Traveling with carry on luggage has become more popular than ever, especially for short trips or business travel. Carry on bags let you avoid checked baggage lines and keep your essentials close.
They come in various sizes and styles, but one feature that’s increasingly important is a dedicated laptop compartment. Laptops are part of everyday work and travel gear for many people.
Having a carry on with a laptop compartment offers extra protection and easy access during security checks or while moving through airports. It keeps your device safe from bumps and scratches, separate from clothes and other items.
When choosing carry on luggage with a laptop compartment, size and weight matter because airlines have strict limits. The quality of padding around the laptop pocket and how easily you can reach it without unpacking are also critical.
Best Carry On Luggage with Laptop Compartment
We’ve rounded up some of the best carry on luggage options that come with a dedicated laptop compartment. These picks help keep your tech safe and easily accessible while you’re on the go.
Let’s check out the top choices for hassle-free travel.
LEVEL8 Grace Carry-On
This carry-on nails it if you want a slick, sturdy suitcase with a handy laptop compartment.
Pros
- Front pocket makes laptop access super easy
- Smooth-rolling spinner wheels handle airports effortlessly
- Feels solid but stays lightweight enough for quick trips
Cons
- Expansion adds limited extra space
- The hard shell can feel a bit rigid for overpacking
- Weighs slightly more than some ultra-light carry-ons
Using this bag made packing for short trips a breeze. The dedicated laptop compartment kept our gear safe and easy to reach during security checks, which saved time and stress.
We loved how smoothly it rolled beside us, even on rough airport floors. The textured hard shell is tough — it held up well against bumps without looking scratched after several uses.
The expansion feature gave us a bit more room when needed, but it didn’t create a huge difference.
TravelArim 22 Inch Carry On
This carry on is a solid pick for anyone needing a tough suitcase with great tech pockets and smooth wheels.
Pros
- Easy to maneuver with spinner wheels
- Padded laptop and tablet compartments work well
- Includes handy cosmetic case that attaches securely
Cons
- Expansion adds limited extra space
- Power bank not included despite USB port
- Hard shell can show scuffs over time
We liked how smoothly this luggage rolls through busy airport terminals. The 360-degree spinner wheels made it effortless to handle in tight spaces or crowded lines.
The laptop compartment felt secure and well-padded, letting us pull out devices quickly without digging through the main compartment. Having a dedicated tech pocket really helped keep our gear organized.
The cosmetic case was a nice bonus, especially for toiletries or smaller valuables. It stays snug on the handle, so there’s less worry about losing little items when moving between flights.
On the downside, the expandability only gave a bit more packing room — not a game changer if you tend to overstuff your bags. Also, if you want to use the USB charging port, you’ll need to supply your own power bank.
For the price, this hard shell carry on stood up well to knocks and kept scratches to a minimum, though it wasn’t immune to some signs of wear after regular use.
Coolife 20in Carry-On with Laptop Compartment
This carry-on works well for frequent travelers who want a lightweight, organized suitcase with a secure laptop pocket.
Pros
- Lightweight and durable hard shell resists scratches
- Front pocket keeps laptop and documents easy to access
- TSA lock secures both main and front compartments
Cons
- Smaller main space when front pocket is full
- No side handle for easier lifting
- Build quality not as robust as premium brands
We found the Coolife carry-on surprisingly lightweight but sturdy enough for repeated use. The textured shell held up well against rough baggage handling, and having a separate front pocket meant our laptop and papers never got buried.
The TSA double lock is a handy security feature. It’s easy to lock both compartments simultaneously, giving us peace of mind during busy airport transit.
However, when the front pocket is fully packed, the main compartment feels a bit tighter than usual. A downside we noticed was the missing side handle, which makes lifting from certain angles tricky when the suitcase is full.
Samsonite Elevation Plus Carry-On
We found this carry-on hits the sweet spot between style, durability, and smart organization for anyone who travels with a laptop.
Pros
- Smooth wheels glide easily through airports
- Sturdy shell resists scratches and wear
- QuickEntry laptop pocket keeps gear accessible
Cons
- Slightly heavier than some other carry-ons
- Limited laptop size capacity (up to 13-inch)
- Interior divider pockets could be roomier
The Elevation Plus feels tough yet lightweight, with a hard shell that stands up well to the usual bumps. Its green Cypress color looks sharp and unique, which made us feel like we could spot our bag from a mile away.
We appreciated the front QuickEntry pocket where the laptop fits snugly without opening the entire suitcase. The removable zippered pouch for chargers is a neat touch since it keeps small items from cluttering up our packing.
However, it’s important to note bigger laptops won’t fit here. Navigating busy terminals was effortless thanks to the smooth spinner wheels and comfortable handle grips.
The integrated AirTag holder reassured us about tracking the bag during long trips.
Also read our Best Samsonite Luggage review. Samsonite is one of those great brands with warranty.
LUGGEX Carry-On with Laptop Compartment and Cup Holder
This carry-on is a solid choice if you want extra storage, easy access to your laptop, and a handy cup holder all in one compact set.
Pros
- Front laptop pocket keeps essentials within reach
- Expandable design gives more packing space when needed
- Built-in cup holder is surprisingly useful on the move
Cons
- Laptop compartment reduces main packing volume
- Tote bag smaller than expected
- Hard shell can limit flexibility when packing oddly shaped items
We found the front pocket very practical for stashing a laptop and chargers, making security checks a breeze. The two-way lock adds peace of mind, keeping everything secure on the road.
It didn’t tip over easily, which was a refreshing change from soft cases we’ve used before. The expandability feature gave us about 15% more room, helping when we had to squeeze in those last-minute items.
The cup holder, though unusual for luggage, turned out to be a nice perk for keeping a water bottle handy during long trips. Just keep in mind packing space slightly shrinks if you pack heavily in the laptop pocket.
Joyway 20 Inch Carry On
This carry on is a solid pick when you want a laptop-friendly suitcase that’s easy to roll and keeps your tech charged on the go.
Pros
- Front laptop pocket gives quick access without digging through main compartment
- Built-in USB port keeps devices charged while moving
- Smooth spinner wheels and TSA lock add convenience and security
Cons
- Filling the laptop pocket can reduce overall packing space
- Slightly heavier than some carry-ons at 9.5 pounds
- Cup holder is handy but not deep enough for all cups
We liked how easy it was to reach our laptop and other essentials without opening the whole bag. The front pocket fits up to a 15.6-inch laptop well and saved us time through airport security.
Charging while traveling is clutch, and the USB port worked reliably with our phone and laptop. The folding cup holder was a convenient small bonus, letting us stash a bottle or coffee cup hands-free.
The suitcase felt sturdy thanks to the hard PC shell and corner protectors, which gave us peace of mind on bumpy rides and checked baggage. Wheels spun smoothly and quietly, making it effortless for navigating busy terminals.
imiomo Carry On Luggage Set
This carry on set is great for anyone who wants organized packing and easy laptop access on the go.
Pros
- Front compartment fits a 15.6-inch laptop with quick access
- USB charging port keeps devices powered
- Smooth spinner wheels and sturdy aluminum handle for effortless rolling
Cons
- Slightly heavier than some carry-ons we’ve tried
- Front pockets can get crowded if overpacked
- Limited color options
We found the imiomo carry on’s hard shell offers good protection without feeling too bulky. The laptop compartment in front is a lifesaver when airport security lines slow us down.
It’s easy to grab the laptop or charger without opening the whole bag. The USB port is super convenient for long flights or busy travel days when outlets aren’t available.
Rolling it through the airport is smooth thanks to the 360-degree spinner wheels and solid telescoping handle. It feels stable and well balanced, even when packed full.
The included handbag and toiletry bag add extra organization that really helps keep us ready for business or leisure. While it’s a bit on the heavier side for a carry on, the extra features make it worth it for frequent travelers who want to stay organized and powered up.
Buying Guide
When picking the best carry-on luggage with a laptop compartment, we want to focus on a few key features. First, the size matters.
It should fit airline carry-on restrictions but still offer enough room for our clothes and tech gear. Next up is the laptop compartment itself.
We want it to be padded and easily accessible so we can get through airport security quickly. A sleeve with extra protection helps keep our device safe from bumps.
We should also look at the material of the luggage. Durable and lightweight options make travel easier, especially if we have to carry or lift it often.
Water-resistant fabric is a bonus to protect our stuff in bad weather. Wheels and handles matter, too.
Smooth-rolling wheels and an adjustable handle make getting around airports or streets less of a hassle. Four wheels usually offer better mobility than two.
| Feature | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Size | Fits carry-on limits, yet spacious |
| Laptop Compartment | Padded, easy access, secure fit |
| Material | Durable, lightweight, water-resistant |
| Wheels & Handles | Smooth-rolling, adjustable handle |
Pockets and organization help us stay neat. Multiple compartments mean we can separate chargers, documents, and personal items without a mess.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-rated carry-on bags with a dedicated laptop section?
We’ve found that bags like the Nomatic Navigator and Samsonite Pro Slim are consistently praised for their padded laptop compartments. They fit most 15-16 inch laptops and offer easy airport access without unpacking the rest of your gear.
Can you recommend any hard shell carry-ons that also have a place for my laptop?
Brands like Away and Rimowa offer hard shell suitcases with built-in laptop sleeves or separate laptop compartments. These options provide good protection against impacts while keeping your tech accessible.
Which underseat carry-on options are best for storing a laptop securely?
For underseat storage, we like the Samsonite Carry-Ready and the eBags Professional Slim. They have designated laptop sleeves and enough padding to keep your device safe during quick stows.
I’m looking for a business travel suitcase with space for my laptop; any suggestions?
We recommend the Tumi Alpha 3 and Briggs & Riley @work series. Both have organized compartments for laptops, chargers, and documents, designed with business travelers in mind.
Are there any carry-ons that come with a built-in charger and a spot for my laptop?
The Away Carry-On with Pocket and the Nomatic Navigator offer built-in USB charging ports alongside dedicated laptop spaces. Just remember to pack your power bank to make the most of these features.
What’s a good carry-on luggage option for women that includes a laptop compartment?
We’ve seen positive feedback from women on the Dagne Dover Allyn and the Solo New York Duane.
These carry-ons balance style with practical laptop compartments and compartments for personal items.
