8 Best Hard-Sided Carry-On Luggage of 2026

The Samsonite Omni 2 is a travel game-changer for globetrotters who demand precision, durability, and smart innovation in a compact form. Engineered specifically for international cabin compliance, its slightly smaller footprint (22″ x 14″ x 9″) slips effortlessly into overhead bins on European and Asian carriers where space is tight—solving a real pain point for frequent flyers frustrated by last-minute gate checks. The lightweight 7.5 lb polycarbonate shell doesn’t sacrifice strength, while the built-in charging system keeps devices powered mid-transit, making it a standout for tech-savvy travelers who hate hunting for outlets in crowded terminals.

In real-world use, this carry-on glides like silk through chaotic airports thanks to its oversized 360° spinner wheels, handling cracked tiles, sloped jet bridges, and crowded concourses without a hitch. The expandable design adds valuable packing flexibility, and the interior offers smart organization despite the compact frame. However, the lack of a built-in TSA lock (despite the charging port) feels like an odd omission—especially at this price tier—and may require travelers to purchase one separately, which slightly undermines the otherwise seamless experience.

Positioned between premium and mid-range models, the Omni 2 outshines budget options like the Rockland Melbourne in build quality and tech integration, though it doesn’t match the AIWEINY’s sleek design or USB-C port. It’s ideal for international business travelers and minimalist vacationers who prioritize airline compatibility and hassle-free mobility over flashy aesthetics. Compared to similarly priced competitors, it delivers stronger brand trust and warranty backing than most, making it a smarter long-term investment than flashier but less proven alternatives.

Step into the future of carry-on design with the AIWEINY Zipperless Luggage, a stylish powerhouse that blends aerospace-grade materials with next-gen convenience. The polycarbonate-aluminum hybrid shell delivers military-level durability while remaining surprisingly lightweight at just 9.7 lbs—perfect for travelers who’ve had bags crushed or cracked on rough flights. What truly sets it apart is the zipperless closure system, which not only looks sleek but enhances security and weather resistance, eliminating weak points where zippers typically fail under stress.

On the move, the 60° silent swivel wheels offer buttery-smooth maneuverability, gliding quietly across marble floors and uneven sidewalks alike—ideal for early-morning departures where noise matters. The dual USB and USB-C ports, paired with a built-in iPad/laptop compartment, make it a dream for digital nomads and business professionals who need instant access and constant charging. However, the cup holder, while innovative, feels a bit gimmicky and eats into external packing space—plus, like most, it requires a separate power bank, which isn’t included.

When stacked against the Samsonite Freeform, the AIWEINY trades some brand legacy for cutting-edge design and tech, offering more ports and a sturdier frame than most in its class. It’s best suited for style-conscious professionals and premium travelers who want a high-tech, high-durability carry-on that turns heads at the boarding gate. While pricier than many, it delivers more innovative features than the similarly priced Samsonite, making it a compelling choice for those who value design and functionality in equal measure.

The Samsonite Freeform isn’t just a suitcase—it’s a masterclass in balanced travel engineering, earning its title as the best overall for good reason. With a textured, scratch-resistant polycarbonate shell and a featherlight 6.5 lb build, it offers exceptional durability without weighing you down—a godsend for travelers tired of bulky, scuffed-up cases after a single trip. The TSA-approved lock is integrated flawlessly, and the spacious 20.5” interior with elastic straps and a mesh divider keeps clothes neatly organized, solving the common chaos of unpacking wrinkled garments.

Performance-wise, the oversized spinner wheels handle everything from smooth airport floors to bumpy subway platforms with quiet confidence, and the telescoping handle glides smoothly through all four height settings. The slightly larger dimensions (23″ x 15″ x 10″) fit most U.S. domestic cabins with room to spare, though tight international bins may require careful stowing. While it lacks built-in charging—a feature found in lower-priced models like the Wrangler—it compensates with refined simplicity and rock-solid reliability.

Compared to the AIWEINY, the Freeform skips flashy tech for proven durability and user-friendly design, making it better suited for families, frequent domestic flyers, and minimalists who want a no-nonsense, long-lasting bag. Against the BAGSMART, it offers superior brand trust and warranty, though less expandable space. For travelers seeking a perfect blend of form, function, and future-proofing, the Freeform justifies its premium tag with consistent, worry-free performance that outlasts trends.

Don’t let the price fool you—the Rockland Melbourne is a budget titan that punches way above its weight in the carry-on arena. At under $56, it delivers solid ABS construction and a surprisingly smooth double spinner wheel system that handles standard airport terrain with ease, making it a top pick for occasional travelers or students who need reliability without breaking the bank. Its 22″ x 13.5″ x 9″ profile fits major U.S. airlines like Delta and Southwest, and the expandable design gives you breathing room when you inevitably overpack.

In testing, the wheels stay responsive on linoleum and tile, though they struggle slightly on rougher surfaces like cracked pavement or cobblestones—nothing a slight tilt can’t fix. The ergonomic aluminum handle feels sturdy, and the interior includes basic but functional pockets for small items. However, the ABS shell, while durable, lacks the scratch resistance of polycarbonate models, meaning it shows wear faster—especially in high-contact areas like corners and edges.

When compared to the Amazon Basics or Hulsin, the Rockland holds its own on price and size but falls short in long-term durability and premium touches. It’s best for budget-conscious travelers, students, or backup luggage users who fly infrequently and prioritize cost over longevity. While it doesn’t offer USB ports or silent wheels, it delivers essential functionality at an unbeatable entry-level price, making it a smarter buy than most sub-$60 suitcases that feel flimsy in hand.

The Wrangler Smart Spinner is a tech-packed underdog that redefines what budget luggage can do—especially for the connected traveler. Its patented 3-in-1 back panel, featuring a USB port, phone holder, and cup holder, turns idle transit time into productive or relaxing moments, letting you charge, sip, and scroll without digging through pockets. At just under $54, it’s one of the most feature-rich carry-ons at any price, solving the universal problem of device drain and disorganization during layovers.

Real-world testing shows the double spinner wheels are agile in terminals, though not as silent or fluid as premium models—they get the job done on standard airport flooring but chatter on rougher surfaces. The 20” expandable body fits snugly in most overhead bins, and the fully lined interior with accessory pockets keeps small items from getting lost. However, the USB port lacks USB-C, limiting compatibility with newer devices, and the ABS shell, while lightweight, feels less rugged than polycarbonate alternatives.

Stacked against the AIWEINY, the Wrangler sacrifices premium materials for practical tech integration at a fraction of the cost, making it ideal for young professionals, students, and digital commuters who want smart features without the luxury price. It doesn’t match the Samsonite Freeform in durability, but it offers more innovation than any other sub-$60 bag, proving that smart design doesn’t have to be expensive.

If keeping your luggage looking pristine is a priority, the Hulsin Carry On is your armor against the battle scars of travel. Its anti-scratch hard shell is engineered to resist scuffs and swirls, emerging from carousels and overhead bins looking fresh trip after trip—a rare win in a market where most cases show wear within months. At just 6.1 lbs and 35L capacity, it’s ultra-light and airline-approved, making it a stealthy favorite for minimalist travelers who hate checking bags.

In motion, the 360° silent spinner wheels deliver a near-silent roll, perfect for quiet early flights or hotel corridors where noise matters. The 4-level telescoping handle adjusts smoothly, and the built-in TSA lock with YKK zippers adds a layer of security that budget bags often skip. However, the non-expandable design limits packing flexibility, and the interior, while clean, lacks the organizational depth of higher-end models—no dedicated laptop sleeve or mesh compartments.

Compared to the Amazon Basics, the Hulsin wins on scratch resistance and wheel noise, though it offers less expandable space. It’s best for neat freaks, frequent flyers, and minimalist packers who value long-term aesthetics and quiet operation over bells and whistles. While it doesn’t have USB ports or a cup holder, it excels where it counts: durability, silence, and lasting good looks, making it a smarter daily driver than flashier but flimsier rivals.

The Amazon Basics Carry-On is the quiet achiever of budget luggage—unassuming but packed with thoughtful design that belies its sub-$55 price. Its extra-thick hard shell with scratch-resistant finish withstands drops and dings better than many pricier models, making it a reliable workhorse for travelers who want no-fuss durability without brand markup. The 25% expandable design is a game-changer, adding crucial space when you’re returning with souvenirs or winter layers.

In real use, the four multi-directional wheels roll smoothly on airport floors, though they’re not as quiet or precise as premium spinners. The interior is well-organized, with a full divider and three zippered pockets—rare at this price—helping separate clothes, toiletries, and electronics. However, the handle feels less rigid than Samsonite or BAGSMART models, and the lack of a TSA lock means you’ll need to buy one separately, which slightly undercuts its value proposition.

Versus the Rockland Melbourne, it offers better expandability and interior organization, though similar durability. It’s ideal for first-time flyers, budget families, or backup luggage users who want reliable performance and smart storage without overspending. While it doesn’t have USB ports or silent wheels, it delivers core functionality with quiet confidence, making it one of the most honest value plays in the carry-on market.

The BAGSMART Carry On is the packing powerhouse of the group, engineered for travelers who need maximum capacity without sacrificing portability. Its 20% upgraded expandable design adds a massive 7L of space, boosting total capacity to 42L—enough for a week’s worth of clothes, tech, and extras, making it perfect for longer trips where you refuse to check a bag. The 100% polycarbonate shell is both lightweight and impact-tested, ensuring it survives rough handling while staying under 7 lbs.

In motion, the buttery-smooth 360° swivel wheels glide silently over every surface, from airport tiles to European cobblestones, and the 4-level aluminum handle with silicone grip feels premium and secure. The side-mounted TSA lock and YKK zippers add peace of mind, and the 5-year warranty signals serious confidence in durability. However, the lack of USB ports is a missed opportunity, especially given its tech-adjacent competitors.

Compared to the Samsonite Omni 2, it offers more expandable space and better scratch resistance, though no built-in charging. It’s best for extended weekenders, business travelers, and packing maximalists who want flexibility and ruggedness in one sleek package. While pricier than Amazon Basics, it justifies the cost with superior expansion and craftsmanship, making it the top choice for those who need room to grow—literally.