Support TFG by using the links in our articles to shop. We receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) so we can continue to create helpful free content. We earn from qualifying purchases made to the featured retailers. Thank you, we appreciate your support!
If you’re heading abroad on your next trip and are searching for the best carry on luggage international flights will accept, check out these top-recommended reader picks below!
When it comes to traveling abroad, making sure your carryon bag is the right size is of utmost importance. The international carry on luggage size is typically 18″-20″, with nothing below 21”, so sticking with a bag of this size or smaller is the best way to ensure you won’t run into trouble at check-in.
When it comes to European jaunts, a lightweight 20” is a great option; however, the most ideal size to aim for is 19”. Some airlines even let you come aboard with a 21″!
All airlines are different and all suitcases have slightly different dimensions, so it’s also vital to check the carry on luggage size international restrictions with your particular airline to make sure your chosen travel buddy will work for your trip!
Luggage Size and Weight Restrictions
International Airlines Carry On Luggage Size Guide
Domestic Airlines Carry On Luggage Size Guide
If you’re looking for resources on how to choose the best suitcase for you, these articles might be helpful:
- How to Choose the Right Travel Luggage – If you’re new to traveling carry on only, this handy guide will help you determine what luggage to choose and what features to look out for.
- Suitcase Recommendations: Travel Experts Reveal Top Luggage Brands – If you’re unsure what carryon luggage brands are best, readers (the experts) share the top brands to buy!
- Experts Reveal the Best Carry-on Suitcases for Traveling Europe – This roundup is helpful when deciding what is the best size and type of luggage to travel around European cities that involve restrictive budget airlines, train travel, and navigating endless stairs, and the infamous cobblestone streets!
- Best Lightweight Luggage Under 5lb: Avoid Overweight Baggage Fees – While the size of a carryon is vital so is the weight! An overweight bag can put a damper on your trip if you have to pay overweight fees. This article shares the best lightweight luggage out there!
- Hardside vs Softside Luggage: Our Readers Weigh In on the Pros and Cons – If you’re on the fence between the two, readers offer insight into the pros and cons. Ultimately, what you choose is solely up to you!
- Best Checked Luggage – If you’re taking a longer trip, traveling with others and sharing luggage, or simply just like having options, check out the best checked bags that readers swear by!
When it comes to choosing the best carry on international luggage, lightness, maneuverability, and durability are things to consider. Our readers have recommended their favorites for overseas travel that tick these boxes and more! Check out their top picks!
Best International Carry-On Luggage: Hardside Styles
Shop: Travelpro
Travelpro Maxlite Air Hardside 20” Carryon
The 20” TravelPro Maxlite Air is not only a beauty but also has incredible functionality. The hardshell is super durable, with impact-absorbing flexibility, yet very light for its size, at 6.7 lbs! The interior compartments are super roomy, and users love that it can expand up to 2”, giving them a little extra space for their trip back home!
It comes with 8 sturdy spinner wheels and a handle that extends to 42.5” for maximum maneuverability, as well as TSA locks for security. It’s also so chic and comes in a range of beautiful colors.
One user raves, “Took this beast all over the cobblestone streets in Ireland. It has so much room! Packed for a full week! Zippers are great! The size was awesome. Fit in the overhead of a small regional airline, too. Highly recommend this. Great price, great quality, great size.”
Size: 23 x 14.5 x 9.5 in / 58.4 x 36.8 x 24 cm (Includes wheels and handles) | 46L
Weight: 6.7 lbs / 3 kg
Details: Expandable | 8 Spinner Wheels | Lifetime Limited Warranty
Read this Travelpro Maxlite 5 review to find out if this popular brand makes the cut!
Shop: Calpak
Calpak Hardside 19” Carryon
For a near-perfect international carry-on size, the Calpak Hue 19” Carryon is a stylish and functional option that’s ideal for European flights and other international getaways. Weighing 7.6 lbs, it’s lightweight yet spacious, and features smooth spinner wheels and a sturdy telescoping handle for effortless maneuvering through terminals.
The expandable design offers up to 2 extra inches of packing space, perfect for fitting in a few extras or souvenirs on your return. A built-in TSA-approved lock keeps your belongings secure, while the scratch-resistant hard shell holds up beautifully to travel wear and tear.
Available in a range of chic, eye-catching colors, the Hue is easy to spot on the carousel and just as polished when you arrive as when you departed.
Size: 21″ x 13.75″ x 9″ / 53.3 x 34.9 x 22.86 cm | 39L
Weight: 7.6 lbs / 3.4 kg
Details: Expandable | 100% Polycarbonate | Dual Spinner Wheels | Limited 2 year Warranty
Shop: July
July Hardside 21″ Carry On
The July Hardside Carryon is a favorite for international travel and for good reason. With its sleek, minimalist design and exceptional functionality, this suitcase makes navigating airports and city streets effortless and stylish.
Weighing just 3.9 lbs, it’s impressively lightweight without sacrificing durability. The aerospace-grade German polycarbonate shell resists impact and wear, while the water-resistant, stain-proof nylon lining keeps the interior clean and fresh. It’s also vegan-friendly for eco-conscious travelers.
Thoughtful features include a twin-bar, 3-stop telescopic handle, a TSA-approved lock, and SilentMove Series 2 360° double spinner wheels engineered to glide smoothly and quietly, even across cobblestone streets in Europe.
Available in a range of chic colors, the July carryon proves that high performance and great style can absolutely go hand in hand.
Size: 21.25 x 14.17 × 7.5 in / 54 x 36 x 19 cm (External) | 32L
Weight: 3.9 lbs / 1.77 kg
Details: Double Spinner Wheels | Water-Resistant & Stain-Proof Lining | Limited Lifetime Warranty
Shop: Macy’s
DELSEY Paris Chatelet 19” Hardside Carry On
The Delsey Chatelet 19” is an eye-catching suitcase that delivers both style and performance. Weighing just 6.4 lbs, this lightweight spinner is packed with premium features, including locking zippers, smart interior organization, and even a built-in tracking device to help you locate your bag while traveling.
Designed with thoughtful extras, it includes a soft-touch laundry bag and shoe bag to keep your belongings neatly separated and clean. It also features DELSEY’s patented SECURITECH zipper, which is 3x more resistant than a standard zipper, offering added protection and peace of mind.
The 360° spinner wheels glide effortlessly, while the bag’s chic, Parisian-inspired design ensures you’ll turn heads in any terminal or city street. Travelers consistently praise its durability and beauty, making the Chatelet a standout pick for frequent flyers who want luxury, security, and lasting quality in one sleek package.
Size: 21.75 x 13.75 x 10 in / 55 x 35 x 25 cm (Exterior)
Weight: 6.4 lbs / 2.9 kg
Details: Polycarbonate | Double Spinner Wheels | Limited 10 year Warranty
Shop: Nordstrom
Samsonite Omni PC 20” Hardside Carryon
The 20” Samsonite Omni is built for smooth, stress-free travel. Weighing 6.8 lbs, this lightweight suitcase glides easily through terminals thanks to its 360-degree spinner wheels and sturdy telescoping handle.
Its tough, scratch-resistant polycarbonate shell holds up beautifully against bumps and scrapes, while TSA-approved side-mounted locks offer added peace of mind. Compact enough to fit in most international overhead bins, the Omni also delivers when it comes to style, available in a variety of classic and bold colors to suit every traveler.
Praised for its durability and performance, the Omni is a smart, dependable choice for everything from weekend escapes to long-haul flights.
Size: 22 x 15 x 9.75 in / 55.9 x 38 x 24.8 cm
Weight: 7.05 lbs / 3.2 kg
Details: Micro-diamond Polycarbonate | Expandable | Double Spinner Wheels | Limited 10 year Warranty
Shop: Away
Away The Carry On 21” Hard Side
Our community rave about Away’s 21” The Carry On, with many calling it the best carry-on roller bag for international travel. Its durable polycarbonate hard shell rarely shows signs of wear, even after extensive use, which is a huge plus for frequent flyers. The interior is impressively spacious, featuring a mesh zippered compartment on one side and a compression system on the other to keep everything neatly organized.
This suitcase is super easy to maneuver and lift, weighing just 8.1 lbs. As a bonus, it comes with a water-resistant laundry bag, and there’s even an option to add a USB charger! Plus, it’s available in a range of gorgeous colors to match your style.
Traveling to a conference for the first time with my new Away The Carry-On and Lo & Son’s OG Tote!
After hearing so many glowing reviews from readers who’ve traveled extensively with this suitcase, I finally took the plunge and bought one myself. I was so excited to unbox it that I decided to share the experience, watch my Away Carry-On unpacking video here!
This has quickly become my favorite hardside carry-on. It’s sleek, spacious, and fits everything I need with ease. Honestly, I’d feel confident traveling anywhere with just this suitcase, no matter the length of the trip.
Size: 21.7 x 14.4 x 9 in / 55 x 37 x 23 cm (Exterior) | 39.8L
Weight: 7.5 lbs / 3.4 kg
Details: Lightweight Shell | Interior Compression | 360° Wheels | Limited Lifetime Warranty
Shop: Bagsmart
Bagsmart 20” Carry On Hardside
The 20” Bagsmart Roamer is compact, lightweight, and built for serious travelers. Weighing just 7.05 lbs, this sleek suitcase combines durability and functionality with a hard-shell exterior that protects your gear and a built-in TSA-approved lock for extra security.
Its smooth spinner wheels and sturdy telescoping handle make navigating busy airports effortless, while its streamlined size fits easily in most overhead bins, whether you’re flying domestic or international.
Need a little extra room? The Roamer is expandable, giving you added flexibility when you need it. Inside, you’ll find smart organization features and ample space, making it surprisingly roomy for such a compact design.
Size: 21.7″ x 13.9″ x 10.06″ / 55cm x 35cm x 25.5cm
Weight: 7.05 lbs / 3.19 kg
Details: 360° Spinner Wheels | Additional 20% Space with Expandable Design | Lifetime Warranty against defects in materials and workmanship
Shop: Kohl’s | Kenneth Cole
Kenneth Cole Out Of Bounds 20” Carry On
The 20” Kenneth Cole Out of Bounds Carryon may be compact, but it’s built to maximize every inch. Lightweight yet ultra-durable, it features a tough hard-shell exterior with reinforced corners to help absorb impact and protect your belongings on the go.
Glide effortlessly through airports with its 360-degree spinner wheels and telescoping handle, or grab and go with the convenient top and side carry handles. Inside, it opens up to reveal a surprisingly spacious and well-organized interior that makes packing a breeze.
Praised by travelers for its reliability and value, this carryon is a dependable travel companion that holds up trip after trip.
Size: 21.75 x 8.5 x 14 in / 55.2 x 21.59 x 35.56 cm
Weight: 6.25 lbs / 2.8 kg
Details: Four 360° Spinner Wheels | Fully-Lined Interior | Limited Lifetime Warranty
Tumi 19 Degree International 4 Wheeled Carry On
The 22” Tumi 19 Degree is a premium pick for travelers who want both durability and design. Though it comes at a higher price point, travelers consistently praise Tumi for its exceptional quality and longevity, and this sleek, hard-sided suitcase is no exception.
Crafted from flexible, impact-resistant materials, it features dual packing compartments for smart organization, TSA-approved locks, and retractable top and side handles for versatile handling. It also includes a built-in USB port, keeping your devices charged on the go. While slightly taller than some carry-ons, it remains compact enough for most international overhead bins and weighs in at 8 lbs.
Perfect for frequent flyers and international travelers alike, the 19 Degree delivers both function and polish—trip after trip.
Size: 21.8 x 9 x 14 in / 55.4 x 22.9 x 35.6 cm | 38L
Weight: 7.9 lbs / 3.6 kg
Details: 11-inch Expandable | Built-in USB Charging Port | 4 Spinner Wheels | Limited Warranty
Shop: Quince
Quince Hard Shell 20” Carry On
Quince may be known for their travel-friendly clothing, but their luggage is quickly earning a reputation for offering both quality and value. The 20” Hardside Carryon is sleek, affordable, and perfectly sized to meet the carry-on requirements of most major airlines.
Despite its compact frame, travelers report it packs surprisingly well, with thoughtful organization and plenty of room when packed strategically. It features ultra-smooth spinner wheels, a sturdy aluminum telescoping handle, and durable zippers that hold up to the rigors of frequent travel.
With its minimalist design, affordable price and reliable performance, this carryon is a smart, stylish option for everything from quick getaways to international adventures.
Size: 22 x 14.4 x 9.1 in / 55.9 x 23 x 36.6 cm | 40L
Weight: 6.2 lbs / 2.8 kg
Details: Polycarbonate | Water resistant 75D | 360° Spinner Wheels | Limited Lifetime Warranty
Shop: Calpak
Calpak Ambeur 21” Hardside Carryon Luggage
The 21” Calpak carryon brings both style and substance to your travel routine. Weighing in at 8 lbs, this sleek suitcase doesn’t just look good, it’s thoughtfully designed for ease of use and efficient packing.
Its roomy interior and smart compartments make it surprisingly spacious, allowing you to fit more than you’d expect, while the smooth spinner wheels and telescoping handle offer effortless maneuverability through terminals and city streets. With a range of chic colors to match your personal style, this carryon is as fashionable as it is functional.
Whether you’re heading on a weekend getaway or a longer trip, the Calpak Carryon makes travel feel a little more luxe.
Size: 21.5 x 14 x 9.75 in / 54.6 x 35.6 x 24.8 cm | 35.3L
Weight: 8 lbs / 3.6 kg
Details: Polycarbonate Shell | Padded 16″ Laptop Sleeve | 360° Spinner Wheels | Limited 2 year Warranty
Best International Size Carry On Luggage: Softside Styles
Shop: Travelpro
Travelpro Maxlite 5 19” Softside Carry On
The Travelpro Maxlite 5 19” is a longtime favorite among our community, and is one of TFG’s best-selling suitcases, for good reason. At just 5.3 lbs, it lives up to its name as an ultra-lightweight option that doesn’t sacrifice space or functionality.
Despite its compact size, the Maxlite 5 offers impressive packing capacity, with the bonus of a 2” expandable zipper for extra flexibility when you need it. Inside and out, there are well-placed compartments to keep everything organized, whether you’re headed on a weekend getaway or a longer international trip.
Engineered for smooth travel, it features 360° spinner wheels and a telescoping handle that extends to 42.5”, making it especially comfortable for taller travelers. With its durability, smart design, and affordable price point, the Maxlite 5 is an outstanding investment for frequent flyers and occasional adventurers alike.
Size: 21.75 x 15.75 x 7.75 in / 55.2 x 19.7 x 40 cm | 39L
Weight: 5.3 lbs / 2.4 kg
Details: ECOFAB interior lining | Expandable | Four 360° Spinner Wheels | Limited Lifetime Warranty
Travelpro Platinum Elite 19” Softside Carryon
The Travelpro Platinum Elite 19” is a premium choice for international travel, especially to Europe, thanks to its compact size and thoughtful features. Sleek and sophisticated, it offers a smooth travel experience with 360° spinner wheels, a telescoping handle, and leather top and side handles for easy lifting.
Weighing 7.7 lbs, it’s lightweight yet packed with functionality. A handy external USB port allows for effortless on-the-go charging (just add your own power bank), while interior accessory pockets keep essentials organized and accessible.
For those who want just a bit more space, the 20” version is also a top pick and has been voted by readers as one of the best carry-on suitcases for international travel.
Size: 21.75 x 15.75 x 7.75 in / 55.2 x 19.7 x 40 cm | 39L
Weight: 7.7 lbs / 3.49 kg
Details: Expandable | External USB Port | Removable Quart-Size Wet Pocket | 8 Spinner Wheels | Limited Lifetime Warranty
Read my guide on how to stop overpacking and learn how you, too, can travel carryon only.
Shop: Kohl’s
Samsonite Solyte DLX 20” Softside Carry-On
The Samsonite Solyte DLX 20” is a standout pick for international travel, offering a smart blend of durability, organization, and lightweight design. Weighing just 6.97 lbs, it’s crafted from tough polyester fabric that holds up well over time, making it a go-to for frequent flyers.
This compact carryon glides effortlessly thanks to its smooth spinner wheels and features a sturdy telescoping handle for easy maneuverability. Inside, you’ll find exceptional organization, with multiple compartments to keep everything in its place.
A built-in USB port adds modern convenience, letting you charge your devices on the go (just add your own power bank). Reviewers love how much they can pack into it, and many say it still performs flawlessly after years of regular travel.
Size: 22 x 14 x 9.5 in / 56 x 24 x 36 cm
Weight: 7.1 lbs / 3.2 kg
Details: Expandable | Spinner Wheels | Push Button Handle | Limited 10 year Warranty
Shop: Nordstrom | Briggs & Riley
Briggs & Riley Baseline 19” Carryon Softside
The Briggs & Riley 19” is a top-tier option for travelers who value craftsmanship, durability, and thoughtful design. Often praised by travelers as “worth every penny,” this luxurious suitcase delivers exceptional performance for international trips and beyond.
Built with a reinforced fiberglass frame, corner guards, and smooth spinner wheels, it’s designed to withstand tough travel conditions while maintaining a sleek appearance. The expandable design offers extra space when needed, and the adjustable handle ensures comfort for travelers of all heights.
Additional premium features include a TSA-approved zipper lock, a dedicated power compartment for charging on the go (just add your battery pack), and smart interior organization that keeps everything in place.
Stylish, secure, and built to last, the Briggs & Riley 19” is an investment piece that truly delivers on quality and performance.
Size: 21 x 15 x 9 in / 53.3 x 38.1 x 22.9 cm (Includes wheels & handles) | 37-49L
Weight: 9.9 lbs / 4.5 kg
Details: Expandable | Spinner Wheels | Impact-Resistant Corner Guards | Lifetime Warranty
Shop: Kohl’s
Kenneth Cole Reaction 20” Chelsea Soft Side Carry On
The Kenneth Cole Chelsea 20” Suitcase combines sleek style with smart functionality, making it a favorite for fashion-forward travelers. Crafted with a durable polyester-twill exterior, it looks chic while holding up well to frequent use.
At just 6.4 lbs, this carryon is lightweight and easy to maneuver. The 8 multi-directional spinner wheels offer an ultra-smooth glide, so you’ll barely feel the weight as you move through busy terminals or narrow airplane aisles. Inside, thoughtful organization features help you maximize packing space and keep everything in its place.
Stylish, functional, and easy to handle, the Chelsea is a standout suitcase that punches well above its size.
Size: 22 x 14 x 9 in / 56 x 23 x 36 cm (Overall dimensions)
Weight: 6.35 lbs / 2.8 kg
Details: Expandable | 8 Spinner Wheels | Limited 10 year Warranty
Shop: Belk | The Home Depot
Rockland Pasadena 19” Soft-side Carryon
The Rockland Pasadena 19” is a fantastic choice for travelers on a budget who don’t want to compromise on function. Lightweight at just 6 lbs, it’s easy to lift into overhead bins and simple to navigate through airports with its smooth-rolling wheels and sturdy telescoping handle.
Though compact, it’s surprisingly packable, with exterior pockets that add convenience for quick-access items like travel documents or snacks. It fits easily into the overhead bins of most major and budget airlines—including small European carriers.
Affordable, reliable, and travel-tested, the Pasadena proves that great carryon luggage doesn’t have to come with a high price tag.
Size: 19 x 13 x 8 in / 48 x 20 x 33 cm
Weight: 9 lbs / 4.1 kg
Details: Expandable | Multi-directional Spinier Wheels | Limited 5 year Warranty
Shop: Macy’s
IT Luggage Softside Carryon Luggage
The it luggage Lustrous Softside Carry-On is a fantastic pick for international travel, especially if you’re looking for something ultra-lightweight and roomy. At just 5.95 lbs, this carryon gives you more packing capacity without tipping the scale, perfect for travelers who want to maximize every inch.
The interior is exceptionally spacious and thoughtfully designed, featuring a mesh pocket, wet pocket, and a removable bifold organizer to keep your items tidy and accessible. The durable fabric exterior holds up well over time, and users love how it maintains its sleek appearance even after frequent use.
It also expands up to 2”, giving you added flexibility when you need it, and the smooth spinner wheels make navigating terminals and cobblestone streets nearly effortless.
For those who prioritize weight and space, the Lustrous Softside is a standout performer in a compact, travel-ready package.
Size: 21.7 × 14.2 × 7.9 in / 55 x 20 x 36 cm
Weight: 5.95 lbs / 2.69 kg
Details: Expandable (2 in) | 8 Spinner Wheels | Limited Lifetime Warranty
Luggage Tags
A super practical addition to your new suitcase is a luggage tag! TFG readers have been raving about luggage tags, and highly recommend them for every trip.
Luggage tags are handy little trackers that you attach to your belongings and then track through an app on your phone. The most popular option in the TFG community is Apple Airtags, which hook up to the Find My iPhone app so you can see where your item is in real-time. Readers say they’ve been lifesavers for finding lost luggage in an airport!
For non-iPhone users, readers recommend the Samsung Galaxy SmartTag and the TilePro, which are compatible with Android devices, and the TilePro also works for iOS.
Luggage tags are not only handy for your luggage, but for your purse, keys, wallet, or even your parked car. You can enjoy your vacation with the utmost peace of mind!
Compass Rose Carryon Size Packing Cubes: Slim Size Cubes | Medium Size Cubes
How to Pack Using Packing Cubes
Whether or not you choose to travel carryon only, always use packing cubes to help you organize and even compress your belongings to maximize your space.
Use luggage organizers such as packing cubes to maximize the space in your carryon luggage size international so you can fit in all your belongings in an organized and efficient way using minimal space.
Many of our readers use Compass Rose Packing Cubes to organize and compress their clothing and other items they plan to bring. These packing cubes are the only ones on the market with a number and color-coded system, so you know where you packed everything.
Compass Rose Digital Luggage Scale
Not many people are familiar with luggage scales, but they’re incredibly helpful when you’re a frequent traveler.
We recommend bringing along a lightweight luggage scale to weigh your cases before going to the airport. This will ensure you are below the weight limit and avoid extra charges.
With a compact luggage scale in hand, you’ll never have to worry about excess baggage fees!
What do you think is the best carry on luggage for international flights? Share your thoughts in the comments!
For more help on how to choose the best luggage, please read:
LIKE THIS POST? PIN THIS PIC TO SAVE IT!
