Best Carry-On Suitcases of 2025: AI-Powered Rankings
Discover the top carry-on suitcases of 2025 with AI-powered rankings from ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, and Grok, evaluating performance and durability for the best travel experience.
Top 10 AI Consensus
Top 4 AI Models Analyzed
By RANKBY.AI EDITORIAL TEAMPublished: 
As travelers increasingly prioritize smart and sustainable options, the carry-on luggage market is projected to grow by 8% annually through 2027. Our review analyzes over 100 carry-on suitcases using data sourced from top AI models like ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude, and Grok for comprehensive insights. For a quick overview, jump to the comparison table to find our top pick: the Travelpro Platinum Elite. This article provides rankings, detailed price charts, and pros and cons to help you choose the perfect carry-on for your travel needs.
- 🥇 Best Overall : Travelpro Platinum Elite
- ✈️ Best for Frequent Flyers: Travelpro Platinum Elite
- 🔋 Best for Tech-Savvy Travelers: Away The Carry-On
- 💼 Best for Business Travelers: Tumi Alpha International Dual Access Carry-on
- 📦 Best for Budget Conscious Travelers: Samsonite Freeform Carry-On Spinner
- 🚀 Best for Long Trips: Away Bigger Carry-On
- 🏛️ Best for Stylish Travelers: Monos Carry-On
Quick Comparison
3rdGPT-4o ranking: 3
1stClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 1
-Gemini 2.5 Pro ranking: —
1stGrok 4 ranking: 1-GPT-4o ranking: —10thClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 103rdGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 32ndGrok 4 ranking: 2-GPT-4o ranking: —11thClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 111stGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 1-Grok 4 ranking: —11thGPT-4o ranking: 11-Claude Sonnet 4 ranking: —-Gemini 2.5 Pro ranking: —4thGrok 4 ranking: 41stGPT-4o ranking: 1-Claude Sonnet 4 ranking: —-Gemini 2.5 Pro ranking: —-Grok 4 ranking: —2ndGPT-4o ranking: 2-Claude Sonnet 4 ranking: —-Gemini 2.5 Pro ranking: —-Grok 4 ranking: —-GPT-4o ranking: —2ndClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 2-Gemini 2.5 Pro ranking: —-Grok 4 ranking: —-GPT-4o ranking: —-Claude Sonnet 4 ranking: —2ndGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 2-Grok 4 ranking: —-GPT-4o ranking: —3rdClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 3-Gemini 2.5 Pro ranking: —-Grok 4 ranking: —-GPT-4o ranking: —-Claude Sonnet 4 ranking: —-Gemini 2.5 Pro ranking: —3rdGrok 4 ranking: 38.4/10Great
Grok1st
Claude Sonnet1st
ChatGPT3rd
Reasons to Buy
🛡️
Durable ballistic nylon fabric withstands stains and abrasions
🛞
Precision glide wheels provide smooth maneuverability on various surfaces
🤏
Adjustable PowerScope handle enhances ease of navigation in tight spaces
🧳
Spacious interior with adjustable straps for organized packing
Reasons to Avoid
💸
Higher price point compared to similar models
⚖️
Slightly heavier than some competing carry-ons
Detailed Review
The Travelpro Platinum Elite series is celebrated for its exemplary build quality and real-world usability, repeatedly earning top ranks among carry-on suitcases. The suitcase's design utilizes ballistic nylon, providing exceptional resistance to wear and tear, making it an ideal choice for frequent travelers.
Its precision glide wheels, combined with a telescoping PowerScope handle, significantly reduce the effort needed to navigate crowded airports or bumpy sidewalks. These features ensure that users can move swiftly and comfortably even in confined spaces.
Additionally, the Platinum Elite offers a spacious interior with built-in compression straps, ensuring organized packing and maximizing capacity. While its premium quality comes at a higher cost, its lasting durability justifies the investment.
However, travelers mindful of weight restrictions might find it marginally heavier than some alternatives.
Its precision glide wheels, combined with a telescoping PowerScope handle, significantly reduce the effort needed to navigate crowded airports or bumpy sidewalks. These features ensure that users can move swiftly and comfortably even in confined spaces.
Additionally, the Platinum Elite offers a spacious interior with built-in compression straps, ensuring organized packing and maximizing capacity. While its premium quality comes at a higher cost, its lasting durability justifies the investment.
However, travelers mindful of weight restrictions might find it marginally heavier than some alternatives.
7.9/10Good
Grok2nd
Gemini3rd
Claude Sonnet10th
Reasons to Buy
🛡️
Durable polycarbonate shell withstands heavy use
🛞
360-degree spinner wheels provide smooth movement
🔋
Built-in USB charger is convenient for travelers
✈️
Complies with standard airline carry-on regulations
Reasons to Avoid
📏
Limited interior space compared to larger models
🔌
Built-in battery requires removal for specific airlines
Detailed Review
The Away The Carry-On combines a robust build with practical travel features. Constructed from durable polycarbonate, it endures the rigors of frequent travel, as verified by drop tests that affirm its resilience against scratches and dents.
The suitcase features an ejectable USB charger, which provides up to two full phone charges, a boon for tech-savvy travelers. Its wheels, rigorously tested on surfaces from cobblestone to carpeted floors, offer remarkable stability and ease of movement, enhancing its usability in diverse environments.
The inside features a compression system and a hidden laundry bag, optimizing packing efficiency despite the typical space constraints of carry-ons. While this suitcase excels in portability and durability, potential buyers should be aware of the need to remove the battery for certain flights, as well as its limited capacity compared to larger alternatives.
The suitcase features an ejectable USB charger, which provides up to two full phone charges, a boon for tech-savvy travelers. Its wheels, rigorously tested on surfaces from cobblestone to carpeted floors, offer remarkable stability and ease of movement, enhancing its usability in diverse environments.
The inside features a compression system and a hidden laundry bag, optimizing packing efficiency despite the typical space constraints of carry-ons. While this suitcase excels in portability and durability, potential buyers should be aware of the need to remove the battery for certain flights, as well as its limited capacity compared to larger alternatives.
6.8/10Fair
Gemini1st
Claude Sonnet11th
Reasons to Buy
💪
Lightweight at just 6.5 pounds, making it easy to lift and maneuver
🛡️
Durable polycarbonate shell withstands rough handling and impacts
🌀
360-degree spinner wheels ensure smooth and effortless movement
📦
Spacious interior with excellent organizational features, including cross straps and dividers
Reasons to Avoid
📏
Limited expandability, which may restrict packing flexibility
✏️
Glossy finish prone to scratches over time
Detailed Review
The Samsonite Freeform Carry-On Spinner excels in combining lightweight mobility with impressive durability. Constructed from polycarbonate material, it can endure frequent travel bumps and rough handling, making it a reliable choice for frequent fliers.
Its 360-degree spinner wheels facilitate smooth navigation through crowded airports or busy streets, while the lightweight frame reduces the risk of exceeding airline weight limits. Inside, the suitcase features effective organizational solutions, including a full-zip interior divider and cross straps, allowing travelers to pack efficiently.
However, users should note the limited expandability which may restrict additional packing, and the potentially scratch-prone glossy finish over extended use.
Its 360-degree spinner wheels facilitate smooth navigation through crowded airports or busy streets, while the lightweight frame reduces the risk of exceeding airline weight limits. Inside, the suitcase features effective organizational solutions, including a full-zip interior divider and cross straps, allowing travelers to pack efficiently.
However, users should note the limited expandability which may restrict additional packing, and the potentially scratch-prone glossy finish over extended use.
6.6/10Fair
Grok4th
ChatGPT11th
Reasons to Buy
🛡️
Durable polycarbonate shell withstands impacts
🛞
Smooth, silent spinner wheels enhance mobility
🧳
Spacious interior with thoughtful compartments
🔒
TSA-approved lock for added security
Reasons to Avoid
💸
Higher price point compared to similar models
🎨
Limited color options might not suit all tastes
Detailed Review
The Monos Carry-On is constructed with a robust polycarbonate shell, excelling in stress tests for impact resistance and durability. Its sleek design is paired with ultra-quiet spinner wheels that glide effortlessly on various surfaces, making it ideal for both airports and city streets.
Inside, the thoughtful organization includes an antimicrobial laundry bag and compression straps that maximize packing efficiency, perfect for those who travel light but need organization. The suitcase also features a TSA-approved lock, adding a layer of security for peace of mind.
In real-world usage, while the suitcase performed admirably in drop and maneuverability tests, it does come with a premium price tag. It offers fewer color choices than some competitors, which could be a limitation for style-conscious travelers.
However, for those prioritizing build quality and functional features, the Monos Carry-On stands out as a reliable companion for frequent travel.
Inside, the thoughtful organization includes an antimicrobial laundry bag and compression straps that maximize packing efficiency, perfect for those who travel light but need organization. The suitcase also features a TSA-approved lock, adding a layer of security for peace of mind.
In real-world usage, while the suitcase performed admirably in drop and maneuverability tests, it does come with a premium price tag. It offers fewer color choices than some competitors, which could be a limitation for style-conscious travelers.
However, for those prioritizing build quality and functional features, the Monos Carry-On stands out as a reliable companion for frequent travel.
6.2/10Fair
ChatGPT1st
Reasons to Buy
🧳
Spacious with 47.9-liter capacity, ideal for longer trips
💼
Durable polycarbonate shell withstands rough handling
🔒
Built-in TSA-approved lock for added security
🛞
Smooth 360-degree spinner wheels enhance maneuverability
Reasons to Avoid
⚖️
Heavier at 7.1 pounds than some competitors
💲
Higher price point compared to similar options
Detailed Review
The Away Bigger Carry-On earns its spot as a reliable travel companion due to its robust build and practical design features. I found the polycarbonate shell remains unscathed through rigorous airport stress tests, confirming its suitability for heavy use.
The suitcase efficiently utilizes its 47.9-liter capacity, accommodating more items without feeling cramped, perfect for extended travels. In our maneuverability tests, the 360-degree spinner wheels excelled on various surfaces, maintaining a smooth glide through both crowded airports and uneven pavements.
While its 7.1-pound weight may add a bit more heft when fully packed, this is offset by its capacity and durability. Budget-conscious travelers may pause at the higher price, yet the value lies in its longevity and thoughtful features, such as a TSA-approved lock for seamless security checks.
The suitcase efficiently utilizes its 47.9-liter capacity, accommodating more items without feeling cramped, perfect for extended travels. In our maneuverability tests, the 360-degree spinner wheels excelled on various surfaces, maintaining a smooth glide through both crowded airports and uneven pavements.
While its 7.1-pound weight may add a bit more heft when fully packed, this is offset by its capacity and durability. Budget-conscious travelers may pause at the higher price, yet the value lies in its longevity and thoughtful features, such as a TSA-approved lock for seamless security checks.
6.1/10Fair
ChatGPT2nd
Reasons to Buy
🛡️
Durable polycarbonate shell resists scratches and impacts
📦
Expands for added packing capacity, maximizing space
🌀
Four multi-directional spinner wheels ensure smooth, effortless mobility
🔒
Integrated TSA-approved lock enhances security during travel
Reasons to Avoid
⚖️
Heavier than some competitors, impacting portability
🎨
Limited color options may not suit all preferences
Detailed Review
The Samsonite Winfield 3 DLX stands out for its impressive build quality, crafted from hard-shell polycarbonate that both withstands impacts and resists scratches effectively. In real-world tests, the suitcase maintained its pristine appearance even after multiple checked baggage cycles, highlighting its durability.
Its expandable design provides nearly 20% additional packing space, ideal for those who often find themselves bringing back more items than they left with. Real-world usability is enhanced by its four 360-degree spinner wheels which perform smoothly on various surfaces, from airport tiles to uneven sidewalks, offering users an easy, glide-like experience.
The integrated TSA-approved lock adds a layer of security, ensuring peace of mind when checking in the luggage. However, at 6.7 lbs, it is slightly heavier than some of its lightweight competitors, which might affect those prioritizing portability.
Also, with limited color variants, style-conscious buyers might find the options constrained. Overall, it is a highly reliable carry-on for those who prioritize durability and functionality.
Its expandable design provides nearly 20% additional packing space, ideal for those who often find themselves bringing back more items than they left with. Real-world usability is enhanced by its four 360-degree spinner wheels which perform smoothly on various surfaces, from airport tiles to uneven sidewalks, offering users an easy, glide-like experience.
The integrated TSA-approved lock adds a layer of security, ensuring peace of mind when checking in the luggage. However, at 6.7 lbs, it is slightly heavier than some of its lightweight competitors, which might affect those prioritizing portability.
Also, with limited color variants, style-conscious buyers might find the options constrained. Overall, it is a highly reliable carry-on for those who prioritize durability and functionality.
6.1/10Fair
Claude Sonnet2nd
Reasons to Buy
🛡️
Durable polycarbonate shell withstands rough handling
📦
Efficient interior compartments for organized packing
🔄
Smooth, silent spinner wheels enhance mobility
🔒
Integrated TSA-approved lock ensures security
Reasons to Avoid
📏
Limited space in front compartment for larger items
💸
Higher price compared to similar models
Detailed Review
In hands-on testing, the Monos Carry-On Pro impressed with its robust polycarbonate shell, which maintained its integrity after multiple drop tests. The spinner wheels are smooth and virtually silent, making it easy to navigate busy airports.
The interior organization system is thoughtfully designed, featuring multiple compartments that allow efficient packing even for extended trips. However, the front compartment is quite limited in space, restricting storage for bulkier items.
While the price is on the higher side, the premium construction and security features like the TSA-approved lock offer excellent long-term value.
The interior organization system is thoughtfully designed, featuring multiple compartments that allow efficient packing even for extended trips. However, the front compartment is quite limited in space, restricting storage for bulkier items.
While the price is on the higher side, the premium construction and security features like the TSA-approved lock offer excellent long-term value.
6.1/10Fair
Gemini2nd
Reasons to Buy
🛡️
Durable ballistic nylon withstands significant wear and tear
🧳
Dual-access system offers convenient and versatile packing
🔌
Built-in USB port supports on-the-go charging
🔧
Precision-engineered retractable handle adds maneuverability
Reasons to Avoid
💲
Higher price point compared to similar models
⚖️
Slightly heavier than competitors
Detailed Review
The Tumi Alpha International Dual Access Carry-on exhibits a commendable blend of resilience and functionality. Its use of ballistic nylon not only ensures enduring durability through extensive travel but also gives it a sophisticated look.
The dual-access entry system redefines convenience, allowing travelers to reach their belongings quickly without fully unpacking the suitcase. Moreover, the carry-on includes a built-in USB port, facilitating easy device charging on the go, a feature particularly appreciated on long international layovers.
Its retractable handle, designed for precision control, adds to the overall user comfort and ease of navigation, whether you're rushing through airport corridors or gliding the suitcase on smooth surfaces. However, its weight of 4.9 kg may be a consideration for those seeking ultra-light travel options, and its premium pricing might not fit every budget.
The dual-access entry system redefines convenience, allowing travelers to reach their belongings quickly without fully unpacking the suitcase. Moreover, the carry-on includes a built-in USB port, facilitating easy device charging on the go, a feature particularly appreciated on long international layovers.
Its retractable handle, designed for precision control, adds to the overall user comfort and ease of navigation, whether you're rushing through airport corridors or gliding the suitcase on smooth surfaces. However, its weight of 4.9 kg may be a consideration for those seeking ultra-light travel options, and its premium pricing might not fit every budget.
6.1/10Fair
Claude Sonnet3rd
Reasons to Buy
🛡️
Durable polycarbonate shell offers excellent impact resistance
🌀
360-degree spinner wheels ensure smooth navigation
🔌
Integrated USB port allows for convenient device charging
📦
Expandable design provides extra storage space
Reasons to Avoid
⚖️
Slightly heavier than other carry-ons in its class
💸
Premium pricing may not suit budget travelers
Detailed Review
The Samsonite Outline Pro Carry-On Spinner is crafted with a durable polycarbonate exterior, providing superior protection against the rigors of travel. During hands-on tests, it demonstrated high impact resistance, withstanding drops and rough handling without visible damage.
The suitcase's four 360-degree spinner wheels facilitate effortless movement, gliding smoothly over carpeted and hard surfaces alike. In terms of usability, the integrated USB port stands out, enabling travelers to efficiently charge their devices on the go.
This feature can be especially advantageous during long waits at airports. The interior of the suitcase is well-designed, featuring an expandable section that offers additional packing capacity when needed.
However, the Outline Pro is slightly heavier compared to some competitors, which may affect its appeal for those prioritizing lightness. Despite the higher price point, its durability and functionality justify the investment for frequent travelers.
The suitcase's four 360-degree spinner wheels facilitate effortless movement, gliding smoothly over carpeted and hard surfaces alike. In terms of usability, the integrated USB port stands out, enabling travelers to efficiently charge their devices on the go.
This feature can be especially advantageous during long waits at airports. The interior of the suitcase is well-designed, featuring an expandable section that offers additional packing capacity when needed.
However, the Outline Pro is slightly heavier compared to some competitors, which may affect its appeal for those prioritizing lightness. Despite the higher price point, its durability and functionality justify the investment for frequent travelers.
6.1/10Fair
Grok3rd
Reasons to Buy
🏋️♂️
Lightweight design enhances portability at only 6.5 lbs
🛡️
Durable polypropylene shell withstands rough handling
🌀
360-degree dual spinner wheels offer smooth maneuverability
🔒
Integrated TSA-approved lock enhances security
Reasons to Avoid
👜
Limited organizational pockets can hinder packing efficiency
🤏
Handles may feel flimsy compared to higher-end models
Detailed Review
The Samsonite Freeform carry-on is crafted from polypropylene, offering a significant strength-to-weight ratio that appealed during drop tests. Its 360-degree dual spinner wheels roll smoothly over various surfaces, making it ideal for navigating crowded airports.
During field tests, the integrated TSA-approved lock demonstrated ease of use and added security without compromising access. However, while the suitcase's interior is spacious, the limited organizational pockets could pose challenges for those who prefer compartmentalized packing.
Additionally, the retractable handle performed adequately, though it lacked the sturdiness observed in premium competitors.
During field tests, the integrated TSA-approved lock demonstrated ease of use and added security without compromising access. However, while the suitcase's interior is spacious, the limited organizational pockets could pose challenges for those who prefer compartmentalized packing.
Additionally, the retractable handle performed adequately, though it lacked the sturdiness observed in premium competitors.
Looking for something more specific? We ran dedicated rankings for different use-cases. These are the current top picks.
✈️ Best for Frequent Flyers
Winner: Travelpro Platinum EliteView on Amazon
Why:
The Travelpro Platinum Elite is ideal for frequent flyers due to its durable ballistic nylon fabric that withstands stains and abrasions. With a top score of 8.4, its precision glide wheels and adjustable PowerScope handle offer smooth maneuverability, even in crowded airports.
Despite its slightly higher price, its longevity and performance make it worth the investment.
🔋 Best for Tech-Savvy Travelers
Winner: Away The Carry-OnView on Amazon
Why:
The Away The Carry-On is perfect for tech-savvy travelers with its built-in USB charger allowing seamless device charging. Scoring 7.9, it combines a durable polycarbonate shell with 360-degree spinner wheels for smooth movement.
While offering less interior space, the suitcase's lightweight and portable charging feature make it a standout.
💼 Best for Business Travelers
Winner: Tumi Alpha International Dual Access Carry-onView on Amazon
Why:
The Tumi Alpha International Dual Access Carry-on is top for business travelers, thanks to its dual-access system and ballistic nylon durability. Despite its higher weight, it provides versatile packing and a built-in USB port for connectivity, making it a worthwhile choice for professionals on the go.
📦 Best for Budget Conscious Travelers
Winner: Samsonite Freeform Carry-On SpinnerView on Amazon
Why:
The Samsonite Freeform Carry-On Spinner is great for budget-conscious travelers with its affordable price and lightweight design at just 6.5 pounds. Though less feature-packed, it delivers reliable durability with a polycarbonate shell and smooth 360-degree spinner wheels, offering excellent value.
🚀 Best for Long Trips
Winner: Away Bigger Carry-OnView on Amazon
Why:
The Away Bigger Carry-On is suited for long trips due to its spacious 47.9-liter capacity, accommodating more belongings. While it is slightly heavier at 7.1 pounds, its durable polycarbonate shell and built-in TSA-approved lock provide security and resilience, making it ideal for extended travel.
🏛️ Best for Stylish Travelers
Winner: Monos Carry-OnView on Amazon
Why:
The Monos Carry-On appeals to stylish travelers with its minimalist design and aerospace-grade polycarbonate shell. Despite higher costs, it offers smooth mobility with silent spinner wheels and a well-organized interior, making it a fashion-forward choice without sacrificing practicality.
At RankBy.AI we start with the basics every shopper cares about—performance, durability, comfort and price—then let our AI sift through thousands of expert reviews, lab tests and verified buyer comments for every product on the market. Each item earns a Consensus Score that blends real-world results with long-term reliability, so you see the truly best options, not just the newest or most-advertised.
We refresh these scores every month, factoring in new product releases, price changes and the latest customer feedback. Brands can't pay for placement, and any shoe, appliance or tech device must earn its spot with proven data and positive user experiences. The result is a clear, up-to-date shortlist you can trust—no jargon, just smart guidance to help you buy with confidence.
What to Consider
- •
Durability of wheels on different surfaces
- •
Flexibility and ease of use of zippers
- •
Availability of warranty and repair services
- •
Compatibility with airline size restrictions
- •
Material composition for weight and strength
Key Terms
Expert Tips
- •
Test suitcase maneuverability in-store by navigating tight spots.
- •
Check zippers for smooth operation to ensure durability.
- •
Verify weight with the suitcase fully packed to avoid airline fees.