Best Carry on Luggage for 3 Day Trip: Top Compact Suitcases Reviewed

Last Updated on December 14, 2025 by Cassie Moorhead

There’s nothing more frustrating than rushing to pack for a quick 3-day trip, only to realize your carry-on won’t fit everything you need. You end up juggling multiple bags or struggling with a suitcase that’s too heavy or hard to move.

This stress can ruin the excitement of any short getaway. But choosing the right carry-on luggage changes everything. With the perfect size, smooth wheels, and smart compartments, packing becomes simple and travel feels easier. No more last-minute struggles or worrying about airline rules.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the best carry-on options designed for 3-day trips. Whether you want softside or hardshell, lightweight or expandable, there’s a suitcase here that will make your travel smoother and more enjoyable. Keep reading to find the carry-on that fits your style and needs perfectly.

Swissgear Sion Softside Expandable Luggage

The SwissGear Sion Softside Expandable Luggage is an ideal choice for frequent travelers, business professionals, and weekend adventurers who need a reliable, compact, and stylish carry-on suitcase. Perfectly designed for 1-3 night trips, this luggage suits those who prioritize convenience, durability, and ease of mobility in their travel gear. If you value smooth handling and efficient packing, this item is tailored for you.

Pros:

• 360 Degree Wheels allow effortless maneuverability through crowded airports and narrow aisles.
• Expandable Design provides extra packing space when needed without compromising compactness.
• Retractable Handle ensures comfortable handling and easy storage.
• Lightweight at 8 pounds, making it easy to carry and comply with airline weight restrictions.
• Durable Softside Construction offers flexibility and protection for your belongings.
• Compact 21 Inch Size fits most airline overhead compartments perfectly.

Cons:

• Limited color options, available only in Black.
• Softside material may offer less rigidity compared to hard-shell suitcases.
• Weight of 8 pounds might be slightly heavier than some ultra-light alternatives.

The SwissGear Sion Softside Expandable Luggage boasts a well-thought-out design emphasizing user convenience and practicality. The 360-degree wheels ensure smooth and quiet movement, allowing travelers to glide through terminals effortlessly. Its expandable feature adds valuable packing capacity, making it adaptable for various trip lengths. The retractable handle enhances portability, fitting snugly when not in use and providing ergonomic grip when extended.

With dimensions of 22.75 x 14.25 x 10.25 inches and a manageable weight of 8 pounds, this carry-on is optimized for airline standards, helping avoid extra baggage fees. The softside construction balances durability with flexibility, protecting belongings while compressing slightly to fit tight spaces. Its classic black color ensures a professional and timeless look, suitable for all types of travelers. Overall, this suitcase combines smart features with practical benefits, making it a dependable travel companion for short trips.

To buy this product, click here.

Amazon Basics 21″ Hardside Carry-on Luggage

The Amazon Basics 21″ Hardside Carry-On Luggage is ideal for frequent travelers, business professionals, and weekend adventurers who seek a durable, lightweight, and stylish suitcase. If you want a reliable carry-on that fits overhead compartments and offers extra packing space, this expandable hardshell suitcase is a perfect choice.

Pros:

• Expandable design provides up to 25% more packing space
• Durable scratch-resistant hardshell protects belongings
• Four multi-directional wheels allow smooth and easy maneuverability
• Compact 21.7-inch height fits most airline carry-on requirements
• Lightweight at 6.8 pounds, reducing travel strain
• Bright orange color makes it easy to spot on luggage carousels

Cons:

• Limited internal organizational compartments
• No built-in TSA lock for enhanced security
• Color options limited to bright orange

Featuring a sturdy hardshell design with a scratch-resistant surface, this suitcase protects your belongings from rough handling and keeps your luggage looking new. The expandable feature allows travelers to increase packing capacity by up to 25%, making it versatile for trips of varying lengths. Its four multi-directional wheels provide effortless 360-degree movement, reducing strain on your arms and shoulders while navigating busy airports or city streets.

The compact dimensions of 21.7 inches in height make this carry-on compliant with most airline regulations, ensuring hassle-free boarding. Weighing just 6.8 pounds, it is lightweight enough for easy lifting but durable enough to withstand frequent travel. The vibrant orange color not only adds a stylish touch but also helps you quickly identify your luggage. This suitcase combines practical features with convenience, making it a smart investment for travelers seeking functionality and durability.

To buy this product, click here.

Travelers Club Chicago Hardside Expandable Spinner Luggage

The Travelers Club Chicago Hardside Expandable Spinner Luggage, Rose Gold, 3 Piece Set is ideal for frequent travelers who value style, durability, and convenience. Whether you’re a business traveler, a family going on vacation, or a solo adventurer, this luggage set offers the perfect combination of functionality and elegance, especially for those who prefer a lightweight yet sturdy option for their journeys.

Pros:

• Elegant rose gold color adds a stylish touch.
• Hardside construction provides excellent protection for belongings.
• Expandable design offers extra packing space when needed.
• Spinner wheels ensure smooth and effortless maneuverability.
• Includes a convenient 3 piece set for various trip lengths.
• Compact dimensions (20 x 11 x 13 inches) ideal for overhead compartments.
• Lightweight at approximately 7.8 pounds, reducing travel strain.

Cons:

• May not accommodate very large packing needs due to size limitations.
• Rose gold finish might show scratches more easily over time.
• Spinner wheels, while smooth, could wear out with very heavy use.

The Travelers Club Chicago Hardside Expandable Spinner Luggage boasts a durable exterior designed to withstand the rigors of travel, keeping your belongings safe. Its expandable feature allows users to increase packing capacity, making it flexible for both short trips and longer vacations. The smooth-rolling spinner wheels enhance mobility, allowing travelers to navigate busy airports or city streets with ease, reducing physical effort and fatigue.

This 3 piece set offers versatility, catering to different trip durations and packing requirements. The compact size of each suitcase fits well in overhead compartments, making it an excellent choice for air travelers seeking carry-on convenience. The lightweight design minimizes strain during transit, allowing users to travel comfortably without worrying about excess baggage weight. Overall, this luggage set combines practicality with a chic rose gold aesthetic, appealing to travelers who want their gear to look as good as it performs.

To buy this product, click here.

Amazon Basics 3-piece Luggage Set

The Amazon Basics 3-Piece Luggage Set is perfect for travelers who value convenience, style, and practicality. Ideal for frequent flyers, weekend vacationers, and business travelers alike, this set caters to those who need a versatile and reliable luggage solution. The inclusion of a carry-on suitcase, a 15-inch tote bag, and a compact 10-inch travel bag makes it suitable for individuals who prefer organized packing and easy mobility.

Pros:

• Expandable 22″ hardside carry-on with 8 spinner wheels for smooth maneuverability
• Attractive rose gold color that stands out
• Includes multiple bags for versatile packing options
• Durable construction from a trusted brand, Amazon Basics
• Lightweight design weighing just 8.68 pounds for easy handling

Cons:

• Limited color options available
• The tote and compact bags may not suit travelers needing larger accessory storage
• Hardside shell might be prone to scratches over time

The Amazon Basics 3-Piece Luggage Set features a 22-inch expandable carry-on suitcase equipped with 8 spinner wheels that ensure effortless movement through airports and city streets. Its hardside exterior offers protection for your belongings, while the expandable feature provides additional packing space when needed. The rose gold finish adds a touch of elegance and uniqueness to your travel gear, helping you easily spot your luggage on the carousel.

Alongside the carry-on, the set includes a 15-inch tote bag ideal for daily essentials or a quick carry-on item, and a 10-inch compact travel bag that’s perfect for organizing smaller items or toiletries. This combination of bags offers flexibility and convenience, allowing travelers to keep their belongings well-organized and accessible. Overall, this luggage set blends practicality with style, making it a smart choice for those seeking reliable travel companions.

To buy this product, click here.

American Tourister Stratum 3.0 Carry-on Spinner

The American Tourister Stratum 3.0 Carry-On Spinner is ideal for frequent travelers who need a reliable and stylish piece of luggage that complies with most airline carry-on size restrictions. Whether you are a business traveler or a casual vacationer, this durable hardside suitcase is perfect for those seeking convenience, expandability, and ease of maneuverability in a compact design.

Pros:

• Airline approved carry-on size ensures hassle-free boarding
• Durable hardside construction protects belongings from impacts
• Expands 1.5 inches for additional packing space
• RightHeight™ adjustable handle enhances comfort and control
• Spinner wheels provide smooth, 360-degree mobility
• Classic black color offers a sleek and professional look

Cons:

• Limited color options may not appeal to those wanting more variety
• Some users may find the hard shell less flexible for packing odd-shaped items

The American Tourister Stratum 3.0 Carry-On Spinner boasts a durable hardside exterior that safeguards your belongings against rough handling and travel wear. Its compact dimensions of 22.0 inches in height, 15.0 inches in length, and 9.5 inches in width make it a perfect carry-on size for most airlines, eliminating the stress of checked luggage fees and wait times. Additionally, the expandable feature adds 1.5 inches of extra space, allowing travelers to pack more without compromising on size compliance.

Designed with user comfort in mind, the suitcase features the innovative RightHeight™ adjustable handle that adapts to different user heights for optimal ergonomics and ease of use. The four smooth spinner wheels enable effortless 360-degree movement, making navigation through crowded airports and city streets seamless. With its sleek black finish and trusted American Tourister brand quality, this carry-on spinner is a practical and stylish travel companion for all your journeys.

To buy this product, click here.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Size Carry-on Luggage Is Best For A 3-day Trip?

A 21 to 22-inch carry-on is ideal for a 3-day trip. It offers enough space for essentials without being bulky. Models like SwissGear Sion and Amazon Basics 21″ fit airline size limits and maximize packing efficiency.

Are Expandable Carry-ons Better For Short Trips?

Yes, expandable carry-ons offer extra space when needed. Amazon Basics 21″ and American Tourister Stratum 3. 0 provide expansion up to 25%. This feature is perfect for souvenirs or additional items on a 3-day trip.

Which Carry-on Wheels Provide The Best Mobility?

360-degree spinner wheels ensure smooth and easy maneuverability. SwissGear Sion and Travelers Club Chicago come with multi-directional wheels. They help you navigate airports and streets effortlessly during your trip.

Is Hardside Or Softside Luggage Better For Quick Trips?

Hardside luggage offers durability and scratch resistance, ideal for protection. Softside like SwissGear Sion provides flexibility and external pockets. Choose based on your packing style and handling preference for a 3-day trip.

What Features Make Carry-ons Airline Approved?

Airline-approved carry-ons meet size and weight restrictions. Models like American Tourister Stratum 3. 0 ensure compliance. Features include retractable handles, spinner wheels, and lightweight design for hassle-free travel.

Does A Luggage Set Benefit 3-day Travelers?

Yes, a set like Amazon Basics 3-Piece includes carry-on, tote, and compact bags. It offers organized packing options and convenience. Perfect for managing different items and accessories on short trips.

Conclusion

Choosing the right carry-on luggage makes your 3-day trip easier and more enjoyable. The SwissGear Sion offers softside flexibility and smooth wheels. Amazon Basics provides durable hardshell options with extra space and scratch resistance. Travelers Club Chicago’s set gives you matching bags for different needs.

The American Tourister Stratum 3. 0 stands out with its airline-approved size and adjustable handle. Each option fits well in overhead compartments and handles quick packing. Think about what matters most: size, weight, durability, or style. Pick luggage that suits your travel style and needs.

With the right carry-on, you can focus on your trip, not your bags. Travel light, stay organized, and enjoy your journey. Your perfect 3-day trip carry-on is waiting.