Best Softside Carry-On Luggage of 2026

Mary Hopper Avatar
Mary Hopper
Last Updated: Jan 22, 2026

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Softside carry-on luggage is a great choice for travelers who want a lightweight and flexible option for their carry-on needs. Made from durable and water-resistant materials, these bags are designed to withstand the wear and tear of frequent travel. They often feature multiple pockets and compartments, making it easy to organize and access your belongings on the go. Softside carry-on luggage also comes in a variety of sizes and styles, so you can find the perfect fit for your travel needs and personal style. Whether you're a frequent business traveler or a weekend adventurer, softside carry-on luggage is a smart and practical choice.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

LOVEVOOK 22" Softside Carry-On Luggage Cover #TOP 1
LOVEVOOK 22" Softside Carry-On Luggage
ftb score rating icon 9.8
U.S. Traveler 20" Green Carry-On Cover #TOP 2
U.S. Traveler 20" Green Carry-On
ftb score rating icon 9.7
SwissGear Sion 21-Inch Carry-On Luggage Cover #TOP 3
SwissGear Sion 21-Inch Carry-On Luggage
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Softside Carry-On Luggage

#TOP 1

LOVEVOOK 22" Softside Carry-On Luggage

Black
22 inch_Carry on
LOVEVOOK 22" Softside Carry-On Luggage Cover
LOVEVOOK Carry On Luggage 22x14x9 Airline Approved, 22 Inch Softside Suitcases with Spinner Wheels, Lightweight Carry-on Suitcase with TSA Lock for Women Men, Large Luggage for Travel Business Trip

The LOVEVOOK Carry-On Luggage is designed to make your travel smooth and hassle-free. Its compact size fits most airline overhead bins, so you won’t have to worry about checked baggage. The durable, water- and scratch-resistant fabric keeps your belongings safe, while the 360-degree spinner wheels let you glide through airports quietly and with ease. Inside, you’ll find plenty of space and smart compartments, including a waterproof pocket for wet items and multiple sections to keep everything organized. Plus, the front laptop compartment offers quick access and protection for your 15.6-inch laptop, making it perfect for business trips or working on the go.

What We Like
Spacious main compartment
Smooth, durable wheels
Lightweight and easy to roll
Good pocket organization
Maximized carry-on size
What We Don't Like
No expandable option
Front pockets reduce clothing space

U.S. Traveler 20" Green Carry-On

US5600E20
Green
U.S. Traveler 20" Green Carry-On Cover
U.S. Traveler Rio Lightweight Softside Rolling Carry-on Suitcase, 2-Wheel Single, Green

The U.S. Traveler Carry-On is designed for travelers who appreciate both style and functionality. With its high-quality polyester construction, this suitcase looks elegant while being durable. You will love the retractable push-button handle, which makes navigating through the airport effortless. The piggy-bag strap is a convenient feature that allows you to carry your tote bag hands-free, simplifying your travel experience. Inside, the fully lined compartment includes tie-down straps and a mesh zipper pocket, providing organized storage for your belongings. This suitcase combines luxury with practicality, making it an excellent choice for your next journey.

What We Like
Durable fabric and zippers
Lightweight design
Fits airline carry-on standards
Variety of color options
Expandable packing capacity
What We Don't Like
Minor balance issue when expanded
Initial chemical smell
#TOP 3

SwissGear Sion 21-Inch Carry-On Luggage

6283646161
Evergreen
Carry-On 21-Inch
SwissGear Sion 21-Inch Carry-On Luggage Cover
SwissGear Sion Softside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels, Evergreen Carry-On 21-Inch

The SwissGear Sion Carry-On is designed to make your travel experience smoother. Its 360-degree spinner wheels and retractable handle let you navigate busy airports and tight airplane aisles with ease. You’ll appreciate the multiple front pockets, which include a built-in ID tag, helping you stay organized and easily identify your bag. The expandable design offers extra packing space when you need it, while the durable polyester material protects your belongings from scuffs and wear. Inside, adjustable tie-down straps keep your clothes secure, and the fully lined interior adds a touch of quality. This luggage also features several compartments, including a removable wet bag and mesh pockets, to keep your items neatly arranged.

What We Like
Durable construction
Spacious interior
Sturdy wheels
Lightweight and easy handling
Attractive color options
What We Don't Like
Wheels may wear over time
Lighter colors show dirt
#TOP 4

LOVEVOOK 20 Inch Carry On Luggage

20 inch_Carry on
LOVEVOOK 20 Inch Carry On Luggage Cover
LOVEVOOK Carry On Luggage 22x14x9 Airline Approved, 20 Inch Softside Suitcases with Wheels, Lightweight Spinner Carry on Suitcase with TSA Lock, Water-Resistant Large Capacity Luggage for Travel

The LOVEVOOK Carry On is crafted to enhance your travel experience with its thoughtful organization and accessibility. With three front compartments, you can easily store essentials like boarding passes and a laptop, ensuring you have quick access when needed. The spacious interior features a waterproof wet bag, perfect for keeping wet clothes separate from your other belongings. Additionally, the luggage meets airline size requirements, fitting comfortably in overhead bins. Made from durable, water-resistant materials, this suitcase glides smoothly on 360° spinner wheels, making it easy to maneuver even when fully packed.

What We Like
Lightweight and sturdy design
Effortless rolling spinner wheels
Ample organizational pockets
Fits overhead bin easily
Stylish appearance
What We Don't Like
Lock malfunction in rare cases
Flashy zipper pulls
#TOP 5

LOVEVOOK 22-Inch Carry-On Luggage with Wrinkle-Free Garment Holder

Black-beige-brown
LOVEVOOK 22-Inch Carry-On Luggage with Wrinkle-Free Garment Holder Cover
LOVEVOOK Carry on Luggage 22x14x9 Airline Approved, 22 Inch Large Rolling Suitcase, Spinner Wheels & TSA Lock, 49L Softside Lightweight Underseat Carryon Luggage for Women Men Travel

The LOVEVOOK 22" Carry-On is designed to make your travel hassle-free. It features a built-in garment holder that keeps your suits and dresses wrinkle-free, perfect for business trips or special events. You’ll appreciate the well-organized interior with padded laptop compartments and multiple pockets that keep your essentials like electronics, documents, and toiletries within easy reach. The suitcase glides smoothly on 360° spinner wheels, making airport navigation effortless. Plus, its TSA-approved lock provides security while complying with airport regulations. This carry-on meets airline size limits, so you can avoid checked bag fees and easily fit it in overhead bins or under the seat.

What We Like
Spacious interior capacity
Multiple compartments
Smooth rolling wheels
Wrinkle-free garment section
Sleek and stylish design
What We Don't Like
Slightly heavier than expected
Size may exceed airline limits
#TOP 6

LOVEVOOK 22-Inch Softside Carry-On Luggage

Black
22 inch_Carry on
LOVEVOOK 22-Inch Softside Carry-On Luggage Cover
Carry On Luggage 22x14x9 Airline Approved, 22-Inch Suitcases with Spinner Wheels, Softside Carry-on Luggage with TSA Lock for Men Women Business Trip, Lightweight Large Capacity Luggage for Travel

The LOVEVOOK 22" Carry-On is designed to fit most airline cabin size limits, making it perfect for hassle-free travel. Weighing just 7.6 pounds, it’s lightweight enough for easy handling. Its durable polyester material is water and scratch-resistant, so it can handle the bumps of travel while staying looking good. The 360-degree spinner wheels roll smoothly and quietly, helping you move effortlessly through busy airports. Plus, the front laptop compartment lets you quickly access your 15.6-inch laptop or tablet, ideal for business trips. With included storage bags and a wet compartment, you can stay organized and keep your belongings protected on any trip.

What We Like
Lightweight and sturdy build
Spinner wheels for easy maneuvering
Fits all airline carry-on requirements
Multiple handy compartments
TSA-approved lock included
What We Don't Like
Limited interior pockets
Slightly higher price for some colors
#TOP 7

LOVEVOOK 20 Inch Carry On Luggage Set

LK4308-P2L-N
20 Inch-4Pcs
LOVEVOOK 20 Inch Carry On Luggage Set Cover
LOVEVOOK 4 Pcs Carry On Luggage 22x14x9 Airline Approved, 20 Inch Carry On Suitcases with Wheels, Softside Rolling Suitcase for Women Men, with TSA Lock Weekender Travel Luggage

The LOVEVOOK Carry On Luggage is designed to make your travels easier and more organized. Its size fits most airline overhead bins, so you won't worry about gate-checking your bag. With multiple exterior pockets, including one for a water bottle, you can quickly access your essentials during busy airport moments. The suitcase comes with extra storage bags and a special wet compartment, helping you keep your belongings neat and separated. Built tough, it has passed several durability tests, ensuring it can handle rough handling and different weather conditions. This luggage is a reliable travel companion for both short trips and longer journeys.

What We Like
Perfect carry-on size
Ample organization pockets
Sturdy wheels and handles
Attractive, classy appearance
Excellent value for money
What We Don't Like
Minor durability concern for handle/wheels
#TOP 8

LOVEVOOK 20-Inch Carry-On Luggage

Black/White/Brown
20 inch
LOVEVOOK 20-Inch Carry-On Luggage Cover
LOVEVOOK Carry On Luggage 22x14x9 Airline Approved,20 Inch Carry-on Suitcase for Women,Softside Suitcases with Wheels,Rolling Checked Luggage with TSA Lock,Lightweight Travel

The LOVEVOOK Carry-On Suitcase is designed to make your travels easier and more organized. It fits most airline overhead compartments, weighing just 6.8 pounds, so you can breeze through airports without checking your bag. The stylish front quilted compartment offers quick access to essentials like your laptop and boarding passes, saving you time at security checkpoints. With a spacious 45-liter main compartment, you can pack for trips lasting up to a week, and the dedicated dry and wet separation keeps your belongings neat and fresh. Plus, the durable, water-resistant fabric and TSA-approved lock provide security and protection wherever you go.

What We Like
Stylish design
Spacious interior
Smooth-rolling wheels
High durability
Great value
What We Don't Like
Limited internal pockets
No expansion feature

KROSER 20-Inch Expandable Carry-On Luggage

Black-20
20 inch
KROSER 20-Inch Expandable Carry-On Luggage Cover
KROSER Softside Expandable Carry On Luggage with Front Business Pockets,20 Inch Suitcases with Spinner Wheels & Built-in TSA Lock, Durable Suitcase Rolling Luggage with USB Port, Black

The KROSER Carry-On Luggage is designed to fit in most airline overhead compartments, making it an ideal travel companion. With dimensions that accommodate a 16-inch laptop and an 11-inch iPad, you can easily store your essentials. The durable spinner wheels ensure smooth movement on various surfaces, while the TSA-approved lock provides added security for your belongings. Additionally, the built-in USB port allows you to charge your devices on the go, enhancing your travel convenience. This luggage combines practicality with style, ensuring a hassle-free travel experience.

What We Like
Lightweight and easy to roll
Sturdy construction
Spacious interior
Convenient outside pockets
USB charger port
What We Don't Like
Tight inside pockets
#TOP 10

Samsonite Uplift 20-Inch Carry-On

152024-1041
Black
Carry-On
Samsonite Uplift 20-Inch Carry-On Cover
Samsonite UpLIFT Lightweight Softside Carry-On Luggage with Spinner Wheels - Expandable - Airline-Approved, Polyester Soft Suitcase for Ultra Light Travel - Black

The Samsonite Uplift Carry-On is designed for travelers who value convenience and functionality. Its lightweight construction, made from recycled materials, makes it easy to carry without weighing you down. You’ll appreciate the adjustable handle that customizes to your height, enhancing comfort as you navigate through busy airports. The mesh access pocket provides quick retrieval of essentials, while the compression straps maximize your packing efficiency. Additionally, the included wet pouch keeps your liquids organized and separate from your clothing, ensuring peace of mind during your travels.

What We Like
Lightweight design
Easy maneuverability
Spacious interior
Durable build quality
Multiple storage pockets
What We Don't Like
Sizing inconsistency
Finicky handle button
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the pros and cons of soft side luggage?

Soft side luggage has its pros and cons. On the positive side, it is more likely to recover from rigorous handling compared to hard side luggage. However, it is more prone to scratches and stains, can be harder to clean, and may offer less protection for valuables if the bag is thrown or pushed around during transit.

2. Does softside luggage have TSA locks?

Softside luggage may come with TSA locks, but it depends on the specific product. Some softside luggage sets may include TSA locks for added security during travel.

3. Can you take soft luggage on a plane?

Yes, you can take soft luggage on a plane. There are no specific guidelines or restrictions regarding the choice between soft-side or hard-side luggage. It is entirely up to you whether you prefer to carry soft-sided luggage for your journey.

4. What size is a soft carry-on?

The size of a soft carry-on luggage can vary. Soft-sided garment bags up to 51 inches (length + width + height) can typically be taken as a carry-on item. However, it is always recommended to check the specific size requirements of the airline you are traveling with.

5. Do airlines prefer hard or soft luggage?

Airlines do not have a preference when it comes to luggage. Whether you choose hard-sided or soft-sided luggage is entirely your choice and depends on your personal preferences and needs.

6. How can I secure my luggage without a TSA lock?

If you don't have a TSA lock, you can use zip ties to secure your luggage. According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), zip ties can be used to ensure that your luggage remains closed during travel. If the TSA needs to inspect your luggage, they have the authority to snip open the zip ties.

7. What is the most strict carry-on size?

The most strict carry-on size is typically limited to 22 inches long, 14 inches wide, and 9 inches high, including wheels and handles. The total of these three measurements should not exceed 45 inches. However, it is important to note that specific size restrictions may vary among different airlines, so it is advisable to check the requirements of the airline you are traveling with.

8. What is the smallest carry-on luggage size?

The smallest carry-on luggage size that meets the size restrictions of major airlines within the United States is typically smaller than 22 x 14 x 9 inches (45 linear inches), including handles and wheels. However, it is recommended to check the size restrictions of the specific airline you are flying with, as requirements may vary.

Editor's Notes

During our softside carry-on luggage research, we found 48 softside carry-on luggage products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 248,465 customer reviews through our big data system to write the softside carry-on luggage list. We found that most customers choose softside carry-on luggage with an average price of $92.33.

The softside carry-on luggage are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of softside carry-on luggage, including LOVEVOOK, U.S. Traveler, SwissGear, KROSER, Samsonite. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 723 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Mary Hopper Avatar

Mary Hopper is an Italian fashion designer with 10 years of extensive working experience in the fashion industry. She can design clothing and fashion accessories, such as handbags, backpacks, shoes, and jewelry. She is also a professionally trained content writer specializing in managing various fashion and beauty blogs.

Softside Carry-On Luggage Comparison Table

#TOP1
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#TOP5
#TOP6
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#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand LOVEVOOK U.S. Traveler SwissGear LOVEVOOK LOVEVOOK LOVEVOOK LOVEVOOK LOVEVOOK KROSER Samsonite
Item Weight 6.9 pounds 6.6 pounds 8 pounds 1 pounds 1 pounds 1 pounds 6.8 pounds 1 pounds 6.16 pounds 5.7 pounds
Department Unisex Adult Unisex unisex-adult Women Women Unisex Adult womens Women Unisex Adult Unisex
Capacity - 28 Liters 45 Liters 45 Liters 49 Liters 50 Liters - 45 Liters 36 Liters -
Capacity Total - 28 Liters 55 Liters 45 Liters 49 Liters 50 Liters - - 36 Liters -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.8
ftb score rating icon 8.6
ftb score rating icon 8.4
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