Best Carry-On Luggage in 2027: 5 Brands Worth Knowing

Choosing the right carry-on luggage can make a noticeable difference in how you travel. From navigating busy airports to packing for a week-long getaway, a well-designed carry-on should make every part of your journey easier.

In 2027, travelers have more options than ever when it comes to premium carry-on luggage. Some brands focus on sophisticated design and luxury materials, while others prioritize smart organization, durability, lightweight construction, or maximizing packing space.

Whether you're a frequent business traveler, a weekend explorer, or someone who appreciates thoughtful design, finding the right suitcase comes down to understanding what matters most to you.

We've rounded up five carry-on luggage brands worth considering in 2027: TUMI, Briggs & Riley, Carl Friedrik, NOMATIC, and Travelpro.

Each brings something different to the world of travel, making this comparison a useful starting point when shopping for your next carry-on suitcase.

What Makes a Great Carry-On Suitcase in 2027?

Before comparing individual brands, it's worth considering the features that make a carry-on suitcase a worthwhile investment.

The best carry-on luggage should balance several important qualities:

• Size and airline compatibility: A suitcase should fit the carry-on requirements of the airlines you regularly fly.
• Durability: Quality materials, reliable zippers, strong handles, and well-designed wheels can make a difference over years of travel.
• Organization: Interior compartments, compression systems, and accessible pockets help keep belongings organized.
• Weight: A lightweight suitcase makes airport navigation easier and helps preserve your airline weight allowance.
• Design: Whether you prefer a minimalist aesthetic or a more traditional travel look, your luggage should suit your personal style.
• Warranty and service: Long-term repair support and warranty coverage are worth considering when purchasing premium luggage.

With these features in mind, let's look at five brands offering compelling carry-on options.

1. TUMI: Premium Design Meets Business Travel Functionality

TUMI has established itself as one of the most recognizable names in premium travel luggage. Known for its sophisticated aesthetic, attention to detail, and functional features, the brand has become a popular choice among business travelers and frequent flyers.

TUMI carry-ons are designed with people who travel regularly in mind. Depending on the collection, features can include integrated TSA locks, expandable compartments, USB-C charging access, dedicated organizational pockets, and smooth-rolling spinner wheels.

The brand's 19 Degree collection is particularly recognizable for its distinctive sculpted design, while the Alpha collection offers a more traditional business-travel aesthetic.

What Makes TUMI Stand Out?

• Premium materials and carefully considered construction.
• Distinctive designs and recognizable collections.
• Organizational features for frequent travelers.
• Options with expandable packing capacity.
• TUMI Tracer luggage identification service on select models.
• Monogramming and personalization options on select products.

Who Is TUMI Best For?

TUMI is a strong option for professionals, frequent flyers, and travelers who appreciate premium materials combined with practical functionality.

If you want luggage that feels equally appropriate in an airport lounge, hotel lobby, or business meeting, TUMI offers several compelling choices.

Our take: TUMI is an excellent brand to consider if premium design, business-friendly functionality, and a recognizable luxury travel aesthetic are high on your priority list.

2. Briggs & Riley: Designed Around Long-Term Travel Performance

Briggs & Riley has built its reputation around practical innovation, durability, and long-term ownership.

The brand is especially well known for its CX compression-expansion technology, which allows select suitcases to expand for additional packing space and then compress back toward their original dimensions.

Another signature feature is the Outsider handle system, designed to create a flatter interior packing surface. This can be especially useful for travelers who want to maximize usable space and keep clothing organized.

Briggs & Riley offers both softside and hardside carry-on luggage, giving travelers flexibility when choosing their preferred construction and packing style.

What Makes Briggs & Riley Stand Out?

• CX expansion and compression technology on select models.
• Thoughtful interior organization.
• Outsider handle design on select collections.
• Durable materials and practical construction.
• A wide selection of carry-on sizes.
• Simple as That lifetime guarantee covering functional damage, including damage caused by airlines, subject to the brand's guarantee terms.

Who Is Briggs & Riley Best For?

Briggs & Riley is particularly appealing to frequent travelers who prioritize functionality, packing capacity, and long-term ownership.

If you travel regularly and want a suitcase designed to accommodate changing packing needs, the brand deserves a place on your shortlist.

Our take: Briggs & Riley is a compelling choice for travelers who value practical innovation, generous packing flexibility, and long-term repair support.

3. Carl Friedrik: Minimalist Luxury and Refined Design

For travelers who appreciate understated luxury, Carl Friedrik offers a distinctive approach to carry-on luggage.

The brand is known for its minimalist design language, clean lines, premium detailing, and refined aesthetic. Rather than relying on oversized logos or complicated exterior designs, Carl Friedrik focuses on simplicity and carefully selected materials.

Its Core Carry-On is a particularly interesting option for travelers looking for a modern hardshell suitcase.

Depending on the model, features include an impact-resistant polycarbonate shell, 360-degree spinner wheels, TSA-approved combination locks, and organized interior compartments.

The brand also offers different suitcase constructions and collections, allowing shoppers to choose between a lighter, more streamlined option and more structured premium designs.

What Makes Carl Friedrik Stand Out?

• Minimalist, contemporary styling.
• Premium leather detailing on select models.
• Impact-resistant polycarbonate construction.
• Smooth 360-degree spinner wheels.
• Thoughtful interior organization.
• Lifetime warranty on qualifying luggage products.

Who Is Carl Friedrik Best For?

Carl Friedrik is a great brand to consider if aesthetics are an important part of your luggage purchase.

It's particularly suited to travelers who appreciate modern design, understated luxury, and a suitcase that complements a polished travel wardrobe.

Our take: Carl Friedrik brings a refined design perspective to premium luggage. It's worth considering if you want a carry-on that feels sophisticated without being overly recognizable or logo-focused.

4. NOMATIC: Smart Organization for Modern Travelers

NOMATIC approaches luggage from a slightly different perspective, focusing on functionality, organization, and modern travel needs.

The brand has developed a following among digital professionals, entrepreneurs, content creators, and travelers who appreciate having a dedicated place for everything.

Its Method Carry-On is designed around maximizing usable packing space while maintaining practical exterior dimensions.

Depending on the model, features include expansion systems, internal compression panels, 360-degree wheels, TSA-approved locks, and dedicated organizational compartments.

For travelers who regularly carry electronics, accessories, clothing, and everyday essentials, this attention to organization can be particularly useful.

What Makes NOMATIC Stand Out?

• Organization-focused design.
• Smart interior storage solutions.
• Expansion capabilities on select models.
• Compression panels for more efficient packing.
• Modern, understated styling.
• Features designed around the needs of tech-oriented travelers.

Who Is NOMATIC Best For?

NOMATIC is particularly well suited to travelers who value organization and functionality.

If you travel with technology, work remotely, or prefer a suitcase that helps keep everything organized, NOMATIC is worth exploring.

Our take: NOMATIC is an interesting choice for modern travelers who prioritize efficient packing, smart storage, and practical features over traditional luxury styling.

5. Travelpro: A Trusted Name in Practical Travel Luggage

Travelpro has a long history in the luggage industry and is particularly well regarded among frequent flyers and aviation professionals.

The brand focuses on functional luggage designed for regular travel, offering a range of softside and hardside carry-ons across different collections and price points.

Collections such as Platinum Elite, Crew Classic, and Maxlite offer different approaches to travel luggage.

For example, Platinum Elite emphasizes premium materials and travel-focused functionality, while Maxlite collections prioritize lightweight construction.

Travelpro also offers practical features such as expandable compartments, organized interiors, spinner wheels, and comfortable telescoping handles, depending on the model.

What Makes Travelpro Stand Out?

• Extensive selection of carry-on luggage.
• Both softside and hardside options.
• Lightweight models for easier handling.
• Practical organization and packing features.
• Collections designed for different travel preferences and budgets.
• A long-standing reputation in the travel industry.

Who Is Travelpro Best For?

Travelpro is an excellent brand to consider for travelers who want practical, dependable luggage with a strong range of options.

It's especially appealing to people who travel regularly and want to compare different styles, materials, weights, and price points before making a decision.

Our take: Travelpro offers a versatile approach to carry-on luggage, making it a worthwhile option for travelers who prioritize everyday functionality and value.

Comparing the Best Carry-On Luggage Brands for 2027

Each of these five brands brings a different philosophy to travel luggage. Here's a quick comparison to help narrow down your options.

Rather than choosing a suitcase based solely on brand recognition, consider how you travel and which features will make the biggest difference during your trips.

Hardside vs. Softside Carry-On Luggage: Which Should You Choose?

One of the most common decisions when shopping for carry-on luggage is choosing between a hardside and softside suitcase.

Both have advantages, and the right choice depends on your packing habits and travel preferences.

Hardside Carry-On Luggage

Hardside luggage is popular for its structured exterior, clean appearance, and protective shell.

Benefits include:

• A structured shape that helps protect packed belongings.
• Easy-to-clean exterior surfaces on many models.
• Modern, streamlined styling.
• A consistent packing structure.

Brands such as Carl Friedrik, TUMI, Briggs & Riley, and NOMATIC offer hardside options.

Softside Carry-On Luggage

Softside luggage offers a different set of advantages, particularly for travelers who appreciate exterior pockets and flexible packing.

Benefits include:

• Convenient exterior storage on many models.
• Flexible construction.
• Potentially lighter designs.
• Practical access to smaller travel essentials.

Travelpro, TUMI, and Briggs & Riley offer softside collections worth exploring.

Ultimately, neither construction is automatically better. Your ideal choice comes down to the type of travel you do and the features you use most.

How Much Should You Spend on a Carry-On Suitcase?

Carry-on luggage is available across a wide range of price points, from affordable everyday options to premium luxury investments.

When comparing prices, it's important to look beyond the initial purchase cost.

Consider the materials, wheel construction, handle design, warranty coverage, repair services, and organizational features included with each suitcase.

A more expensive suitcase may offer premium materials, additional functionality, or longer-term service support. On the other hand, a more affordable option may provide everything you need for occasional trips.

The best purchase is the one that matches your travel habits, expectations, and budget.

How to Choose the Right Carry-On for Your Travel Style

Still deciding between these five brands? Here are a few simple ways to narrow your search.

If you travel frequently for business: Consider TUMI for its premium professional aesthetic and travel-focused features.

If you prioritize durability and packing flexibility: Explore Briggs & Riley and its innovative expansion systems.

If minimalist design matters most: Carl Friedrik offers a refined alternative with understated styling.

If organization is your priority: NOMATIC is worth considering for its functional, tech-friendly approach.

If you want practical everyday luggage: Travelpro offers a broad range of carry-ons to suit different travel preferences.

Before purchasing, always check your preferred airline's carry-on size and weight restrictions. Requirements can vary between airlines, particularly on international routes.

Final Thoughts: Finding the Best Carry-On Luggage in 2027

The best carry-on luggage isn't necessarily the most expensive, the most recognizable, or the one with the most features.

It's the suitcase that makes your travel experience easier.

TUMI brings premium styling and business-friendly functionality. Briggs & Riley emphasizes practical innovation and long-term ownership. Carl Friedrik delivers understated luxury and contemporary design. NOMATIC focuses on smart organization for modern travelers. Travelpro offers versatile, practical luggage for a wide range of travel needs.

All five brands have something different to offer, and each deserves consideration depending on your priorities.

Whether you're preparing for your next business trip, planning an international getaway, or upgrading your everyday travel essentials, investing time in comparing carry-on luggage can help you find a suitcase you'll enjoy using for years to come.

The right carry-on doesn't just hold your belongings. It becomes part of the journey.