The main places to buy carry-on luggage
You can buy carry-on luggage at department stores, luggage specialty shops, big-box retailers, and online marketplaces. The best choice depends on whether you want to see and touch the bag before buying, how quickly you need it, and your budget. Most people find what they need within a few days by shopping at one or two of these categories.
Each type of store has a different strength. Department stores let you compare brands side by side. Luggage specialty shops have staff trained to answer questions about durability and features. Big-box retailers offer low prices. Online stores have the widest selection and often ship within two days.
Key Takeaways
- Department stores like Macy's, Nordstrom, and Kohl's stock multiple carry-on brands in one location, making comparison shopping straightforward.
- Luggage specialty retailers like Luggage Pros and The Luggage Store focus only on bags and can explain the difference between hard-shell and soft-sided options.
- Big-box stores like Target, Walmart, and Costco carry a smaller selection but often have the lowest prices on popular brands.
- Online retailers including Amazon, Bed Bath & Beyond, and brand websites offer the most choices and usually ship within one to three business days.
- Airport shops and travel retailers sell carry-on luggage at a premium price, so buy before you travel unless you need a bag the same day.
Department stores with carry-on luggage
Macy's, Nordstrom, Kohl's, and JCPenney all stock carry-on luggage in their travel sections. These stores typically carry 10 to 20 different models from brands like Samsonite, American Tourister, and Delsey. You can walk in, handle multiple bags, and compare hard-shell versus soft-sided options in person.
Department stores often run sales on luggage during holiday weekends and back-to-school season. Staff can show you how to extend the handle, open the compartments, and test the wheels. If you are unsure about size or material, this hands-on approach saves time. Most department stores also accept returns within 30 to 60 days if the bag does not meet your needs.
Luggage specialty retailers
Stores that sell only luggage and travel accessories—such as Luggage Pros, The Luggage Store, and local independent luggage shops—employ staff who understand construction, warranty coverage, and which brands hold up over years of travel. These shops typically stock 30 to 50 carry-on models and can explain the trade-offs between weight, durability, and price.
Specialty retailers often repair luggage and honor manufacturer warranties without hassle. They know which wheels fail first, which zippers jam, and which frames crack under pressure. If you plan to travel frequently or want a bag that will last five years or more, the information at a specialty shop is worth the slightly higher price. Many also offer a one-year damage may provide on bags purchased in-store.
Big-box retailers and warehouse clubs
Target, Walmart, and Costco carry carry-on luggage at lower prices than department stores. Target and Walmart stock 5 to 10 models from brands like American Tourister and IT Luggage. Costco's selection changes monthly, but when luggage is in stock, prices are typically 20 to 30 percent below other retailers. The trade-off is a smaller selection and less staff knowledge.
These stores are best if you know exactly what you want—a specific brand and size—and you prioritize price. Return policies are generous: Target and Walmart both accept returns within 90 days, and Costco accepts returns indefinitely on most items. If you have a Costco membership, check their website before visiting, because luggage stock is limited and rotates frequently.
Online retailers and brand websites
Amazon, Bed Bath & Beyond, Wayfair, and the official websites of luggage brands like Samsonite, Away, and Calpak offer the widest selection of carry-on bags. Online shopping lets you read customer reviews, compare prices across stores, and see photos from multiple angles. Most online retailers ship within one to three business days, and many offer free returns.
Brand websites often have sales that you will not find elsewhere, and they may provide authenticity. Amazon Prime members receive two-day shipping on many carry-on models. Bed Bath & Beyond offers free shipping on orders over $39. When buying online, check the return window—most retailers allow 30 to 60 days, but some allow longer. Read the dimensions carefully, because "carry-on" size varies by airline, and a bag that fits one airline may not fit another.
Travel retailers and airport shops
Stores inside airports and travel-focused retailers like Hudson News sell carry-on luggage, but prices are 30 to 50 percent higher than other locations. These shops are convenient if you arrive at the airport without a bag, but they should be your last resort for planned purchases. Some airports have a Hudson News or similar shop in the terminal, but selection is limited to a few popular brands.
Travel retailers outside airports—such as REI for outdoor-focused luggage—stock carry-on bags alongside other travel gear. REI's selection is smaller than a luggage specialty shop, but staff can discuss how a bag fits into a broader travel setup. REI members receive a 10 percent discount and can return items within one year.
Comparing price and selection across store types
| Store Type | Selection | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Department stores | 10–20 models | $80–$400 | Comparing brands in person |
| Luggage specialty shops | 30–50 models | $100–$500 | informed information and repairs |
| Big-box retailers | 5–10 models | $60–$250 | Low prices on popular brands |
| Online retailers | 100+ models | $50–$600 | Widest selection and reviews |
| Airport and travel shops | 3–8 models | $150–$400 | Emergency purchases only |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between hard-shell and soft-sided carry-on luggage?
Hard-shell bags are made of rigid plastic or polycarbonate and protect contents from impact and crushing. Soft-sided bags are made of fabric and are lighter and more flexible, which can help them fit into tight overhead bins. Hard-shell bags are more durable for frequent travel; soft-sided bags are better if you want to squeeze extra items into your bag.
How do I know if a carry-on bag will fit my airline?
Check your airline's website for carry-on dimensions. Most airlines allow bags up to 22 by 14 by 9 inches, but some are stricter. Measure the bag you are considering—length, width, and depth—and compare it to your airline's limit. Many online retailers list dimensions in the product description. When in doubt, choose a bag slightly smaller than the maximum.
Can I return a carry-on bag if I change my mind?
Yes. Most retailers accept returns within 30 to 90 days if the bag is unused and in original condition. Department stores, big-box retailers, and online stores all have return policies posted on their websites or in-store. Luggage specialty shops often have longer return windows. Keep your receipt and check the return important date before you buy.
Is it worth buying an expensive carry-on bag?
If you travel more than twice a year, a mid-range to premium bag ($150–$300) from a brand like Samsonite, Away, or Delsey will last longer and handle rough handling better than a budget bag. Budget bags ($50–$100) work fine for occasional trips. Read customer reviews to see how long bags last, not just the price tag.
Where can I find carry-on luggage on sale?
Department stores and online retailers run sales during holiday weekends, back-to-school season, and after major holidays. Sign up for email alerts from retailers you like. Costco and warehouse clubs rotate luggage stock and offer discounts when items are in stock. Brand websites sometimes have clearance sections with previous-year models at lower prices.