Traveling with kids can be an adventure, but let’s be real – it can also be a bit chaotic! One of the secrets to a smoother journey? Getting your little ones their very own, perfectly sized carry-on luggage. Not only does it help teach them responsibility, but it also frees up some precious space in your bags and makes navigating airports a whole lot easier. When you’re looking for the best carry on luggage for kids, you want something durable, easy to maneuver, and, most importantly, fun enough to get them excited about packing!
Finding the ideal travel companion for your young explorer means considering factors like size, weight, wheels, and, of course, that all-important kid-friendly design. We’ve scoured the market to bring you our top 5 picks for the best carry on luggage for kids, designed to make your next family trip a breeze. Let’s dive in!
Our Top Picks for Kids’ Carry On Luggage
Travelers Club 5 Piece Kids’ Luggage Set, Donut
This Travelers Club 5-piece set truly stands out for offering a complete travel solution in one adorable package. If you’re looking to get your child fully equipped with matching gear that screams fun, this donut-themed set is an absolute winner. It’s not just a suitcase; it’s a whole system designed to make travel exciting and organized for your little one, encouraging them to take charge of their own belongings.
Key Features:
- 5 Piece Children’s Travel Set: Includes an 18″ Hardside Carry-on, 15″ Backpack, 10″ Lunch Bag, Neck Pillow, and Luggage Tag.
- Bright and fun colors and patterns to easily spot on the baggage carousel.
- Durable and lightweight design, made from high-quality materials.
- Hardside carry-on with 4 smooth-rolling wheels and a telescoping handle.
- Spacious and organized with a recommended age of 6 and over.
Pros:
- Incredible value with a complete 5-piece matching set.
- Fun and vibrant design appeals directly to kids.
- Hardside construction offers good protection for contents.
- Easy for kids to maneuver thanks to spinner wheels and telescoping handle.
- Encourages independence in packing and carrying.
Cons:
- The full set might be more than some families need for a simple carry-on.
- Neck pillow and lunch bag might be specific to certain travel needs.
User Impressions: Parents absolutely love the completeness and vibrant aesthetic of this set. Kids are thrilled to have their own “big kid” luggage, especially loving the matching accessories. Many highlight how surprisingly durable the pieces are for the price, making it a fantastic entry point for young, independent travelers.
Amazon Basics 21″ Hardside Carry-On Luggage, Hardshell…
Sometimes, what you need is a reliable, no-nonsense carry-on that’s built tough and designed for practicality, even for younger travelers. The Amazon Basics Hardside Carry-On fits that bill perfectly. While it might not have the whimsical designs of other kid-specific options, its robust construction and expandable capacity make it a fantastic choice for older kids or those who simply need a dependable, long-lasting travel suitcase without the frills. It’s a solid, functional piece that can grow with them.
Key Features:
- Carry-on design ideal for 1-5 day trips; measures 14.8 x 10 x 21.7 inches (including wheels).
- Extra-thick hardshell with a scratch-resistant finish for durability.
- Expandable up to 25% for added packing flexibility.
- Organized interior with a divider and three zippered pockets.
- Four multi-directional spinner wheels, telescoping handle, and short lift handle for effortless travel.
Pros:
- Highly durable hardshell protects belongings from bumps and knocks.
- Expandable feature is a huge plus for fitting extra souvenirs or clothes.
- Multi-directional wheels make it incredibly easy to steer, even for kids.
- Interior organization helps keep items tidy.
- A trusted brand for quality and value.
Cons:
- Less “kid-focused” in terms of design compared to others on this list.
- May be a bit heavy for very young children if fully packed.
User Impressions: Customers consistently praise this carry-on for its exceptional durability and smooth-rolling wheels. It’s often recommended for its straightforward functionality and reliable performance, with many parents appreciating that it holds up well to the rigors of family travel, offering great bang for your buck.
Inprof Kid’s Luggage Set 5 Piece Suitcase Set 16’’…
The Inprof Kid’s Luggage Set is another fantastic 5-in-1 option that bundles a hardshell carry-on with a backpack and other essentials, all designed to make your child feel like a seasoned globetrotter. What makes this set particularly appealing is its airline-approved status for the main suitcase, giving you peace of mind that it will fit in overhead bins. It’s the perfect gift package for young adventurers, offering independence and style in one go.
Key Features:
- Comprehensive 5-in-1 Gift Package: Includes a 16″ Airline Approved Suitcase, 16″ Backpack, Lunch Box, Pencil Case, Neck Pillow, and a free luggage tag.
- Smooth-rolling spinner wheels and telescoping handle for effortless maneuvering.
- Lightweight hardshell suitcase, sturdy yet easy for kids to handle.
- Cabin-sized and meets domestic and international flight size requirements for ages 5+.
- Durable construction built for the rigors of travel.
Pros:
- All-inclusive set provides great value and coordinated travel gear.
- Airline approved dimensions ensure hassle-free boarding.
- Lightweight design and spinner wheels make it incredibly easy for kids to manage.
- Encourages independence and confidence in young travelers.
- Hardshell offers good protection for belongings.
Cons:
- Similar to other sets, some accessories might not always be needed.
- The 16″ suitcase might feel a little small for longer trips for older kids.
User Impressions: Reviewers love the adorable designs and the completeness of this set, frequently mentioning how excited their kids are to use it. The ease of maneuverability and the fact that it’s airline-approved are big selling points, making it a hit for both parents and children for short trips and vacations.
Nautica Kids Luggage – 18″ Airline Approved Rolling…
For the child who loves a dash of style and adventure, the Nautica Kids Luggage offers a fantastic single carry-on solution. With its distinctive nautical graphics and durable hardside construction, this suitcase doesn’t just look good – it’s built to last. It’s perfect for kids who want a “grown-up” looking bag with a fun twist, offering enough space for essentials without being cumbersome. If you’re after a singular, high-quality, and visually appealing piece of luggage for your child, this is an excellent choice.
Key Features:
- Durable design from PC and ABS hardside construction.
- Smooth-rolling multi-directional spinner wheels for easy maneuvering.
- Aluminum telescoping handle adjusts from 6-20 inches.
- Interior capacity of 31L (11.8 x 7.08 x 15.75 inches) with an internal mesh pocket.
- Travel-sized dimensions (12.2 x 9.05 x 20 inches overall) ideal for carry-on requirements.
- Stylish nautical graphics for a fun, adventurous look.
Pros:
- Stylish and unique nautical print makes it stand out.
- Robust hardside construction ensures durability and protection.
- Spinner wheels and adjustable handle make it easy for kids to pull.
- Ideal carry-on size fits most airline overhead bins.
- Quality components like protective wheel housing and durable zippers.
Cons:
- Only a single piece of luggage, without accompanying accessories.
- Might be slightly more expensive for a single item compared to multi-piece sets.
User Impressions: Parents rave about the eye-catching design and the excellent quality of the Nautica kids’ luggage. Many highlight its smooth wheels and sturdy build, noting that it’s just the right size for children to manage independently. The appealing aesthetics and durability make it a favorite for stylish young travelers.
MiaMily 4-Wheel Carry On Luggage with Seat for Kids with…
Now, for something truly unique in the world of best carry on luggage for kids – the MiaMily 4-Wheel Carry On with a built-in seat! This ingenious design is a game-changer for family travel, offering tired kids (or even adults!) a place to rest their legs during long waits or layovers. It combines the functionality of a premium hardside carry-on with the practicality of a portable seat, making it an incredibly versatile and thoughtful piece of travel gear for families on the go.
Key Features:
- Built-in seat for kids to ride or adults to sit comfortably, complete with a safety belt.
- Seat folds flush with the suitcase when not in use.
- 360-degree spinner wheels for easy navigation through crowded spaces.
- Hard-body polycarbonate construction protects essentials.
- Waterproof pocket inside to keep toiletries separate and clothes dry.
- 43-liter capacity and fits in most overhead bins (19 x 15 x 11.5 in.).
- Bag hook on seat back and 3-height adjustable handle.
Pros:
- Revolutionary built-in seat is fantastic for tired kids (and parents!).
- Safety belt adds peace of mind when kids are seated.
- Durable hardside construction provides excellent protection.
- Spinner wheels make it incredibly easy to maneuver.
- Ample storage capacity and a practical waterproof pocket.
- Adjustable handle works for both kids and adults.
Cons:
- Can be a heavier option due to the built-in seat mechanism.
- The unique design might be bulkier than traditional carry-ons.
- Higher price point compared to standard kids’ luggage.
User Impressions: This carry-on receives overwhelming praise for its innovative seat feature, with many parents calling it a “lifesaver” during long airport waits. Users appreciate the sturdy build, smooth wheels, and the convenience it adds to family travel. It’s seen as an investment that truly pays off in terms of comfort and convenience.
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Kids’ Carry On Luggage
Choosing the right luggage for your child can make a big difference in your travel experience. Here are some common questions parents ask:
Q1: What is the ideal size for a child’s carry-on luggage?
A1: Most airlines have standard carry-on dimensions, typically around 22 x 14 x 9 inches (including wheels and handles). For kids, look for something within or slightly smaller than these limits. Many kid-specific bags are around 16-20 inches tall, making them easier for small hands to manage while still fitting overhead. Always double-check your specific airline’s requirements before flying!
Q2: Hardside vs. Softside: Which is better for kids’ luggage?
A2: Both have their merits! Hardside luggage (like many on our list) offers excellent protection for fragile items and is often easier to clean. Softside luggage is typically lighter, more flexible, and can sometimes squeeze into tighter spaces, plus exterior pockets are handy. For kids, hardside often wins for durability against bumps and drops.
Q3: What features should I prioritize when buying carry-on luggage for my child?
A3: Look for smooth-rolling spinner wheels (four wheels that rotate 360 degrees) for easy maneuverability, a telescoping handle that adjusts to different heights, and a lightweight design. Durable materials, fun designs, and internal organization features (like straps or zippered pockets) are also great bonuses that encourage kids to pack themselves.
Q4: How can I encourage my child to pack their own carry-on bag?
A4: Make it a fun activity! Give them a checklist of items they need (or want) to bring. Let them choose their own fun luggage. Explain that this is their special bag for their special things. Giving them ownership over their packing process often boosts their enthusiasm and responsibility.
Q5: Are multi-piece kids’ luggage sets worth it?
A5: Absolutely! Sets often offer great value, providing a coordinated look and all the essentials – a carry-on, a backpack, and sometimes even a lunch bag or neck pillow. This makes it super easy to ensure all their travel gear matches and is ready to go, and the backpack is perfect for in-flight entertainment or snacks.
Q6: Is a ride-on suitcase safe for my child?
A6: Ride-on suitcases (like the MiaMily option) can be incredibly convenient and fun. They are generally safe when used as intended and under adult supervision. Always ensure any included safety features, like a seat belt, are used correctly. They’re a fantastic way to keep little ones entertained and rested during long airport transits.
Q7: Beyond luggage, what are some tips for stress-free family travel with kids?
A7: Packing smart is just one piece of the puzzle! Bring plenty of snacks, entertainment (books, tablets, small toys), and a change of clothes in their carry-on. Plan for breaks, stay flexible, and involve your kids in small decisions. Most importantly, remember to breathe and enjoy the journey – even the chaotic parts!
Choosing the best carry on luggage for kids really comes down to balancing durability, functionality, and that all-important fun factor. Whether you opt for a complete, vibrant set or a clever, innovative design with a built-in seat, giving your child their own luggage can transform family travel from a chore into an exciting adventure. Happy travels!