Travel is making a comeback and carry on luggage is a definitely a great choice. Here are some tips from Consumer Reports, plus the top ranked luggage brands too.  Check out our a few of our luggage picks today and watch the video from Real Simple with some excellent packing tips that will help you get more in that bag.

Luggage Buying Tips from Consumer Reports

Wheels were the best things to happen to luggage. Look for luggage with 4 wheels that spin and make it so much easier to wheel that luggage and turn it in any direction for easy airline aisle maneuvering.  Check the durabability of the zippers, and look for light weight –  11.5 lbs for a carry-on is good.  And measure the bag yourself.  The maximum allowable dimensions for domestic flights on the 3 major airlines, are 22 inches high, 9 inches deep, and 14 inches wide. If you’re often flying internationally, you may want to opt for a bag that stands at 21 inches instead, just to be sure you won’t run into any issues when boarding.

And what do consumers rate as the top brands?  You might be surprised.  They include Eagle Creek, Briggs & Riley, Tumi, and (best value) AmazonBasics, picked by Travel & Leisure editors.  Watch this Consumer Reports video for tips on buying luggage.

A Few Luggage Picks

Here are a few of the top rated brands from Consumer Reports’ consumer survey.

Eagle Creek Gear Warrior AWD International 21.5 inch

This internationally-sized spinner carry-on bag offers easy mobility, with 4 wheels, and an ultra-light carry. With equipment keeper to strap bulky items to the top of the bag, compression straps to attach gear.  Amazon. $169.99.

Eagle Creek Pack-It Specter Starter Set.

Relax and enjoy your trip with these ultra-light translucent packing organizers. This set will help you organize and compress the contents of your travel bag. Amazon. $59.00.

Briggs & Riley Transcend Domestic Carry-On Expandable Upright

Spinning on 4 double swivel wheels for effortless 360 Degree navigation, this bag also features the CX expansion-compression system, providing maximum packing capacity, then compressing back down to original size for the overhead compartment.  Conveniently wheel this bag right down the airplane aisle.  Amazon. $599.00

Samsonite Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels,

This 20-inch carry on is rugged and meets most airline overhead specs. Over 12,000 five star reviews. On sale at Amazon. $139.99.

Cool Light Spinner Luggage with Built-In TSA Lock

This luggage has over 8,000 five star reviews.  Premium hardside spinner luggage for weekend getaways or international carry-on; built-In TSA lock. 3-pieces for just  $189.00 Amazon.

 How to pack

Checkout this video from Real Simple with expert packing tips.