Away The Bigger Carry-On

It ranks #2 of 13 on our carry-on luggage tier list, in A tier. That placement draws on 10 independent outlets.

Travellers who want a hard shell and the most cabin space they can get. It is the A tier runner-up on our carry-on luggage board, with a tough polycarbonate shell that reviewers say looks and feels as durable as soft-sided bags, plus a spacious interior. If you would rather have a bag with a lifetime warranty and easy repairs, the Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside in S tier is the better long-term buy.

Reviewers rate the shell as tough and the bag as durable in feel, but the warranty is two years, far shorter than the lifetime cover on the Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside. Expect the shell to pick up scuffs and the wheels to be the first wear point. For occasional flying it should last many years. For weekly travel the shorter warranty is the risk to weigh.

It is built to the larger end of the cabin-size range, which is what the name means. It fits the overhead bins of most major airlines, but budget carriers and some international airlines set smaller limits, and a rigid shell cannot squeeze the way a soft bag can. Check your carrier's published dimensions before buying if you fly on strict airlines.

Buy the Away The Bigger Carry-On on its own. The Away Together Set (two-bag bundle) sits in F tier because reviewers found the bundle costs more per bag than buying separately, adds minimal extra space and leaves you with unnecessary bulk. Add a checked bag later only if you need one.

Wipe the polycarbonate shell with a damp cloth and mild soap, and use a magic eraser sponge on scuffs. Clear grit from the wheels after each trip. Do not use solvents on the shell, which can cloud or weaken polycarbonate. Store it dry and unzipped so the lining does not trap smells.