Traveling with kids can be both exciting and challenging, and having the right carry-on luggage for your little ones can make a big difference. Whether you’re preparing for a family vacation or a quick trip, choosing the best carry-on luggage for kids involves finding something practical, durable, and fun. In this guide, we’ll review the top options for kids’ luggage, helping you pick the perfect piece for your next adventure.
Top 4 Best Carry-On Luggage for Kids
1. Trunki Ride-On Suitcase
The Trunki Ride-On Suitcase is perfect for toddlers and younger kids. It doubles as a toy and a suitcase, allowing children to ride on it while waiting at the airport. It’s lightweight, durable, and comes in various fun designs like tigers, unicorns, and dinosaurs.
- Pros: Fun design, easy to ride, lightweight
- Cons: Limited space for older kids
- Best For: Toddlers and preschoolers
2. Skip Hop Zoo Rolling Luggage
Skip Hop is known for its playful and adorable designs, and their Zoo Rolling Luggage is no exception. These soft-sided carry-ons come in animal shapes, like monkeys, owls, and butterflies. With a front zip pocket and side bottle holder, it’s both practical and cute.
- Pros: Affordable, cute designs, lightweight
- Cons: Soft sides offer less protection
- Best For: Preschool to early elementary kids
3. American Tourister Disney Hardside Luggage
For Disney lovers, American Tourister offers a hard-shell carry-on featuring beloved characters like Mickey Mouse, Elsa from Frozen, and Marvel superheroes. This luggage is durable, spacious, and comes with smooth-rolling spinner wheels for easy handling.
- Best For: Elementary school-aged kids
- Pros: Hard shell for protection, fun designs, durable
- Cons: Heavier than soft-sided luggage
4. JetKids by Stokke BedBox
The JetKids by Stokke BedBox is a premium option that turns into a bed for long flights. This ride-on suitcase is perfect for keeping kids entertained, and when it’s time to rest, it transforms into a bed that attaches to the airplane seat. While it’s more expensive, the added functionality makes it a favorite for families who travel frequently.
- Pros: Converts into a bed, ride-on feature, high quality
- Cons: Expensive
- Best For: Families with frequent travelers
Tips for Traveling with Kids and Their Luggage
To ensure a smooth travel experience with your children and their carry-on luggage, consider these tips:
- Practice at home: Before your trip, let your kids practice pulling their luggage around the house so they get used to handling it.
- Pack wisely: Help your child pack only the essentials. Use packing cubes or organizers to keep things neat.
- Label everything: Make sure your child’s luggage is clearly labeled with their name and contact information in case it gets lost.
- Keep them entertained: Pack a small backpack with toys, books, or electronic devices to keep your child occupied during the flight or wait times.
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What to Look for in Kids’ Carry-On Luggage
Before diving into specific recommendations, here are the key factors to consider when selecting carry-on luggage for kids:
1. Size and Weight
Kids’ carry-on luggage should be lightweight and easy for them to manage. Look for bags that are small enough to meet airline carry-on restrictions, but spacious enough to fit their clothes, toys, and essentials. Most airlines require carry-ons to be within 22 x 14 x 9 inches.
2. Durability
Children can be rough with their belongings, so choosing a durable bag is essential. Hard-shell luggage made from polycarbonate or ABS plastic is sturdy and protects the contents, while soft-sided luggage made from nylon or polyester offers flexibility and is often lighter.
3. Wheels and Handle
Opt for a bag with smooth-rolling wheels and an adjustable handle that fits your child’s height. Spinner wheels that rotate 360 degrees can make it easier for kids to maneuver their luggage without help.
4. Design and Features
Kids love bright colors and fun designs, so selecting a carry-on with their favorite character or pattern can make traveling more enjoyable. Additional features like built-in compartments, front pockets, and straps for attaching other bags can add extra convenience.
5. Price
Affordability is important, but balance price with quality. Investing in a reliable carry-on will save you money in the long run, as it will last through multiple trips without needing replacement.
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FAQ
1. What size carry-on luggage is best for kids?
For kids, a carry-on between 16 to 20 inches is ideal. It should be lightweight and easy for them to handle, yet large enough to fit their essentials like clothes, toys, and travel accessories.
2. Should I choose hard-shell or soft-shell luggage for kids?
Both options have benefits. Hard-shell luggage offers better protection for fragile items and is easy to clean, while soft-shell luggage is often lighter and can expand to fit more items. For younger kids, soft-shell might be easier to maneuver.
3. What features should I look for in kids’ carry-on luggage?
Look for lightweight luggage with durable materials, smooth-rolling wheels, a telescoping handle that adjusts to your child’s height, and plenty of compartments for organization. Fun designs that your child enjoys are also a plus!
4. Can kids use their carry-on as their only luggage for trips?
Yes, for short trips or vacations, kids’ carry-on luggage can often hold all the essentials they need. Packing light and smart with clothes, toiletries, and entertainment can make a carry-on sufficient for a few days of travel.
5. Are ride-on suitcases a good option for kids?
Ride-on suitcases are a popular option for younger kids. They offer a fun and practical solution, allowing kids to sit on their suitcase and be pulled along in busy airports. Brands like Trunki make durable, lightweight ride-on luggage that’s great for kids.
6. What are the airline regulations for kids’ carry-on luggage?
Airline carry-on regulations for kids are generally the same as for adults. Most airlines allow a carry-on bag that fits within 22 x 14 x 9 inches, but be sure to check your airline’s specific size and weight limits before traveling.
7. Should I get luggage with wheels or a backpack for my child?
Wheeled luggage is great for kids who are comfortable pulling a suitcase through airports, while backpacks may be easier for smaller children to carry themselves. A rolling backpack can offer the best of both worlds, providing the flexibility of both.
8. How can I keep my child’s carry-on organized?
To keep your child’s carry-on organized, use packing cubes or separate compartments to store clothing, toys, and snacks. Having dedicated pockets for smaller items like chargers or travel documents can also help with organization.
9. Can kids’ carry-on luggage fit under the airplane seat?
Some smaller kids’ carry-ons can fit under the airplane seat, especially if they are soft-shell or have flexible dimensions. However, this depends on the specific bag and airline, so always check the dimensions before your trip.
10. How do I choose luggage that my child will like?
Choose luggage that features fun designs, bright colors, or characters your child loves. Many brands offer themed luggage with favorite characters like Disney, Marvel, or animals, which can make your child excited about using their bag.
11. Can I pack snacks and drinks in my child’s carry-on luggage?
Yes, you can pack snacks in your child’s carry-on luggage, but remember that liquids (including drinks) must comply with airline security regulations. Be sure to pack dry snacks and check with your airline regarding specific restrictions.
Conclusion
Choosing the best carry-on luggage for kids doesn’t have to be a challenge. By considering factors like size, durability, and fun designs, you can find a bag that not only fits your child’s needs but also makes travel more enjoyable for the whole family. From budget-friendly options like the Skip Hop Zoo to more premium choices like the JetKids BedBox, there’s something for every family’s travel style and budget.
