Which Type Of Carry-On Bag Do You Need? Cabin Luggage, Duffels & Backpacks From $54 To Pack Light & Efficiently For Short Trips

Carry-on bags aren't just for short trips where you are taking a low-cost carrier and have limited cabin luggage space and weight restrictions to consider. They're also a great way to pack more when flying further, going abroad for longer than a weekend, or even use on a day-to-day basis, if you've got the right bag. 

READ MORE: Do Packing Cubes Really Help Save Luggage Space & Make Travel Packing More Efficient? I Tried Them For A Long Trip & Here Are The Results

Whatever your need for a carry-on bag, there’s a plethora of options out there for you and we’ve scoured the internet for the best ones, according to your travel needs.

What to consider when picking a carry-on bag

#1: Carry-on luggage styles
Rolling suitcases: The most common and they give you the ease of movement, since you don’t have to carry these on your back or hands, so they have the added convenience afforded by the wheels. However, they are more restrictive when you need to move around quickly — if you’re avoiding haphazard traffic in Bangkok, for example. Some models have even been created with laptop compartments for business travellers.
Backpacks and duffel bags: Often more lightweight than suitcases. Backpacks usually have multiple compartments and can fit under seats on the plane, while duffels are roomier and store more. Though rare, you can also find models of backpacks and duffel bags that come with wheels. 

#2: Carry-on luggage material and weight
Material and weight are essential considerations as they will eat into the limited weight you can bring onboard since you are not checking the baggage. The construction also determines the relative durability of the luggage and how easy it is to clean and maintain. 

Again, there are two primary materials used to create carry-on luggage. Hardside luggage is made with materials such as polycarbonate, ABS plastic, or aluminium, which offer greater durability, protection, and ease of cleaning. They are, however, usually heavier. Softside luggage is made of fabrics such as nylon and polyester. They are lighter, more flexible, and can be compressed for tight spaces but lack in the protection department. 

#3: Carry-on luggage design and compartments 
Those who are sticklers for organisation might prefer the compartmentalisation offered by clamshell-style suitcases with two equally divided halves or backpacks with multiple pockets and sections. On the other hand, luggage with one larger interior compartment and duffel bags would likely be able to fit more items.   

Moreover, business travellers and digital nomads might appreciate a dedicated laptop and electronics compartment. You might also want to consider outer pockets to store quick-access items such as travel documents, portable chargers, and medicine. 

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