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After Weeks of Testing, Here’s Our Verdict on the Best Travel Bags of 2024

A woman holds an unfolded laundry hamper in a living room.

Emma Walker
Travel Expert & Product Reviewer
Last Updated Feb 16, 2025

We tested and analyzed the most popular travel bags on the market to bring you a detailed comparison. Whether you’re looking for a stylish, practical, or ultra-durable bag, our recommendations are based on rigorous testing and expert reviews.

Collage of various duffel bags in different settings and colors.

Finding the Perfect Carry-on Bag

Looking for the perfect carry-on bag that combines style, functionality, and value? We've done the research for you, comparing the top options on the market to help you choose the best travel companion for your needs.

Whether you're a frequent business traveler or planning weekend getaways, the right carry-on bag can make all the difference in your travel experience. Our comprehensive comparison evaluates key features including design, quality, storage capacity, comfort, and value for money.

Our Evaluation Criteria

We evaluated each carry-on bag based on:

  • Design & Style: Aesthetic appeal, color options, and overall look

  • Quality & Durability: Materials used, construction quality, and expected lifespan

  • Storage & Organization: Compartments, pockets, and overall capacity

  • Comfort & Ergonomics: Handle design, weight distribution, and carrying comfort

  • Value for Money: Price relative to quality, features, and competitor offerings

Top 5 Carry-on Bags for 2025

1. TravelSmart™

By EMMAFY

$69.97

White and brown duffel bag with clothes and shoes shown in a circular inset.

Our Score

9.8/10

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Global Analyse

The Emmafy Carry-on Bag redefines travel convenience with its innovative design and thoughtful features. Perfect for both business travelers and weekend adventurers, this bag combines premium quality with exceptional value.

PROS :

Lightweight yet exceptionally durable materials

TSA-approved

Smart organization system

Expandable capacity up to 20% more space

Water-resistant exterior protects your belongings

Ergonomic design reduces strain during travel

Premium look at a mid-range price point

Save $75 on luggage fees

Wrinkle-Free organization

Holds min 10 days of outfits

CONS :

Limited stock due to high demand

Available online only

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2. Main Line Duffle

By Paravel

$295

Beige duffel bag with brown leather handles and 'RIV' monogram.

Our Score

8.2/10

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Global Analyse

The Paravel Main Line Duffle offers eco-conscious travelers a stylish option with feminine appeal, but lacks some key functional features that would make it truly versatile for modern travel.

PROS :

Attractive feminine design with elegant detailing

Made from eco-friendly recycled materials

Good medium-level water resistance

Monogramming option available

Luggage sleeve for attaching to roller suitcases

Ergonomic design reduces strain during travel

Premium look

CONS :

No garment section for wrinkle-free packing

Significantly more expensive than Emmafy

Limited organizational features

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3. Garment Duffle

By Briggs & Riley

$379

Black travel duffel bag with handles and a front zipper pocket.

Our Score

8/10

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Global Analyse

The Briggs & Riley Garment Duffle is a high-quality business travel option with excellent garment protection, but its masculine design and high price point limit its appeal to a wider audience.

PROS :

Excellent garment section design for business attire

Premium build quality with high-end materials

Lifetime warranty with strong reputation

Dedicated laptop section

Professional appearance for business travelers

CONS :

Very expensive ($379) for the features offered

Heavy at 4.3 lbs when empty

Strongly masculine aesthetic limits appeal

Bulky design can be awkward to carry

Less suitable for casual travel

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4. Classic Leather Weekender

By Samsonite

$379

Brown leather duffel bag with handles and a front zipper pocket.

Our Score

7.4/10

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Global Analyse

The Samsonite Classic Leather Weekender offers a traditional business aesthetic with genuine leather construction, but fails to deliver modern features that today's travelers expect at its premium price point.

PROS :

Genuine leather construction with classic appeal

Professional business aesthetic

Reputable brand with good customer service

Internal organization pockets

3-year warranty

CONS :

Expensive for limited modern features

No water resistance

Heavier than synthetic alternatives at 3.8 lbs

No garment section for suits or formal wear

Leather requires maintenance and care

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5. McLaren Quantum Duffel

By Tumi

$850

Black duffel bag with textured surface and shoulder strap.

Our Score

7.2/10

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Global Analyse

The Tumi x McLaren Quantum Duffel is a luxury statement piece with exceptional materials, but its astronomical price and focus on brand prestige over practical features make it difficult to justify for most travelers.

PROS :

Premium materials and exceptional build quality

Status symbol with recognizable luxury branding

High water resistance with FXT ballistic nylon

RFID protection for cards and passports

Unique design inspired by automotive engineering

CONS :

Prohibitively expensive at $850

Very heavy at 5.2 lbs when empty

No garment section for business attire

Limited practical organization features

Style may be too flashy for some professional contexts

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Why the Emmafy Carry-on Bag Is Our Top Pick

After extensive comparison and testing, the Emmafy Carry-on Bag emerged as the clear winner in our evaluation. It offers the perfect balance of quality, functionality, and value that outshines even luxury competitors.


What sets the Emmafy apart is its thoughtful design that addresses real traveler needs: smart organization systems, premium materials, and ergonomic comfort—all at a price point that's accessible to more travelers. While luxury options like Tumi may offer prestige, and social media favorites like Paravel provide style, none deliver the complete package that Emmafy does.


For travelers seeking the best carry-on bag experience without overpaying for a brand name, the Emmafy Carry-on Bag is the standout choice in 2024.

GET THE EMMAFY CARRY-ON BAG

A woman holds an unfolded laundry hamper in a living room.

Emma Walker

Travel Expert & Product Reviewer
Last Updated Feb 16, 2025

Emma has tested over 200 travel products and logged more than 500,000 miles in the air. Her recommendations are trusted by frequent travelers worldwide.