A business trip can be exciting and rewarding but comes with unique challenges. One of the most important is finding the best carry-on luggage for business travel to fit your tech, documents, laptop, and more.
The best business carry-on should be lightweight, secure, and able to hold all your items without taking up too much space in an overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.
It should also be durable enough to withstand wear and tear from being on planes, trains, buses, and other modes of transportation. With many options available today, choosing the perfect business suitcase is a mission.
But don’t worry; we tested and reviewed the top business luggage that fits perfectly in the plane cabin.
At a Glance:
- Best Overall Business Travel Carry-On: Nomatic Carry-On Pro
- Best Sustainable Business Travel Carry-On: Horizn Studios M5
- Best Luxury Business Travel Carry-On: RIMOWA Original Cabin Plus
- Best Budget Business Travel Carry-On: Level8 Pro Carry-On
- Best Softside Business Travel Carry-On: Travelpro Platinum Elite – Includes Drop-In Suiter
Related: Best TSA-Approved Toiletry Bags
What to Wear on a Plane for a Business Trip
Traveling for business can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right wardrobe and packing strategy, you can ensure that you look professional and put-together when you arrive at your destination.
When selecting clothing for a business trip, comfort is vital. Choose items made of breathable fabrics like cotton or linen that won’t wrinkle easily. Avoid tight-fitting garments and opt for looser cuts that allow you to move freely during the flight.
If the climate at your destination is different than where you’re departing from, consider bringing layers so that you can adjust accordingly.
Accessories are also necessary when creating a polished look for business travel. A classic watch or a pair of statement earrings can add a touch of sophistication without taking up too much space in your luggage.
For men, a pocket square or tie can elevate any ensemble and make it more appropriate for work meetings or presentations.
Optimizing your wardrobe for efficient packing is essential when traveling light. Consider investing in versatile pieces such as blazers or cardigans that can be worn with multiple outfits throughout the trip. Also, try rolling instead of folding clothes to save space in your suitcase and prevent wrinkles from forming on delicate fabrics like silk or wool.
Finally, here are some must-have items to bring on your next business trip:
- A lightweight laptop bag or a business carry-on suitcase
- A pair of comfortable walking shoes
- An umbrella (in case of rain)
- A scarf (for warmth and style)
- An all-purpose jacket (for unpredictable weather)
- A set of basic toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.)
With these tips, you’ll be ready to confidently tackle any business trip.
Best Carry-On Luggage for Business Travel
1. Nomatic Carry-On Pro
Best Overall Business Cabin Suitcase
Business travel can be stressful enough without having to worry about the quality and functionality of your luggage. Investing in a reliable carry-on is crucial for any frequent flyer, as it can save time, money, and energy. But with so many options out there, it can be challenging to find the perfect one. In this blog post, we’ll explore the Nomatic Carry-On Pro and why it might just be the best overall carry-on luggage for business travel.
Fits a 16-inch Laptop
One of the most crucial aspects of any business traveler’s luggage is its ability to securely fit a laptop. The Nomatic Carry-On Pro boasts a padded laptop compartment that fits up to a 16-inch laptop, keeping it safe and easily accessible during travel. This feature alone sets this luggage apart from others on the market.
Tech Organization Compartment
Most business travelers can relate to the struggle of keeping all their tech gear organized. The Nomatic Carry-On Pro features a tech organization compartment that is specifically designed to keep your cables, chargers, and other electronics neatly stored in one place. Plus, it comes with a removable tech case to keep everything protected and easy to access when you need it.
3-5 Days’ Worth of Travel
Packing for a business trip can often require multiple outfits and accessories, leaving travelers in need of a spacious carry-on. The Nomatic Carry-On Pro is designed to carry three to five days’ worth of travel items, so you can fit everything you need into one bag and avoid the hassle of checking baggage.
100% Makrolon Polycarbonate
The Nomatic Carry-On Pro is made of 100% Makrolon Polycarbonate, meaning it is incredibly durable and can withstand the wear and tear of frequent travel. This material is often found in high-end luggage and provides a sleek, modern look that any business traveler would appreciate.
Silent Hinomoto Wheels
One of the most underrated aspects of carry-on luggage is the quality of its wheels. The Nomatic Carry-On Pro features Hinomoto wheels, known for being silent and smooth, making it easy to maneuver through airports and other crowded areas.
TSA-Approved Locks
Lastly, the Nomatic Carry-On Pro includes TSA-approved locks, which will give any traveler peace of mind knowing that their belongings are protected from theft or damage.
Overall, the Nomatic Carry-On Pro offers a range of features that make it the ultimate business travel companion. From its tech organization compartment and spacious storage to its durable materials and TSA-approved locks, this carry-on is designed with the modern-day business traveler’s needs in mind.
2. Horizn Studios M5
Best Sustainable Business Cabin Bag
As a business traveler, it’s essential to have the right luggage that looks professional and meets sustainability standards. That’s why we’re here to introduce you to the Horizn Studios M5, the vegan carry-on luggage that’s taking the sustainable travel market by storm.
PETA-Approved Vegan
The Horizn Studios M5 stands out from other carry-on luggage because it’s PETA-approved vegan. This means no animal products were used to make the luggage, making it a more ethical choice.
Not only that but the fabric is made from recycled polyester, minimizing its environmental impact.
99% Waste-Free Production
Horizn Studios takes sustainability seriously, and it shows in its manufacturing process. The M5 is produced in a way that is 99% waste-free, with recycled materials used throughout the entire process.
This means that not only do you get to feel good about the impact you’re making while traveling, but you also get luggage that’s built to last.
Water-Resistant Front Pocket
The M5’s front pocket is designed with your business needs in mind. It’s water-resistant, keeping your electronics safe from spills or rain, and fits a 15-inch laptop, making it easy to breeze through TSA checkpoints.
It’s also easy to access during your flight, making it easy to grab your laptop or other essentials without digging through your luggage.
35-Liter Capacity
Despite its sleek and minimalistic look, the M5 has a 35-liter capacity, providing enough room for your essentials plus a little extra. The main compartment is spacious, and there are two dual-zippered mesh screens to keep everything organized and separated.
More Features
The M5 also includes TSA locking zippers, giving added security when traveling. Plus, Horizn Studios offsets carbon emissions from shipping, making it a truly sustainable option.
And if you still need convincing, the M5 is also guaranteed for life, so you can rest easy knowing that if anything goes wrong, Horizn Studios has your back.
Sustainability and practicality come together seamlessly with the Horizn Studios M5 sustainable carry-on luggage.
With its PETA-approved vegan design, 99% waste-free manufacturing process, water-resistant front pocket, 35-liter capacity, TSA locking zippers, carbon-neutral shipping, and a lifetime guarantee, the M5 is the perfect companion for any business traveler looking to minimize their carbon footprint.
3. RIMOWA Original Cabin Plus
Best Designer Carry-On for Business Travelers
In a world where first impressions matter, your choice of luggage can make or break your professional image. That’s why we recommend the RIMOWA Original Cabin Plus — a carry-on luggage that combines German engineering with iconic luxury design to give you the perfect combination of style and functionality.
German Engineering
German engineering is renowned worldwide for its precision and durability, and the RIMOWA Original Cabin Plus is no exception. The luggage is crafted from high-quality materials that pass rigorous tests to ensure they can withstand the wear and tear of frequent travel.
You can rest easy knowing that your luggage can survive anything your business trip throws at it.
Iconic Luxury Brand
For a good reason, RIMOWA is one of the world’s most recognized luxury luggage brands. The brand has been around for over 120 years, with a rich history featured in movies, music videos, and the hands of some of the world’s most celebrated personalities.
The RIMOWA Original Cabin Plus continues this legacy by incorporating the brand’s iconic aluminum groove design, which adds a touch of style to your business travel.
Durable Aluminum Exterior
The RIMOWA Original Cabin Plus is made from 100% high-quality polycarbonate, renowned for its durability and scratch resistance. The luggage has an elegant aluminum exterior that looks good and guarantees your belongings’ safety.
Say goodbye to those moments of panic as you watch your luggage go through the airport conveyor, wondering if your belongings will survive the journey.
Dual TSA Locks
Security is a top priority for business travel, and the RIMOWA Original Cabin Plus considers this. The luggage comes with two TSA-approved combination locks that keep your belongings safe without interfering with airport security.
This means you can keep your personal items secure while ensuring your luggage is not tampered with during transit.
45-Liter Capacity
Regarding business travel, it’s essential to have enough space to pack all your necessary items without being weighed down by bulky luggage. The RIMOWA Original Cabin Plus has a 45-liter capacity, making it the ideal size for a carry-on bag.
You can pack all the essentials, including your laptop, documents, and personal items, while still staying within the luggage size regulations of most airlines.
Lifetime Guarantee
The RIMOWA Original Cabin Plus comes with a lifetime guarantee, which shows the brand has confidence in its product. If anything goes wrong, the brand will repair or replace the luggage for you at no extra cost.
You can rest easy knowing your investment in this luxury carry-on luggage is protected for life.
Investing in quality luxury carry-on luggage is essential for anyone who travels frequently for business. The RIMOWA Original Cabin Plus stands out as the best option in the market, combining German engineering with luxury style to perfectly balance functionality and aesthetics.
4. Level8 Pro Carry-On
Best Budget Carry-On for Business Travel
Padded Front-Pocket
One of the Level8 Pro Carry-On’s standout features is the padded front pocket that fits up to a 15.6-inch laptop. This is perfect for business travelers who need to keep their electronics with them at all times.
The pocket is well-padded to protect your laptop from bumps and scratches, and it’s easily accessible when you need to take it out for security screening.
Built-in USB Port
Another feature that sets the Level8 Pro Carry-On apart from other carry-ons is the built-in USB port with a powerbank compartment. This makes charging your devices on the go a breeze.
You don’t have to worry about finding an outlet or lugging around a separate power bank. Just plug in your phone or tablet, and you’re good to go.
Note that a power bank is not included.
Aerospace-Grade Bayer Makrolon Hard Shell
This hardside carry-on with a front pocket is made from an aerospace-grade Bayer Makrolon hard shell, making it light and durable. This material is scratch-resistant and water-resistant, meaning your belongings will be well-protected, and the bag will last for many future trips.
It’s also easy to clean, so you don’t have to worry about spills or stains ruining your bag.
Ultra quiet 360° Spinner Wheels
One of the best features of the Level8 Pro Carry-On is its ultra-quiet 360° durable spinner wheels.
Compared to other bags with noisy wheels that can be a nuisance to fellow travelers, the Level8 Pro Carry-On glides effortlessly along airport floors with barely a sound. This makes navigating through crowds a breeze and makes for a pleasant travel experience.
5-Liter Capacity
Lastly, the Level8 Pro Carry-On has a 35-liter capacity, making it perfect for a short business trip. It’s a great size for fitting overhead compartments on most airlines, so you don’t have to worry about checking it in and wasting time waiting at baggage claim.
The bag is spacious enough to fit all your essentials, and it even comes with a removable laundry bag to keep your dirty clothes separate from your clean ones.
The Level8 Pro Carry-On is an excellent choice for business travelers on a budget, with features like a padded laptop pocket, built-in USB port, durable hard shell, quiet spinner wheels, and ample capacity. You can’t go wrong with this bag, and with its long-lasting durability, it’s an investment that will pay off for years to come.
5. Nomatic Travel Bag
Best Backpack for Business Travel
As a busy professional, you know the importance of finding the right backpack for your business travels. You need one that can keep your necessary gear and accessories safe and organized while still being easy to carry around. That’s where the Nomatic Travel Bag comes in, which has received rave reviews from many business travelers.
Ample Storage Space
One of the most significant advantages of the Nomatic Travel Bag is its 40-liter capacity, which can hold up to five days’ worth of travel for business travelers. This bag has a large main compartment to store your clothes, shoes, toiletries, chargers, and other travel essentials.
It also has several compartments, pockets, and sleeves for small items such as notebooks, laptops, and other devices. This bag even has a space for your power bank, so you don’t have to worry about running out of power while on the go.
Fits a 16-Inch Laptop
This backpack is designed to fit laptops with up to 16-inch screens. Its padded laptop sleeve keeps your device secure and prevents any damage that may occur during transportation.
A neat feature of this product is its Lay Flat design, which means that when you open the backpack, it unfolds flat, making it easy to pass through TSA checkpoints and/or pack and unpack.
Tech Organization
Another feature that sets the Nomatic Travel Bag apart is its tech organization. It has several compartments for your gadgets, including cables, chargers, and power banks. The padded sleeves also offer additional protection against knocks and bumps.
That means you won’t have to worry about your phone or other gadgets getting damaged during travel.
Water-resistant Material
Made with water-resistant material, the Nomatic Travel Bag is equipped to protect your items from water damage when it rains. The material’s durability ensures that the bag remains intact throughout your journey.
TSA-Ready
If you travel frequently for business, you know how frustrating it can be to unpack your entire bag for TSA screening. The Nomatic Travel Bag has solved this to make things easier for travelers. The Bag lays flat when open, so you don’t have to unpack it entirely.
Instead, you can easily extract your electronics with your bag. This feature makes the bag TSA-friendly, a feature that’s essential to assist you save time and avoiding the hustle when screening.
The Nomatic Travel Bag is an excellent choice for a business travel backpack — thanks to its multiple compartments, water-resistant feature, tech organization, and TSA-ready design.
6. Paravel Aviator Carry-On Plus
If you’re traveling for business, you want to look sharp and professional but avoid being weighed down by heavy luggage.
When it comes to designer carry-on options, there are many to choose from, but one that stands out as an excellent choice for business travelers is the Paravel Aviator Carry-On Plus.
Paravel Designer Brand
Paravel is a designer brand that specializes in sustainable luggage and travel accessories. Their products are stylish, practical, and sustainable, focusing on ethical and environmentally friendly production methods.
The company was founded in 2016 by Indre Rockefeller and Andy Krantz, two fashion industry veterans who wanted to create a high-end travel brand that was also carbon-neutral. Since then, Paravel has gained a reputation for creating beautiful and eco-friendly products that are perfect for travelers who value quality, style, and sustainability.
100% Carbon-Neutral Travel Brand
One thing that sets Paravel apart from other designer luggage brands is its commitment to being 100% carbon-neutral. This means they offset their carbon emissions from production, shipping, and travel by investing in renewable energy projects.
They also use recycled and sustainable materials whenever possible, such as recycled polycarbonate, aluminum, and vegan leather. This commitment to sustainability makes the Paravel Aviator Carry-On Plus an excellent choice for business travelers who want to make an eco-conscious choice without sacrificing style or functionality.
Sustainable Materials
The Aviator Carry-On Plus is crafted of sustainably-sourced materials, as mentioned above, making it an excellent choice for environmentally conscious people. The recycled polycarbonate shell is lightweight and durable, making it perfect for travel.
The recycled aluminum frame provides additional strength and support, while the recycled vegan leather details add elegance. The materials used in the Aviator Carry-On Plus are sustainable and durable, ensuring that your luggage will last for years to come.
Spacious Capacity
The Aviator Carry-On Plus has a spacious 46.6L capacity, more than enough room for a week’s worth of clothes and other travel essentials. This makes it ideal for business travelers who want to pack efficiently without sacrificing style.
The carry-on is also easy to maneuver, with four 360-degree spinner wheels and an adjustable telescoping handle. The bag’s interior features a removable laundry bag and a zippered compartment for smaller items, helping you stay organized on the go.
The Perfect Combination of Style and Functionality
Finally, the Aviator Carry-On Plus combines style and functionality perfectly. Its sleek design and elegant details make it a standout piece of luggage, while its spacious capacity and durable materials make it a practical choice for any business traveler.
The carry-on is available in several colors, including black, navy, and olive, making it easy to find one that suits your style. With its commitment to sustainability, impeccable design, and practical features, the Paravel Aviator Carry-On Plus is an excellent choice for any business traveler who wants to travel in style.
7. Arlo Skye Zipper Carry-On Max with Front Pocket
This carry-on is stylish and durable, and functional for your travel needs.
Front Pocket Fits a 15-inch Laptop
The front pocket on the Arlo Skye Zipper Carry-On Max is spacious and padded, excellent for carrying your laptop securely. It accommodates a 15-inch laptop as well as a tablet.
So, while you wait for your flight, you can be sure that your laptop is close at hand, making last-minute work possible.
USB Charger
One of the most remarkable features of the Arlo Skye Zipper Carry-On Max is the ports that allow you to charge your electronic devices. The USB-C and USB-A ports allow you to charge different devices, such as your phone, laptop, or tablet.
Additionally, the included 10,050 mAh charger ensures you have enough power to stay connected throughout your trip.
Anti-Microbial Interior
The Anti-Microbial Interior on the Arlo Skye Zipper Carry-On Max is not something you will find on most carry-on luggage. But, it is an absolute necessity when it comes to traveling during a pandemic or otherwise. The anti-microbial interior provides protection against germs and bacteria that can cause illness.
Spacious and Lightweight
With a 47-liter capacity, the Arlo Skye Zipper Carry-On Max has enough space to hold a week’s worth of clothes. It is convenient and lightweight at 8.1 lbs, so it is easy to carry during your travels.
Impact-Resistant Exterior
Arlo Skye understands that your luggage needs to withstand a considerable amount of wear and tear. The Arlo Skye Zipper Carry-On Max is engineered with an impact-resistant polycarbonate exterior, making it the perfect fit for all your business travel needs.
The Arlo Skye Zipper Carry-On Max with Front Pocket is the perfect carry-on for business travel. It is stylish, durable, and functional. With features like a front pocket that can fit a 15-inch laptop, USB-A and C ports, Anti-Microbial Interior for germ-free travel, 47L Capacity, and an impact-resistant polycarbonate exterior, it is easy to see why this carry-on is the top choice for many business travelers.
8. Travelpro Platinum Elite
Best Softside Carry-On for Business Travel
Need a carry-on that fits a suit comfortably? This is the one for you.
Travel Brand Founded by a Pilot
One of the unique selling points of Travelpro is that it was founded by a pilot. Bob Plath, a Northwest Airlines pilot, created the first wheeled carry-on luggage in 1987 to make airline crews’ traveling lives easier. Since then, the company has continued to improve its products to cater to the ever-evolving needs of travelers, including business travelers.
Fits a 15-Inch MacBook Pro
In the digital age, laptops are an essential aspect of business trips. The Travelpro Platinum Elite features a padded laptop and tablet pocket that can accommodate a 15-inch MacBook Pro, making it easy to work on the go without worrying about your device’s safety.
Includes Drop-In Suiter
Another headache for business travelers is keeping their clothes wrinkle-free while in transit. The Travelpro Platinum Elite comes with a drop-in suiter that can hold up to two suits or dresses, and a hanger clamp ensures secure hanging during travel. This feature helps you to arrive at your destination looking sharp without spending time ironing your clothes.
Water and Stain-Resistant Duraguard
Traveling can be unpredictable, and no one wants to deal with the stress of water, dirt, or wine stains on their luggage. The Travelpro Platinum Elite features a Duraguard coating that resists water and stains, ensuring your gear stays clean, and presents a polished look and professional look.
USB Port
In a world where smartphones are essential to our daily lives, the Travelpro Platinum Elite ensures you will never run out of battery life again. The luggage’s USB port allows you to charge your devices on the go, and there’s a dedicated power bank compartment that ensures your power bank remains in place while in transit (power bank not included).
Most Trusted Luggage by Airline Crews
There must be something special about the Travelpro Platinum Elite that makes it the most trusted luggage brand by airline crews. The airline industry is one of the most demanding environments for luggage, and if Travelpro Platinum Elite can handle the pressures of a flight attendant or pilot’s lifestyle, you can be sure it can handle your business trips too.
The Travelpro Platinum Elite is the best carry-on luggage for business travel suits. This luggage is designed with convenience, durability, and security, from the padded laptop pocket to the drop-in suiter and the USB port with a dedicated power bank compartment.
Final Thoughts
Business travelers should be able to find reliable and stylish cabin luggage from the above selection. Each option offers powerful features that make it easier to manage belongings while moving, providing ease of transportation and protection for your items.
Investing in quality luggage is essential when traveling for business; with these options, you will have a great experience. With a wide variety of materials, sizes, colors, and price points available, there’s something to suit every budget and taste.
Related:
- How to Carry a Laptop on a Plane
- Where to Put Luggage in a Hotel Room
- Can You Bring Razors on a Plane?
- Best Travel-Sized Shaving Creams
- Best Travel Curling Irons
Frequently Asked Questions
How many carry-on bags can you have in business class?
When flying business class, you can typically bring up to two carry-on bags. Each bag must fit within the size limits of 9 inches x 14 inches x 22 inches (22 cm x 36 cm x 56 cm). Airlines may have additional restrictions on weight and personal items, so it’s essential to check with your airline before traveling.
What’s the best business carry-on luggage?
The Nomatic Carry-On Pro is the perfect business carry-on luggage. With its 3-stage telescoping handle with wheels, exterior-access tech case and organizer, and TSA-friendly locking YKK zippers, you can easily access your items while on the go.
The folding panels allow you to choose what to compress and how to pack more with less bulk.
It also has an included removable tech case for carrying your laptop securely. Whether traveling for 1-3 days or longer, the Nomatic Carry-On Pro has everything you need to make your journey seamless.
