Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect Carry-On Bag: Expert Tips from a Seasoned Traveler + Rise Gear Giveaway
After more than five years of full-time globetrotting, I've decided to retire my oversized 65L backpack for shorter trips. Last summer's five-week European adventure—spanning Berlin, Iceland, Amsterdam, London, Italy, and Oktoberfest—highlighted my need for a reliable carry-on. My previous duffel struggled with diverse climates from Iceland's glaciers to Italy's summer heat, prompting a dedicated search for the ideal carry-on.
Luckily, I discovered Rise Gear, a Canadian brand specializing in efficient packing solutions. Before diving into their products, let's review key factors for selecting carry-on luggage amid overwhelming options.
Price vs. Quality
You get what you pay for with luggage. I've discarded multiple cheap suitcases due to broken handles and wheels after minimal use. Now, I prioritize durability for a decade of reliable service over bargain prices.
Type & Style
Decide between backpack, trolley, two or four wheels, hardside or softside, duffel, or briefcase. Experiment to find your fit—I prefer wheeled backpacks or duffels over constant pulling.
Practicality
Style matters less than function. Prioritize storage, durability, stable handles, smooth wheels, easy conversions for hybrids, compartments, expandability, and TSA locks. 
Weight & Dimensions
Airline rules, especially budget carriers, demand compliance. Lighter is better for tech-heavy packers like me. Use this luggage size chart for airline restrictions.
Mastering Carry-On-Only Travel, Even for Long Trips
I'm a notorious overpacker, but The Carry-On Traveller: The Ultimate Guide to Packing Light by Erin McNeaney transformed my approach. This essential read offers strategies for multi-climate trips, liquid rules, and gear-heavy packing from families, beauty enthusiasts, and photographers. For under $5 digitally, it includes insurance tips, banking advice, apps, and packing lists. Erin's carry-on selection guidance was invaluable.
Introducing the Rise Glider
The Rise Glider combines roller suitcase functionality with backpack straps—ideal for airports, stairs, subways, and Europe's cobblestone streets.
Its standout feature: a collapsible shelving system. See it in action via the video below.
Organize clothes, shoes, toiletries, laundry, and a padded 15" laptop compartment. Unpack by hanging shelves in your room—detachable for flexible storage. Perfect for multi-stop trips; everything stays accessible.
Straps stow away, padding ensures comfort, and carry-on size keeps weight manageable without needing waist support.
The trolley's metal handle and sturdy wheels perform excellently.
Minor cons: limited external pockets due to straps; at 11 lbs empty, check airline weight limits.
Practical Specs
The Rise Glider (blue shelving, detachable straps) is available at Rise.com—10% off with newsletter signup.
- Dimensions: 22" x 14" x 9" (56cm x 36cm x 23cm); hooks fit 1.5" bars
- Weight: 11 lbs (5kg)
- Materials: Polyester, nylon, metal, rubberized steel hooks
- Volume: 45L
- Price: $323 (free US/Canada shipping)
Note: For smaller options, try the Overnight Jumper ($99) or Weekender ($139) duffels with the same shelving.
Rise Gear Giveaway
Win a Riser shelving system (fits carry-ons; shelves for clothes, shoes/toiletries, laundry; each holds 20lbs).
Enter via the pop-up!
