The best carry-on luggage isn’t just a bag to hold your gear, it’s a massive part of mastering the art of travel. A carrier from a luxury brand will just cause frustration if it fails to fit easily into an overhead bin, whereas that trendy tote you saw on Instagram may look fantastic until the zipper breaks two months into use.
Then there’s lifestyle considerations. Are you a frequent business traveller? A suitcase with wheels is probably the job when tearing through Terminal 1 in Dublin airport.
Adventurous travellers who love exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations, may want to invest in a durable backpack or duffle. These trusty companions should be able to squeeze into the tightest spaces, whether it’s the wing of a small propeller plane or the compact cargo holds of boats. On the other hand, if you’re planning a weekend getaway by car or train, opting for something easy to sling over your shoulder is the smartest move.
Here we round up five of the best options for all style of travellers, starting with a nifty canvas tote from Dunnes Stores.
The Soft Style: This inexpensive bag comes in plain black or leopard print and features a zippered main compartment, three slip pockets (one interior, two exterior), and two zippered pockets (one interior, one exterior). It also has carry handles and a contrast zipper pull. Dunnes Stores | Black Large Tote Bag
The Easy Backpack: Jansport backpacks have been around for a long time and for good reason. They are durable, full of useful features. They have padded shoulder straps and back panels let you tote your bag from point A to any point B in comfort. Some of the backpacks come with a laptop sleeve to keep your technology safe and a water pouch to stay hydrated. Shop Popular Backpacks and Best Sellers Bags | JanSport
Sustainable Chic: Lightweight, stylish, and seriously roomy our Grand Tour Duffle does both long weekends and far-flung trips beautifully. Made of our durable, spill-proof EcoCraft Canvas®, it looks sharp and is endlessly functional. Grand Tour Duffle (tourparavel.com)
The Hard Case: Marks and Spencer has a slick hard shell suitcase from their Amalfi range. Packing straps and a zip-around divider keep belongings organised, while two internal pockets stow smaller items. Four double-wheels and a retractable pull handle ensure your case is easy to transport. Side grab handles and a PU grip top help with loading onto trolleys and conveyors. The reinforced zip has anti-burst technology and you can add your own padlock to the pullers for extra security. Amalfi 4 Wheel Hard Shell Cabin Suitcase | M&S Collection | M&S (marksandspencer.com)
Classic Weekender: This one is a little more expensive but it’s a classic and very elegant. The Longchamps Le Pliage Xtra travel bag features a nap button, zip closure, detachable and adjustable shoulder strap and one inside flat pocket. Le Pliage Xtra S Travel bag Black – Leather | Longchamp IE