7 Best Carry-On Luggage Bags In Australia For 2025

Reading Time: 25 minutes

Confession time: I have a carry-on bag fetish. I can’t stop buying them. I love the sound of a carry-on’s wheels on cobblestones in a foreign city. And nothing beats breezing past the luggage carousel while everyone else waits.

This year, I’ve already taken 2X international trips, 3X long weekends in Byron Bay, and 2X getaways to the Adelaide Hills — all with just my carry-on.

I refuse to lug around a bulky checked bag.

Even the skiing trip to Austria was with a carry-on only. (But it didn’t go to plan – see below).

Who am I?

I’m an Aussie entrepreneur who travels frequently, enjoys excellent products and blogs about my experiences. Upgrade your airport game with my list of the best carry-ons in Australia for 2025.

1. July Carry On Pro Snapsleeve.

Best overall carry-on bag.

Above: The July Carry-On Pro splits into two section of equal size.

The July Carry-On Pro has won the #1 spot in my review of the best carry-on luggage in Australia because it’s stylish, practical and not overpriced.

Let’s unpack (ha) its features in detail.

Pros.

I tested the carry-on’s load-carrying capacity by packing it with the following items:

Here is the test load, folded and pressed using July’s compression system. Everything fits – and the bag zips up without straining.

Above: The main compartment had 25% carrying capacity remaining, and the lid compartment was only half full.

July’s build quality is outstanding.

Unlike the cheap and cheerful mass-produced vibe you get from most other brands (I’m looking at you, American Tourister) – the July surprises with tactile and robust surfaces.

You’ll find an onboard ejectable battery underneath the handle, with USB and USB-C built-in.

Above: The SnapSleeve mounts to the front, providing easy access to your laptop, earbuds and notepad.

The battery’s 10,000mAh capacity isn’t massive. Yet, it is the maximum allowed by airline regulations and will:

Because it’s ejectable, you won’t need to keep your bag by a power outlet while you wait for your phone or laptop to charge. If you forget the battery at the airport, July will sell you a replacement for $50.

Is it useful?

On international flights with stopovers – hell yes. It saved me in Signapore, Dubai and Frankfurt several times.

On domestic flights – no. You’re at the hotel long before you need it.

Above: My bag has a few scuffs – keep in mind that I’ve used and abused it for almost 3 years.

July’s party trick, however, is its external, detachable SnapSleeve.

Mounted on the front of the bag, the SnapSleeve does two things:

Above: The Snapsleeve has modest carrying capacity. You get two zippable compartments, one laptop compartment and notepad sleeve. For more capacity, upgrade to the Victorinox Spectra (below).

A hidden, stain-proof, and odour-proof laundry bag rolls up and tucks away in a small area of the luggage. You can even use it as a cable or accessories pocket when it’s not filled with your clothes.

Cons.

Let’s talk about weight, as it’s the July Carry On Pro‘s main drawback. Being a well-built hardshell carry-on bag, it comes with a weight penalty.

Above: July’s attention to detail is remarkable. Perforated mesh, stitched and embossed compression straps and logo-typed fabric make this look like a $600+ bag.

Tipping scales at 3.6kg, the cabin bag is about 200 grams heavier than other bags in its class.

This is not a huge problem if you fly with light and travel mainly with spare clothes.

But if you bring heavy gear (e.g., cameras, books, shoes, product samples), the 3.6 kg tare weight combined with 42L carrying capacity make it easy to exceed the carry-on weight limits of most airlines.

Does it matter?

Not really.

I’ve taken the July Pro on three trips to Europe, two to Bali, and over ten domestic flights. Every time, it was 2-4kg over the weight limit.

The only time I was stopped and asked to check it in was on a return flight from Bali.

Above: How big is the SnapSleeve? My 14″ MacBook Pro slides in with ease.

If weight is a deal-breaker for you, the company offers a workaround in the form of a much lighter carry-on bag, appropriately named July Carry On Light.

The second issue with the July Carry-On Pro is the attachment mechanism of the SnapSleeve. It can be fiddly to attach when the bag is empty, and almost impossible when the bag is overpacked.

I suspect I’m not the only one complaining about this, as July has recently launched a new version of the Carry On Pro with a non-detachable laptop sleeve.

What it misses out in versatility it makes up in convenience.

Above: With the test load inside the bag, you have 50% of room available in the top compartment for toiletries, chargers and more underwear.

Overall.

The July Carry-On Pro Snapsleeve is the best carry-on cabin bag in Australia because it provides mountains of practicality and style in a reasonably priced package.

Its large internal volume makes it particularly useful for travellers who take longer, 3-7 day trips but want to travel with one bag.

It also doubles up as a great weekender that will fit everything you and your spouse* need during a getaway.

Yes, it is heavier than most hardshell bags (and much heavier than softshells), but workarounds are possible. You have to pack smart and, if you overload, accept the small risk of having to check it in.

It’d be the perfect bag if the SnapSleeve’s attachment mechanism was less fiddly.

✔ Huge 42L internal volume
✔ Onboard removable battery with USB and FastCharge USB-C
✔ 100-day trial with free returns
✔ Top-of-the-range YKK zippers
✘ Modest payload due to strong build

* Depends on the spouse.

Price.

At $425, the July Carry On Pro Snalsleeve represents outstanding value for money. Its premium construction and high attention to detail make it look and feel like a $600+ bag.

I suspect this pricing is intentionally lowballed to help the company achieve market penetration. I will not be surprised if July increases the price of its bags by about 30% in about a year or two.

How Does The July Carry On Pro Stack Up?	Score
Price	5
Build Quality	5
Aesthetics	5
Weight	3
Convenience	4
Warranty & Returns	5
OVERALL	4.5/5

Specifications.

➤ Size: 55cm H x 38cm W x 22/24cm D (excl/incl Snapsleeve)
➤ Weight: 3.6kg
➤ Capacity: 42L

2. Victorinox Spectra 3.0.

Best premium hardshell cabin bag.

Above: The main compartment is the most usable of all bags in this review, thanks to its 40cm width. The secondary compartment is quite shallow – because it donates space to the front pocket.

The #2 on my list of best carry-on luggage bags is the stylish Victorinox Spectra 3.0. I love this thing. If it weren’t for the bag’s $800-ish price tag, I’d rank in #1.

Pros.

The Victorinox Spectra 3.0 is the best carry-on bag if you travel with multiple airlines and never want to worry about checking in your luggage.

If you keep it unexpanded, it will fit within the size limits of most airlines. Only ultra-low budget carriers typically serving Europe, Southeast Asia, and South America may raise an eyebrow.

Above: The Spectra had no trouble fitting in the test load. It could have easily fit another 20% into the main hold – before expanding. Note, however, that the secondary compartment is almost full.

This is great for scenarios where you fly light outbounds but return heavy – after buying some duty-free presents for the family.

The main compartment is also the widest of all bags in this review, creating a more useful square shape. Notice how my shoes fit into the Spectra without touching the sides.

As you’d expect from Victorinox, the build quality is top notch, and the bag is very attractive.

More attractive than July? Yes.

The carry-on’s outer shell is crafted from hard, matt, scratch-resistant polycarbonate that looks and feels like it will last a lifetime.

Corner guards are a nice touch for minimising damage from rough handling.

Above: Spectra is a very attractive bag. Note the scuff plates, retractable handles and a TSA lock panel that unlocks both the front and main compartment with one slide.

Additionally, each Spectra has a unique ID number to help you locate your luggage, should it get lost or stolen.

Being a Swiss bag, it comes with a hidden pair of tweezers, a phone SIM card remover and a baby screwdriver.

Cute and whimsical? Yes. Useful? Not really.

But what’s useful is Spectra’s front pocket. It is outstanding.

It unzips and hinges out to reveal an organisational panel and provides rapid access to your laptop and travel essentials.

Above: This is the best integrated front pocket on any carry-on, bar none.

The compartment itself is cavernous. And unlike July’s Snapsleeve, it’s also lockable.

A couple of hardcover books, notepads and full-size laptops will fit there without issues. Yes, it does eat into internal space (I’ll talk about that shortly), but the compromise is worth it.

And as you’d expect from a Swiss brand that makes locks, the Victorinox Spectra has proprietary, TSA-approved combination locks.

Above: The Spectra expands by 3cm to give you 47 litres of internal space. A word of warning – at that size the bag starts to look like a small trunk than a carry-on. The odds of having to check it in rise exponentially.

Cons.

The Victorinox Spectra has a few downsides.

Price is the first one.

Unfortunately, with RBA stubbornly refusing to cut interest rates, not every Australian can afford an $800 carry-on bag.

But if you’re shopping at this price point, you are probably not very price-sensitive.

Your main dilemma will likely be whether to double your budget and buy a Rimowa instead (below).

Above: A USB 2.0 socket can charge devices from an internally mounted battery. Unlike July, Victorinox doesn’t include the battery.

Personally, I like stylish and understated accessories, rather than shouty, “look at me” types, so I’d go with the Spectra any day – and allocate the extra $1,000 to my holiday budget.

While the July, with its externally mounted SnapSleeve, has a legitimate second internal compartment, the Spectra is limited to a much smaller meshed area.

Above: The front pocket zips away to give unobstructed access to your laptop, accessories and stationery.

Think of it as a place to stash a couple of books, cables, ties, and sock pairs.

It zips away to provide access to the front laptop sleeve area. While you could technically stash some clothes there in a pinch, doing so will make access to your laptop more challenging.

Oh, and the charging cable is USB 2.0. Now that USB-C is the norm, I would have liked to see that instead.

Above: the secondary compartment is big enough for a few sets of underwear and a book.

Overall.

The Victorinox 3.0 Expandable Global is fancy without being ostentatious and professional without being stuffy.

This carry-on bag will dress up your business suit during the week and look funky with your sneakers during weekend getaways.

If you have $800 to spend, this is the best carry-on bag in Australia, bar none.

✔ Highly versatile due to expandable case
✔ Unique ID number and 24/7 lost bag hotline
✔ Nostalgic, iconic Victorinox design
✘ Too expensive for most of us

Price.

Between $800 and $900, depending on the retailer and season. It’s a premium product aimed at style-conscious, well-heeled travellers.

How Does The Victorinox Global Stack Up?	Score
Price	5
Build Quality	5
Aesthetics	5
Weight	3
Convenience	5
Warranty & Returns	4
OVERALL	4.5/5.0

Specifications.

➤ Size: 55cm H x 40cm W x 20/23cm D
➤ Weight: 3.5kg
➤ Capacity: 39/47L

3. Monos Carry On Pro / Pro Plus.

Best oversized carry-on.

Above: The Monos fit my test load with ease.

The Monos is the newest member of my carry-on collection.

(Told you I have a fetish!)

That’s why it’s the one with the fewest scuffs.

Let me start by saying that I have the larger Pro Pus variant, which measures a humongous 58/38/24cm and 46 litres of volume. It’s by far the biggest carry-on in this review.

Pros.

This thing is cavernous.

If you always travel with a lot of belongings – and want to push the definition of “carry-on” to its limits, this is the best bag for you.

At 46 litres, it’s either a large carry-on or a small check-in bag.

Above: The Monos Pro Plus is huge, but obtains most of its internal volume through its height. TThe main compartment had 25% of capacity left while the secondary compartment was 40% full.

You decide.

If you fill it to the brim, you’ll easily exceed every conceivable airline weight limit by at least 100%.

But you may be surprised to find out that the bag is relatively light.

Because it doesn’t have a built-in battery or TSA locks on the front compartmenet, the Pro Plus weighs in at 3.8kg – 100g less porky than the July. The Pro, meanwhile, tips the scales at just 3.5kg – same as the Spectra.

As with the Victorinox design, the panel zips open to reveal several safari-style pockets for your digital devices and peripherals.

Above: The Monos is a sleek unit. It’s the only bag here with locks on the side – rather than on top of – the bag. While this design touch creates a more minimalist look, I prefer locks to be on top.

Unlike the Victorinox design, it’s permanently sealed from the main compartment, so you don’t get the option to sacrifice some front pocket space to add more internal volume.

Regardless, you get plenty of space to store a a laptop, a large book, charger and all the peripherals you’ll ever wnat to bring.

Above: Monos thinks of itself as “Apple Of Luggage” and competes directly with July.

Cons.

I have no complaints about the Monos’ construction, but it does feel a little cheaper than the July and Victorinox.

Small details add up to create this impression. For example, the hard plastic used in the handle, the absence of an internal side pocket, and boring-looking internal lining.

These details that are easy to overlook, but do become apparent with all bags lined up side-by-side.

Also, the front pocket – although very useful – doesn’t lock.

This can become an issue for people who carry laptops with sensitive data and want an extra layer of protection against opportunistic thieves.

Above: Stylish, modern, well-built and lightweight, the Herschel Highland is as cool as it is capable.

My second gripe is with Monos’ awkward sizing.

The larger Pro Plus model has a monstrous 46 litre layload.

But the Spectra, when expanded, has 47 litres, making it the better choice for people who want a compact carry on with the option to bring extra gear.

Meanwhile, the smaller Pro model is roughly the same size as the July Carry On Pro – yet has 6 litres less volume, at 36 litres (versus July’s 42 litres).

The only reason you’d choose the Monos is the price, as it’s considerably cheaper than the Spectra and about 10% cheaper than the July.

Overall.

The Monos Carry on Pro Plus is the best carry-on for businesspeople who always carry a lot of gear and don’t want to spend more than $425 on their bag.

No other bag is better value for money when it comes to internal volume per dollar spent.

Above: Leather nametag is a nice touch.

It’s not the best-looking bag, nor is it the best-built or most versatile.

But it’s reasonably good at all of those things, and has no nasty habits. Think of it as a family station wagon. It will do everything you want it to, but don’t expect excitement.

Not quite Apple, then.

✔ Huge payload lightweight at 2.81 kg
✔ Relatively lightweight at 3.8kg
✘ Not as well built as the competition

Price.

Monos charges $375 for the Pro and $425 for the Pro plus version. It’s a very well-priced bag and I expect the company to increase prices after they penetrate the market.

Above: As you’d expect, the secondary compartment had plenty of space left – at least 60%.

How Does The Monos Pro Plus Global Stack Up?	Score
Price	5
Build Quality	3.5
Aesthetics	3.5
Weight	5
Convenience	4
Warranty & Returns	5
OVERALL	4.3/5

Specifications.

➤ Size: 58cm H x 38cm W x 24cm D
➤ Weight: 3.8kg
➤ Capacity: 46L

4. Antler Clifton.

Best carry-on for corporate road warriors.

Above: Unlike all carry-ons in this review, the Clifton opnes to the right. The layout is identical to July’s – an even split in the middle, with a middle divider for knick-knacks.

I’ll be the first to admit that the Clifton isn’t the most exciting carry-on. It doesn’t look ostentatious and won’t elicit any double-takes. But that’s part of its appeal.

This carry-on is a practical, inexpensive business tool, not a fashion item.

Pros.

Are you an Australian management type who wants a carry-on that is light, durable, smart-looking and secure?

Above: The Clifton managed to contain the test load, but only just. The main compartment was 100% full, but the secondary compartment had 30% of space left.

First, you get 35 litres of internal volume in a bag that weighs 2.8 kilograms. While this is considerably less than July’s and Spectra’s payloads, you also get a significant weight reduction.

The pocket’s design is almost as good as Spectra’s. You get laptop and notebook compartments plus a few pockets for headphones and cables.

TSA locks, of course, are standard – and they secure the main compartment as well as the front pocket.

The lack of an internal battery will be a pro to business types with lounge privileges, who can charge their devices at the airport and would rather trade the battery for extra payload and internal space.

Above: The Clifton is a modest-looking bag – and that’s a feature, not a flaw.

On the inside, the Clifton also punches well above its price point. You get elastic X-straps with a robust latch to prevent your belongings from falling out and two more zipped compartments in the lid.

Little details – like three zippable compartments in the middle divider and an internal side pocket – elevate the practicality and appearance of the bag.

Last but not least, the price is outstanding. At $349, it’s almost half the price of the Spectra and almost 15% of the price of the Rimowa (below).

Above: No batteries, no tweezers or or tools. The Antler is a no-nonsense travel bag.

Cons.

This Antler Prestwick is designed to look smart, professional and safe – not to be obnoxiously loud. If loud is what you want, go with the Rimowa.

I could point out that the bag doesn’t include a laundry bag or the option to personalise it, but these criticisms would not be fair in the context of its budget price tag.

It’s also not very big. At 35L, this is a bag for day business trip and overnighters – not for 2-4 night getaways.

And I must point out that the external sleeve isn’t large. My 14-inch MBP is a very snug fit.

Oh, and keep in mind that the Prestwick’s internal lid compartment is only large enough for small items and notepads. It’s not a bona fide secondary clothes compartment, as you get in the July.

Above: The front pocket zips open to provide convenient access to your latop.

Overall.

The Antler Cifton is the best budget carry-on in Australia if you frequent domestic airline business lounges more frequently than the coffee shop near your house.

Above: The secondary compartment will house your favourite book (maybe a few pairs of socks). If your laptop is larger than 14″, it will have to go here, too.

It won’t withstand five years of abuse like the Rimowa will, but at $349, can you expect it to?

How Does The Antler Prestwick Stack Up?	Score
Price	5
Build Quality	4
Aesthetics	4
Weight	4
Convenience	4
Warranty & Returns	4
OVERALL	4.2/5

Specifications.

➤ Size: 55 x 35 x 23cm
➤ Weight: 2.8kg
➤ Capacity: 35L

5. Rimowa Original Carry On.

Best ultra-premium carry-on bag.

Ah, Rimowa.

When pesky climate change activists spraypaint your mink fur coat, but you refuse to stop signalling to fellow travellers (and Qantas staff) that you’ve made it.

Or at least plan to make it.

However, a number of boutiques have popped up across Sydney and Melbourne in recent years, which may signal that the brand is going on the offensive to protect its market share from direct-to-consumer brands like July.

Let’s see how its best carry-on fares against the competition.

Pros.

Rimowa has several carry-ons in this range. The Original model offers the best balance of style, cost, and practicality.

On paper, this is the worst-performing carry-on bag I’ve reviewed so far.

But analysing the Rimowa Original using facts alone is not unlike assessing a Ferrari Testarossa for its fuel consumption figures.

Above: Rimowa’s interior compartment design is a work of art.

The classic lines immediately reveal the bag’s pedigree, and the aluminium construction makes it stand out in the sea of plasticky nightmares in the overhead compartment.

This carry-on bag will withstand years of abuse.

And even when it does start to wear, its aluminium finish starts to look charismatic rather than old (painted finishes are a different story – I’ll talk about them in a moment).

The locks are rock-solid and latch with satisfying precision, while the internal compartments are organised in a way that’s not only intelligent, but attractive.

Cons.

Mentioning price as Rimowa’s con is trite, so I’ll skip straight to the weight. Besides, price-conscious people don’t buy these bags.

Above: Classic lines are a nod to 1960s-era cars, rock’n’roll and drive-in cinemas.

The 4.3 kg weight is a downside, but it will matter much more to people who don’t fly business or first class.

The bag will turn heads (especially if you spec it in a loud colour). If you value privacy and like to fly under the radar, you may want to opt for the Victorinox Spectra instead.

The Rimowa Original is available in four colours, including the aluminium (aka Silver) you see here.

The Silver will resist scratches, but if you get any other colours, be prepared to collect regular paint scuffs.

Rimowa’s aluminium construction means you can’t overfill the bag.

Unlike plastic hardshells, the aluminium Rimowa will not stretch to accommodate your extra pair of pants.

If you’re used to always fitting in “one more thing”, owning one of these bags may come with a shock.

Overall.

Rimowa Original is the quintessential luxury carry-on bag.

It’s the last carry-on you’ll ever buy. Due to its rock-solid build, it will last a decade, and you’ll feel stylish with this iconic nugget of history rolling by your side.

How Does The Rimowa Carry On Stack Up?	Score
Price	3
Build Quality	5
Aesthetics	5
Weight	3
Convenience	3.5
Warranty & Returns	5
OVERALL	4.1/5.0

Specifications.

➤ Size: 55 X 40 X 23
➤ Weight: 3.8 kg
➤ Capacity: 37 L

5. Delsey Paris Montrouge.

Good carry-on luggage for women who like bling.

Above: The gold details are limited to the cabin bag’s telescopic handles and zippers.

Delsey Paris Montrouge is a luggage range designed for women. This line includes several pieces, but the carry-on is the most elegant (and functional) of them all.

Its black, vegan leather exterior and gold hardware make it worth considering if you’re looking for a stand-out carry-on that has a sparkly, feminine vibe.

Pros.

The Delsey Paris Montrouge’s design is based around a Euro-style black and gold colour palette.

It’s not tacky but is moderately blingy, thanks to the gold plating on the handle and zippers. Very Paris, c. 1995.

Above: Softside construction saves weight, while two handles improve maneuverability.

Speaking of zippers, the first zips all the way around the bag, and a second zipper comes around the other side. It means you won’t have to open the entire bag to get to your laptop.

Both zippers snap into a three-digit TSA lock for extra security.

You can also use these zippers to expand your bag for extra 4 centimetres of depth.

Interestingly, this bag is designed with two handles: one on the top and one on the side. I like this feature because it adds another grab point for maneuvering the bag into the overhead locker.

Being a softside bag, it’s very light, which translates into healthy payload capacity. You get 7.4kg with Qantas and 4.4kg with Virgin, and this is backed up by a very cavernous 45 litres of internal volume.

Cons.

While the outside zippers are sturdy, the interior compartments are secured with flimsy, plastic zippers.

Above: TSA locks are a welcome addition at this price point.

Additionally, the outside pockets only provide minimal expansion room.

Then there’s the “love it or hate it” design. People who want to fly under the radar will flinch at the sight of gold-plated zippers and arm handles.

Overall.

Montrouge is a chic and stylish carry-on bag aimed at female travellers. It’s best for women who want a change from the usual stark, black business cabin bags.

Its build quality is not as top-notch as that of the July, Victorinox and Herschel options above, but at 1/2 of the price, it also lives at a different price point.

✔ Chic European styling
✔ Relatively inexpensive
✘ May be too blingy for some women
✘ Cheap internal zippers

Price.

Speaking of price points, the Montrouge retails for between $200 and $250 dollars and, in doing so, exists in an awkward market segment.

Rather, it’s a moderately expensive, mostly good bag. Nor here, nor there, which is why I recommend you stick with either the July, Herschel or Victorinox carry on bags above.

Specifications.

➤ Size: 55cm H x 35cm W x 25cm D
➤ Weight: 2.6kg
➤ Capacity: 45L

6. Samsonite 72 Hours Deluxe Spinner.

Good cabin bag if you’re on a budget but need a high payload.

Above: Ridiculously high payload is made possible by the carry-on bag’s ultra-lightweight construction.

This carry-on is ideal if you want a lightweight, inexpensive, unpretentious bag.

Pros.

This Samsonite’s party trick is its ultra-low weight that matches its low price. At 1.8kg, it gives you a massive 8.2kg payload with Qantas and 5.7kg with Virgin. That’s the best carry-on luggage payload figure in this round-up.

Apart from its Herculean payload, the bag has every feature you need – and none of the features that you don’t.

Reinforced handles, check. TSA lock, check. Cross straps, check.

“No-nonsense” is the word that springs to mind when looking for a description.

Unexpectedly for this price point, Samsonite also includes a handy external pocket to make sure that you don’t misplace your boarding pass and a folding laundry bag to keep your smelly stuff separate from the clean pile.

Above: Practical and uncomplicated, this Samsonite carry-on is a workhorse of hand luggage.

Nice touches, Samsonite.

Cons.

You’re not going to get excited about this cabin bag. If you buy it, it will be a 100% practical, 0% emotional type of purchase.

This is the Toyota Corolla of carry on cabin bags.

(This is not necessarily a weak point, by the way. After all, Toyota Corolla is one of the top-selling cars in Australia – and from a cost/benefit perspective, like the Samsonite 72 Hour Deluxe Spinner, it represents incredible value for money).

Overall.

The Samsonite 72-hour carry-on will happily haul huge amounts of payload everywhere you go. Its light construction may lead to its demise within a season or two of heavy use, but at this price point, it’s hard to complain.

✔ Very lightweight thanks to nylon construction
✔ Low price
✘ Zipper on the cheap side
✘ Boring

Specifications.

➤ Size: 55cm H x 35cm W x 24cm D
➤ Weight: 1.8kg
➤ Capacity: 36L

7. Samsonite Oc2Lite.

Good hardshell carry-on bag for corporate types.

Above: Professional and sleek without screaming for attention, the Oc2Lite will appeal to corporate travellers.

The Oc2Lite Hardside Spinner is best for buyers who want the protection of a hardshell cabin bag, but don’t want to pay a huge weight penalty.

If the July Carry On Pro is too heavy for your needs, this lightweight bag is a great alternative.

Pros.

The Samsonite Oc2Lite Hardside‘s most important feature is its incredibly light empty weight. At 2.6kg, the bag is one of the lightest hardshell carry-on bags I’ve reviewed.

This feature translates into a huge payload capacity – 7.4kg with Qantas and 4.9kg with Virgin, to be exact.

It can expand from 37 to 43 litres, edging out the voluminous July Carry On Pro by one litre, helping you pack everything you need.

Above: Polished contrast handle is a very welcome and unexpected detail at this price point.

Everything else is exactly what you’d expect from a well-known brand like Samsonite – sturdy spinner wheels, TSA locks, built-in ID tag and a limited 10-year warranty.

Cons.

The Samsonite OC2 is not a statement piece, and – while very modern-looking – it will not win design awards.

It’s simply a very smart-looking carry-on bag designed to look like it belongs on a business trip, and not draw attention to itself.

Above: The thin hardshell saves weight, but doesn’t feel as rigid as some of the other cabin bags in this review.

The construction is very good, but it’s obvious that the bag was put on a severe diet to make it lose weight.

The shell, for example, feels noticeably more floppy and thin than that of the July Carry On. You also won’t get any “nice-to-have” features like a battery and laundry bag.

Overall.

The Samsonite OC2Lite is the best lightweight hardshell carry-on bag for people who need a high payload but are unwilling to sacrifice longevity to get it.

It’s practical, modern and professional.

Think of it as the BMW 3 Series of business luggage.

In other words, it’s a supremely competent all-rounder that will complement your corporate business attire.

It doesn’t have the same “built like a tank” feel as you get from July Carry On Pro, but this is exactly what allows the bag to remain lightweight and relatively inexpensive.

✔ Very lightweight for a hardshell
✔ Expandable
✔ Modern exterior
✔ Has every feature you’d expect from a Samsonite
✘ Too corporate-looking for advertising and creative types

Price.

The Oc2Lite Hardside’s RRP is about $335, but can often be found on special for about $250. It’s a steal at that price.

Specifications.

➤ Size: 55cm H x 36cm W x 24/26cm D
➤ Weight: 2.6kg
➤ Capacity: 37/43L

What Carry On Luggage Size And Weight Limits Do You Need To Know About?

The world of airline cabin bag limits is frustratingly inconsistent. Each airline imposes its own rules and limits, and you better obey them to avoid checking in your luggage.

See the table below to ensure your cabin bag works for your specific travel habits.

	Domestic Economy	Domestic Business	International Economy	International Business
Qantas	1 x 115cm bag, up to 10kg OR 2 x 105cm bags, one piece up to 10kgs, 14kgs total	1 x 115cm bag, up to 10kg OR 2 x 105cm bags, one piece up to 10kgs, 14kgs total	1 x 115cm bag, up to 7kg	1 x 115cm bag, up to 10kg OR 2 x 105cm bags, one piece up to 10kgs, 14kgs total
Virgin	1 X bag, up to 56 X 36 X 23, up to 7kg OR 2 X bags, 48 X 34 X 23, 7kg total	1 X bag, up to 56 X 36 X 23, up to 7kg OR 2 X bags, 48 X 34 X 23, 7kg each	1 X bag, up to 56cm long, 36cm wide, 23cm deep, up to 7kg OR 2 X bags, 48cm long, 34cm wide, 23cm deep, 7kg total	1 X bag, up to 56cm long, 36cm wide, 23cm deep, up to 7kg OR 2 X bags, 48cm long, 34cm wide, 23cm deep, up to 7kg + 7kg each
Air New Zealand	1 x 118cm bag, up to 7kg	2x 118cm bags, with 1 bag up to 10kg and the other bag up to 7kg	1 x 118cm bag, up to 7kg	2x 118cm bags, with 1 bag up to 10kg and the other bag up to 7kg
Etihad	N/A	N/A	1 X bag, up to 56cm long, 36cm wide, 23cm deep, up to 7kg	1 X bags, up to 56 X 36 X 23, up to 12kg total
Emirates	N/A	N/A	1 X bag, up to 55cm by 38cm by 20cm, 7kg	1 X bag, up to 55 X 38 X20, 7kg AND 1 X briefcase, up to 45 X 35 X 20, 7kg
American Airlines	N/A	N/A	1 X bag, 56 x 36 x 23, no weight limit	1 X bag, 56 x 36 x 23, no weight limit

This is far less of an issue if you travel with one airline.

But if you tend to catch international flights with connections, remember that the magic size for your cabin bag is 55 x 35 x 20 cm. Keep to this limit to ensure that your carry-on luggage does not trigger any alarms with any airline in the world.

This is easier said than done – because 20 cm of depth is quite restrictive. It limits you to a pair of shoes, a change of clothes, a laptop and a few other small bits.

In our review of the best carry on luggage, only the Victorinox Spectra Global Carry On meets this requirement (but can also expand by 3 cm).

Note that some airlines take the “cm bag” approach to measure bags, which simply gives you a maximum number that the sum of your bag’s width, depth and length should not exceed.

For example:

Other airlines give you concrete maximum dimensions for each side of your bag.

In almost all cases, you’ll get away with bringing on a laptop sleeve or a small handbag in addition to the above items.

Which Factors To Consider When Choosing A Carry-On Bag?

Road warriors care about privacy, security, weight and style.

1. How Much Payload Do You Need?

The lighter the bag, the higher its payload.

Most airlines impose a 7kg per item limit on carry-on luggage (with Qantas being a rare exception at 10kg), and the weight of the bag itself is a “dead weight” that cuts into this allowance.

If your bag weighs 3.5kg, you’re left with 3.5kg of payload (assuming you’re not flying with Qantas).

The relationship between the carry-on bag’s weight and payload is mediated by its build quality.

But if the maximum payload is what you need, you’ll need to sacrifice the durability of a hardshell by opting for a soft-sided suitcase.

Some of these are extremely well-built and therefore offer very modest payload gains.

For example, the Herschel Highland, tipping the scales at 2.8kg, weighs as much as some hardshells in this review.

But the Herschell is an outlier.

2. Hardshell Or Softside?

Most people will make this decision based on aesthetics.

While looks are very important – especially in the context of business travel – you’re better off prioritising payload (see above).

There’s very little benefit in buying a good-looking bag that matches your image but can’t support you on a business trip by carrying your essential gear.

3. How Long Is The Warranty?

Carry-on luggage is a very competitive space. As a result, manufacturers offer very generous warranties that typically extend past 5 years.

Realistically speaking, you’ll be replacing your carry-on due to wear and tear long before the warranty runs out.

4. What Size Limits Do I Need To Abide By?

I’ve already covered carry-on luggage sizes in detail, in the section above. The easiest option is to fly with one airline and purchase a carry-on bag that fits within its limits.

If that option does not work for you, I suggest you buy an expandable carry-on bag that fits under the limit of the airline with the most restrictive limits when it’s not expanded.

 Steven