HOW TO PICK THE PERFECT CARRY-ON

If you follow me over on Instagram, you probably saw that my carry-on bag met an untimely end on my flight to Indy last week!

I was one of the last people to board the flight and was forced to check my bag. Unfortunately, when I made it to baggage claim, I discovered that my bag and its handle had arrived separately. 

Tragic, I know! But I had been wanting a new bag for a while and this gave me the perfect excuse to switch up my most important travel accessory!

When it comes to selecting luggage, I am one picky gal. After years of traveling and having gone through my fair share of suitcases, I know just what to look for! I actually have a checklist that helps me narrow down the options and find the ideal carry-on bag and now I’m sharing my checklist with you!

Below is my checklist for picking the perfect carry-on!

• Hard sided: I’ll never go back to a fabric carry-on. They don’t hold up as well and I find that they’re top heavy.

• Dark with some identifying characteristic: Dark is key for keeping your bag looking nice. I also try to find one with a unique pattern so it’s easier to spot when I have to check it!

• Expandable: As much as I try not to, sometimes I just can’t help but overpack! So it’s crucial that my bag be able to expand when I need a little extra room.

• Side handle: My last bag didn’t have one and I missed it. It just makes it easier to maneuver!

• 4 double free spinning wheels (360 degrees): This is a little technical, but I once had a bag with 4 single wheels that sat inside a plastic joint and the plastic MELTED! Since then, I only buy bags that have 4 double free spinning wheels. (See example above!)

• Elastic inside clasp: I prefer an elastic closer to a fabric one. It just makes it easier to close.

• Full length internal zipper pocket: I’m not a fan of a bunch of small internal pockets. None of them are ever big enough! The bag above doesn’t have any internal pockets, so it would be a no despite having the elastic clasp. I’m not messing around!

SOME BAGS TO CONSIDER

High End

Rimowa: Sleek, elegant and beautiful. They also come in a ton of colors and styles.

Tumi: The cream of the crop when it comes to luggage. I personally find that they look ragged when I see them out and about. If I’m dropping $1,000 for a bag, I want it to look pristine!

Away: Away bags are not nearly as expensive as the others, but they definitely compete when it comes to functionality and style. Plus you can’t beat the lifetime warranty. In my opinion, Away probably offers the best overall bags on the market.

Reliable Options

Samsonite: Samsonite has been in the luggage game for decades, so you can’t really go wrong! Prices range from under $100 to over $500 depending on size and where you purchase.

Travelpro: These bags are durable and affordable. Travelpro also happens to be the brand used by Delta flight attendants. 

CalPak: My larger check-in suitcase is a CalPak and I love it. I haven’t tried their carry-on. I do like the locking feature and their wide range of colors and styles.

I still haven’t replaced my bag, but it’s on the top of my agenda this weekend! I have always had luck at TJ Maxx and Marshall’s, but I might change things up this time around. 

A lot of people have been messaging me and RAVING about their Away carry-ons. I do love the sleek design, charging capability and lifetime warranty. If I don’t find a bag this weekend, I think I just might treat myself to an Away bag! I’ll of course be sharing on social once I finally find one. Wish me luck!

*Note: This post contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission for clicks or purchases made. This comes at no cost to you. As always, all opinions are my own!

What do you look for in a carryon bag. Any brands or features that you can’t live without? I’d love to hear! Share your comments below!

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