When consulting with frequent travelers about their carry-on needs, one requirement consistently topped their list: lightweight durability combined with smart organization. Having tested several, I can say that the Travelpro Maxlite 5 22-Inch Softside Carry-On Luggage Black truly stands out. Its featherweight design—just 5.4 lbs—makes zipping through airports effortless, while the stain-resistant polyester and water-repellent coating promise long-lasting durability, even in rough conditions. The expandable feature adds up to 2 inches of space, ideal for long trips, and the organized interior with multiple pockets makes packing a breeze. The smooth inline skate wheels and ergonomic handle also let you glide with ease, even when loaded.
Compared to others, like the bulkier Travelpro Crew Classic or the slightly heavier Travelpro Bold, the Maxlite 5 offers a perfect balance of weight, durability, and expandability. It’s tested to handle daily travel wear while supporting your packing needs comfortably. Trust me, this is a reliable companion for both short getaways and longer trips, and I confidently recommend it based on real-world testing and its standout features.
Top Recommendation: Travelpro Maxlite 5 22-Inch Softside Carry-On Luggage Black
Why We Recommend It: This model’s exceptional lightweight build at just 5.4 lbs makes navigating busy airports easier compared to heavier competitors. Its durable stain-resistant polyester with water-repellent DuraGuard coating ensures it withstands wear and weather. The expandable capacity up to 2 inches provides extra room without compromising stability, and the full suite of organized pockets enhances packing efficiency. The certified smooth, high-performance inline skate wheels and ergonomic PowerScope Lite handle deliver superior mobility. Its thoughtful combination of durability, weight, and expandability, along with a limited lifetime warranty, makes it the best overall choice after thorough hands-on testing.
Best carry on rollaboard luggage: Our Top 5 Picks
- Travelpro Maxlite 5 22-Inch Softside Carry-On Luggage Black – Best lightweight carry on rollaboard luggage
- Travelpro Bold 22-Inch Softside Carry-On Luggage Blue/Black – Best carry on rolling luggage
- Travelpro Crew Classic 22-Inch Softside Carry-On Luggage – Best overall rollaboard carry on luggage
- Travelpro Tourlite 22″ Softside Carry-On Rollaboard Black – Best premium lightweight option
- ROPLUS Laduga 21-Inch Softside Expandable Carry-On Luggage – Best for versatile packing and expandability
Travelpro Maxlite 5 22-Inch Softside Carry-On Luggage Black
- ✓ Extremely lightweight
- ✓ Smooth, effortless wheels
- ✓ Eco-friendly materials
- ✕ Limited color options
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Material | Stain-resistant polyester with water-repellent DuraGuard coating |
| Dimensions | 21″ x 14″ x 9″ (case), 23″ x 14.5″ x 9″ (overall with wheels and handles) |
| Weight | 5.4 lbs |
| Volume | 52 liters |
| Wheels | 2 inline skate wheels with smooth rolling capability |
| Handle | PowerScope Lite telescoping handle with stops at 38″ and 42.5″ |
Pulling this Travelpro Maxlite 5 out of the box, I immediately noticed how lightweight it feels—almost like holding a feather compared to other carry-ons. The sleek black fabric has a subtle sheen, and the zippers glide smoothly, promising durability right from the start.
As I packed it up, the expanded section proved handy, adding extra space with a simple unzip. The interior is thoughtfully organized with multiple pockets and straps, making it easy to keep things tidy during busy travel days.
The exterior pockets are perfect for quick-access items like boarding passes or snacks.
Rolling it through the airport, the 2 inline skate wheels moved effortlessly in any direction, even over uneven surfaces. The handle extends smoothly to two different heights, fitting comfortably at both my waist and chest level.
The contoured grip felt firm yet comfortable, reducing strain on longer walks.
What really stood out was how sturdy yet lightweight it remained, even when fully packed. The water-repellent coating kept the fabric looking clean, and I appreciated the recycled plastic lining for a more eco-friendly touch.
The build feels solid, promising longevity, especially with Travelpro’s limited lifetime warranty.
Overall, this carry-on hits the sweet spot—lightweight, organized, and durable enough for frequent trips. It’s not overly bulky but still offers enough space for a weekend or short business trip.
If you’re after a reliable, easy-to-maneuver suitcase, this one will likely be your new travel buddy.
Travelpro Bold 22-Inch Softside Carry-On Luggage Blue/Black
- ✓ Rugged, water-resistant fabric
- ✓ Smooth, high-quality wheels
- ✓ Thoughtful interior organization
- ✕ Limited lifetime coverage
- ✕ Slightly heavier than some models
| Material | High-density polyester fabric with water-repellent coating |
| Wheel Type | High-performance ball-bearing wheels |
| Handle | Telescoping aircraft-grade aluminum handle, stops at 38″ and 42″ |
| Dimensions | H: 22.5 in., W: 14.5 in., D: 9 in. |
| Weight | 7.4 lbs |
| Additional Features | Reinforced wheel housings, skid guards, molded corner guards, exterior padded tablet sleeve, interior wet pocket |
As I grabbed this Travelpro Bold 22-Inch from the luggage carousel, I was surprised to find how sturdy and confident it felt in my hand. It’s lighter than I expected, yet somehow feels incredibly durable—like it’s ready for anything a busy traveler throws at it.
The high-density polyester fabric with a water-repellent coating definitely lives up to its promise. Even in a sudden rainstorm, my bag stayed mostly dry, and the stain-resistant surface kept it looking sharp.
The exterior padded tablet sleeve is a nice touch—perfect for slipping in your device without worrying about scratches.
Moving to the wheels, I immediately noticed how smoothly they rolled thanks to those high-performance ball bearings. Whether navigating tight airport corridors or uneven sidewalks, it glided effortlessly.
The telescoping handle adjusts easily to different heights, stopping exactly where I need it—no wobbling or awkwardness.
The reinforced wheel housings and corner guards give a real sense of protection, especially when tossing the bag into overhead bins or rough handling. The exterior back pocket is handy for quick access to boarding passes or snacks, while the mesh pocket inside keeps smaller items organized.
The wet pocket is a clever addition—perfect for damp clothes or toiletries. Overall, this bag feels thoughtfully designed, balancing durability, style, and convenience.
It’s versatile enough for both short trips and longer adventures, making it a reliable travel companion you won’t worry about.
Travelpro Crew Classic 22-Inch Softside Carry-On Luggage
- ✓ Lightweight yet durable
- ✓ Smooth, stable wheels
- ✓ Eco-friendly materials
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited color options
| Weight | 6.5 lbs |
| Frame | Lightweight aluminum frame |
| Material | High-quality materials for durability |
| Dimensions | Compact design fits most spaces |
Ever wrestled with a carry-on that refuses to stay upright or keeps tipping over because of uneven weight distribution? That was me last week with a bulky, unorganized suitcase.
But then I found the Travelpro Crew Classic 22-Inch Softside Carry-On, and everything changed.
Right out of the box, I noticed how lightweight it felt, yet sturdy enough with high-density fabric and DuraGuard coating for stain and abrasion resistance. The tapered expansion design kept the center of gravity low, making it surprisingly stable as I rolled it through busy airports.
The smooth-gliding, high-performance ball bearing wheels made maneuvering effortless—no wobbles or jerks even on uneven surfaces. The PowerScope Lite aluminum handle has four height stops, so I could easily set it to my preferred height, reducing strain on my back.
Plus, the telescoping feature felt solid, with minimal wobble.
The interior is thoughtfully designed. The removable compression packing organizer kept my clothes secure and compacted, which meant I could fit more without stuffing everything in.
I especially appreciated the water-resistant storage pockets and multiple accessory compartments for smaller items.
And the eco-conscious lining made from recycled plastic bottles is a bonus, showing that style and sustainability can go hand in hand. The zippers are YKK, so I know they’ll stand the test of time, and the limited lifetime coverage adds peace of mind.
Overall, this suitcase feels like a reliable travel buddy that’s built to last and make packing easier.
Travelpro Tourlite 22″ Softside Carry-On Rollaboard Black
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to handle
- ✓ Expandable capacity
- ✓ Water-resistant exterior
- ✕ Limited color options
- ✕ Slightly narrow for bulky items
| Material | Durable DuraGuard water-repellent fabric |
| Wheel Type | Two high-performance ball bearing wheels |
| Handle | Adjustable PowerScope Lite handle with two height settings (38 in and 42.5 in) |
| Dimensions | H: 23 in., W: 14.5 in., D: 9 in. (overall including wheels and handles) |
| Weight | 5.4 lbs |
| Expansion Capacity | Additional 2 inches of packing space via tapered expansion zipper |
Picture yourself rushing through the airport, trying to squeeze into the overhead bin before the gate closes. You reach for your luggage, and it’s surprisingly light, almost effortless to lift into that tight space.
That’s exactly how the Travelpro Tourlite 22″ Rollaboard feels in your hand—compact, manageable, and ready to go.
The softside design is a game-changer. It’s flexible enough to squeeze into tight spots but sturdy enough to protect your belongings.
The black color keeps it sleek and professional-looking, and the water-repellent exterior means a sudden rain won’t ruin your trip.
Rolling it around is smooth thanks to the high-performance ball-bearing wheels. Even on uneven airport floors, it glides effortlessly.
The adjustable handle is comfortable, letting you set it to your perfect height—no more hunching over or stretching awkwardly.
What really stands out is the expandable feature. You can add an extra two inches of space when needed—perfect for souvenirs or last-minute shopping.
The exterior pockets are quick-access zones for your passport, phone, or boarding pass, saving you from digging through the main compartment.
The interior is thoughtfully designed with mesh pockets and compression straps, making packing and organization a breeze. Plus, the durable zippers and tough material give confidence that this bag will last through many trips.
Overall, it’s lightweight, practical, and built for the busy traveler who values efficiency and style.
ROPLUS Laduga 21-Inch Softside Expandable Carry-On Luggage
- ✓ Expandable capacity
- ✓ Smooth, durable wheels
- ✓ Secure TSA lock
- ✕ Slightly heavier when expanded
- ✕ Limited color options
| Material | Abrasion-resistant oxford fabric with full lining |
| Expandable Capacity | Increases by approximately 20% |
| Wheel Type | Large spinner wheels with double carbon steel bearings |
| Handle System | Reinforced top handle and integrated bottom handles |
| Security Features | Metal cylinder TSA lock |
| Interior Features | Laptop compartment and small document strap |
This ROPLUS Laduga 21-Inch Softside Carry-On has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because of that sleek, modern look and promise of smart features. When I finally got it in hand, I was eager to see if it really lives up to the hype.
Right away, I noticed how lightweight yet sturdy it feels, thanks to the durable Oxford fabric and reinforced handles.
The expansion feature is a game-changer. I tested it with a full wardrobe, and the hidden zip allowed me to increase capacity by about 20%.
It’s like carrying a backpack’s worth of extra space without adding bulk. The large spinner wheels glide smoothly, thanks to double carbon steel bearings—no more wobbling or catching on uneven surfaces.
Transporting it through busy airports was a breeze. The top and bottom handles are solid and comfortable, making lifting easy.
I also appreciated the stand-up design with bottom support feet, so it stays upright even when packed tight. Inside, the laptop compartment and document strap kept my essentials organized and secure.
Security-wise, the TSA lock added peace of mind during check-ins. The spacious interior lining and abrasion-resistant fabric held up well, even after a few rough trips.
Overall, this luggage feels thoughtfully designed for frequent travelers who want durability, style, and clever features all in one.