Best carry-on travel bags

From business travel to impromptu weekend getaways, it’s always nice when you feel like your luggage is working with you, not against you. Carry-on bags in particular usually an afterthought can be especially cumbersome.
But your carry-on is more than just a reservoir to catch overflow from your checked luggage.
With surprisingly efficient storage and extras like built-in device chargers and Find-my-phone-style tracking, the right bag can make short trips a breeze, or even save you from checking in baggage in the first place on longer longer hauls, eliminating annoying baggage fees and time wasted standing at the carousel. Streamline your next trip with one of these stylish, built-to-last options.
Most of them are not yet in our shopping malls.

The multipurpose backpack
With minimal lugging required, a backpack is one of the best travel bags when your itinerary includes multiple connections.
This business-casual option with utilitarian style can be worn on your back or carried by the handles like a standard weekender.

The smart suitcase
Even more impressive than the exterior of this sleek pull-along is the smartphone app that comes with it. A proximity sensor built into the bag means you will always know where it is; and with a handle that doubles as a scale, you will avoid surprise overweight fees if you decide to check it.
You will also find a built-in battery and two USB ports on the handle to charge your phone (up to four times) on the go.

the classic weekender
This reimagined carryall houses a handful of details designed to make your trip that little bit more comfortable. In addition to tastefully classic styling inside and out, we especially like the adjustable leather strap and handles—something you don’t see very often—and built-in umbrella holder on the (waterproof) exterior of the bag.

The timeless rucksack
It might be a little pricey, but this backpack is an investment piece, complete with timeless style, rugged durability, and weatherproof construction designed to go the distance.
Whether you are travelling in a suit, a T-shirt, and boots, the suede exterior will complement and add interest to your look. Cue the compliments.

The light heavyweight
Do not be fooled by the no-frills design: This streamlined carry-on suitcase anticipates your most common travel needs with 360-degree wheels that make it easy to manoeuvre, exterior USB charging ports to keep your tech in the green, and a removable, washable laundry bag. The best part: It weighs in at an incredibly light 3.1kg.

The wheelie duffel
Traditional, boxy pull-along bags do not exactly scream comfort. This one from Herschel looks and feels like a well-worn duffel bag, until you pull out the hidden retractable trolley handle and put its stealthy wheels to work.
If you like the look of a duffel and the function of a pull-along, you won’t find a more stylish option than this.