If you do not prefer to check a bag for timing purposes and security reasons, consider packing lightly and purchasing a small suitcase to serve as a carry-on bag. Because your suitcase will be with you the entire trip, it is less likely that it will be lost. If you are able to reduce your items and bring a small suitcase on your next trip, consider the material that the suitcase is made from and add features such as security, handles, and extra compartments and pockets for organization.
If you are looking for an expandable, durable and eco-friendly small suitcase with added accessories, the Coolife Expandable Suitcase is the top choice.
Suitcases come in a few different styles made from various materials that should be considered depending on where you plan to travel and for how long.
Before purchasing a small suitcase, consider how much security it will provide. Typically, smaller bags are not checked, making stolen luggage less of a possibility. Though a small suitcase will remain in an overhead bin or by your side, it is important to consider added security for your items in case of emergency. For example, a small suitcase with a TSA-approved lock will shorten your check-in time and provide peace of mind as you travel with the knowledge that no one can break into your bag or open it if they mistake it for theirs. If you are traveling with your small suitcase on a road trip, consider a suitcase with a lock-in case your car gets broken into.
A quality small suitcase will feature an adjustable handle. If the suitcase has wheels, it will likely feature a retractable locking handle that pulls out to the desired length for maximum convenience. Smaller bags with wheels will feature long handles, while smaller bags without wheels will feature a shoulder strap or a hand-held handle. Most small suitcases will feature multiple handles on each side of the item so that you can choose the most convenient way to carry it. Handles made with gripped material provide a more secure hold of the small suitcase and make it less likely that you will drop your items.
Wheels are important to consider when purchasing a small suitcase for your next adventure because they make it easier to transport the suitcase from point A to point B. Depending on how small the suitcase is, some models will be so lightweight that they do not need to be wheeled. If a small suitcase is very small, it will feature a strap or small handle with no wheels. However, if the suitcase is meant to carry heavier items, it will feature wheels for stability. Typically, small suitcases will only feature two wheels for easy transportation rather than four.
A small suitcase can only carry so much, which is why a small suitcase needs to contain compartments to separate items in the interior. The more compartments a suitcase has, the greater sense of organization users will feel. When purchasing a small suitcase, consider how wide and deep the compartments are. The compartments themselves mustn’t take up the space of necessities in the suitcase and make the item too bulky. What’s more, compartments also make it easier for users to find items when traveling.
Small suitcases can vary in price depending on their material and added features. A less expensive model with fewer features will cost around $50-$65, while a higher-end model with durable material and convenient features will be priced around $120-$200.
A. The specific size and weight that a suitcase needs to be for it to be considered a carry-on depends on the airline being flown. For example, Delta Airlines require a suitcase to be a certain size and dimension to fit in their overhead compartments on the plane. Conversely, Delta’s overhead compartments may be a different size than American Airlines, causing their carry-on size and weight restrictions to differ.
A. How you clean your suitcase will depend on the fabric or material that the item is made of. The safest way to remove dirt from any type of suitcase is to use a non-detergent soap and a damp rag and gently scrub the outside of your small suitcase. Make sure that any product used will not damage the specific material or make your suitcase less durable.
What you need to know: This suitcase’s packing capacity can expand by up to 15 percent and is ideal for any personal or business trip and has four smooth-gliding wheels for convenient carry.
What you’ll love: It features ABS+PC hard plastic shell, fully lined interior with straps and zippered divider and mesh pockets for superior organization and easy access to your items. Its TSA lock keeps your possessions safe and secure.
What you should consider: This zipper may fail with continuous use.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
What you need to know: This carry-on roller suitcase is weather-resistant and provides an interior pocket for MacBook Pros and IPads.
What you’ll love: The main compartment of this suitcase extends for a greeted packing capacity. The interior features organizer pockets for chargers, cables, and other essential items. The exterior is weather-resistant, and the material is lightweight.
What you should consider: The laptop bag takes up too much space from the main compartment and makes the item bulky.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Luggage
What you need to know: This carry-on meets size restrictions for United, American, Delta, Southwest, and Allegiant airlines. The suitcase comes with a 10-year warranty and features four multi-directional spinner wheels for added mobility.
What you’ll love: This suitcase is lightweight and features side-mounted TSA locks to ensure that your bag won’t be broken into. The interior features a full-zip and cross straps for increased organization.
What you should consider: There is no handle in the horizontal position, and the suitcase is only able to be held upright.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter for useful advice on new products and noteworthy deals.
Logan DeLoye writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.