Browse our list of premium carry-on bags specifically selected for flight crews.
Pilot prepares aircraft for departure (Photo: Shutterstock | Demkat)
Carry-on bags are an essential component of every flight crew member’s gear. Therefore, we have compiled a list of brand-name carry-on bags designed to withstand the demands of frequent air travel while offering durability, functionality, and style. By selecting one of these high-quality carry-ons specifically chosen for flight crews, you can reduce the risk of damage to your personal and professional belongings while upholding the highest professional standards.
Please note that each airline may have its own specifications regarding airline uniform standards. You should always check with your base administrative offices for approval before purchasing uniform items, including crew baggage.
Let’s look at some of the top baggage choices for flight crews.
Best for: Popularity
The Aurora New Generation 22-Inch Expandable Suiter Rolling Bag by Luggageworks ranks among the most popular luggage options for flight crews. Designed with durability in mind, this bag meets the needs of frequent travelers. While its high-quality rubber wheels and telescopic handle ensure easy mobility, the newly redesigned interior helps flight crews stay organized during layovers.
Aurora New Generation Suiter Rolling Bag [Courtesy: Luggageworks]
Disadvantages
Price: $199.99 plus $15.99 for custom monogram
Best for: Durability
Known as the pilot’s choice for luggage, the Stealth Premier 22-Inch Rolling Bag by Luggageworks is the ultimate carry-on. Its metal frame, durable hardware, and ballistic fabric shell with protective padding guarantee it can endure the demands of frequent travel. Flight crews worldwide trust this luggage brand for their professional needs.
Stealth Premier 22″ Rolling Bag. [Courtesy: Luggageworks]
Disadvantages
Price: $439.99 plus $15.99 for custom monogram
Best for: Warranty
The Briggs & Riley Essential 22-Inch Carry-On Expandable Spinner is a high-end carry-on luggage with unmatched quality and a lifetime warranty. Despite its compact size, the carry-on offers a surprisingly large space and organizational capabilities. Additionally, the carry-on suitcase has a classic, understated look with thoughtful and practical features ideal for professionals on the go.
Briggs & Riley Essential 22-Inch Carry-on Expandable Spinner [Courtesy: Briggs & Riley]
Disadvantages
Price: $699
Best for: Lightweight
Despite its robust design, the TUMI 21.75-Inch Aerotour 4 Wheel Expandable Luggage is designed to be lightweight for convenient travel. Unique to the TUMI brand, this bag comes equipped with a TUMI Tracer, which keeps all belongings safe and recoverable in case the bag is lost. Additionally, its minimalist aesthetic is ideal for flight crews.
TUMI 21.75-Inch Aerotour 4 Wheel Expandable Luggage [Courtesy: TUMI]
Disadvantages
Price: $595
Best for: Dependability
The TravelPro 22-Inch Pilot Expandable Carry-On Rollaboard is a dependable carry-on choice for flight crews. It is expandable, organized, and designed for professional use. This luggage includes all the essential features that flight crews need, including front, side, and rear pockets on the interior and exterior, shoe bags, a laundry bag, and more.
TravelPro 22-Inch Pilot Expandable Carry-on Rollaboard [Courtesy: Travelpro]
Disadvantages
Price: $349
Best for: Affordability
The Travelpro 21-Inch Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Carry-on is an affordable, ultra-lightweight option offering unmatched simplicity for flight crews. It has sturdy carry handles and smooth wheels, which glide effortlessly through busy airports. Despite its compact size, the luggage provides ample space, enabling flight crews to pack up to four days’ worth of clothing and accessories.
Travelpro 21-Inch Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Carry-on [Courtesy: Travelpro]
Disadvantages
Price: $169.99
Let’s explore what factors to consider when selecting flight crew carry-on baggage.
A durable carry-on bag begins with a sturdy frame that provides substantial support and maintains the integrity of the bag’s shape. High-denier nylon or Cordura fabrics are known for their resistance to tears, abrasions, and water, guaranteeing long-lasting performance. Quality hardware and reinforced stress points also enhance the bag’s resilience.
When choosing a carry-on bag, flight crews should ensure the bag’s dimensions are suitable for under-seat and overhead bin storage. Investing in a lightweight carry-on is also essential, ensuring efficiency and convenience during frequent travel.
A flight crew’s carry-on bag should have various compartments for uniform items, toiletries, clothes, shoes, and more, which can help organize personal and professional items. A well-organized bag contributes to seamless travel and reflects the professionalism required of flight crewmembers.
High-quality wheels and telescoping handles significantly enhance the mobility and handling of carry-on bags, especially for flight crews who frequently navigate crowded airports. These elements improve overall maneuverability and minimize travel strain, enabling flight crews to carry their personal and professional essentials efficiently.
In the fast-paced aviation environment, where appearances often correlate with professionalism, a flight crew’s carry-on bag should be functional and convey a sleek and professional image. Therefore, choosing a bag with a minimalist aesthetic is ideal as it projects an air of sophistication without overwhelming an airline’s branding.
Choosing the right carry-on bag is essential for flight crews who navigate the complexities of frequent travel and rigorous airline standards. Therefore, investing in a premium carry-on bag tailored to these specific needs can significantly enhance the travel experience, allowing aviation professionals to focus on their primary responsibilities. Let’s add one of these carry-on bags to your virtual cart today!
Why do flight crews need different features in a carry-on bag compared to regular travelers?
Unlike regular travelers, flight crews are often subject to frequent flights and long layovers, necessitating luggage that can endure constant use while remaining functional. Therefore, the key to a suitable carry-on for flight crews is finding the balance between durability, functionality, and style, while ensuring compliance with applicable carry-on baggage industry standards.
What makes a carry-on bag suitable for the unique demands of airline work?
The best carry-on luggage for airline crews seamlessly combines durability, functionality, and style, tailored to their specific travel requirements.
Are there specific size or weight restrictions that flight crew carry-ons must adhere to?
Flight crewmembers’ carry-on bags must fit within the standard dimensions of everyday travelers’ carry-on bags and meet the standard weight restrictions, ensuring they can comfortably fit in the overhead bins or under aircraft seats.
Do airlines provide carry-on bags for their crews, or is it usually a personal purchase?
Airlines typically do not supply carry-on bags to their crews, leaving it as a personal purchase. Please note that each airline may have its own specifications regarding airline uniform standards. Therefore, you should always check with your base administrative offices for approval before purchasing uniform items, including crew baggage.
AirlineGeeks may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs.
Receive a daily dose of the airline industry's top stories along with market insights right in your inbox.
Airline pilots have the unique opportunity to both recharge and explore during layovers, balancing rest with adventure in destinations across…
In what JetBlue leadership calls a “win-win,” 67 of its pilots are leaving the airline this month. The airline and…
A group of over two dozen former students has filed a lawsuit against United Aviate Academy (UAA) and United Airlines,…
