Purpose of the Review
In this section, we look at the purpose of our product review on carry-on luggage. Our goal is simple. We want to help you choose the best carry-on for your travels. With so many options available, it can be hard to decide. Therefore, we will compare the top options based on several important factors.
First, we will focus on performance. We know you want a bag that works well and lasts long. Next, we will look at value. You deserve to get a good deal for your money. We will also discuss features. Features can make a big difference in how easy your travels are. Lastly, we will share user experiences. Hearing what other travelers think can help you make a better choice.
After considering all these factors, we highly recommend the Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Carry-On Spinner. This bag stands out among all the options available.
Other Luggage Models Being Reviewed
Other luggage models being reviewed include a mix of soft-sided and hard-sided options.
The Travelpro Platinum Elite 21-inch is a top pick for soft-sided luggage. It balances size and durability well. However, the Travelpro Platinum Elite 22-inch offers more space and larger wheels but is less maneuverable.
For hard-sided luggage, the Away Carry-On is sleek and resilient, but its polycarbonate shell may break more easily than fabric options. The Away Bigger Carry-On provides extra room but might be checked more often on smaller planes.
The Travelpro Maxlite 5 is budget-friendly and lightweight. It delivers features often found in more expensive bags, while the Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential offers superior build quality but at a premium price.
Design and Build Quality
The section on design and build quality focuses on how carry-on luggage is made and its overall sturdiness. Many bags today are designed to be both stylish and durable, using materials that can withstand wear and tear. Readers will learn about common trends and choices in luggage construction, helping them understand what to look for when comparing different types of bags.
Materials and Durability
The following three products are notable for their materials and durability.
Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Carry-On Spinner is highly regarded for its fabric exterior. This luggage brushes off scrapes easily and is easy to clean. It’s backed by a lifetime warranty, showing its reliability.
Travelpro Platinum Elite 22″ Carry-On Rollaboard offers more space. However, it has less maneuverability due to its two-wheel design. It features larger, more durable wheels but might be less convenient for quick turns.
Away The Carry-On boasts a hard polycarbonate shell. However, this makes it more prone to breaking compared to fabric options. It lacks external pockets and has a clamshell design, making it tricky to pack and unpack.
Storage and Organization
Storage and organization are important when choosing luggage. Travelers often look for bags that can hold their items securely while being easy to access. Many bags now come with features like pockets and compartments, which help keep everything tidy. In this section, you’ll find detailed comparisons of various options, helping you make the best choice for your needs.
Interior Capacity and Packing Efficiency
Interior capacity and packing efficiency are crucial when choosing luggage. This section compares three popular options to help you decide.
The Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Carry-On Spinner is a top pick for its balance of size and durability. It fits enough clothes for a five-day trip. However, it may not hold up as well if you often travel on smaller planes.
The Away The Bigger Carry-On offers slightly more capacity and a smart internal packing system. It’s designed to pack efficiently, fitting four to seven days’ worth of clothing. However, it’s heavier than many options, which could be a downside for some travelers.
The Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential 22″ Carry-On Expandable Spinner is heavier but provides great build quality and expandable space. It can hold more clothes, making it ideal for longer trips. However, the additional weight may not be suitable for travelers looking for lightweight options.
Mobility and Handling
Mobility and handling are key factors to consider when choosing a carry-on bag. Travelers often look for luggage that is easy to maneuver through crowded airports and can handle various surfaces. As you read further, you will see how different designs and features can impact your travel experience, helping you make the best choice for your needs.
Wheels and Maneuverability
Wheels and maneuverability are important features to consider when choosing carry-on luggage. Here’s how some popular options compare in this area.
The Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Carry-On Spinner is known for its smooth 360-degree wheels. It’s easy to maneuver through crowded airports. However, the Travelpro Platinum Elite 22″ Carry-On Rollaboard offers larger, more durable wheels but sacrifices some maneuverability due to its two-wheel design.
On the other hand, the Away The Carry-On has four wheels that glide effortlessly. However, its clamshell design can make packing a bit tricky. The Away Bigger Carry-On provides slightly more room but shares the same design challenges.
Lastly, the Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential 22″ Carry-On Expandable Spinner has a unique design that allows for more space but is heavier. It may require more effort to handle compared to lighter models. Overall, each option has strengths and weaknesses in terms of wheels and maneuverability.
Security and Safety
Security and safety are vital when choosing luggage for travel. Many travelers worry about their bags getting lost, damaged, or stolen. Therefore, it’s crucial to look for features like durable materials and reliable locks to keep belongings secure. This overview prepares you to explore the different aspects that influence luggage safety and how various brands address these concerns.
Locking Mechanisms and Anti-Theft Features
Locking mechanisms and anti-theft features are important for keeping your belongings secure while traveling. Here’s how three popular carry-on luggage options compare in this area.
The Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Carry-On Spinner features a built-in TSA lock. This design ensures that your bag remains secure during flights. However, it lacks robust skid protection compared to other models. Therefore, if you’re rough on your luggage, this could be a concern.
Away The Carry-On also offers good security with its dual TSA-approved lock system. Additionally, its polycarbonate shell adds a layer of protection against impact. However, the clamshell design can make it tricky to pack securely, which might be a downside for some users.
Lastly, the Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential 22″ Carry-On Expandable Spinner provides a lifetime warranty and a durable design. It does not have a traditional locking system, but its zippers are robust. However, the exposed rails can be vulnerable to damage. Therefore, think about how you plan to use it before making a choice.
Zippers, Closures, and Build Strength
Zippers, closures, and build strength are important factors when choosing luggage. Here’s how some top carry-on options compare.
Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Carry-On Spinner features durable zippers and a solid build. However, it lacks a robust skid plate, which could affect its longevity on rough surfaces. The 22″ model offers slightly more capacity and larger wheels, improving durability but sacrificing some maneuverability.
Away’s The Carry-On uses a polycarbonate shell, which is stylish but more prone to breakage compared to soft-sided bags. Its clamshell design makes packing less convenient. Conversely, the Away Bigger Carry-On provides more storage but may require gate-checking on smaller flights.
For a budget option, the Travelpro Maxlite 5 is lightweight and easy to use. Its warranty is limited compared to pricier models, but it offers excellent value for basic needs. Overall, each bag has unique features that cater to different travel styles.
Airline Compatibility
Airline compatibility is important for choosing a carry-on. Here’s how three top choices measure up.
The Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Carry-On Spinner fits most major airline requirements for carry-on size. However, the Travelpro Platinum Elite 22″ Rollaboard offers slightly more capacity but may be checked on smaller planes. In contrast, Away’s The Carry-On is also designed to meet airline standards, but it has a polycarbonate shell that might not withstand rough handling as well as soft-sided options.
For those needing extra storage, the Away The Bigger Carry-On provides additional space but can face gate-checking on smaller flights. Therefore, if you prioritize flexibility and capacity, the 22″ Rollaboard might be your best option. However, for durability and style, both the Away models are excellent choices.
Smart Features and Additional Functionality
Smart features and additional functionality can make a big difference when choosing luggage. Here’s how some top carry-ons stack up against each other in this area.
The Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Carry-On Spinner has a USB-A charging port, making it easier to charge devices on the go. However, its battery pocket requires a specific type of battery, which could be a hassle. The Travelpro Maxlite 5 is more affordable, yet it lacks advanced features like charging ports. It’s lightweight and solid for basic needs.
The Away The Carry-On offers an effective internal packing system, ensuring items stay organized. However, it lacks external pockets, which might be inconvenient for quick access. Meanwhile, the Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential offers a unique compression system but comes at a premium price. It is built to last, making it a good investment.
In contrast, the Yeti Crossroads 22″ Wheeled Luggage is designed for tough conditions. While it has a durable exterior, its limited warranty could be a concern for long-term use.
Maintenance and Durability
When it comes to maintenance and durability, specific carry-on luggage options stand out. The Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Carry-On Spinner is praised for its robust design and easy cleaning. However, it lacks strong skid protection, which might concern rough travelers. In contrast, the Away The Carry-On has a stylish polycarbonate shell but is more prone to breakage compared to fabric options.
The Briggs & Riley Baseline Essential 22″ Carry-On Expandable Spinner offers exceptional build quality but is heavier than other models. Its price reflects its durability, making it a long-term investment. Meanwhile, the Yeti Crossroads 22″ Wheeled Luggage excels in tough conditions but has a limited warranty and is somewhat heavy.
Each of these products demonstrates distinct strengths and weaknesses in durability and ease of maintenance. If you prioritize style, consider Away. For long-lasting durability, Travelpro or Briggs & Riley may be better choices.
User Experience and Feedback
When choosing a carry-on, user experience plays a big role. Here are some key comparisons among popular options.
The Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Carry-On Spinner is praised for its balance of size and durability. Users love its smooth handling. However, it lacks robust curb protection, making it less ideal for rough handling. The Travelpro Platinum Elite 22″ Rollaboard offers more space but is harder to maneuver due to its two-wheel design.
Away The Carry-On is stylish but has a fragile polycarbonate shell. Users find it lacks external pockets, which can be inconvenient. The clamshell design can complicate packing and unpacking, leading to some frustration.
Travelpro Maxlite 5 Carry-On Spinner is lightweight and budget-friendly. Customers appreciate its affordability and features. However, its warranty is not as extensive as the Platinum Elite, covering only the first year for airline damage.
Value for Money and Final Verdict
In the world of carry-on luggage, the Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Carry-On Spinner stands out as the best option. First, it offers great durability and a lifetime warranty, which is fantastic for frequent travelers. Additionally, this bag has a smart design that maximizes packing space while remaining lightweight. You can easily fit enough clothes for a five-day trip, plus some extras.
Moreover, it rolls smoothly and has a comfortable handle, making it easy to navigate through busy airports. As a result, you can trust that this carry-on will serve you well on all your adventures. For those looking for quality without breaking the bank, the Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Carry-On Spinner is the perfect choice.