The July Carry-On Pro SnapSleeve is the most laptop-friendly carry-on bag we’ve tested. It features a a unique magnetically secured removable storage sleeve and built-in battery pack, making it easy to get work done on the road without the hassle of schlepping more than one bag through busy airports and in and out of cabs. With the good looks and quality we expect from July, whether you’re a frequent traveler who needs access to a computer for entertainment or an all-business road warrior who prefers to get their work done while in the air, look no further than this innovative and stylish option — it’s one of the best hard-shell carry-ons we’ve tested,
The removable laptop sleeve gives you the convenience of a second laptop bag with the ease of a single spinner. It's a great bag for road warriors who need to get stuff done.
Easy laptop access while flying typically requires a separate backpack or tote bag — not exactly ideal for those who prefer the simplicity of traveling with a single item. While some cases offer front-mounted laptop storage, the July Carry-On Pro SnapSleeve adds another layer of convenience by designing this sleeve to be completely removable. This allows you to keep your protected laptop and accessories with you at your seat, while stowing the bag itself in the overhead bin. The sleeve is recessed into the side of the case when mounted, meaning the whole package should remain within airline size limits (though you should always make sure to check on baggage size requirements for your specific flight).
This “SnapSleeve” is secured with four magnetic latches that lock securely into place, so you won’t need to worry about it accidentally coming off when rolling around (the company rates the latches as supporting 60 pounds each, and believe me, we tried our best to dislodge them during testing without success). This sleeve has space to fit a 16-inch Macbook Pro, three interior pockets to hold chargers and cables, plus a zippered exterior pocket for quick access items like boarding passes, wallet or snacks. This sleeve took a minute or two to get the hang of — you just need to orient the connections together properly — but once you understand the concept, it’s pretty straightforward.
The Ejectable Battery, hidden behind a latch under the handle, makes the July Carry-On Pro SnapSleeve even more tech-friendly. It’s 37 Watt-hour (Wh) capacity isn’t huge, and is best suited for charging phones and tablets. Charging the aforementioned 16-inch Macbook Pro requires just under 100Wh, so while you could keep running in a pinch, you’ll still want a bigger pack (remember, the limit for airplane use is 100 Wh) if you need to work off the grid. This battery features four ports; two USB-A ports for dual-device charging, a micro-USB port, and a USB-C port.
While the detachable sleeve is the July Carry-On Pro SnapSleeve’s most distinctive feature, we were also impressed with its focus on overall durability, especially the laptop sleeve. At first glance, this soft fabric sleeve appears to be a liability, but our testing showed it to be extremely rugged. Made of 1000D polyester, this densely woven fabric is not only extremely resiliant, it’s also practically stain-proof. We tossed it down the sidewalk and scuffed it along pavement during testing to no effect, and our coffee spill test simply beaded off when poured. Even when we pooled coffee on the surface and rubbed it into the fabric with our fingers, it left no stain. This is especially impressive considering our sample SnapSleeve’s light clay color — we’ve seen similarly textured luggage of this hue get dull and dingy very quickly. Obviously this fabric sleeve won’t protect your computer against a direct impact like a hard-sided version would, so keep that in mind if you plan on gate-checking.
This durability extends to the thick polycarbonate shell, which absorbs punishment with minimal cosmetic damage. While our abrasion and drop tests resulted in inevitable scratches and scuffs, they blended in surprisingly well with the eggshell texture, and were hard to make out from just a few feet away.
The July Carry-On Pro is also a dream to maneuver and roll around. The wide, sturdy handle has a comfortable rubber grip, and all four wheels have a smooth, quiet feel to them, especially when gliding over smooth surfaces. These wheels are relatively narrow though, so they’re not great on significantly rough or cracked sidewalks (but such terrain is challenging for any rolling case).
Inside, you’re getting all the storage and organizational features found on most carry-ons. One side can be zippered completely closed, while the other uses a Y-shaped compression strap to keep your clothes in place, and create extra space.
The washable nylon dirty laundry bag is also a nice perk, and can be stored away in its own zippered pouch until you need it. Although the exterior zippers are nice and big, the inside zippers were a little smaller than we would have liked.
Honestly, there isn’t much to dislike about the July Carry On Pro. The interior zippers can be a little challenging to grab onto, but that’s venturing into nitpicking territory. The cavity for the detachable sleeve monopolizes some of the interior space, but that’s to be expected for any model with a front pocket. If you want a bag that does everything this one does — and there aren’t many others — it’s absolutely worth a look.
 Best hard-shell carry on for business travel
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 Best overall hard-shell carry on luggage
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 A luxurious hard-shell runner-up choice
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 The most Instagrammable hard-shell carry-on luggage
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 Best affordable hard-shell carry-on luggage
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| What we loved |
The detachable exterior sleeve makes it extremely convenient for accessing and using your laptop, super-durable and stain-resistant 1000D polyester, eggshell texture of polycarbonate shell conceals scuffs and scratches, extremely comfortable handle and smooth wheels are easy to maneuver and roll around. |
Made with a strong but lightweight 100% polycarbonate outer shell, smooth YKK zippers, an aluminum telescopic handle and the Rolls-Royce of luggage wheels: four double Hinomoto spinners, which in our testing glided seamlessly on pavement, hardwood and grass alike. |
Classic and glamorous design with a luxurious-feeling. Comfortable handles, easy break system and scuff-proof. |
Gorgeous bag with a sleek, monochromatic exterior, a squishy cushioned grip that made for an ultra comfortable carry and exceedingly lightweight. |
Affordable and sturdy with a fully polycarbonate shell and lots of internal space. |
| What we didn't like |
Loses some interior space due to the outside sleeve, interior zippers are a little small. |
Heavier than some other bags we tested. |
Heaviest of our top picks and slightly bulkier than the Away bag. The excess weight could cause trouble when trying to carry this bag onto certain international flights. |
Can surpass size and weight restrictions on some airlines when using the expandable part of the bag. The expandable part of the bag is also made of fabric, which is inherently less durable than the hard shell itself. |
Omni lacks a horizontal side handle, which really comes in handy when lugging a case up and down stairs and when removing it from an overhead bin.The wheels are also single, rather than double, spinners, which are slightly less sturdy and more prone to getting caught in cracks in the sidewalk. |
| What we didn't like |
8.6 lbs, 42-liter capacity, two device charging ports, lifetime warranty |
8.1 lbs, 39.8-liter capacity, two device charging ports, lifetime warranty |
9.3 lbs, 44.9-liter capacity, 10-year warranty |
6 lbs, 46-liter capacity that expands up to 2 inches, 2-year warranty |
6.8 pounds, 41-liter capacity, 10-year warranty |
| Price | $345 | From $275 | $330 | From $195 | From $104 |
The detachable SnapSleeve is a real game-changer for anyone who wants to cut down on the amount of baggage they have to carry, so if you are a road warrior and travel a lot for work with multiple connecting flights and want access to your laptop on the plane, we can’t recommend it enough. That being said, if you’re probably going to be sleeping or watching in-flight movies, or you want to have access to lots of stuff — water bottle, snacks, books, etcetera — a standard soft-shell or hard-shell carry-on along with a separate smaller backpack or bag or might be a better option.
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Between getting tossed in overhead bins and thrown around during the checked bag process, it’s safe to say suitcases are put through the wringer. However, if you have a suitcase you trust, you’re less likely to be worried about it cracking or, dare we say, ending up busted open at the baggage claim. Lucky for you, we found two reliable finds on sale at Nordstrom.
We know luggage can be pricey, which makes Nordstrom’s Anniversary Sale an opportune time to grab a new carry-on like the Tumi 22-Inch Carry-On Expandable Spinner Case while it’s $225 off and the 28-inch checkable version that’s $285 off. Whether you’re interested in grabbing a new carry-on, a checkable suitcase, or both for a cohesive set, be sure to do so before the sale ends on August 6.
Nordstrom
Tumi is Travel + Leisure’s top pick for a splurge-worthy luggage brand, which makes finding it on sale a huge win for your wallet. While testing numerous Tumi suitcases ourselves, we admired the brand’s overall durability after observing virtually no scuffs or scratches after whacking the bags with a bat and how easy they were to maneuver across various surfaces.
Both the Tumi 22-Inch hardshell carry-on and the 28-inch checkable version are sleek, incredibly lightweight, and also expandable, so if you end up picking up one too many souvenirs, you can take advantage of the extra space. Each model features two TSA-approved locks for avoiding the dreaded open suitcase on the carousel nightmare and protective bumpers to ease wear and tear if it gets banged up a bit. To make traveling through the airport a breeze, both have retractable three-height handles and four spinner wheels for smooth transport through the airport.
Nordstrom
Just for further peace of mind, the luggage is put through its paces by the brand — through 30 different tests, to be exact — for quality control and durability. The brand’s Tumi Tracer program is also a bonus for anyone who owns one of its bags. It helps make tracking down lost or stolen bags easier thanks to a unique 20-digit number on each bag.
If you want to invest in luggage with longevity, finally, head over to Nordstrom while the Tumi 22-inch and 28-inch suitcase styles have serious discounts. And hurry, the prices hike back up after August 6.
As summer ramps up in the northern hemisphere, many of us will begin packing suitcases, carry-ons and duffel bags as we prepare to head away on holiday.
Far too many clothes will be packed, of course, followed by sunglasses and swimwear and sandals, last year's suntan lotion and a good book. A sweater or jacket will probably be thrown in too, just in case. Perhaps, some of us will reassess how much luggage we really need to take. Most will not.
But with more new ways to reduce your carbon footprint than ever before – and some destinations toying with banning certain types of luggage outright – stuffing your life in a suitcase may soon be a thing of the past. After all, by packing less, we create fewer carbon emissions, reduce our travel footprint and become more protective of nature.
To highlight how travelling sustainably first starts at home, here are some places that are challenging the long-established idea of packing before you leave – and offering shortcuts to a more streamlined holiday.
The "Any Wear, Anywhere?" stunt has been fashioned so passengers heading to Japan can check-in or carry-on minimal luggage (Credit: Dinodia Photos/Alamy)
Japan
In a daring move towards a more sustainable aviation industry, Japan Airlines recently launched a pilot programme giving overseas travellers the option to rent clothes for their stay in the country in advance – thus eliminating the need to lug and load.
Running until the end of August, the "Any Wear, Anywhere?" stunt has been fashioned so passengers heading to Japan can check-in or carry-on minimal luggage, meaning the airline can better measure the environmental impact of handling less luggage, as well as lower airplane weight. Once travellers arrive in Tokyo, Osaka or Fukuoka, tailored clothes in a range of sizes and styles are delivered to the hotels where visitors are staying.
However, while the concept helps lighten a traveller's load, not everyone is convinced that it's the right approach.
"It's both a nice idea, and a masterclass in deflection – a feel-good way to get us to lower our impacts rather than scrutinise theirs," said Justin Francis, co-founder and CEO of UK-based activist holiday company Responsible Travel. "Much like voluntary carbon offsets, it shifts the burden of responsibility away from airlines onto individuals. Personal accountability is important and innovation is great, but we should take care that it doesn't distract us from the real system changes that are needed: robust regulation and fairer taxes on fuel, for instance."
Resorts and rental companies are emphasising reducing and reusing by renting out hats, gloves, goggles, pants and jackets (Credit: ventdusud/Getty Images)
The Alps
Around the world, skiers are trying to lower their carbon footprints. But while winter sports holidays have long been the domain of excess oversized baggage costs, there is an element of changing perceptions. A new idea is emerging in resorts across France, Switzerland and Austria: leave the gear at home and rent it at the resort.
To counter luggage space – and also reduce the need for travellers to invest in high-value sports equipment – resorts and rental companies are emphasising reducing and reusing by renting out hats, gloves, goggles, pants and jackets – as well as the customary skis, poles, boots, boards and helmets. And for those keen to travel by train or other public transport, it is already a hit, from Verbier in Switzerland to resorts across Austria thanks to nationwide services like SkiGala.
"It's easy to pack light for a winter sports holiday when you know you can collect most of the gear you'll need upon arrival," said Krissy Roe, senior sustainability manager at Hotelplan, a pan-European group of specialist tour operators, including Inghams and Esprit. "Every item manufactured has a carbon footprint, so it's far better that item is well used by multiple customers and can be repaired by people with the skills and tools to give it a longer shelf-life. Cost-wise, it can also be better value to rent in resort, instead of paying for checked bags and oversized luggage on flights."
Dubrovnik has turned the argument into action – now recommending visitors leave their rolling luggage at home (Credit: imageBROKER.com GmbH & Co. KG/Alamy)
Dubrovnik
While Venice was the first destination bold enough to consider banning wheelie suitcases to better preserve the city's overcrowded streets in 2014, Dubrovnik has turned the argument into action – now recommending visitors leave their rolling luggage at home.
Not for the first time in recent years, overtourism has drawn the ire of locals living in the fortified Adriatic city, and the currents that swirl below the surface have led the Dubrovik Tourist Office to take action. Releasing a guidance video and updated advice on appropriate visitor etiquette earlier this month, the city now recommends visitors not disturb the historic cobbled streets by carrying – not dragging – wheeled baggage around.
"Often, travellers with 20-plus kilograms of luggage simply fill up their suitcase as they believe they've paid for it," explained Pippa Ganderton, product director of ATPI Halo, a CO2 measurement, reduction and offset service and provider of sustainable travel solutions. "One potential solution that airlines may consider in the future would be adding more weight categories for hand-luggage and carry-on luggage. By offering smaller options, travellers as well as destinations can win while decreasing flight emissions."
Despite the high price tag, the vibe is always relaxed and unbuttoned, with dressing down (Credit:WLDavies/Getty Images)
East Africa
Safari lodges in national parks across Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda offer a different proposition to most holidays. Despite the high price tag, the vibe is always relaxed and unbuttoned, with dressing down – not dressing up – the appropriate look that informs the whole campfire mood.
But while there is no ban on certain types of luggage, restrictions are commonly in place and there is an expectation for travellers to understand and respect the need to arrive light.
This battle of the baggage means compact, soft-sided bags have long been favoured by the bulk of tour operators and luggage with wheels or, worse still, those with an in-built frame often won't make it past the departures lounge and onto the runway.
"We always advise safari clients to pack light for a number of reasons," said Kathy Boate, CEO of Cartology Travel, a bespoke luxury travel agency. "There aren't only strict weight restrictions on the smaller planes, but many regions use light aircraft where you can't take hard sided suitcases – they just won't fit in the hold. Plus, you just don't need a lot of clothes while on safari anyway. Quality lodges also supply toiletries and towels, sunscreen and insect repellent, helping you cut down on your need to pack at home in the first place."
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As a travel editor who frequently takes off for parts unknown with kids in tow, I’ve been through a lot of luggage — soft-sided, hard-sided, and everything in between. Through them all, one has definitely emerged in recent years as my ride-or-die, go-to luggage piece: the Monos Carry-on Pro Plus. And luckily for all the people in my life I’ve been raving about it to, it just went on sale for a limited time only.
Monos
Since I’m often traveling as a part of a family of five, maximizing space and minimizing the risk of lost checked-in luggage is always top of mind when I start packing for a trip. The Monos Carry-on Pro Plus is slightly larger than its Carry-on counterpart, meaning I can squeeze in an extra outfit or two.
When I first received it, I was worried that it wouldn’t be allowed on some airlines has a carry-on due to its slightly larger 23-inch by 15-inch by 9.5-inch size, but I’ve flown with it both domestically and internationally on various airlines and haven’t had a single issue tossing it into the overhead bin.
One of the standout features of the Carry-on Pro Plus is the super convenient front compartment — something I’ve often missed about my older soft-sided luggage pieces. The compartment has three interior pockets, including a sleeve to fit up to a 16-inch laptop, along with three smaller zippered pockets to stash things you want to be able to easily reach like charger cables or passports.
Monos
To give an idea of its generous interior space, I was able to pack myself for a 4-day trip to Mexico City using only the Carry-on Pro Plus. A few months later, it was the only suitcase I used to pack my 5-year-old for a weeklong cruise to Alaska. This thing has also come in clutch on trips to New York City, long weekends up the coast of Central California, and so much more. I combine it with my favorite space-saving packing cubes, and I’m in business for anywhere I want to go.
The interior comes with a removable zippered “compression pad” which you can use to store flat things like socks, undergarments, or magazines, and I always use it to help squish down whatever’s being packed underneath. This also makes zipping the suitcase up much easier.
Monos
I also love that it’s made of the same aerospace polycarbonate hard shell as all of the other Monos luggage pieces, giving it the same sleek aesthetic the brand is beloved for. The TSA-approved combination lock is an extra measure for peace of mind if you decide to check-in the luggage. The Carry-on Pro Plus also comes with an anti-microbial laundry bag, two shoe bags and leather luggage tag — all of which I use each trip.
As far as storing it in between trips, I also own the Monos Check-in Large suitcase, and the Carry-on Pro Plus nests right inside, taking up no extra space on its own. The luggage is available in 12 different color options, including four limited edition shades, making it tempting to scoop up more than one at a time.
But don’t just take it from me — the Monos Carry-on Plus has earned an impressive 4.8-star rating from happy travelers who praise its great quality, with one Monos shopper saying it’s “the best suitcase I’ve ever seen.”
I think the question people most often have about Monos luggage is: is it worth it? Considering I’ve taken it on over a dozen trips and keep reaching for it over and over again, I’d say for just a bit over $300, I’ve definitely gotten my money’s worth out of my Monos Carry-on Pro Plus (especially when I factor in all the checked luggage fees I’ve avoided), and I’ll be remaining loyal to this brand for years to come.
If you’re looking for something like my Monos Carry-on Pro Plus but a little more affordable, read on for more highly rated, budget-friendly luggage picks at Amazon, starting at just $70.
Amazon
Amazon
Amazon
Amazon
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Rimowa is one of the most popular luggage brands of 2023. But unfortunately, the brand's sleek aluminum design and lifetime guarantee come with a luxury price tag that is out of many people's budgets. If you're coveting the cool metallic design of Rimowa, but aren't ready to shell out for the luxury luggage, consider these top-rated alternatives.
Most of these luggage pieces are also made of aluminum or hybrid materials. Why invest in aluminum luggage? In addition to the sleek and luxurious look of metal, aluminum is less likely to crack compared to polycarbonate luggage, making it a better long-term option.
Keep reading to explore the top Rimowa luggage alternatives.
This high-end, celeb-favorite Rimowa Classic Cabin S suitcase features TSA-approved locks, a height-adjustable flex divider and a telescopic handle. The L (larger) bag measures a little more than 30 inches and weighs 13.2 pounds, while the slightly smaller M (medium) bag measures 27.6 inches and weighs 11.7 pounds. The cabin-sized version measures 21.7 inches and weighs just 9.2 pounds.
Rimowa Classic Cabin S, $1,400
Rimowa Classic Check-In M, $1,700
Rimowa Classic Check-In L, $1,835
Rimowa recently added the Pilot Case to their lineup, perfectly sized and shaped for the traveling professional or commuter at 16.5 inches and 10.8 pounds. A padded inside pocket is designed to safely hold a large, 16-inch laptop.
Rimowa Original Pilot Case, $1,500
If Rimowa's not quite within your luggage budget, or you're just interested in a slightly different style, consider these customer-loved luggage options.
Away's upgraded Aluminum Edition might be a splurge compared to the polycarbonate suitcase, but it serves as a more wallet-friendly alternative to Rimowa.
The aluminum version offers four sizes: two carry-ons and two check-ins in three metal tones: silver, onyx black, and rose gold. Weights range from 10.1 to 16 pounds.
Away Aluminum Edition The Carry-On, $625
Away Aluminum Edition The Bigger Carry-On, $645
Away Aluminum Edition The Medium, $725
Away Aluminum Edition The Large, $745
Monos is a CBS Essentials reader-favorite luggage brand, and the Hybrid collection makes a great alternative to Rimowa luggage. The Monos Hybrid combines the convenience of polycarbonate with the durability of aluminum, resulting in a lightweight but resilient piece of luggage.
Like the traditional poly collection, the hybrid comes in two carry-on and two check bags options in addition to a large trunk and three color options, obsidian, champagne and silver.
Shop the Monos Hybrid collection
The scratch-resistant polycarbonate Silhouette offers an aluminum-like look, with grooving similar to ultra-luxe Rimowa luggage. The roomy, expandable interior offers lots of organizational features, including a suiter system, removable packing cubes that double as a compression panel and a laundry bag. The spinner has custom-engineered wheels and a handle system designed to adjust for precise height.
Samsonite Silhouette 17 28" check-in medium hardside spinner, $350
The Calpak Ambeur collection is quite affordable compared to Rimowa, but still offers a sleek, high-end look. The collection is made with polycarbonate and ABS materials rather than aluminum, yet the silver colorway still offers a similar look to Rimowa's classic aluminum luggage.
The collection is available in mini carry-ons, standard carry-ons, checked bags and more. The polycarbonate bags feature interior dividers with pockets, dual 360-degree spinner wheels, an extending handle and a TSA-approved lock.
Choose from four metallic colors, including the silver colorway.
Shop the Calpak Ambeur collection
Crafted out of aerospace-grade aluminum magnesium alloy, the Gibraltar aluminum carry-on, available in silver and gray, weighs 10 pounds and fits neatly in the overhead bin of an airplane or the trunk of a car. Keyless and zipperless, the sleek suitcase also boasts TSA-approved locks, 360-degree durable spinner wheels and comes with a four-piece organizer bag set.
Level8 Gibraltar full aluminum carry-on, $404 (reduced from $430)
Are the above suitcases not quite right for you? No worries -- your friends at CBS Essentials have compiled a number of luggage roundups designed to help you shop for your next bag or suitcase. Check out our luggage coverage here:
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