. It remains our top pick for modern travelers who want style and substance.
Pros
Cons
The Rimowa Original is the ultimate luxury carry-on — the iconic aluminum grooved shell is virtually indestructible, and the quality of the wheels, latches, and interior is unmatched at any price point.
Pros
Cons
The Samsonite Omni PC offers exceptional durability at an accessible price. The micro-diamond texture resists scratches and scuffs, and the Micro-Diamond texturing hides wear better than smooth shells.
Pros
Cons
Preferred by flight crew for decades, the Travelpro Platinum Elite is engineered for frequent use — the patented MagnaTrac spinner wheels are the smoothest we've tested, and the nylon shell is incredibly resilient.
Pros
Cons
Briggs & Riley's "Simple as That" lifetime warranty covers everything — even airline damage — with no questions asked. Their CX compression-expansion system maximizes packing space without exceeding carry-on limits.
Pros
Cons
After 150+ flights and deliberate abuse testing — drops, overpacking, rough baggage handling simulations — we've identified the suitcases that survive the rigors of modern travel. Here are our top five picks.
| Feature | Away The Carry-On | Rimowa Original | Samsonite Omni PC | Travelpro Platinum Elite | Briggs & Riley Baseline |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.7 | 4.8 | 4.5 | 4.6 | 4.7 |
| Price | $295 | $725 | $99–$159 | $349 | $479 |
| Weight | 7.9 lbs | 8.6 lbs | 6.7 lbs | 7.3 lbs | 8.0 lbs |
| Material | Polycarbonate | Aluminum | Polycarbonate | High-density ballistic nylon | Ballistic nylon |
| Warranty | Lifetime | Lifetime | 10-year | Lifetime | Lifetime (incl. airline damage) |
| Dimensions | 21.7" × 13.7" × 9" | 21.7" × 15.8" × 9.5" | 22" × 14.5" × 9.5" | 22" × 14" × 9" | 22" × 14" × 9" |
| Pros | 3 pros | 3 pros | 3 pros | 3 pros | 3 pros |
| Cons | 2 cons | 3 cons | 2 cons | 2 cons | 2 cons |
| Visit Site | Visit Site | Visit Site | Visit Site | Visit Site |
Our editorial team conducted hands-on testing using a standardized methodology developed over years of product evaluation. Each product was assessed across multiple real-world scenarios before recommendations were finalized.
Read our full testing methodology →ExpertPicked is editorially independent. Advertisers never influence our rankings or recommendations. Every review is produced by credentialed experts with hands-on experience in their respective fields.
Reviewed by
James OkaforSenior Technology Reviewer
James Okafor is a technology journalist and former CNET contributor with 9 years of experience reviewing consumer tech, cybersecurity software, and digital privacy tools. He has a computer science degree from MIT and has reviewed over 400 tech products. James runs his own home lab for testing VPNs, security software, and smart home devices under real-world conditions.
By James Okafor · 10 min read