When you're tracking down travel deals, mobility is a powerful ally. If the innkeeper is asking too much, you're prepared to depart without discomfort. In these days of long lines and tight security, do you really want to drag heavy, bulging luggage? Techniques for light packing are important, but it always helps to start with the right bag -- and at the right price, of course! Typically, carry-on bags must be no larger than 22 x 14 x 9". The following selections are smaller and will present a serious challenge to your one-bag packing ability. Yet these bags are also chosen for durability and price.
Ricardo Beverly Hills Huntington II 21 Expandable Wheelaboard
Courtesy Ricardo Beverly Hills
This piece comes with a 10-year limited warranty and is carry-on certified at 21" x 14" x 7" with a choice of black or blue exteriors. Packing cases are expandable and fully lined throughout, include a shoe bag and water-resistant packing cubes. Rolling pieces have a new ergonomically designed, rubberized handle grip and inline skate wheels with ball bearings for easy pulling. The cost is $75.
Skyway Contempo 22 Expandable Vertical Carry-On Case
Courtesy Skyway
Although only available in charcoal, the exterior of this 21" x 14" x 8" carry-on certified bag consists of water- and tear-resistant nylon. It is also covered by a 15-year limited warranty. The expandable bag's interior features elastic tie-down straps, removable, hangable toiletry bag, interior mesh accessory pockets and two elastic shoe pockets. Price is $90.
Heys USA X-Case 20 Carry On
Courtesy Heys USA
This certified carry-on (20" x 14" x 9") weighs only 5.3 lbs. and has a full zippered opening. Cost is $100, which is half the original suggested retail price. It also has a single tube push-button telescoping handle system and its exterior has a glossy painted surface. It comes with a five-year limited warranty against defects in material and workmanship. Available in nine colors, including black, red and silver.
Rick Steves' 21-inch Roll-Aboard
Rick Steves' Travel Store sells this wheeled model for $112 USD, down from $140. A similar model without wheels sells for $79. The 21" x 9 x 14" roll-around has an expandable compartment that, if filled, could put you past airline carry-on limits. The main compartment is a generous 2500 cubic inches> It weighs 7 lbs. when empty. The color choices are black, evergreen, merlot, navy blue, or blue spruce.
High Sierra Level 22 Carry-On Expandable Upright
Courtesy High Sierra Sport Company
The Level Series by High Sierra is billed among the toughest luggage systems available. The frames are light but strong, supporting a rugged 1680 denier ballistic nylon shell that's Teflon-coated for stain resistance and easy cleaning. Equipped with molded PVC corner protectors to promote longer wear. Locking telescoping handle, custom riveted grab handles, over-sized skate wheels, adjustable compression straps and superior organization scheme. 22" x 14" x 9" and carry-on approved. Originally $320 (a price that couldn't be recommended), this piece now sells for about $140.
