I’ve used the Away Bigger Carry On, Travelpro Platinum Elite, and Briggs & Riley across multiple trips in the U.S. and here’s my experience
Away Bigger Carry On
I took this one on a weekend trip along the Pacific Coast Highway in California and a short flight to Austin, TX. I loved the sleek design and built in laundry bag, it packs efficiently.
The hard shell is light and stylish, but after rolling it through the cobblestone streets of Charleston and the uneven ramps at smaller airports, I noticed the handle felt a bit wobbly and the wheels weren’t as smooth as I expected. It also scuffs easily on rough surfaces.
It’s fine for city travel or short flights, but not ideal if you’re bouncing between airports and trailheads.
Travelpro Platinum Elite
I’ve used this on a road trip from Denver to Moab, Utah, and on flights to Portland, Maine. The telescoping handle is rock solid and the spinner wheels glide smoothly even on the gravel parking lots near trailheads for Acadia National Park hikes. The interior layout is smart with plenty of compartments and a dedicated garment section that kept my shirts wrinkle free.
The fabric feels durable but not bulky, perfect for both flights and quick weekend hiking trips. Honestly, it’s made for people who actually travel a lot.
Briggs & Riley
This one has been with me on a cross country trip from New York to San Francisco, plus a mix of urban exploration in Chicago and weekend hikes around Rocky Mountain National Park. The build quality feels tank like, the handle solid, wheels buttery smooth, and materials high end. The warranty is unbeatable, it even covers airline damage which gives peace of mind.
It’s a bit heavier, but you feel that weight as quality not bulk. I never worried about any part breaking down, and the interior is easy to organize for longer trips. Definitely worth it if you travel frequently and need something that lasts years.
Final take
- Best style and short trips: Away Bigger Carry On
- Best all around practical choice: Travelpro Platinum Elite
- Best long term heavy use investment: Briggs & Riley
Practical Tips for Choosing a Carry-On
When selecting a carry-on, consider your travel habits. If you frequently take short trips, focus on lightweight designs that easily fit into overhead compartments. In contrast, if you embark on business trips, opt for options with a built-in laptop sleeve and organized compartments.
Check the airline’s carry-on policies before purchasing. Airlines might have specific measurements that could affect your choice. A carry-on that exceeds the dimensions may lead to extra fees or the annoyance of checking your bag at the gate.
Assess how much packing space you actually need. Create a packing list tailored to your travel itinerary. This will help you understand if you require extra capacity or if a compact model will suffice.
Common Mistakes to Avoid with Carry-Ons
One frequent error is overpacking. Avoid the temptation to fill every nook and cranny. Remember, carry-ons have limitations, and weight restrictions are in effect. A packed bag that’s too heavy could result in additional charges or a frustrating repacking situation at the airport.
Many travelers overlook the importance of easy access to essentials. Keep frequently needed items like wallets, passports, and medications in separate compartments. This ensures you can quickly grab them during security checks or boarding.
Don’t forget about maintenance. If your carry-on has wheels, check them for debris regularly. Using a soft cloth to clean your bag will keep it looking fresh. A quick wipe-down can prolong its life.
Comparing Costs and Value
Price varies significantly among different brands. The Away Bigger Carry-On typically runs around $295, while the Travelpro Platinum Elite is often available for about $250. If you’re considering Briggs & Riley, be prepared to spend upwards of $399 for their models.
Keep in mind that higher upfront costs may lead to savings down the line. Brands like Briggs & Riley offer lifetime warranties that cover any damage, making them a worthwhile investment. You can read more about the best carry-on luggage options on The New York Times.
Think of the value each carry-on provides beyond just the price tag. Weigh the features you’ll actually use. Do you need a built-in USB port or a garment folder? These features may justify a higher cost for frequent travelers.
Who Each Option Suits Best
The Away Bigger Carry-On is ideal for the modern traveler who values style and functionality. Its sleek design appeals to those who want to make a fashion statement while being practical.
If you often travel for work, the Travelpro Platinum Elite offers a professional aesthetic and organizational features. Its compartments make it easy to keep documents and electronic devices in order, providing efficiency when on the road.
For frequent flyers or families, Briggs & Riley may be your best bet due to its durability and lifetime warranty. Its designs are built to withstand heavy use, offering peace of mind for long-term travelers.
We cover spinner carry on vs roller in more depth separately.
Our write-up on expandable carry on vs non picks up where this leaves off.
Related reading: lightweight carry on vs regular.
There is more on international carry on vs domestic elsewhere on the site.
If that matters to you, our piece on does carry on luggage have goes further.