Best cabin and spinner luggages
Your luggage is more than just a travel companion—it’s the foundation of a stress-free adventure. Investing in quality luggage not only protects your belongings, but ensures that every trip, whether a weekend getaway or a globe-trotting journey, starts and ends without a hitch. We won’t be recommending extremely expensive or luxury brand luggages as they aren’t necessarily value for money. We also pick brands that have good after-sales service as we know luggages do break.
Disclaimer: I earn commissions from my sponsored links
How to choose a great luggage ?
- Size compliance: Ensure the luggage meets airline cabin size restrictions (typically 22 x 14 x 9 inches or 55 x 35 x 23 cm).
- Durability: Opt for hard-shell or high-quality fabric materials that withstand rough handling.
- Weight: Choose lightweight options to maximize your carry-on allowance.
- Wheels and handles: Look for 360-degree spinner wheels and a sturdy, adjustable telescopic handle for easy maneuverability.
- Compartments: Consider interior pockets and compartments for better organization.
- Security: TSA-approved locks for added safety during airport checks.
- Expandability: Some cabin luggage offers expandable zippers for extra space when needed.
- Quality of materials: Plastic/Fabrics quality plays a part, last thing you want is for your locks or zippers to break, and you’ll want good plastic mouldings with no badly formed sharp edges.
How we rate the luggage (1 – 5 with 5 being the best)
- Quality and type of material used (Use of good materials, mouldings, finish, etc)
- Features and compartments (Useful openings, compartments and pockets, location of locks, wheel rolling action etc)
- Durability (Number of trips we think it can survive and last with some ruggedness involved)
- Design (Totally subjective, but we’ve seen alot of luggage designs)
- Value for money (What we think we will pay for the luggage, based on the price and the above points)
Best cabin, carry-on spinners
Carry-on spinner luggage is ideal for its easy maneuverability, lightweight design, and ability to meet airline size restrictions, making travel smoother and more convenient. Drawbacks are having a flat floor to place the luggage down to open it, as compared to travel backpacks. However, you don’t have to carry it especially if you’re travelling in an urban city.
LEVEL8 Luminous Luggage
Ultra smooth rolling wheels (best experience) and clean looks with tough shell.
Although not one of the usual famous brands, this lightweight carry-on suitcase is made from a durable 3-layer German Makrolon polycarbonate hardshell, offering both strength and flexibility. It is also matte textured, so it will hide any scratches easily. It features a built-in TSA-approved lock and smooth zippers, making it secure and easy to access. Designed for effortless travel, it comes with 8 silent spinner wheels, a 4-level adjustable ergonomic handle, easy-grab top and side handles, and protective bumper feet. The side handles are really critical for quick pickups. Inside, the spacious interior has two fully-lined compartments with a mesh pocket for organized packing. With a 40L capacity, it’s perfect for trips of 1-4 days. The suitcase also includes a 2-year warranty for added peace of mind. If you are particular about ultra-smooth wheels and maxed-out sizing, this is the one to get. Truly one of the best rolling feel from a cabin spinner, even matching the expensive brands like Rims.
Is it well built (quality of plastics, mouldings, fittings) | 4 |
Does it function well (Features, compartments, rolling action) | 4.5 |
Can it last (Durability) | 4 |
Does it look good (Design) | 3 |
Is it worth the asking price (Value) | 3.5 |
Overall Score: | 3.8 |
Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside 2pc Set Expandable Carry On Luggage
Excellent waterproof fabric construction and great warranty. It’s light too!
Built from polyester fabric, this Travelpro luggage comes with a Lifetime Limited Warranty and expands up to 2″ for added packing capacity while maintaining stability. It features ergonomic, durable zipper pulls, multiple carry handles, and a moisture-resistant H20 Guard interior. The patented Contour Grip and lightweight PowerScope Lite handle, which locks at two heights, offer comfort and easy maneuverability. Its 360° spinner wheels ensure smooth rolling, while the durable polyester fabric with a DuraGuard coating resists water and stains for long-lasting use. The looks may not be everyone’s liking, but the touch the fabric and you’ll know durability is there. Wheels aren’t as silky smooth as the Level8, it is already one of the smoother ones around. You can’t really go wrong with the quality of Travelpro.
Is it well built (quality of plastics, mouldings, fittings) | 4 |
Does it function well (Features, compartments, rolling action) | 4.5 |
Can it last (Durability) | 4.5 |
Does it look good (Design) | 2.5 |
Is it worth the asking price (Value) | 4 |
Overall Score: | 3.9 |
Samsonite Framelock Hardside Luggage with Spinner Wheels
Light weight, sleek design, and NO ZIP!
There’s no zipper on the frame and it is lined with a hard frame which keeps things very secure and firm, without much wobble. It also features a customizable RightHeight handle system with multiple 1-inch adjustments and 360° dual spinner wheels for smooth maneuverability. Wheels are great, coming from a reputable brand like Samsonite. Its sleek polycarbonate shell has an eye-catching logo, while multiple zipper dividers and pockets provide excellent packing organization. The interior lining is made from 100% recycled PET plastic bottles, and the keyless TSA-approved locking system ensures security with an innovative centralized slide puller. I borrowed this from a friend for a 3D2N trip to Bali, and I’m convinced.
Available in nice classy colors as well.
Is it well built (quality of plastics, mouldings, fittings) | 4.5 |
Does it function well (Features, compartments, rolling action) | 4 |
Can it last (Durability) | 4 |
Does it look good (Design) | 3.5 |
Is it worth the asking price (Value) | 4 |
Overall Score: | 4 |
DELSEY PARIS Helium Aero Hardside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels
Stylish, long tradition of quality, right sized.
The Helium Aero collection is a real game-changer for travel. First off, the polycarbonate shell is super lightweight but still tough as nails—I didn’t have to worry about cracks or dents, even with all the tossing around at the airport. They use the same material used in jet plane canopies! Plus, that deep metallic finish? It looks sleek and stands out on the luggage carousel, or while rolling it around. The four spinner wheels glide so smoothly, I barely had to touch the handle. Speaking of, the handle has a one-button locking system that makes it really easy to maneuver. It even expands by 2 inches when I need extra space (which is always, let’s be real). Inside, the fully-lined compartments and pockets kept everything organized and wrinkle-free, which is a big win when you’re packing for a longer trip. Overall, it’s perfect for anything from quick getaways to family vacations. Super easy to travel with and stylish enough to turn heads. Price affordably too!
Glossy finish may be hit and miss, but it’s definitely well-constructed.
Is it well built (quality of plastics, mouldings, fittings) | 4.5 |
Does it function well (Features, compartments, rolling action) | 4 |
Can it last (Durability) | 4 |
Does it look good (Design) | 4.5 |
Is it worth the asking price (Value) | 4.5 |
Overall Score: | 4.3 |
Samsonite Winfield 3 DLX Hardside Expandable Luggage with Spinners
Best budget and reliable carry-on spinner
The Winfield 3 DLX is a fantastic blend of toughness and lightweight design, making it a standout in Samsonite’s popular lineup. This latest version has been upgraded with a smart 4-pocket, 2-sided divider panel that keeps your packing organized without adding extra bulk. Made from polycarbonate, it offers excellent protection for your belongings, ensuring they stay safe during your travels. The deluxe cushioning and soft rubber seals on the new, wider pull handle provide an exceptionally comfortable grip, while the integrated multi-stage aluminum pull handle adds extra lightness. Plus, the sturdy spinner wheels and comfortable pull handle ensure a smooth and confident travel experience, and the retracting top and side carry handles remain protected when checking baggage. Overall, it’s a no-brainer for anyone looking for stylish and functional luggage. Priced under $200 most times, it truly offers great value for money! We think this will last 30 trips at least.
Is it well built (quality of plastics, mouldings, fittings) | 4.5 |
Does it function well (Features, compartments, rolling action) | 4 |
Can it last (Durability) | 4.5 |
Does it look good (Design) | 3 |
Is it worth the asking price (Value) | 5 |
Overall Score: | 4.2 |
Briggs & Riley Zdx
Thought of everything carry-on.
This very popular model from Briggs & Riley can’t get much better. It has a SpeedThru pocket with RFID shielding is an innovative feature that effectively blocks digital pickpocketing while allowing for quick storage of items at security checkpoints. The pocket’s orange lining serves as a clear indicator if it’s left unzipped. Inside, the main compartment boasts multiple strategically placed pockets that enhance space utilization, making it easier to stay organized while traveling. Additionally, the independent tech compartment includes a padded pocket for securely storing a 15″ laptop or 13″ tablet, along with a battery pouch and cord pass for keeping tech accessories neatly arranged. For versatility, the bag comes with a detachable, adjustable strap that features a removable shoulder pad for added comfort. The slip-through back panel is designed to effortlessly slide over any Briggs & Riley Outsider handle, allowing for seamless transportation of two bags as one, making this bag a practical choice for any traveler. Only gripe is that it’s not a hard-shell, so you might want to cart this around all the time, especially if you’re putting a laptop in it.
Is it well built (quality of plastics, mouldings, fittings) | 4 |
Does it function well (Features, compartments, rolling action) | 5 |
Can it last (Durability) | 4 |
Does it look good (Design) | 3.5 |
Is it worth the asking price (Value) | 5 |
Overall Score: | 4.3 |
Samsonite Omni 2 Hardside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels
Hardly needs introduction, one of the most popular carry-ons.
I recently got my hands on this Samsonite luggage set, which includes a 20″ carry-on and a 24″ spinner, and it really needs no introduction—Samsonite is highly popular for a reason! The carry-on is perfect for domestic flights, helping you travel light, while the 24″ spinner is great for longer trips when you need extra packing space. Plus, it comes with a 10-year limited warranty, so you know it’s built to last. The scratch-resistant polycarbonate shell has a stylish brushed texture that not only looks great but also keeps the cases looking fresh trip after trip. I love the four oversized dual spinner wheels—they make rolling the luggage around super easy and smooth. Inside, the full-zip divider and cross straps help keep everything organized, which is a big plus for efficient packing. Overall, this set is stylish, functional, and a solid choice for any traveler!
There’s only one problem, everyone seems to have one, so while it is a great buy, you’ll probably spot someone with the same luggage.
Is it well built (quality of plastics, mouldings, fittings) | 4 |
Does it function well (Features, compartments, rolling action) | 4 |
Can it last (Durability) | 4 |
Does it look good (Design) | 4 |
Is it worth the asking price (Value) | 5 |
Overall Score: | 4.2 |
American Tourister Stratum XLT Expandable Hardside Luggage with Single Spinner Wheels
Nice design, decent build quality, good bang for buck.
The American Tourister Stratum XLT collection is all about style and functionality! With its sleek hardside exterior and vibrant color palette that’s perfect for Instagram, you’ll definitely travel in style. This lightweight line offers heavyweight protection and rides on effortless 360-degree spinner wheels, so all you have to do is push your case along and let the wheels do the rest. These aren’t double spinner wheels, but what you get is a luggage under 2.9kg/6.3lbs , it won’t be as smooth or stable as an 8-wheeler type spinner. Whether you’re checking into your flight or hotel, navigating is super easy with those spinner wheels. Plus, it has some great features, like a wider pull handle for a comfy grip and an ultra-light multi-stage aluminum pull handle for easy maneuvering. Overall, it’s a perfect blend of quality and convenience for your travels! The price is very right for the quality, so consider this especially if you love the nice colours. We like the Mint colour best (as seen in thumbnail)
Is it well built (quality of plastics, mouldings, fittings) | 3.5 |
Does it function well (Features, compartments, rolling action) | 3 |
Can it last (Durability) | 3.5 |
Does it look good (Design) | 4.5 |
Is it worth the asking price (Value) | 5 |
Overall Score: | 3.9 |
TydeCkare 20 Inch Carry On Luggage with Front Zipper Pocket, 45L
Not a well-known brand, but practical design, decent quality and popular on Amazon
Got my hands on the TydeCkare luggage, and I’m really impressed! One of my favorite features is the front zipper pocket, which makes it super easy to access my electronics. It fits up to a 15.6-inch laptop or an iPad, so I can keep my tech separate from my clothes. There’s a double lock, one for the front zipper pocket, and one for the clothing section, so keeping it secure is easy. The suitcase is made from a tough combo of PC and ABS materials, making it lightweight yet really durable. The micro-diamond texture is scratch-resistant, which is awesome because it keeps looking great trip after trip. The silent wheels glide smoothly, but I think the quality is only decent. It is manufactured in China, like so many other things, so buy it for what it’s worth, and not for the brand. However the overall build quality is better than I expected from the price, and it should be good to last for at least 30 trips.
It looks pretty nice as well and comes in really nice colors.
Is it well built (quality of plastics, mouldings, fittings) | 3 |
Does it function well (Features, compartments, rolling action) | 3 |
Can it last (Durability) | 3 |
Does it look good (Design) | 4.5 |
Is it worth the asking price (Value) | 5 |
Overall Score: | 3.7 |