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What Features Do The Best Carry-on Bags Have? A Buying Guide

Carry-on bags are designed for air travel as they can be stowed in the plane’s overhead compartment or beneath the seat in front of you. The beauty of this luggage is that you can save on baggage fees, and you don’t have to worry about losing your luggage or waiting a long time for it at the baggage carousel. 

Getting the right carry-on is vital for travelers who love convenience when traveling. So, if you’re new to this type of luggage, here are the features of the best carry-on bags.

  • Accessible Compartments

A travel bag with accessible compartments makes it easier to stay organized and retrieve items. A front panel that completely opens on all three sides offers greater convenience. Smaller external compartments aside from the main one will allow quick retrieval of essential items. 

Internal pockets are also ideal as they allow you to segregate your items so you can find them easily. 

1. Von Baer Voyager Leather Carry-On Bag

 

Voyager Leather Carry-On Bag from Von Baer
Voyager Leather Carry-On Bag from Von Baer

The Voyager leather carry-on bag from Vonbaer.com is an excellent rolling carry-on bag, with multiple external compartments for travel documents, as well as a large main compartment for all your essentials. It’s made from full grain Italian leather, which is certified for authenticity with a Pelle Conciata al Vegetale in Toscana trademark certificate. It has a dedicated 16-inch laptop compartment too. Purchase at Von Baer.

2. Travel Backpack

A backpack is another suitable choice for a carry-on bag. You can put your organizational skills to good use with its many compartments. The main compartment is accessible through the top, front, and side openings. 

There are also external and internal pockets. Side pockets are perfect for your water bottle. Most come with a padded sleeve for your laptop or tablet to protect it from damage.

  • Correct Dimensions

Airlines have specific dimensions that a carry-on bag shouldn’t exceed. These dimensions are strictly enforced as there’s limited overhead bin space. 

For most airlines, your carry-on should not be bigger than 22″ x 14″ x 9″, or you’ll have to check it in. This includes the wheels, external pockets, or anything outside the packing compartment.

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  • Expandability

If you aren’t a fan of carrying two separate bags when traveling, an expandable feature will come in handy. This feature allows you to accommodate additional items. 

Although expandability is a great feature, keep in mind that it might come at a cost. The extra space adds expense and weight to a bag and might lead to overpacking.

  • Interlocking Zippers

Ensuring your luggage is secure is important when going on a vacation. To prevent theft, consider getting a bag with interlocking zippers that can be secured with a durable lock such as the traditional or combination type. You can also use cable ties for this purpose.  

To be assured of quality, consider getting a bag with self-repairing chain zippers. Even if the zipper comes apart after being closed, just unzip and rezip it, and it works like new.

  • Sufficient Storage Capacity

Before getting a carry-on bag, remember that the design elements can affect the storage capacity. For instance, if your bag has a rectangular shape with slightly tapered corners, you’ll get the most packing space available. 

However, bags with curves significantly reduce the storage capacity. As for rolling bags, handles and wheels can take up considerable space.

  • Durability

Buying the best carry-on bags can be a considerable expense. Hence, it needs to be durable and not fall apart after a few uses. Aside from being water-resistant, it should withstand tears and abrasions. 

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