We packed and unpacked 56 cabin bags and these are the best for your next trip

Score: 89/100

If you’re all about savvy design, stop scrolling now. This suitcase’s detail is what makes it special; it features a compression system to fit more luggage in, a hidden laundry bag to store dirty clothes separately, and even a leather luggage tag.

It navigated bustling streets easily, but wobbled when we changed direction abruptly. It also fared well in our durability test, with little more than a scuff here and there (these wiped away with ease) and small dings on the corners. This didn’t worry us though, especially if you’re not checking it in – and this high-end choice also comes with a lifetime warranty.

Score: 88/100

There are two versions of this sleek Antler suitcase on our list (you’ll find the pocket-less design below), but our testers loved this one for its work-trip friendly design. They comfortably fitted their 13-inch laptop in the outer pocket, and liked the additional room for notebooks, cables and work essentials.

The inside is just as organised, with a divider and small pockets, making it easy for our tester to pack a city break’s worth of clothes. It also scored full marks for its smooth movement. The wheels are durable, and the shell proved sturdy in our drop test (only scratching, not denting). Most marks were easy to clean off, too. It even impressed when we popped it in the shower (only the fabric zips absorbed any water).

It might be a little too big for some airlines though, so check it's a good fit with your favourite airline before you add this premium suitcase to your collection.

Score: 87/100

Available in a selection of vibrant colours, this case’s hard shell belied its affordable price tag and proved durable on test, withstanding rough handling. Even when our testers took it to the extreme by dropping it repeatedly, it only picked up a few scuff marks. Its sturdy wheels offer a smooth run as you dash across tarmac, too.

The only real disappointment was its zip. It moved well but let a small amount of water into the case – something to bear in mind if you get stuck in the rain. Still, this jolly bag is roomy inside and boasts three internal pockets, so you can definitely sneak in a souvenir or two.

Score: 87/100

If you need a cabin bag that can also withstand the perils of the hold and the overhead lockers, consider this great value spinner. It moved smoothly and emerged from our durability tests practically unscathed – quite the feat given how much our testers bashed it about.

It felt spacious, with comfortable handles, but some water seeped through the zip at the top. That aside, it’s a reliable design, available in a swathe of cheerful colours at a reasonable price.

Score: 87/100

Every item can be neatly packed into this clever expandable suitcase. You’ll need to check that it still complies with cabin regulations before flying, but it’s ideal if you want something flexible for holidays that don’t involve plane travel.

It impressed in our waterproofing test, letting no liquid in, and its interior lining can be removed and popped into the washing machine. It suffered a few minor dents to its corners after repeated dropping, but it proved robust in every other way.

Score: 83/100

This stood out to our testers for its resistance to damage during our drop tests; it emerged with minor scratches and removable dents and wheeled along as easily as it had before. It didn’t let water in either.

Packing was also easy, thanks to handy pockets. Testers were able to fit in everything they needed neatly, and it stayed securely in place throughout testing. It’s not the lightest design, however; our experts warned that the dimensions may be too big for the more stringent airlines.

Score: 83/100

This lightweight suitcase is a snip at just over £50. Testers found it moved around easily with sturdy wheels (they barely dropped a point in our durability tests) and a comfortable handle. Its zip-up compartment and adjustable luggage straps mean you can pack your holiday wardrobe tidily, while its shell is watertight. Its zip let some water in though, and the lock isn’t TSA-approved (so avoid if the US is top of your to-visit list).

We’d also recommend keeping it out of the hold if possible as our testers cracked it when throwing it around. Used as a wheel-on however, this wouldn’t be a worry and it comes with a five-year guarantee for added peace of mind.

Score: 80/100

This is one classy cabin bag from heritage luggage brand Antler. It impressed with its easy wheeling and robust design. In fact, testers found they were able to wipe away any scratches – the only real impact testers noted during our drop tests.

Watch it in a downpour because the zip isn’t waterproof. But it’s well laid out inside for packing, with multiple pockets (including a pencil-case sized pocket for cables or small loose items) and a divider to keep everything in its place. It has a lifetime warranty too, so in all, it would make a great, long-lasting holiday companion.

Score: 80/100

Like the Carl Friedrik Check-In suitcase, this is another buy that exudes luxury. It was easy to pack and moved well (with silent wheels), while its sturdy frame not only kept all water out but fared well in our drop tests too. Not to mention, the locking system keeps everything secure.

Unlike many cabin bags, this has a front pocket with a handy slot for your laptop. But weighing in at 4.3kg, it’s heavier than lots of the other cases on this list, so keep this in mind if you’ll be lifting it a lot. It’s also very expensive, so best suited to frequent travellers.

If you’re not fussed about the laptop pocket, the brand's classic iteration is worth considering, and it’s currently available in navy, thanks to a limited edition collaboration with Hackett London – it's one that will stand out when you’re travelling for all the right reasons.

Score: 79/100

Luggage allowances are getting ever tighter, making a bag that fits underneath the seat in front of you with enough space for your clothes the holy grail of budget travel. Enter Tripp’s Escape Underseat Cabin, with the same design as the brand’s popular suitcase range, just smaller.

You must pack savvily – we suggest turning to compression packing cubes for help as you can’t fit as much in as with a standard cabin bag. But it’s durable and, while the wheels lagged a little on carpet, it should be easy enough to whiz around the airport.