Best cabin bags for 2025

What is a cabin bag?

A cabin bag is a small piece of luggage designed to fit in the cabin of an airplane, letting you store it in the overhead compartment or under the seat during a flight. Great for short trips or when you prefer not to check in luggage, cabin bags are typically lightweight, compact and equipped with wheels or handles for easy handling. They often have multiple compartments to help organize items like clothes, toiletries and electronics, while giving you easy access to essentials during security checks.

For more info on which size bag to buy, read our handy suitcase size guide or specific it Luggage review guide.

Our best cabin bags  

Best multipurpose bag: Trolley Travel Backpack

Best expandable: Expandable Weekender

Best wheeled: Trolley Cabin Bag

Most stylish: Trunk Hard Shell Travel Suitcase

Best budget option: Quilted Under Seat Cabin Bag

Best travel backpack: The Travel Backpack

Best cabin bags for short-haul flights: Faux Leather Weekender

Best cabin bags for long-haul flights: Multi-Compartment Weekender

Best cabin bags for kids: Disney’s Lilo and Stitch 2-Wheel Backpack

Best multipurpose cabin bags

Trolley Travel Backpack

A backpack and a suitcase in one, the sleek black Trolley Travel Backpack ranks as the best all-rounder cabin bag thanks to its multifunctional design features. Need to move fast? Pull out the extendable handle and use the smooth-rolling wheels to move around the airport and at your destination. Want to go hands-free? The comfy, adjustable padded shoulder straps function as an ergonomic backpack. Inside you’ll find plenty of storage and multiple compartments for your gear, including a quilted front pocket for quick access to essentials.

This cabin bag is perfect for smart travelers who need an affordable and practical travel companion. At about 11.5 x 15.5 x 10.5 inches, its compact size is great for short trips or as a carry-on (always carefully check your airline providers’ baggage sizes and restrictions.) 

Size: 11.5 x 15.5 x 10.5 inches

Pros:

• Multiple compartments

• Lightweight

• Three transportation options: backpack, trolley or carry handle

• Easy to handle

• Zipped compartment for the extendable trolley handle

• Smooth-rolling wheels for ultimate freedom of movement

• Padded shoulder straps for comfort

• Compact size to fit most luggage allowances (check with your airline)

Considerations:

• Available in one size

• Smaller than other cabin bags

Best expandable cabin bag

Expandable Weekender

The black Expandable Weekender bag is a versatile, trendy, cabin-friendly pick perfect for short trips and spontaneous getaways.

Designed with practicality in mind, it has a spacious main compartment that expands for extra packing capacity, so it's great when you need flexibility. The sleek, minimalist design goes effortlessly with any travel look. And the sturdy top handles and detachable shoulder strap give you multiple carrying options for added convenience. A front zip pocket keeps essentials like passports and boarding passes handy for smooth airport navigation. Whether used as a carry-on, overnight bag or personal item, this affordable, functional weekender is a smart pick for stress-free travel.

Size: L11.5 x H15.5 x W8 inches

Expandable size: L15.5 x H12 x W8 inches

Pros:

• Expandable design

• Wipe-clean outer material

• Zip closures

• Detachable strap

Considerations:

• Available in one size

• No wheels

Best wheeled cabin suitcases

Trolley Cabin Bag

A multifaceted pick, this trolley cabin bag blends style, function, and affordability. Whether you want to wheel it by the telescopic handles or carry it with the padded top handles and adjustable crossbody straps for hands-free travel, the choice is yours.

Its lightweight but durable fabric construction provides flexibility when packing, making it a great pick for long weekend trips or travels abroad. The smooth-rolling wheels and retractable handle give effortless navigation, while the spacious main compartment provides plenty of storage for essentials. Plus, the front zip pocket makes sure travel documents and must-haves are handy. Available in sleek black, olive and leopard print, this trolley bag is a smart budget- and carry-on-friendly pick without compromising convenience.

Size: L15.5 x H10 x W8 inches

Pros:

• Easy to handle

• Lots of storage

• Comfortable to carry

• Compact size

• Available in multiple colors/designs

• Detachable strap

Considerations:

• Available in one size

• Less security: The zippers don’t allow for padlocks or extra layers of security if you need it.

Trolley Cabin Bag

Trunk Hard Shell Cabin Suitcase

If style's essential, this Trunk Hard Shell Cabin Suitcase is your perfect travel pick. This sleek, metallic hard shell combines elegance with practicality and looks great.

Aesthetics aside, this cabin bag has lots of standout features, from 360° spinner wheels that glide effortlessly through airports, to expandable handles for seamless movement. Inside you’ll find zippered compartments and cross straps to help organize clothes, toiletries and travel essentials. And the lightweight but impact-resistant exterior helps protect them during travel. It also has a secure lock system for extra peace of mind.  Designed to fit most airline hand luggage restrictions, it’s the ultimate blend of fashion and function.

Size: L21 x H15 x W8.5 inches

Pros:

• Combination locks for additional security

• Trending look

• Lots of storage

• 360° wheels for seamless navigation

• Hard shell design for additional protection

• Easy to handle

• Available in silver and blue

Considerations:

• Hard shell design might not be as flexible as soft-sided luggage

• Slightly more expensive than other cabin bags on the list

Best budget cabin bags

Quilted Under Seat Cabin Bag

For smart travelers, this Quilted Under Seat Cabin Bag is a great buy at just $16. The perfect pick when you're all about cabin bags only, it has multiple storage compartments and pockets for your streamlined pack list. 

Inside is one main zipped compartment for clothes, shoes and tech, plus two side zipped pockets for stashing essentials like passports, tech, and toiletries. The long compression straps add comfort for hands-free travel, while its compact size makes it perfect for short trips. The beige color and affordable price tag make it a great option for even the trendiest traveler.

Size: L15.5 x H10 x W8 inches

Pros:

• Lots of storage

• Comfortable to carry

• Compact size

• Available in multiple colors

Considerations:

• Available in one size

• Less security

• No wheels

Best carry-on backpack

Travel Backpack

It’s time to embrace the Travel Backpack. Designed for both convenience and comfort, this pick has plenty of storage with multiple zip pockets, a main compartment for shoes and tech and stretchy side pockets for easy access to essentials. Comfort-first details like the padded shoulder straps, top handle, long detachable strap and mesh back panel help distribute the weight. At full capacity, its compact size makes it perfect for short trips or as carry-on. But if you need to stow it, adjustable quick-release clips on the sides make compression easy.

Size: L15.5 x H10 x W8 inches

Pros:

• Lots of storage

• Comfortable to carry

• Padded mesh back panel

• Adjustable quick-release clips

• Compact size

• Detachable strap

Considerations:

• Available in one size

• Less security

• No wheels

Best cabin bags for short-haul flights

Faux Leather Weekender

On-trend travelers will want our Faux Leather Weekender Bag on board. The sleek, versatile faux leather pick with silver accents doubles as a spacious carryall and a compact under-seat bag. Its expandable zip-around base lets you adjust the capacity as needed, while zippers keep everything secure but easily accessible. The perfect pick when you want function and elegance in one travel bag.

Size: H12 x L20 x W8.5 inches

Pros:

• Sleek, versatile design

• Expandable

• Zip closures

Considerations:

• Available in one size and color

• Less security

• No wheels

• Wear and tear more visible

Best cabin bags for long-haul flights

Multi-Compartment Weekender

Navigating a longer flight and/or layovers? We're here for you! The Multi-Compartment Weekender is an excellent long-haul cabin bag thanks to its versatile design, spacious storage, and travel-friendly features.

This weekend bag has an easy access compartment at the top that zips up securely, plus multiple smaller zipped pockets on the inside to separate your items. On the outside, you’ll find more zipped pockets for stashing essentials. Carry it with the two padded top handles or over the shoulder with the long detachable strap. The lightweight but durable construction makes comfortable to carry while standing up to frequent travel. Plus it's compact to meet most airline cabin baggage restrictions, so it's perfect when you need to maximize space without check-in luggage. Whether you're flying for business or leisure, this functional, great-looking bag is a dependable long-haul travel pick.

Size: L15.5 x H8 x W10 inches

Pros:

• Lots of storage

• Comfortable to carry

• Easy to store on top of a suitcase

• Compact size

• Detachable strap

• Size stays within airline cabin allowances (check luggage provider before travel)

Considerations:

• No wheels

• Since you'll be carrying the weight, thoughtful packing might be needed

Best cabin bags for kids

Disney's Lilo and Stitch 2-Wheel Backpack

Got tiny travelers? Your little one can have a bag of their own: this Disney’s Lilo and Stitch 2-Wheel Backpack. With the handling design details of a regular suitcase, this 2-wheeled, 2-compartment backpack has an extendable handle and shoulder straps for however they (or likely you) want to carry it. The best part? The adorable Stitch and Angel print. 

Size: L17 x H11 x W4.5 inches

Pros:

• Disney design

• Lots of storage

• Easy to handle

• Comfortable to carry

• Compact size

Considerations:

• No side pockets

• Less security

• Available in one size

How do I pick a cabin bag?

The right cabin bag depends on your travel needs, preferences and flight requirements. Think about these factors:

• Size: Make sure it meets airline cabin size restrictions.

• Weight: Pick a lightweight bag to maximize packing space.

• Durability: You need a sturdy, high-quality material for long lasting use.

• Wheels: Smooth-rolling wheels make handling easier.

• Compartments: Multiple pockets help with organization.

• Security: Look for a bag with locks or zippers for safety.

• Handle: Go for an ergonomic handle for comfortable carrying.

Cabin Bag FAQs

What's the best cabin luggage?

The best cabin bag luggage is durable, lightweight and easy to handle. Look for spacious interiors with organizing compartments, smooth-rolling wheels and/or a comfortable handle. Expandability, secure closures and materials that can withstand travel wear are also key factors to consider for optimal performance.

What kind of carry-on bag is best?

The best carry-on depends on your journey time, destination and itinerary. For short trips, a compact duffle bag or backpack works well. For longer trips, a small hard- or soft shell suitcase with organizing compartments and durability is the ideal. Consider weight, ease of handling and the bag’s ability to fit airline restrictions.

What do I look for in a cabin bag?

This depends on your key criteria. Functionality top of your list? Look for cabin bags with lots of pockets and compartments that close securely but are easy to access. Looking for a cabin bag with style? Try trending colors or prints — they also make it easier to spot in busy locations, too. Think about budget, how often you travel, how you like to transport your luggage and what kind of packer you are.

What do I avoid when buying cabin bags?

Avoid cabin bags that exceed size limits, are too heavy, or don't have sturdy wheels. Skip bags with cheap closures, flimsy materials or limited compartments. Avoid non-closing picks or bags with uncomfortable handles: they can be inconvenient and less durable/secure during travel. 

What are the dimensions for cabin luggage?

Cabin luggage dimensions typically go from 22 x 14 x 9 inches to 22 x 10, but this varies by airline. You’ll probably be safe with 22 x 14 x 9 inches but always check your airline’s specific carry-on size limits before packing to avoid issues at the gate.

Should I buy an expandable cabin bag?

It depends on your packing and shopping habits. An expandable cabin bag is useful if you need extra space for souvenirs or last-minute items. However, it can add bulk and potentially exceed size limits. If your airline enforces strict carry-on rules or you usually buy multiple gifts, a non-expandable bag might be more practical. 

What weight capacity should my cabin bag have?

Like dimensions, weight capacity varies by airline, so always check your airline’s specific carry-on size limits before packing to avoid issues at the gate. Usually weight limits are between 15 and 22 pounds. 

How can I max out my carry-on allowance?

Maxing out your carry-on allowance is all about strategic packing. Rolling your clothes, using packing cubes and filling all compartments is key. Travel in bulkier items like jackets and shoes and go for a lightweight, well-sized bag that fits the airline restrictions. (When packed, make sure it's as close to the weight limit as possible)

How do I pack a cabin bag?

To pack a cabin bag efficiently, use our detailed packing guide or follow the simple steps below:

• Roll clothes: This saves space and minimizes wrinkles.

• Use packing cubes: Organize items for easy access and to maximize space.

• Heavy items at the bottom: Keep the weight balanced for easier handling.

• Fill shoes: Store socks, accessories or smaller items inside your footwear.

• Essentials on top: Keep documents, chargers and snacks handy.

• Liquids in a clear bag: Follow airline regulations for streamlined security checks.

• Use all space: Fill gaps with smaller items like scarves or toiletries.

• Keep it light: Prioritize essential items to stay within weight limits.

What are the strongest travel cabin bags?

Some of the most robust travel cabin bags include:

• Hard shell cases: They have a practical hard shell for added protection.

• Wheeled with brakes: Give smooth movement and control during travel.

• Durable wheels: Reinforced, smooth-rolling wheels improve handling.

• Water resistant materials: Provide weather protection for your stuff.

• Secure zippers: Make sure your bag stays closed.

• Sturdy handles: Make lifting and carrying easy.

• Quality locking systems: Provide added security for valuables.

What is the best carry-on bag color?

The best color for carry-ons is one that stands out, without being too flashy. Neutrals like black, brown or olive are versatile and less likely to show dirt. But bright colors or unique prints can make your bag easier to spot in overhead lockers or busy locations.

What cabin bag is best for airports?

The best cabin bags for airports are lightweight, durable and easy to handle. Look for a bag with smooth, high-quality wheels (preferably with brakes for control) and a comfortable, adjustable handle. It should have multiple compartments for organization, a secure lock and a hard shell or sturdy material for protection. Pick for a size that meets airline restrictions and provides enough space for your essentials, making airport navigation and security checks as hassle-free as possible.