Traveling with kids can be an adventure, but sometimes it feels more like an expedition! One of the secrets to smoother journeys is giving your little ones their very own luggage. Not only does it make them feel important and independent, but it also frees up some precious space in your bags. But with so many options out there, how do you pick the best carry on for kids?
Don’t sweat it! We’ve done the heavy lifting for you. We’ve rounded up and reviewed five fantastic options that are perfect for everything from quick weekend getaways to longer family vacations. Get ready to find the ideal travel companion that’ll make your next trip a breeze.
Why Your Child Needs Their Own Carry-On
Beyond the obvious space-saving benefits, equipping your child with their own children’s suitcase offers several perks:
- Encourages Independence: Packing their own clothes and toys gives kids a sense of responsibility and ownership over their travel experience.
- Keeps Essentials Handy: From comfort items to entertainment, they’ll have everything they need close by, avoiding frantic searches mid-flight.
- Boosts Excitement: A fun, kid-friendly design can build anticipation for the trip, making the journey part of the adventure.
- Easier Organization: Helps you keep your stuff separate from theirs, reducing clutter and stress.
Our Top 5 Best Carry On for Kids Reviewed
Let’s dive into our top picks that promise durability, fun, and functionality for your young globetrotters!
1. Travelers Club 5 Piece Kids’ Luggage Set, Bunny
If you’re looking for a complete travel solution that brings a big smile to your child’s face, this 5-piece set is an absolute winner. The adorable bunny design (or other vibrant options) immediately grabs attention, making it super easy for your child to spot their own gear. What truly makes this set stand out is the sheer value and comprehensive nature – it’s not just a suitcase, it’s a whole travel ecosystem designed for kids aged 6 and over, giving them everything they need for a comfortable and organized trip.
Key Features:
– 5 Piece Children’s Travel Set: 18″ Hardside Carry-on Luggage, 15″ Backpack, 10″ Lunch Bag, Neck Pillow, Luggage Tag
– Bright and fun colors and designs to suit your child’s personality
– Durable and lightweight hardside design, built to withstand travel rigors
– Carry On Suitcase: Cabin sized, 4 Wheels, Telescoping Handle
– Spacious and organized with included accessories
– Easy to maneuver with smooth-rolling wheels
Pros:
– Excellent value with a complete matching set
– Fun and engaging designs appeal strongly to children
– Hardside shell offers good protection for contents
– Spinner wheels make it easy for kids to pull or push
– Promotes independence with dedicated space for all their essentials
Cons:
– Hardside luggage can show scratches more easily
– Some children might not use all 5 pieces every trip
– Designed for ages 6+, might be large for younger kids
User Impressions: Customers absolutely rave about the completeness and cuteness of this set. Many mention how excited their children were to pack their own items and how durable the pieces proved to be. The included neck pillow and lunch bag are often highlighted as thoughtful additions that truly enhance the travel experience.
Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
2. Esteemly Kid’s Luggage Set 2 Piece Suitcase Set Hardside…
The Esteemly 2-piece set is perfect for the young adventurer who wants to take charge of their own packing. This set delivers a fantastic balance of independence and reliability, featuring an airline-approved hardside carry-on that’s surprisingly lightweight and sturdy. Its smooth-rolling spinner wheels and telescoping handle are engineered to make maneuvering through busy airports feel like a breeze, even for little hands, making it a great kids’ wheeled luggage option.
Key Features:
– 2 in 1 Gift Package: 16 inch Hardside Suitcase (airline approved), 1 Neck Pillow Case, and a free Luggage Tag
– Smooth rolling spinner wheels and telescoping handle for effortless navigation
– Lightweight and sturdy hardshell design
– Cabin sized, 4 Wheels, Approved for Air Travel (fits overhead bins)
– Recommended for ages 5+
– Encourages children to pack and unpack with confidence
Pros:
– Perfectly sized for airline carry-on requirements
– Very easy for children to push or pull independently
– Durable hardshell protects belongings well
– Lightweight construction prevents extra bulk
– Great gift option that includes useful travel accessories
Cons:
– Only 2 pieces compared to more extensive sets
– Hardside design might be less flexible for over-packing
– Limited design options (often solid colors with patterns)
User Impressions: Parents consistently praise how easy this luggage is for their children to handle. The “floating on air” description for the wheels is a common sentiment, highlighting its maneuverability. Many appreciate that it’s airline-approved and fits perfectly in overhead bins, making it a no-brainer for flying families.
Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
3. Amazon Basics 21″ Hardside Carry-On Luggage, Hardshell…
While not exclusively marketed for kids, the Amazon Basics 21″ Hardside Carry-On is a fantastic, no-nonsense option for older children or teens who need a durable and reliable suitcase that will also stand up to adult use. It’s built for functionality and resilience, with an extra-thick, scratch-resistant hard shell and an expandable design that offers up to 25% more packing space. This is an excellent choice for a durable carry-on that can grow with your child and handle plenty of wear and tear.
Key Features:
– Standard CARRY-ON DESIGN: Best for 1-5 day trips, measures 14.8 x 10 x 21.7 inches (including wheels)
– DURABLE AND RELIABLE: Extra-thick hard shell with scratch-resistant finish
– EXPANDABLE: Increases packing space by up to 25%
– ORGANIZED INTERIOR: Divider and three zippered pockets for neat packing
– EFFORTLESS TRAVEL: Four multi-directional spinner wheels, telescoping handle, and short lift handle
Pros:
– Extremely durable and resistant to impact
– Expandable feature is great for souvenirs or extra clothing
– Highly organized interior with useful pockets
– Smooth spinner wheels and sturdy handles make it easy to maneuver
– A versatile choice that can be used by any family member
Cons:
– Lacks kid-specific designs or themes
– Might be a bit large or heavy for very young children
– More utilitarian appearance compared to other kid-focused options
User Impressions: Reviewers love the robust build quality and the practicality of this suitcase. It’s often praised for its smooth-rolling wheels and the ability to expand, making it surprisingly spacious. Many note its excellent value for a carry-on that performs as well as more expensive brands.
Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
4. Disney Stitch Chill Vibes Children’s Ride-On Luggage
Turn airport waiting times into playtime with the Disney Stitch Chill Vibes Children’s Ride-On Luggage! This isn’t just a suitcase; it’s an interactive travel buddy that lets your child ride on top, complete with a secure seat belt for safety. The vibrant Disney Stitch theme is an instant hit, and the durable, easy-to-clean design means it’s ready for all the adventures (and spills) that come with family travel. If you want the best carry on for kids that doubles as entertainment, this is it!
Key Features:
– Custom Design: Vibrant Disney Stitch theme with “Chill Vibes” graphics
– Ride-On & Seat Belt Feature: Kids can sit and ride comfortably and safely
– Durable & Lightweight: Made from sturdy ABS and PC materials
– Spacious & Organized: Ample storage for clothes, toys, and essentials
– Easy to Clean: Wipe-clean surface for hassle-free maintenance
Pros:
– Provides excellent entertainment for kids during delays
– Secure seat belt offers peace of mind for parents
– Fun and engaging character design
– Durable construction holds up well to child’s play
– Simple to clean, a must-have for kid’s gear
Cons:
– Might be challenging to maneuver for some parents while pushing a child
– Not suitable for all ages or weight ranges
– Can be bulkier than traditional wheeled luggage
User Impressions: This ride-on luggage is a game-changer for many parents, especially during long airport waits. Kids absolutely adore riding it, and parents appreciate the integrated seat belt. It consistently receives high marks for making travel less stressful and more fun for the little ones.
Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
5. American Tourister Disney Mickey Mouse Kids Carry-On…
For fans of classic Disney magic, the American Tourister Disney Mickey Mouse Kids Carry-On is an iconic choice. Combining the playful charm of Mickey Mouse with American Tourister’s reputation for quality, this hardside suitcase is both stylish and functional. The glossy shell features a vibrant Mickey graphic, while inside, cross straps and a mesh pocket keep all those important toys and clothes neatly organized. This children’s travel gear is perfect for Disney-loving families who value both fun and durability.
Key Features:
– Vibrantly colored adjustable pull handle
– Smooth inline skate wheels, rigorously tested for durability
– Zipper pulls branded with the American Tourister logo
– Fun Mickey graphic with a glossy hardside shell
– Cross straps to secure belongings and a mesh pocket for organization
Pros:
– High-quality construction from a trusted luggage brand
– Classic and beloved Disney character design
– Durable hardside shell protects contents
– Excellent interior organization features
– Smooth-rolling wheels for easy navigation
Cons:
– Can be a bit pricier due to the brand and licensing
– Hardside may scratch over time
– Not part of a larger matching set
User Impressions: Users consistently praise the durability and build quality, noting that it holds up well to the rigors of travel. The Mickey Mouse design is, of course, a huge hit with kids and parents alike. Many highlight the smooth wheels and sturdy handle as key advantages, making it easy for children to manage.
Call to Action: See it on Amazon here
Choosing the Right Carry-On for Your Little Traveler
When selecting the perfect travel suitcase for kids, keep these factors in mind:
- Age and Size: Younger kids need smaller, lighter options that are easy for them to pull. Older children can handle slightly larger, more sophisticated designs.
- Maneuverability: Look for spinner wheels or inline skate wheels and an adjustable telescoping handle. These make it much easier for kids to navigate.
- Durability: Kids are tough on their belongings! Hardside luggage offers great protection, while sturdy softside options can be more flexible for packing.
- Capacity: Consider the length of your trips. A weekend bag will differ from one for a longer vacation.
- Fun Factor: A cool design featuring their favorite characters or vibrant colors can really get kids excited about carrying their own bag.
Conclusion
Picking the best carry on for kids truly makes a difference in transforming potentially stressful travel days into enjoyable family adventures. Whether you go for a complete set, a super-durable hardside, or a fun ride-on suitcase, giving your child their own luggage fosters independence and excitement. We hope this guide helps you find the perfect travel companion for your little one, ensuring smoother journeys ahead. Happy travels!
FAQ Section
Q1: What is the ideal size for a kid’s carry-on bag?
A1: For most airlines, a carry-on should be around 18-22 inches in height (including wheels and handles). For younger children, a 16-18 inch suitcase is often more manageable for them to pull themselves. Always double-check your specific airline’s carry-on dimensions before flying.
Q2: Should I get a hardside or softside carry-on for my child?
A2: Both have their merits! Hardside luggage offers excellent protection for fragile items and is often easier to clean. Softside luggage can be more flexible for over-packing and usually has external pockets for quick access. For kids, hardside is often preferred for its durability and fun designs.
Q3: At what age can a child start using their own carry-on?
A3: Generally, children aged 3-4 can start with small, lightweight backpacks. By 5-6 years old, many kids are ready for a wheeled carry-on suitcase, especially if it has smooth-rolling spinner wheels and an adjustable handle.
Q4: Are ride-on suitcases worth it for airport travel?
A4: Absolutely! Ride-on suitcases can be a lifesaver for parents, turning long waits and walks through the airport into a fun activity for children. They help keep kids entertained and prevent them from getting tired, but do consider their maneuverability for you.
Q5: What are LSI keywords and why are they important for this article?
A5: LSI (Latent Semantic Indexing) keywords are words and phrases semantically related to the main topic. For “best carry on for kids,” LSI keywords like “children’s suitcase,” “travel gear for kids,” “wheeled luggage,” “airport travel,” “family vacation,” and “packing tips” help search engines understand the full context of the article, improving its ranking for a wider range of relevant searches.
Q6: How can I encourage my child to pack their own carry-on?
A6: Make it fun! Let them choose their own special carry-on, give them a packing list (visual for younger kids), and allow them to pick some of their own clothes and toys. Praising their efforts and explaining why it’s helpful for the trip can boost their enthusiasm.
Q7: Can a child’s carry-on count as my carry-on allowance?
A7: This depends on the airline and ticket type. Typically, each passenger (including children) is allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item. However, for infants or very young children not occupying a seat, rules can vary, so it’s always best to check with your specific airline.