A good pair of shoes may take you places, but a piece of sturdy luggage filled with your travel essentials provides the security you need throughout the trip. Be it a local or international tour, using carry-on luggage translates to a hassle-free flight, land trip, or voyage, minus the back-breaking pain we usually get from backpacks and the like.
With the Philippine passport now valid for ten years, you have all the more reason to shell out a little something to grab those items of luggage and make it worth your money. Read on to learn more about carry-on luggage purchases, and don’t skip the list we made for the best carry-on luggage, which could be your potential travel buddy.
Quick List - Top Carry-On Luggage
Samsonite
The Perfect Combination of Style, Quality, and Practicality
Verage
The Luggage That Goes Under Your Seat
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
Table of Contents
Here are some key points to consider:
For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.
Choosing the type of luggage depends on where you intend to go and how you intend to travel. Both backpack and suitcase may be suitable for your destination. To help you decide, below are the pros and cons of each.
When wearing a backpack on your trips, your hands are free to carry other bags, pay for things, eat, drink, and more. The convenience is handy since you don’t have to stop now and then to get or fix something in your suitcase. Additionally, it also allows for greater mobility even in uneven terrains.
While backpacks are a convenient option, especially for those on the go, they can be an inconvenience in terms of packing. Since backpacks have limited spaces and openings, organizing is a bit challenging. You may also have difficulty accessing items at the bottom.
Suitcases are the best option when you want more organization in your luggage. Unlike backpacks, suitcases come in a more optimal shape for packing and seeing your items. Also, since most suitcases come with wheels, you don’t have to carry the full weight of your luggage around.
With suitcases, you’ll only have one free hand. So if you have to do something that requires the use of both, you may have to stop. It can also be a hassle dragging your suitcases on terrains that aren’t perfectly smooth. You may have to pick up your bag and carry it.
Topping the list of variables for carry-on luggage is its ability to withstand the wear and tear of continued use. Luggage can either be soft-sided or hard-sided, but ultimately, the material plays a huge role when it comes to durability.
Ballistic nylon has been tested to be abrasion-resistant and has been purposefully designed for ballistic impacts. It is lightweight, which is advantageous for staying within weight limitations. The material is also pliant, it allows for slight expansion here and there. While ballistic nylon is durable, it offers limited color options for its usersーmostly in black and dark colors.
Polyester is a dependable material when it comes to soft-sided luggage. Polyester luggage is the best choice, especially if you travel less frequently. It is one of the affordable options that doesn’t sacrifice quality with proper care.
Polyester is not as tough as its other soft-case material counterparts. It is not as tough as the ballistic nylon and not as abrasion-resistant as Cordura. It may be prone to scratching if subjected to frequent rough handling.
If you want soft-sided luggage with more color options, Cordura is an excellent choice. Unlike ballistic nylon, it takes dye easily. It is also resistant to abrasion and comes on the lighter side.
While Cordura nylon has exceptional durability against abrasions, it is not tear-resistant compared to ballistic nylon. With extended usage, scratches will be more apparent.
Polycarbonate is very popular when it comes to hard-sided luggage. It’s no wonder why considering its impact-resistant properties. Another advantage is its elastic quality which allows for flexibility when hit by blunt force.
Polycarbonate comes heavy. You may be sacrificing a little of your allowable weight for carry-ons as it weighs no less than 4.2 pounds or close to 2 kilos for the 22-inch types.
ABS, which stands for acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene, is the cheapest option in hard-sided luggage options. This makes it the most popular choice among travelers who wish to stay within budget.
ABS is lighter compared to polycarbonate. As such, it is not heavy-duty compared to the latter. But it will take you to many places with proper care and handling.
If you want the protection of hard cases minus the added weight, go for polypropylene. It is the lightest thermoplastic polymer that can keep your belongings safe. This is the Cordura nylon of hard-sided luggage.
Polypropylene is the ideal material when looking for lightweight luggage. However, take note that it is not as resilient as polycarbonate and may not endure abrasions from rough handling over time.
For domestic flights, a 22 inches (55.88 cm) high, 9 inches (22.86 cm) deep, and 14 inches (35.56 cm) wide carry-on luggage is the maximum allowable dimensions. However, you should also check this with the carry-on luggage policy of the airline you are flying.
The measurements cover the aspects of the luggage, excluding the wheels, if any, and retracting the handles. Factor in the measurements on the insides as well. You may do such by visualizing the items you bring with you on any regular travels.
How much the luggage weighs and how much weight it can carry should also be factored in to pass the weigh-in process of suitcases. Local airlines allow carry-on luggage with a weight yield of 7 kilos. This is the maximum weight your carry-on could fit into the aircraft’s overhead bins or under the passenger seat.
For a seamless experience, you may go lower this weight but not higher. You also don’t want the bag to consume the allowable weight. So the lower the weight, the better when it comes to carry-on luggage. Unless you are buying luggage for checking-in purposes, choose those built with lightweight materials.
To get the most out of your luggage, check for those that come with compartments fit for your items. While channeling your Marie-Kondo skills in tidying your luggage, it also helps if it has compartments for segregating things.
If bringing tablets and laptops, choose luggage with gadget-friendly compartments. Those with padded exterior pockets would be effective for securing your devices. For added convenience, check out bags that come with outside packets so you can easily access your other essentials.
When traveling, you’d want luggage that allows you to move freely and conveniently. A handle and wheels mechanics will require lesser exertion when pulling your luggage around for greater mobility. Your best bet is one that has adjustable handles mounted on the exterior.
When it comes to the wheels, you have two options– rollers and spinners. Rollers have to be tipped at an angle and pulled in a straight line which can be a hassle when rushing from one stop to the next. Spinners have 360-degree mobility making them easier to drag around. However, they tend to be prone to damage and skidding.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Samsonite Popsoda Spinner | ![]() | Currently unavailable | The Perfect Combination of Style, Quality, and Practicality |
2 | American Tourister Linex Spinner | ![]() | Eye-Catching and Built for Smooth Rolling | |
3 | British Knight Expandable Luggage|BSQ400ZTE LSE | ![]() | Comes With Features for Ultimate Protection | |
4 | Verage Visionary Underseat Carry-on Luggage|GM17016-10DW | ![]() | Currently unavailable | The Luggage That Goes Under Your Seat |
5 | Verage Hard-Case Luggage| GM18025W | ![]() | Where Dainty Meets Durable | |
6 | Echolac Amos Small Trolley | ![]() | Currently unavailable | A Classy Hard-Case With Anti-Scratch Design |
7 | The Northface Unisex Router Backpack | ![]() | Currently unavailable | A Popular Choice for Its Comfortable and Spacious |
8 | Travel Basic Ciao Cloe Small Hard Case Luggage | ![]() | Currently unavailable | A Stylish Carry-On for the Trendy Traveler |
9 | Hanke Cabin Size Hand Carry | ![]() | Enjoy Easy Access to Your Essentials With This Front-Opening Design | |
10 | High Sierra Powerglide Wheeled Backpack | ![]() | Currently unavailable | Multi-Functional Backpack With Comfy Padding |
You can never go wrong with Samsonite when it comes to durable bags. And if you’re looking for no-nonsense and sturdy luggage, Popsoda Spinner is the answer! This suitcase has a spacious compartment. You will also find the U-shaped front pocket convenient for storing and accessing essential items.
Packing your items in Popsoda Spinner is more effortless with its Fix Buckle System that lets you hang the buckles at the side, so they won’t get in the way while organizing your goods. You can also count on its (Transport Security Administration) TSA lock to keep your belongings secure while traveling.
Externally, this luggage is also of top-notch quality. It has a kickplate that protects the bag from abrasions while moving around. The spinner wheels also roll smoothly on various surfaces, safeguarding them from skidding. While the push-button locking, ergonomic handle makes for easy pulling of your suitcase.
Tired of the usual dark-colored luggage? Make your bag stand out with Linex Spinner. It comes in an eye-catching color made from dual-textured polypropylene to keep your goods in the best shape. Not to mention, it is also scratch-resistant, making it ideal for all types of travel.
Perhaps the number one complaint of suitcase users is the skidding of their bags’ wheels. But with Linex’s double wheels, you are in for a smooth transit wherever you intend to go. And when it comes to protecting your belongings, the TSA combination lock will do the job perfectly.
Another plus of this luggage is its drop pocket which makes organizing your belongings a breeze. It also comes with multi-pocket dividers and packing straps. With its sorting, mobility, and physical advantage, Linex is a travel companion you’ll enjoy having.
This 2-piece set of expandable luggage from British Knight is meant to solve your luggage woes. It comprises a 20” hand-carry and 24” check-in bag for all your travel needs. On top of it, it comes with pouch bags for storing your essential items.
To make this deal even better, the luggage is Anti-Theft and ZipTech Puncture-Resistant. You are guaranteed safe and carefree travel so you can build memories instead of straining so much on your luggage security.
Manufactured with an elegant front design pocket, these soft-case suitcases are made with a high-density polyester fabric. It can even expand up to 2” to accommodate more things for you, especially on long travels.
For those who prefer their bag tucked under their seats, this carry-on luggage is for you as it is specially designed so you can secure your stuff within your space. This lessens the hassle of competing for overhead space with other travelers.
Manufactured with extremely durable materials, this soft-sided luggage is guaranteed to be scratch-resistant. Made from polyester, it is lightweight, giving more flexibility in fitting more items like souvenirs and pasalubong. For ease in charging your phones and gadgets, it also has a USB port for quick access to power.
Determined to care for your travel essentials wherever you may go, Verage exudes an aesthetic yet practical appeal to its users and has earned for itself quite a following. It is equipped with an integrated TSA combination lock and soft, non-slip handle that promises you ease and safety in a carriage.
This perfect carry-on size has an expandable feature with practical interior divisions, increasing your luggage real estate by as much as 20%. Scratching won't also be a worryーwith its high-quality double wheels, expect nothing less of a smooth trolley movement and improved mobility!
Echolac Amos Trolley might look boxy and rigid. Still, the structure and simplicity will help you feel secure about your things so you can get the most out of your journey. Made from polycarbonate, it is lightweight. It also features an anti-scratch design so that it can look new even after years of use.
The trolley structure is designed to control the pressure exerted on the case. Despite its firm appearance, the inside is built for your comfort. It has fully lined interior pockets and dividers. You won’t also have trouble moving it around, thanks to its silent and smooth Hinomoto spinner wheels.
If you're thinking of foregoing backpacks on your travel, you might want to consider The Northface's Router backpack. It has a spacious main compartment, fleece-lined front organizational compartments, and a media pocket so you can fit everything you need for all your travel necessities.
If you are deterred by the idea of a backpack being uncomfy when worn, this product has a remedy. The FlexVent suspension system features thick and flexible straps and a surface that contours the curvature of your spine. The added sternum strap also ought to distribute your bag's load.
Basking in rose gold tone, this hard-sided small luggage will be perfect for the trendy traveler in you. With a 36 liter capacity, this ABS and nylon-lined travel buddy is mounted on 360 degrees double-spinner wheels able to carry a load of 7–15 kilograms.
This roomy luggage with dual compartments has gartered and buckled straps. These will help you sort out your travel essentials. If you’re not yet sold, satisfied users have attested to its top-notch security through the TSA Combination lock and full zip closure.
Say goodbye to the hassle of opening your luggage with Hanke’s front-opening design. This product gives you the luxury of security and convenience on your flights. The 6 Series Aluminum Alloy Frame protects all items, including your gadgets, made even more secure with a shock-proof cotton compartment.
This hard-sided suitcase boasts a one-tap, one-second unlock, which helps save time and worry when accessing your belongings. Lastly, you can count on this luggage to last you many travels because it is waterproof, wear-, scratch-, and dirt-resistant. And the wheels are also damping and wear-resistant.
High Sierra knows how to deliver when it comes to a perfect travel companion. This multi-compartment bag doubles as a backpack and trolley bag to suit your preference, mood, and special travel necessities. It is also gadget-friendly with its padded sleeve and multi-pocket organizer.
Bringing your items won’t be heavy and taxing for you with its adjustable handle. But if you want to use it as a backpack, you don’t have to worry about back or shoulder pain because it comes with a fully padded back panel and grab handle.
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by the mybest team.
Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and AirAsia allow carry-on luggage that weighs no more than 7 kgs. or 15 lbs. Note that it should be small enough (22” x 9” x 14”) to be placed on the overhead rack or under the passenger seat.
Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific allow customers to carry one piece of carry-on luggage. AirAsia allows carrying up to two pieces of bag provided that their total weight shall not exceed 7 kgs. Please note that there are items that are considered exceptions to the one-piece carry-on baggage limit. These are:
Baby strollers
Medical-related needs of passengers (e.g., crutches, walking stick, prosthetic devices, and wheelchair)
Items purchased inside the airport (provide proof of receipt)
Gadget or food item that cannot be accepted for check-in
Small bag that can fit under the seat
Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and AirAsia allow their customers to bring liquid, aerosol, and gel items in 100 ml containers.
Travel can bring out the best in people who plan their itineraries well. Be a worry-free jetsetter by carrying these items on your next flight or cruise!
Author: A. Ugay
Re-Editor: J Ausa
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
No. 1: Samsonite|Popsoda Spinner
No. 2: American Tourister|Linex Spinner
No. 3: British Knight|Expandable Luggage|BSQ400ZTE LSE
No. 4: Verage| Visionary Underseat Carry-on Luggage|GM17016-10DW
No. 5: Verage|Hard-Case Luggage| GM18025W
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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