The Best Carry-On Bag for a Woman (2024)

best carry-on bag for a woman

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Whether you are looking for the best carry-on bag for a woman with the intention of packing everything you need in a carry-on for your next trip or are just looking for a great carry-on in addition to your checked luggage, you want to get the best bag for your buck & make sure it has everything you need.

With so many awesome carry-on bags for women on the market, though, how do you choose?

That’s exactly where this guide comes in. We’ve rounded up all the best carry-on bag options so you can track down the best women’s carry-on bag for you, without spending too much time hunting around.

🏆Our top pick for the best travel carry-on for women: The Briggs and Riley Sympatico

A photo of Briggs & Riley Sympatico Hardside International Spinner Luggage.

This one is my favorite because it really is made to last a lifetime. The lifetime warranty is completely unconditional! It’s also ergonomically designed, fits within major US carrier size limits, and is expandable for 22% extra space.

We've done all of the digging, read reviews far and wide, and put it all here in one place to make it quick and easy for you to make a choice you will feel great about! (And, of course, we've thrown in our own expertise as well).

Whether you want a luxurious leather carry-on bag that looks great or would prefer something simple in a hard-wearing fabric, this article will take you through the process of finding the best travel carry-on bag for your future adventures.

When you want to find the best carry-on bag for women, look no further. This article reviews a dozen of the finest options.

Also covered is a handy comparison chart, what to look for when choosing, and frequently asked questions that come up regarding the best carry-on luggage for women.

Before you proceed, though, it’s worth noting that Amazon stocks many of these cases in other sizes, or as part of a luggage set. So if you’re interested in a bag but would like a bigger or smaller one, it’s worth clicking the link to check the options.

Let's take a look at 12 of the best women’s carry-on luggage options!


Best Carry-On Bag for a Woman Comparison Chart

NameTypeSizeWeightKey featuresCheck pricing & availability
🏆Briggs & Riley Sympatico Hard-sided spinner case21 inch7.7 lbsUSB port, Smooth ultra secure zip, shoe & laundry bagsCheck here
Betsey JohnsonHard-sided spinner case20 inch5.8 lbsCompact & lightweight, expandable, 5-year warrantyCheck here
Samsonite FreeformHard-sided spinner case21 inch6.5 lbs10-year warranty, TSA lock, multi-directional spinner wheelsCheck here
Delsey Paris ChateletHard-sided spinner case21 inch7.7 lbsUSB port, Smooth ultra secure zip, shoe & laundry bagsCheck here
TravelPro MaxLiteSoft-sided under seat caseUnderseat5.4 lbsUnderseat size, water & stain-resistant, smooth zippersCheck here
Samsonite Ascella XSoft-sided garment bagGarment bag11.5 lbsWet pocket, 10-year warranty, many compartmentsCheck here
Steve MaddenSoft-sided spinner case20 inch7.8 lbs10 colors, 5-year warranty, strong & stable, expandsCheck here
Kenneth Cole ReactionSoft-sided spinner case20 inch6.3 lbsClear toiletries pocket, 2” expansion, 10-year warrantyCheck here
AdidasSoft-sided case21 inch1 lbUltra lightweight, tuck-in wheels, good outer pocketsCheck here
Thule SubterraBackpack40 liter3.5 lbsConverts to a shoulder bag, ultra sleek, removable laptop sleeveCheck here
Osprey FairviewBackpack40 liter3 lbsHeavy duty, long shoulder strap, comfortable strapsCheck here
Osprey DayliteBackpack44 liter2.3 lbsLeading brand, laptop sleeve, ergonomic  designCheck here

In-Depth Review of Each Bag

Briggs & Riley Sympatico 21” (OUR TOP PICK)

A photo of Briggs & Riley Sympatico Hardside International Spinner Luggage.
  • Type: Hard-sided case
  • Size: 21 inch
  • Dimensions: 21 x 14 x 9 inches
  • Weight: 8.6 lbs

Definitely one of the top-rated carry-on luggage for women available!

If you don’t mind spending more money, this Briggs and Riley case is made to last and attracts incredible reviews and ratings. It’s also expandable, offering 22% extra space when at full capacity. So it’s ideal for women who tend to shop while away from home!

For comfort, there’s an ergonomic handle and this can be stopped at the best of the three heights to suit you. People rate Briggs and Riley cases really highly and love the way even business suits can be packed inside with unbelievable ease.

The biggest selling point of this airport carry-on bag, though, is the unconditional lifetime warranty. It offers free repairs without any questions asked or even proof of purchase required. Isn’t that peace of mind worth paying extra for?

We’re obsessed with:

  • Unconditional lifetime warranty
  • Ergonomic, multi-height handle
  • Expands for 22% more space
  • Easy to pack formal wear

Not so hot:


Betsey Johnson 20”

A photo of Betsey Johnson Checked Luggage Collection.
  • Type: Hard-sided case
  • Size: 20 inch
  • Dimensions: 20 x 14 x 9 inch inches
  • Weight: 5.8 lbs

If it’s all about looking designer – and/or different – then how about this Betsey Johnson case? It comes in a range of options that will definitely get noticed at the baggage reclaim carousel or among the other bags in the overhead compartment.

We love a bag that stands out in a crowd! There are floral, cartoon, heart, flamingo, and Paris prints to pick between.

At 20 inches it’s a good carry-on airline bag size too. In case you go crazy on that shopping trip, the case is also expandable to provide some much-needed extra room. Smooth-rolling is assured by the double, multi-directional spinner wheels.

Open it up and you’ll see it looks just as good inside as out. It’s fully lined, with straps to keep everything in place and a large zippered pocket inside the lid.

It comes with a limited 5-year warranty and it's also one of the most lightweight options, competing as the best roller carry-on bag.

We’re obsessed with:

  • Designer label
  • Expandable case
  • Compact & lightweight
  • 5-year limited warranty

Not so hot:

  • Not as tough as some

Samsonite Freeform 21”

A photo of Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable with Double Spinner Wheels.
  • Type: Hard-sided case
  • Size: 21 inch
  • Dimensions: 21.25 x 15.25 x 10 inches
  • Weight: 6.5 lbs

Buying a Samsonite is a no-brainer when you want luggage that will last. The company makes some of the best international carry-on luggage you’ll find anywhere, and it’s all backed by their 10-year warranty.

This luxury carry-on luggage with spinner wheels comes in 14 colors, and you can pick a bright shade like tangerine to make your case easy to spot or a neutral like black, gray, or white.

There are some pretty pastels too, like lilac, powder blue, or mint green, plus dark hues such as navy, sage green, or wine red.

An ultra-lightweight yet tough outer shell, a recessed TSA combination lock, multi-directional spinner wheels, and many inside pockets are among the best features of this contender as the best carry-on roller bag.

We’re obsessed with:

  • 14 colors
  • 10-year warranty
  • Recessed TSA lock
  • Multi-directional spinner wheels

Not so hot:

  • Lock needs testing before use

Pro Packing Tips

Delsey Paris Chatelet 21”

A photo of DELSEY Paris Chatelet Hardside 2.0 Luggage with Spinner Wheels.
  • Type: Hard-sided case
  • Size: 21 inch
  • Dimensions: 22.75 x 15 x 10 inches
  • Weight: 7.7 lbs

If the ​​best carry-on rolling bag for you is a super stylish one, then this retro-look option from Delsey Paris might be just right. With a vintage vibe, it comes in chocolate brown, pink, black, navy, or white.

You can choose to order one with a brake or without. The advantages of the former are obvious, but the lack of a brake makes the latter 17% lighter. This one also has multi-directional, double-spinner wheels to make it easy to maneuver.

Other advantages of this top-brand airline carry-on bag include a USB port, a patented SECURITECH zip, a TSA-approved recessed lock, an odor-control lining, and an ergonomic handle. It even comes with shoe and laundry bags as well as plenty of compartments.

We’re obsessed with:

  • USB port
  • Vintage looks
  • Smooth SECURITECH zip
  • Shoe & laundry bags supplied

Not so hot:

  • Scratches may show up easily
  • Heavier than some

TravelPro MaxLite underseat 16”

A photo of Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Lightweight Rolling Underseat Tote Upright 2 Wheel Bag.
  • Type: Soft-sided case
  • Size: 16 inch
  • Dimensions: 16 x 13.75 x 8.5 inches
  • Weight: 5.4 lbs

The first thing to know about this women's carry-on is that the dimensions are made for placing it under the seat in front of you. This is great when you want access to your belongings mid-flight, or if you prefer a window seat away from the overhead locker.

It’s similar to the Travelpro Platinum Elite line but in a different shape.

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In fact, the measurements are much the same as with most carry-on luggage for women in terms of width and depth. It’s just four inches shorter. How much does that extra space matter – and how important is it to access the contents of your bag while on the flight?

The soft fabric finish is actually ultra-tough, stain-resistant, and water-repellent. The zipper also pulls really smoothly and the wheels run well across the airport too. This is a very practical case for the price and great if you want something very compact.

We’re obsessed with:

  • Underseat design
  • Smooth pull zippers
  • Ideal for in-flight access
  • Water & stain resistant finish

Not so hot:

  • Dull design

Samsonite Ascella X Garment Bag

A photo of Samsonite Ascella X Softside Luggage.
  • Type: Soft-sided case
  • Size: Garment bag
  • Dimensions: 24 x 21 x 9 inches
  • Weight: 11.5 lbs

If it’s a bag for suits or evening dresses you want, then a garment bag could be the best choice. Satisfied owners have found this to be the best carry-on garment bag around, and it’s made to fit inside most aircraft overhead lockers.

As with all Samsonite luggage, this comes with a limited 10-year warranty.

The best garment carry-on bag we’ve found also has in-line roller wheels for effortless mobility at the airport. A wet compartment is even included, which is great for those who like to grab a last-minute swim before flying home!

Once opened out, this case becomes a great garment bag with space and pockets for everything. If you need to carry business or evening wear, this is the number one choice. 

 We’re obsessed with:

  • Garment bag
  • ‘Wetpack’ compartment
  • Lots of interior pockets
  • Limited 10-year warranty

Not so hot:

  • Relatively heavy

Steve Madden Carry-On 20”

A photo of Lightweight Softside Expandable Suitcase.
  • Type: Soft-sided case
  • Size: 20 inch
  • Dimensions: 20 x 14 x 8 inches
  • Weight: 7.8 lbs

If you’re seeking the best rolling carry-on bag with soft sides, then take a look at this one by Steve Madden. It’s a lightweight, 20-inch piece of soft-sided carry-on luggage, and is available in 10 different colors.

This is also an expandable bag, so you can carry more home than you took out with you. The spinner wheels move in all directions, and the unique structure gives it extra stability and strength.

A limited 5-year manufacturer warranty comes with this, and according to the manufacturer it fits into the overhead compartment on most aircraft. This carry-on for women also comes in a range of colors and patterns.

We’re obsessed with:

  • 10 colors/patterns
  • Limited 5-year warranty
  • Super strong and stable
  • Expanding the main compartment

Not so hot:

  • No bumper for stairs
  • Colors may not exactly look like the photo

Kenneth Cole Reaction 20”

A photo of Kenneth Cole REACTION Chelsea Chevron Quilted Luggage.
  • Type: Soft-sided case
  • Size: 21 inch
  • Dimensions: 20 x 13.5 x 8.5 inches
  • Weight: 6.35 lb

The Kenneth Cole reaction line is another option when you want a soft-sided case.

This 20-inch item fits well within the airline carry-on bag size for most airlines and is a smart, stylish choice available in three colors. The chevron effect finish comes in classic shades of black, olive, or navy.

The product has double spinner wheels, a fully lined interior, and is expandable by an extra two inches. Ideal for a shopping trip to New York City! Inside is also an interior compression system and a hanging side zippered compartment.

Under the lid, you’ll even find a transparent gusseted toiletries pocket. There are plenty of other outer and inner sections too, and this case comes with a 10-year manufacturer-limited warranty.

We’re obsessed with:

  • 2-inch expansion
  • Clear toiletries pocket
  • Classic chevron design
  • Limited 10-year warranty

Not so hot:

  • Compartment too small for many laptops

Adidas Duel 21”

A photo of adidas Duel 21-inch Wheel Bag.
  • Type: Soft-sided case
  • Size: 21 inch
  • Dimensions: 21.1 x 15.3 x 9 inches
  • Weight: 1 lb

If you want lightweight, then this is THE ONE! Weighing around a pound, it’s an ultra-light, soft-sided case designed for sports and general use. There are two large compartments to the outer, which makes it easy to grab stuff on the go.

In-line, skater-style wheels make it easy to move around, and the minimalist design is subtle enough for business use as well as leisure. The straps inside also help to keep all your kit in place, reducing wrinkles.

This Adidas carry-on bag is surprisingly spacious, and the soft outer means you can squeeze it into gaps that hard-sided cases can’t fit into. Such as, in some cases, the seat in front.

We’re obsessed with:

  • ULTRA lightweight
  • Leading sports brand
  • Spacious outer pockets
  • Wheels can fit within the body

Not so hot:

  • Thinner fabric than others
  • Not exciting to look at

Thule Subterra 40L

A photo of Thule Subterra Convertible Carry On.
  • Type: Backpack
  • Size: 40 liter
  • Dimensions: 22 x 14″ x 8 inches
  • Weight: 3.5 lbs

Though we love Osprey products and have featured two below, this Thule backpack is also very impressive and thus worthy of inclusion.

It’s described as a convertible bag, and if you want the best travel carry-on luggage for business use that’s a backpack then this is the one to go for.

Thule is a Swedish company, and the sleek look of this bag is typically Scandinavian. It can be worn as a backpack or a shoulder bag, and when used as the latter you’d never guess that a backpack was concealed inside.

A removable laptop sleeve means you can reduce the weight and bulk when you don’t need that. There’s a separate compartment you can use as a shoe or laundry bag too. This is definitely the top option when you want the best carry-on travel bag that’s a backpack in disguise!

We’re obsessed with:

  • Ultra sleek looks
  • Removable laptop sleeve
  • Converts to shoulder bag
  • Laundry or shoe compartment

Not so hot:

  • Not female-specific

Osprey Fairview 40L

A photo of Osprey Fairview 40L Women's Travel Backpack.
  • Type: Backpack
  • Size: 40 liter
  • Dimensions: 21 x 14 x 9 inches
  • Weight: 3 lbs

This is the first of two Osprey backpacks we’re recommending in this guide, as there’s simply no better backpacks out there! The Fairview is a more heavy-duty alternative to the Daylite detailer below and fits within the airlines’ carry-on bag size limits in most cases.

This one comes with a stowaway back panel so you can tuck away those straps when it’s not in use. There’s a large, cushioned grab handle on the side to use instead, plus even a long shoulder strap too. We LOVE that it can be carried like a duffle bag too!

This makes the Fairview the best carry-on duffel bag (most duffles bags come in sizes that are too large to take onto the airplane).

Is it the best carry-on backpack for women? It’s this or the Daylite 44 below for sure! Ospreys are so strong, reliable, and attractive to look at. If you want to carry a tablet or laptop, this one can fit one up to 15 inches inside, and the section is zippered and lockable.

We’re obsessed with:

  • Heavy duty design
  • Padded shoulder straps
  • 15” zippered laptop section
  • Shoulder strap & grab handle

Not so hot:

  • Heavier than the Daylite

Osprey Daylite 44L

A photo of Osprey Daylite 44L Carry On Travel Backpack.
  • Type: Backpack
  • Size: 44 liter
  • Dimensions: 21.5 x 14 x 9 inches
  • Weight: 2.3 lbs

If you want lightweight, versatile luggage, then you really cannot beat a backpack! From very positive personal experience, we highly recommend Osprey backpacks. The Daylite Plus is the best women’s carry-on backpack from this outstanding outdoor brand.

It’s also ideal if you want the best carry-on laptop bag around, as there’s a sleeve large enough to fit most 16-inch laptops in. It also opens like a suitcase, giving you easy access to what’s inside so you can see what you’re looking for.

This fits into the biggest carry-on size allocated by most airlines and has a ventilated back panel for comfort when wearing. There’s lots of storage, even for items like keys and water bottles, and it’s a great one for using as a general daypack too.

We’re obsessed with:

  • 16” Laptop sleeve
  • Comfortable to wear
  • Lots of storage options
  • Favored outdoor brand

Not so hot:

  • Not as elegant as a case

What To Look For in the Best Carry-On Bag for Women

Airline Size Limits

What size case is the maximum your airline will accept? The standard size is 22 x 14 x 9 inches for a carry-on bag.

Most of the cases included here fit into that size, but not all. So check carefully with your specific airline. This is the size accepted by American Airlines, Delta, Allegiant, and United, the biggest carriers in the US.

The truth is that airline carry-on size restrictions vary so much – and can change at any time.

Don’t pack before you've made sure your case will be accepted on board, or you may have to check it into the hold. This particularly applies to international carriers. So if you take trips overseas then the size limits may be much bigger or smaller.

The key question is – will it fit into the sizer? If so, then you’re fine. Obviously, it’s easier to squeeze a backpack in there than a hard side case!

You can find more specific carry-on limits for each airline here:

American Airlines | Delta | Allegiant | United

Capacity

This is another biggie. Do you want a compact weekender bag for a night or two away from home, or a bigger carry-on to use for longer trips? Think about what you need to pack, and how that fits into the luggage you may already have.

Do you need more space than you have now, or could you get by with using less? A case with a larger capacity still needs to fit into the overhead compartment, and the bigger it is the less likely it is that it will fit underneath the seat in front.

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Type

Do you see yourself with a hard-side spinner suitcase, a rugged backpack, or something in-between? Carry-on luggage for women comes as a hard or soft shell spinner case, plus bags designed to carry garments or fit underneath the seat.

Hard side cases are more rigid but can be more durable. They can also look smarter. A soft-sided case is more flexible but may not withstand rough handling so well.

best carry on for women

Durability

How durable do you need your case to be? This goes hand-in-hand with what you’re prepared to pay for it. A longer-lasting case will generally cost more.

It depends on how many trips you do, and how often the bag will be used. Only the best carry-on bags for women are included here, with great ratings and reviews, but some will still offer more longevity than others.

Carrying Options

How will you move your case or bag around? 360-degree spinner wheels can make life easier, or you may want to look for a backpack that also has an adjustable shoulder strap as another way to carry it.

Don’t forget that you’ll need to lift your bag in and out of the overhead bin – perhaps multiple times during a flight if you need to reach a personal item stowed in there.

Compartments

Most good quality luggage will come fitted with a range of pockets and sections. What do you need from these? Would the best carry-on personal bag for you have a padded laptop sleeve, for instance?

There will be compartments inside and out with many bags. Those on the outside give easy access to the contents when you’re in a rush, which is worth bearing in mind. One case even comes complete with shoe and laundry bags!

PRO TIP: Make sure you grab your free packing checklist! It has everything you'll need in an easy-to-use PDF checklist that you can use over & over!

Security

Some of the best carry-on bags for women come with a TSA-approved lock already fitted. This saves you from buying one separately and ensures it suits the case perfectly.

Sometimes the TSA combination lock will also be recessed to make the case more streamlined and minimize the risk of damage. Luggage may also come with lockable zippers inside or out.

Style

Whether you prefer the patterned Betsey Johnson carry-on bag options, the sleek Thule convertible backpack, or don’t mind too much, how your women’s carry-on bag looks may really matter to you.

It might be worth bearing in mind that brightly colored luggage is easier to spot at the baggage carousel – or in a crowd. Unique carry-on luggage does have that advantage!

Best Carry-On Bag for a Woman – FAQs

best carry on for a woman

What size bag is good for carry-on?

So is a 21-inch bag a carry-on good? Is 24 inches too big for a carry-on? The standard carry-on size for the biggest US carriers is 22 x 14 x 9 inches, so a 21-inch bag will be fine when flying with one of those.

Always double-check, though, as this can change at any time.

24 inches is generally too big for a carry-on, though other domestic and international airlines may allow this. The rule to remember is that each airline can set its own limits, so there aren’t really any rules at all!

What is the best carry-on bag for travel?

If you know your bag may be crammed in with a bunch of others (not only on the plane but maybe on a bus or train throughout your trip), consider a hard-sided carry-on.

These tend to be able to stand up to abuse best. If you will only be storing in the overhead compartment of the plane, soft-sided will work just fine.

You have a lot of choices when it comes to a carry-on. You can pick a hard shell or soft-sided case, or opt for a backpack. Other options include garment bags and underseat-sized luggage.

It really comes down to the airline’s size limits, what you’re looking for, and your budget. You can't go wrong choosing any of the options we've discussed here.

What is the best carry-on backpack?

Osprey backpacks are some of the best around and they offer a range of bags that would work as a carry-on. Convertible bags are also a great idea, as they can be carried as a sleek shoulder bag. The Thule Subterra is a good example of this type.

Do airlines actually weigh carry-on bags?

Your AA, United, or Allegiant carry-on bag size tends to matter more than the weight. Fitting it into the sizer at the check-in desk is key.

Do check carefully though, as you’ll have to check any bag that exceeds the size or weight limit set. This can be decided by each individual airline.

Also, if the flight is less full, they tend to be less concerned with this, but you won’t know that until you begin boarding. Better safe than sorry!

Which Carry-On Women’s Bag is Best for You?

The best carry-on bag for women depends on several factors. The airline’s size limit comes first. Then, think about your budget, what you want to carry, and the quantity of luggage you need to fit into it.

Any of the options listed in this guide can make the best carry-on bag for a woman – it really is up to you whether you want a backpack, garment carrier, or case.

Plus, it depends on how much you want to pay for features like spinner wheels, a laptop sleeve, or an ergonomic design.

Having the right luggage is such a great investment, so we’d say always spend as much as you can comfortably afford. Especially when the product comes with the backup of a long warranty.

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Until next time…

About The Author

Jody Phifer has been a travel blogger & travel planner since 2019. With her husband and son by her side, she takes on incredible adventures all over the world. She especially loves hiking through the mountains & soaking in breathtaking views. Jody is passionate about sharing her experiences and love of travel, by offering valuable information and inspiration! Learn more about Jody here.

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