Carry All Weekender bag, $295, July
This weekender bag from July is an ideal pick for business trips as it features a minimalist design with a padded laptop sleeve.
Key features:
- Weight: 1kg
- Pass-through band for easy attachment to suitcase
- QuickPass hidden pocket with magnetic closure
- Internal dividers and zipped pockets for documents and small tablets
- Internal key hook
- 16" laptop padded sleeve compartment
- Detachable dual adjustment shoulder strap
- Gunmetal external D-rings for other attachments
- 5-year warranty and 100-day returns
Monsac Glide Plus 55cm hard side black suitcase, $119.40 (usually $199), Myer
Marrying style with durability, this Monsac suitcase is a smooth companion across the airport floors.
Key features:
- Weight: 2.6kg
- TSA locks
- 8 wheel spinners
- Multiple internal organisers
- Telescopic handles
- PC film outer shell
Samsonite C-Lite 55cm suitcase, $699, Strandbags
This top-notch, made in Europe carry-on suitcase ensures a smooth travel experience, offering double wheels and an elongated double pull handle.
Key features:
- Weight: 1.9kg
- Ultra-strong hard shell
- 8 spinner wheels
- Self repairing zippers
- 10-year warranty
Globite Voyager carry-on underseat suitcase, $139.95, The Iconic
Available in six colourways, the Voyager carry-on from Aussie heritage brand Globite includes a monogrammable badge which makes a sweet touch for a farewell gift.
Key features:
- Weight: 2.6kg
- ABS and polycarbonate materials
- Antibacterial and water-resistant lining
- YKK zippers
- Hinimoto wheels
- TSA lock
- 5-year warranty
Wanderlite hard case shell lightweight carry-on, $42.95, Kogan
This affordable lightweight carry-on suitcase by Wanderlite features a lightweight design for easy breezy jet-setting.
Key features:
- Weight: 2.5kg
- 360 dual wheels spinner
- Secure lock code
- Built-in retractable trolley system
- Aluminium pull rod
Fila lightweight carry-on rolling duffel bag, $128.70, Amazon
If suitcases aren't your style, this rolling duffel brings a cool and casual vibe to the overhead luggage compartment.
Key features:
- Weight: 2.1kg
- Spacious main compartment
- 4 side pockets and bungee cord tie down the centre
- Comfort padded top handle
- In-line skate wheel system
What is the size of a lightweight carry-on bag?
The general standard of a lightweight carry-on bag in Australia measures around 58 x 36 x 23cm, with the empty bag weighing between 1kg and 2.9kg. Be sure to look up the specific airline's guidelines before your flight; however, most Aussie airlines have a 7kg carry-on luggage limit.
Is hard or soft luggage better for carry-on?
Ultimately, the best type of luggage for carry-on depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you are concerned about protecting your belongings, hard luggage is a good choice as it's usually more water-resistant and less likely to be damaged if being squished in the overhead compartment. If you're looking for an oftentimes more lightweight and easier-to-store option, soft luggage might be the way to go.
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Don't let your holiday be ruined by a nicked wallet, invest in a crossbody bag