The 5 Largest Carry-On Suitcases

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Traveling carry-on only is the smart choice these days, as airlines continue to hike fees for checked baggage while earning an unsavory reputation for misplacing those very bags. For those seeking to maximize their carry-on capacity, upgrading to a suitcase that treads the line between a checked bag and a carry-on is a worthwhile investment. 

Though classified as carry-ons, the suitcases on our list offer ample space to fit everything you need for long trips while still meeting the size requirements for overhead bins on most flights. Want to see if the suitcase will adhere to your favorite airline’s carry-on allowance before buying? Check out our complete guide to carry-on bag sizes for each major airline.

Samsonite Freeform Carry-On Spinner

I’ve taken the Samsonite Freeform Carry-On Spinner on trips of up to two weeks (no laundry required). The suitcase is simply that spacious. If I need even more packing room at the end of a trip, the Freeform expands an additional inch with a zipper in the middle.

I love that this hardshell suitcase has two compression dividers with multiple zippered pockets to keep things organized. One of the pockets is even waterproof, making it a great place to stash a wet swimsuit that doesn’t have time to dry before my flight. The ingenious features don’t stop there—the suitcase’s interior conceals a hidden cord, allowing you to connect your portable power pack and charge your phone conveniently from the exterior.

Made out of a durable and lightweight Polypro material, this suitcase weighs just 6.5 lbs, making it one of the lightest options on our list.

Dimensions: 23” x 15” x 10” 

Roam Large Carry-On

Travel with ease and style using Roam’s Large Carry-On. This lightweight yet spacious piece is designed to accommodate all your travel essentials and then some. Its clever construction meets most major U.S. airlines’ carry-on size requirements while still offering plenty of interior packing space. 

Roam’s suitcase is more of a square shape than the typical carry-on rectangle, which I find makes it easier to pack. The included compression dividers work miracles, helping you to fit in even more than you might think. 

This suitcase can be completely customized, allowing you to pick the color of every aspect, from the wheels to the zipper. 

Dimensions: 22” x 16.25” x 9”

Away The Bigger Carry-On Flex

If you tend to accumulate lots of souvenirs on every trip (or just can’t be bothered to neatly repack everything on your last day), Away’s The Bigger Carry-On Flex is the perfect carry-on suitcase for you. This large hardside suitcase is designed to offer you flexibility, with the ability to add extra space as needed. 

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With its expandable capacity, The Bigger Carry-On Flex offers an additional 2.25″ of space when fully flexed, allowing you to seamlessly stow those last-minute items or souvenirs you couldn’t resist. However, be warned that expanding this suitcase will push it past the carry-on allowance of many major airlines—so you may have to check it if you fully expand it. 

Dimensions: 22.7″ x 14.7″ x 9.6″

Monos Carry-On Plus

The Carry-On Plus is the biggest carry-on suitcase in Monos’ line. This suitcase is designed to fit in the luggage sizers of most major U.S. airlines, but you might have to check it if you’re traveling on a small plane. 

Made of a highly durable polycarbonate shell, the Carry-On Plus resists dents and scratches to stay looking new after numerous journeys. Unsure if the Carry-On Plus will be the right size for you? Monos offers a 100-day trial for all of its luggage, so you can test it out and make sure you love it before committing. 

Dimensions: 23″ × 15″ × 9.5″

Briggs & Riley Essential 22″ 2-Wheel Expandable Carry-On

The Essential 22” Expandable Carry-On is stalwart luggage brand Briggs & Riley’s largest carry-on option. The suitcase features a patented system allowing you to expand the bag by simply pulling a handle, bringing it from 9” to 11.5” wide. 

The suitcase’s interior is a well-organized haven, featuring an array of pockets and dividers that offer dedicated spaces for all your travel essentials. From chargers to shoes, you’ll find the perfect spot for every item, ensuring a clutter-free and streamlined experience.

One standout feature is the innovative handle design, which is mounted on the suitcase’s exterior. This ingenious solution eliminates the traditional interior handle bump, leaving the inside surface flat and smooth. No more struggling to pack around awkward protrusions, as this design allows for wrinkle-free packing, making the most of the available space.

Dimensions: 22” x 14” x 9”

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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