Away Bigger Carry-On Review (2025): The Best Carry-On Bag?
Have you been eyeing the Away Bigger Carry-On online and wondering if it's worth the hype? This Away Bigger Carry-On review will tell you all you need to know!
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I’ve been obsessively researching carry-on bags for the last month after deciding to only use carry-on luggage while I spend the next few months wandering around Europe.
Anyone who knows me well will probably have a good laugh at the idea of my only traveling with one suitcase.
As a notorious over-packer (who in 2020 believed long term travel needed at least two checked bags, a carry-on, and a personal item), the idea of fitting everything I need into a carry-on is daunting.
Lucky for you, all my research has paid off and I’ve made a list of some of the best carry-on luggage for women.
I’ve included options for carry-on suitcases, bags, and backpacks so that you’ll find an option you love no matter what your personal style is, or how long you plan to be traveling for.
Plus, I’ve answered some of the top questions first time carry-on luggage buyers need to think about before investing in a bag.
Read on to find the perfect carry-on bag for your next adventure!
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Basically, this comes down to how many wheels do you want on your suitcase?
I always go for luggage with spinner wheels, since the four multidimensional wheels typically make the suitcase easier to navigate in a crowd.
Two-wheel suitcases lose their balance easily and will tip over more often, especially if your bag is top heavy.
You also get stuck having to lug them behind you versus the four-wheel spinner bags that glide along next to you.
Hardshell luggage is the best choice if you want a material that’s more protective of your belongings (especially in the elements). I also think it looks a bit more stylish overall, especially since they’re easier to clean.
Unfortunately, hardshell bags don’t give much extra space for over-packers who are hoping to squeeze in a couple extra outfit options.
They also have the potential to crack if handled too roughly, especially if they end up needing to be checked. The good news is that most shells are made out of a very durable material called polycarbonate, so cases of cracking are rare.
For example, my Away Bigger Carry On bag has been checked on at least 20-30 flights since I got her in 2020, and despite British Airways manhandling her twice, she’s never been scratched, however they did manage to break the handle.
Softside luggage gives a little when over-packing, and doesn’t get as beat up if checked, meaning less stress for you, as long as there isn’t a big rain storm.
I think this debate really comes down to personal preference, though personally, I’m a hardshell girl all the way when it comes to luggage.
In case you didn’t already know, domestic and international carry-on sizes vary.
You don’t want to get stuck checking your bag at the last minute because it won’t fit in the overhead, so always check the airline’s page for their particular requirements.
Also make sure when you’re measuring that you include the bag’s wheels and handle.
If you’re planning on doing mostly domestic travel, aim for a carry-on bag that’s within 9”x 14”x 22”.
Since international flights are a bit more strict with size enforcement, aim for a bag with measurements of 9”x 14”x 21” to play it safe.
Obviously you’ll want to pick a functional suitcase that fits your personal style.
As much as I love the color black, I enjoy picking carry-on luggage that’s a unique style or color. It makes it easier to spot anytime I have to gate check it.
After you’ve found a suitcase you like, try lifting it over your head (preferably with a bit of weight in it), in order to make sure you can lift it high enough to place it in the overhead bin.
I hate admitting this, but on my last trip, I didn’t think about that part and ended up severely spraining my wrist (it doesn’t help that I stuffed my bag to the max).
The last thing you want is to injure yourself before you get to a destination. Trust me, this is a necessary step.
You’ll be the coolest person at the airport with Floyd’s colorful 1970s themed cabin luggage.
You’ll notice the wheels on the bag look like the ones you’d see on vintage roller skates—so obsessed!
The best part is despite being retro, they still have a built-in TSA approved double lock system, an expandable aluminum handle, multiple compartments, and a dust cover/laundry bag to keep everything pristine.
Plus, you don’t have to stress if you need to check your cabin bag because it’s made of a very durable hard shell polycarbonate Makrolon.
The bag comes in a rainbow of colors, though my favorite is their Sugar Pink.
And if you really want to splurge, Floyd also offers matching larger checked bag, and a really cool hot pink weekender that would really pop with the Sugar Pink luggage, so that you can have an entire retro set!
Measurements: Floyd Cabin Luggage measures 21.8″ x 15.4″ x 9″
This retro luggage come in a rainbow of colors and is so under-the-radar cool, that I can almost guarantee they won't see another person at the airport sporting this unique bag.
It’s no secret I’m seriously obsessed with my Away Bigger Carry-On bag. It’s my current go-to anytime I’m taking a trip. I’m even traveling to Europe for part of the summer with only this bag and the matching Away Everywhere Bag.
I love how functional the design is. The
Besides those features, the Away Bigger Carry-On also comes in an array of colors with a built-in TSA approved lock, an international power adapter, and charging cable.
The bag’s poly-carbonate hard shell provides a lightweight and durable exterior. Just be careful, the exterior scuffs up a bit. Thankfully, you can easily clean up most marks with a magic eraser that arrives with the bag.
Head to my YouTube channel to watch my full review of the Away Bigger Carry-On.
Measurements: The Away Bigger Carry-On pushes the dimensions typically allowed for a carry-on luggage. Its exterior measurements are 22.7” x 14.7” x 9.6”, which exceed most airline standards of 21.7” x 13.7” x 9” by a hair.
Most airlines will let you get away with it, at least in the US, but some might ask you to check your bag at the gate.
If you’re traveling abroad, especially on smaller airlines, assume you’re going to have to pay to check this bag, because it doesn’t fit most European standard sizing for carry-ons.
If you want to play it safe, opt for Away’s The Carry-On Bag. It’s basically a slightly smaller version which fits safely within the allowed dimensions.
The Away Bigger Carry-On is a stylish well-built suitcase that’s ideal for frequent travelers who want a bit of extra space.
My M5 Cabin Luggage from Horizn Studios is my favorite bag to take when I’m traveling to Europe.
I really love that the size fits the smaller carry-on restrictions in Europe, compared to my Away bag which I always have to pay to check on every flight.
They also have a commitment to prioritize cruelty-free materials and the use of recycled packaging, which is something I really love supporting.
Plus, the thoughtful front pocket is super handy for accessing anything I need during layovers or pre-flight.
This little bag is truly the perfect carry-on, especially because unlike other brands, you don’t see a million of these bags every time you go to the airport, making you feel truly unique and stylish.
It is worth mentioning, if you’re eyeing the smart version of this bag, it’s not currently available in the US because of international shipping issues with the battery.
That said, I really don’t miss having one, and it gives you a bit of extra space on the interior foregoing the battery.
Head to my YouTube channel to watch my full review of the Horizn Studios M5 Cabin Luggage.
Measurements: The Horizn Studios M5 Cabin Luggage is is H21.7″ x W15.7″ x D7.9″ inches.
The Horizn Studios M5 Essential Carry-on is a smart investment if you’re often on the move, since its features cater well to the needs of the modern traveler.
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The Delsey Paris Chatelet Hard Spinner is a seriously chic carry-on bag. It’s faux leather detailing and design reminds me more of the more expensive luxury luggage from SteamLine.
Truthfully, I’ve been eyeing this gorgeous luggage for quite a while now, especially after a friend told me how much they love theirs.
The bag is also light thanks to its 100% polycarbonate shell. It’s also got a TSA-approved built in lock to keep your bag secure.
The interior boasts a removable hanger, laundry bag, and shoe bags.
You can purchase the Delsey Paris Chatelet either with or without a built-in brake that locks the front to wheels so your luggage never drifts away from you.
The model with the brake also comes with a tracking device so you can monitor your luggage in the event it ends up as a checked bag.
Measurements: The Delsey Paris Chatelet is 20.25” x 9.5” x 14.25” inches.
The Delsey Paris Chatelet Hard Spinner is a seriously chic carry-on bag. It’s faux leather detailing and design reminds me more of the more expensive luxury luggage from SteamLine.
AmazonBasics is one of the most affordable and lightweight options for a hardshell carry-on bag.
The bag’s ABS hardshell provides a lightweight and fairly durable exterior.
I bet you’re wondering what ABS is?
ABS is material that’s great for companies that want to produce a bag that weighs less, though it isn’t as durable as polycarbonate.
Besides being lightweight, it’s also got tons of compartments to keep you as organized as possible.
Plus, if you’re an over-packer like me, you’ll love that the bag is expandable up to 15%.
The suitcase also has 360-degree spinner wheels that make navigating through airports a breeze!
The AmazonBasics Hardside Spinner is ideal for anyone who wants affordable luggage to use a few times a year and isn’t set on modern features.
However, if you want luggage that you’re going to travel with frequently, or have for years, I’d suggest investing in one of the other bags mentioned above.
Measurements: The AmazonBasics Hardside Spinner has exterior measurements of 4.9” x 10” x 21.6” inches.
The AmazonBasics Hardside Carry-On Spinner is a stylish suitcase that’s ideal for a casual traveler looking for an affordable well-made bag.
If you’re looking for an expandable soft carry-on, the TravelPro is a dreamy choice according to one of my flight attendant friends.
It’s got an external USB port, tons of compartments, and a drop in suite bag for wrinkle free packing.
Although, fair warning, you’ve got to buy your own
The luggage also comes with a removable TSA compliant toiletries bag. It’s kind of random, but it’s a great unique addition by TravelPro to make the bag stand out as a solid buy.
Measurements: The TravelPro Platinum Elite Softside is 23.5” x 14.5”x9”.
With a rainbow of beautiful color options, this Samsonite is one of the prettiest cases around (I’m partial to the rose).
You can splurge on a three-piece matching set (including two checked bags), or simply opt for just the carry-on.
The suitcases are 100% polycarbonate and have a ten-year warranty in case the unthinkable happens.
Add in the multidimensional oversized spinner wheels to give you a smooth ride in the airport and the TSA approved locks and you’ve got the perfect carry-on bag.
Measurements: The Samsonite Winfield 3 DLX Hardside Carry-On is 22.5″ x 14.5″ x 9.5″.
If you’re looking for a quality hardshell carry-on with a USB port at an affordable price point, the B|Y By Brics Ulisse is a wonderful choice.
This is the perfect dupe for anyone lusting after Away’s carry-on bag. The Ulisse basically has all the features of an Away’s carry-on except for you have to buy your own battery to use the USB port.
I also love all the beautiful color options. The pink and blue are two of my favorite hues.
Measurements: Coming in at 15” x 10.5” x 22.5” you should be able to use this bag as a carry-on anywhere you travel.
This brand seems to be popping up all over my social media feed lately. Because of that, I’ve been eyeing the Monos Carry-On Pro for months now.
I actually just splurged on their large Check-In luggage and really loved it, especially the thoughtfully divided interior pockets on the
While I don’t know anyone who has taken the plunge and invested in one of these babies, I will say the roughly 70 glowing reviews I’ve seen speak for themselves.
Everyone who left a review mentions how convenient the front zip pocket is and how organized the pockets inside are.
I also really love that this brand isn’t afraid of putting their luggage on sale. It really makes the brand stand out against competitors like Away that rarely give out discounts.
The built in
If you’re interested in purchasing from Monos, use the link below to receive $25 off your first purchase.
You’ll also be helping me gain points to use to redeem toward one of their bags (which I’ll promptly review for you!)
Measurements: The Monos Carry-On Pro measures 22″x 14″x 9″.
The front zip exterior pocket on Monos' Carry On Pro makes storing your laptop and kindle a breeze while on the go.
Another gorgeous carry-on hardshell to consider is the American Tourister XLT. It comes in five beautiful colors and is under a Benjamin!
As a notorious over-packer, I love that this bag is expandable and has a
A few reviewers have commented that the bag dents easily, especially when checked, but if you’re only using it as a carry-on bag, you’ll likely be fine.
Either way, the bag comes with a ten-year warranty, so if it does dent, just give them a call!
And if it makes you feel better, a friend of mine has this and uses it maybe once or twice a year, and has never had issues.
Measurements: The American Tourister XLT’s dimensions are 22”x 14”x 9”.
The Away Everywhere Bag was the very first Away bag I invested in. I had been eying it for at least a year before I finally splurged on it during one of Away’s rare sales in 2020.
My favorite thing about this bag is that it’s size (16.3″x 7.3″x 10.2″) qualifies it as a personal item on planes. This bag fits way more than my purse ever could!
You can choose between heavy-duty waterproof nylon or soft, subtle leather material. I chose the nylon for the sake of my bank account (the leather was about $100 more).
I have the Original Everywhere Bag, which comes with a trolley sleeve so you can attach it to your rolling bag, and plenty of compartments, including ones for a laptop, passport, and even an umbrella (or in my case, extra flats).
Since 2020, they now have a New Everywhere Bag that’s similar, but has different interior pockets and a full wrap around zipper. I’ve yet to get my hands on that one, since my original is still basically looking brand new even after 5 years of traveling with it.
And if you really want to upgrade for a bit more size, you can spend about $60 more for the Large Everywhere Bag (although it doesn’t qualify as a personal item).
Either way, you can’t go wrong with an Everywhere Bag. I love using mine when I go back and forth within the US.
Measurements: The Original Away Everywhere Bag is 16.3″x 7.3″x 10.2″. The New Everywhere Bag is 16.3″x 10.2″x 7.3″. The Large Everywhere Bag is 20.9″x 11.8″x 9.4″.
The best part of Away's update to The Everywhere Bag is the zippers that go down to the lower portion of the bag, which when opened gives easy access and visibility to all the contents.
The Larger Everywhere Bag doesn't qualify as a personal item, and definitely won't fit under your seat. It will provide you with extra room and does easily fit in the overhead compartment.
The Longchamp Le Pliage Tote Bag is an excellent choice for a personal item while traveling because of its spacious interior, allowing you to carry all your essentials with ease.
Its lightweight, foldable design makes it convenient to store when not in use, and its durable, water-resistant material ensures your belongings stay protected throughout your journey.
Plus, its timeless elegance adds a touch of sophistication to any travel ensemble.
Even if I’m not using it as a travel bag, I always keep mine packed to use as an everyday carry bag while exploring my destination.
It’s also been a lifesaver to have in my luggage for those times when I’m forced to gate check my luggage.
Trust me, it’s not fun having to quickly decide what’s too important to be checked when you’re entire life is in two bags. But it makes it way better knowing I’ve got a bag to throw it all in.
Measurements: This bag is 11.8 inches (30 cm) x (top part 18.1 inches (46 cm) x 12.2 inches (31 cm), making it a solid choice.
The Longchamp Le Pliage Tote Bag is an iconic accessory known for its lightweight, foldable design and timeless elegance, perfect for both everyday use and travel.
How cute is this red and navy travel duffle?
This bag works for travel and can easily double as a gym bag or beach bag while on the go. It’s a seriously well-made and versatile bag. I’ve even used mine to carry home groceries while living abroad.
The coolest part is that Paravel is a sustainable brand that focuses on reducing and off-setting carbon emissions and creating products out of eco-certified materials.
It’s got interior zip pockets, is 100% nylon, has a trolley sleeve, and super easy to fold up to the size of a
This is one bag you’ll feel great about investing in!
Measurements: This eco-friendly bag is roughly 8″x 12″x 12″ depending on how much you squeeze into it.
This bag works for travel and can easily double as a gym bag or beach bag while on the go. It’s a seriously well-made and versatile bag. I’ve even used mine to carry home groceries while living abroad.
Peak Design’s 30L backpack has quickly become by go-to backpack anytime I’m boarding a flight.
It’s got tons of room, a laptop sleeve, handy interior compartments, and an outside pocket with organizers.
It’s also waterproof,and expandable—which is perfect if you’re an overpacker who loves to shop while traveling.
The only downside to having so much room is that it will take up most or all of the under seat space depending on which airline you’re flying.
Either way, I’m willing to fight for over head space or give up a bit of under seat room if it means getting to take this backpack along!
If you want to hear more about my experiance with this backpack after years of use, you can watch my full review here.
Measurements: The Peak Design 30L is 20.9″ x 13.4″ x 7″, with an expanded size of 20.9″ x 13.4″ x 7.9″, so make sure to check with the airline’s standard before you fly if you’re using it as a personal item.
Designed with minimalist travelers and tech enthusiasts in mind, this backpack aims to provide a comfortable and secure experience without compromising on style or functionality.
The CALPAK Terra 26L Duffle Backpack is an ideal personal item for travel, thanks to its versatile design that offers both duffle and backpack carrying options for maximum convenience.
With its spacious 26-liter capacity, multiple pockets, and clamshell opening, it guarantees easy organization of your essentials.
I also love that they made this bag from 27 recycled plastic bottles, using durable, weather-resistant recycled ripstop polyester, and lining it with recycled polyester, so it’s a bag you can feel great investing in.
I just got mine about two months ago, but am already loving it so much after using it for six flights and daily errands, that I had to include it on this list.
Every time I use it I’ve been stopped by at least one or more other travelers asking where the bag is from and if I like it.
You can read my full review here, and or watch my full video review of the CALPAK Terra backpack on my YouTube channel!
Measurements: The CALPAK Terra Duffle Backpack is 18″ x 12″ x 7.5″, meaning it fits as a personal item for most airlines. Just make sure to check before you fly.
The CALPAK Terra 26L Duffle Backpack combines style, storage, and functionality with its versatile design, and perfect personal item sizing.
Lululemon is a brand that I’m particularly fond of.
Most people instantly associate this store with their stylish workout gear, but what many don’t know is that they also produce some great backpacks.
Their City Adventurer Backpack is one of my go-to bags to pack anytime I’m going to be out for the day. It fits my laptop, a jacket or change of clothes, my
When I was living in New York, I’d carry this bag pretty much daily while running errands or heading to the gym.
These days I use it as a personal item for short trips, or pack it in my checked bag to use as an everyday carry once I reach my destination.
The fabric is water repellent, it’s got laptop storage, an interior
Measurements: The Lululemon City Adventurer Backpack is 11″ x 7″ x 17″ and is a great personal item for any frequent flier.
When I was living in New York, I’d carry this bag pretty much daily while running errands or heading to the gym.
The Horizn Studios SoFo Rolltop X Backpack is a perfect personal item for travel, especially for anyone who loves rolltop design, which provides expandable storage to accommodate all your essentials.
Its water-resistant material and secure closures ensure your belongings stay safe and dry, while the front pocket offers easy access to essentials.
Last year I used this backpack as my personal item for about 4 months of continuous travel across three continents over the summer and never had a problem fitting it under the seat.
It also came in super handy as an everyday carry while I was on the road. If you want to hear my full review, including everywhere I traveled with it, head to my YouTube channel here.
This bag’s sleek, modern aesthetic and comfortable carrying options make it a stylish and practical choice for any adventure.
Also, the fact Horizn Studios is a PETA approved vegan and sustainable brand is also a huge plus.
Measurements: This backpack is 11.8″ x 18.5″ x 5.5″ not expanded, and 11.8″ x 25″ x 5.5″ expanded.
If you appreciate thoughtfully designed luggage that considers environmental impact, you’ll appreciate the sustainable aspects Horizn Studios builds into their products, including this backpack.
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I hope this list has helped you find your perfect carry-on bag for your next adventure.
It took me a while, but I finally settled on the Away Bigger Carry-On paired with their Everywhere Bag for my first full summer trip to Europe in 2021.
Since then, I’ve shifted my tastes a bit, and now favor my Horizn Studios M5 over the Away Bigger Carry-On because it fits more of the standard European carry-on restrictions.
Now I just need to narrow down my wardrobe to fit into the suitcase for my next trip!
If you want to see how well I fare with squeezing everything into my carry-on, follow my adventures on IG.
You’ll likely see all my packing struggles and tons of South of France content (because I’m addicted and want to move their asap).
Either way, let me know in the comments below which carry-on bag is your favorite!
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