Carry-on luggage is a travel essential for anyone who wants to avoid the hassle of checked bags and move quickly through airports. It has to be compact enough to fit in overhead bins while still offering enough space to pack what you need for a trip.
Finding the right carry-on means balancing size, weight, durability, and ease of use. Briggs and Riley is known for making high-quality luggage that lasts, with a focus on smart design and toughness.
Their carry-on options often feature sturdy materials, smooth wheels, and organizational compartments that help keep packing simple. They are a good choice for people who want reliable gear for frequent travel without worrying about wear and tear.
When picking a carry-on bag, the main things to pay attention to are size limits set by airlines and the weight of the bag itself. How easy it is to maneuver through busy terminals is also important.
Material durability and warranty can also save you trouble over time. We spent time testing various Briggs and Riley carry-ons to find the best options that balance these features well.
Best Briggs and Riley Carry-On Luggage
We’ve rounded up the best Briggs and Riley carry-on luggage to help you find the perfect travel companion. Whether you’re after durability, style, or smart features, our list covers options that fit different needs and budgets.
Briggs & Riley Essential 22” Carry-On
This carry-on strikes a good balance between roomy storage and smooth mobility. It’s well worth considering if you travel frequently.
Pros
- Expands for extra packing space but still fits most overhead bins
- Spinner wheels roll quietly and handle various terrains easily
- Thoughtful business features like a suit compartment and USB charging pocket
Cons
- The bag is on the heavier side compared to typical carry-ons
- Some might find the compression system a bit stiff initially
- Larger size could cause airline weight limit concerns if fully packed
We’ve found the expandable feature handy for trips where packing space can be tight. The spinner wheels make navigating busy airports and uneven sidewalks feel effortless.
The exterior pocket with brightly colored lining helps us quickly grab essentials at security. Carrying business attire wrinkle-free in the designated compartment is another practical bonus.
It’s a durable bag that holds up after frequent use, though it does weigh more than ultra-light models.
Briggs & Riley ZDX 22” Carry-On
This carry-on is perfect if you want a durable, expandable bag that glides smoothly. It makes airport navigation easier.
Pros
- Expands to fit extra items without losing overhead bin compatibility
- Smooth 360-degree spinner wheels that handle well on all surfaces
- Handy outside battery pocket keeps devices charged on the go
Cons
- Slightly heavier than some carry-ons due to robust build
- Could be bigger for longer trips needing more space
- Four-wheel design can be tricky on uneven terrain
The bag easily slips into overhead bins even when expanded. The craftsmanship feels solid, which helps with confidence during frequent travel.
The wheels roll quietly and pivot with ease, making long airport walks less tiring. The front U-zip pocket gives quick access to travel essentials.
Charging while moving through terminals is simple thanks to the external power pocket. The Smartlink strap keeps you from juggling two bags.
Briggs & Riley Essential 22″ Carry-On
We found this carry-on a smart choice for travelers who want space and durability in one package.
Pros
- Expands nicely for extra packing without bulk
- Smooth 360 spinner wheels glide easily
- TSA lock and organized pockets keep things secure
Cons
- On the heavier side compared to other carry-ons
- USB charging port requires you to supply your own power bank
- Zipper repair feature is handy but not foolproof
Packing into this bag is hassle-free because it expands by 25%, giving that extra room when you overpack. The compression feature is a big plus, squeezing it down to fit tight overhead bins.
Rolling it through busy airports or crowded streets felt effortless, thanks to the shock-absorbing spinner wheels. The built-in TSA lock added peace of mind.
The USB pass-through pocket is useful for charging on the go, although you do have to carry your own charger. The multiple grab handles made stowing it in tight spaces less stressful.
Briggs & Riley Essential 22″ Carry-On
This carry-on delivers solid durability and smart features that make business travel easier.
Pros
- Expands for extra packing space yet still fits in overhead bins
- Smooth-rolling, sturdy wheels that tackle various surfaces
- Handy extras like a USB pass-through and wrinkle-free suit compartment
Cons
- Heavier than some other carry-ons we’ve used
- The price is on the higher side
- Slightly bulky when fully packed
Using this bag felt like having a trusted travel companion. The expandable feature comes in handy when you need to toss in an extra jacket or souvenirs.
The wheels glide over airport floors smoothly, which reduces travel stress. The exterior pocket with bright lining lets you know if it’s open.
The suit compartment kept our clothes in good shape, which is a win for business trips. The weight and price might make you pause, but for the build quality and lifetime repair promise, it feels like a smart investment.
Briggs & Riley Torq 22″ Carry-On
The Torq 22″ carry-on nails the balance between durable design and smart features.
Pros
- Smooth 360-degree spinner wheels glide quietly through busy terminals
- Padded laptop compartment keeps our devices safe and secure
- External USB port lets us charge gadgets on the move without digging inside
Cons
- On the heavier side compared to other carry-ons
- The self-repairing zipper isn’t foolproof—can still get stuck
- Limited color choices if you want something less subdued
The 360 spinner wheels make navigating airports and crowded spaces feel effortless. The quiet glide is a nice bonus.
Inside, the dedicated laptop pocket fits up to 15.6-inch devices snugly, so there’s no jostling during transit. The organization layout helps prevent wrinkles with cinch straps holding clothes steady.
The USB charging port on the outside is a clever touch, letting you top up phones or tablets without opening the bag. It adds some complexity and weight, which you’ll notice if you favor ultralight luggage.
Though the zippers claim to self-repair, we occasionally had minor snags. Briggs & Riley’s lifetime repair promise eases concerns about wear and tear.
Briggs & Riley 26″ Medium Expandable Spinner
We found this spinner to be a reliable travel companion, offering extra space and practical features.
Pros
- Expands to fit more without sacrificing interior space
- Smooth, quiet spinner wheels handle various surfaces well
- Handy front compartment gives quick access to essentials
Cons
- Slightly heavier than typical carry-ons
- The softside design can feel less structured
- Pricey compared to other luggage options
The expandable feature comes in handy for extra inches needed for souvenirs or layering up on clothes. This bag keeps everything flat and organized inside.
Wheels glide effortlessly even when the bag is fully loaded, making busy airports less stressful. The thoughtful outer pocket is perfect for slipping in a jacket or tablet during security checks.
The bag’s weight adds up quickly, which might be a concern if you prefer super lightweight carry-ons. While softness gives flexibility, it offers less protection for fragile items.
Briggs & Riley Baseline 22″ Garment Bag
This carry-on garment bag is solid for traveling light while keeping suits and dresses mostly wrinkle-free.
Pros
- Smooth rolling with sturdy wheels
- Keeps clothes organized and flat
- Lifetime repair service for long-term use
Cons
- Only two wheels, so it can wobble while pushing
- Small snap closure feels flimsy under stress
- Buckling side flaps take some getting used to
The bag fits neatly into overhead bins without fuss. It’s just the right size for a suit or a dress, and the hanger bracket keeps things organized.
The packing surface reduces creases compared to other bags. Moving it around works well on various surfaces thanks to the high-density wheels, though it sometimes wants to tip when you push it.
The side flaps help secure clothes, but snapping them closed can be a bit awkward. Details like the TSA lock and hidden ID tag add a nice touch of security.
The quality of materials feels built to last, and the lifetime repair guarantee supports that.
Buying Guide
When we pick a carry-on, size is a big deal. It needs to fit overhead bins easily.
Checking airline size limits first helps. Usually, something around 22 inches tall works for most domestic flights.
Durability matters to us too. We want a suitcase that stands up to rough handling but stays light enough to carry.
Hard shell luggage offers tough protection. Soft shell can be lighter and flex a bit.
Wheels and handles are key for smooth travel. Four-wheel spinners make pushing and turning easier in busy airports.
The handle should be sturdy. It should adjust smoothly to different heights.
Features to watch for:
| Feature | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Weight | Easier to lug around |
| Organization | Compartments keep things tidy |
| Expandability | Extra space when needed |
| Zippers & Locks | Security for our stuff |
We also look at the interior layout. Having well-placed pockets and straps helps keep clothes from shifting.
Some bags have removable or washable linings. This is a plus for cleanliness.
Price is part of our decision too. We want a carry-on that fits our budget but doesn’t skimp on quality or useful features.
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve gathered some straight answers about Briggs & Riley carry-ons, from weight and size to features and how to get the most out of them.
What’s the lightest carry-on option from Briggs & Riley?
The Lightweight CX Carry-On Spinner is their lightest option. It weighs around 6.7 pounds, making it ideal for travelers who prioritize easy handling.
Can you suggest a carry-on that fits most overhead bins?
The Sympatico Carry-On Expandable Spinner fits most U.S. overhead bins comfortably. Its dimensions are designed to meet strict airline size restrictions.
How does the expansion system work on their carry-ons?
Briggs & Riley’s CX Expansion-Compression system allows bags to expand by 25% for extra packing space. When you’re ready to pack lower, the compression feature saves space and keeps contents secure.
Are there any Briggs & Riley carry-ons that work well for business travel?
Yes, the Baseline Domestic Carry-On is great for business trips. It has dedicated compartments for laptops and documents, keeping things organized on the go.
What warranty comes with a Briggs & Riley carry-on?
Briggs & Riley offers a lifetime warranty that covers repairs for damage, even if it’s from airline handling. It’s one of the most comprehensive warranties in the luggage industry.
Any tips for organizing stuff in a Briggs & Riley carry-on?
Use the internal compression panels to keep clothes tight and wrinkle-free.
Pack smaller items in their multiple internal pockets to maximize space and stay organized.
