See them at-a-glance

Best Overall: M5 Cabin Luggage Horizn Studio

£490

Best Overall: M5 Cabin Luggage Horizn Studio

£490

Best Overall: M5 Cabin Luggage Horizn Studio

£490

Best Overall: M5 Cabin Luggage Horizn Studio

£490

Best Overall: M5 Cabin Luggage Horizn Studio

£490

Best Overall: M5 Cabin Luggage Horizn Studio

£490

Best Overall: M5 Cabin Luggage Horizn Studio

£490

Recommendations with Integrated USB Charger Port

Best Overall – Horizn Studios M5 Cabin Luggage

£490.00 AT HORIZN STUDIOS

Aerospace Grade Polycarbonate: Lightweight & durable German engineered case | Sustainable: 97% recycled polycarbonate sourced in a closed-loop system to eliminate waste | Waterproof Front Pocket: Made with Vegan Hi-Core and Nylon, with a recycled polyester lining | Security: Built-in TSA approved locks | Battery: 10,000mAh Removable Power Bank | High-end ultra smooth wheels: Japanese 360° spinner wheels | Dimensions: 55 cm x 40 cm x 20 cm | Volume: 33 l Weight: 3.6 kg | Warranty: Lifetime

★★★★★

Looking for a travel companion that blends high-tech features with top-notch design? Look no further than the M5 Cabin Luggage by Horizn Studios. This isn’t just luggage; it’s a testament to how smart design can elevate your travel experience to new heights.

Designed with the needs of the contemporary traveller in mind, it combines sleek aesthetics with practical features, including an integrated smart tech panel with USB charger. Ideal for those who want to stay connected on-the-go.

Despite it’s robust construction the M5 remains impressively lightweight. Crafted from a durable polycarbonate shell that’s built to withstand the rigours of travel.

Synonymously addressing both form and function in one sleek body gets the M5 Cabin Luggage theHiflyers approval for the best-in-class front pocket carry-on suitcase of 2024.

  • The good things we’ve learned
  • Various stylish colours available
  • Customisable to your personal style (additional costs)
  • According to online reviews ‘Quality’ mentioned several times.
  • The design and materials scream luxury, making every trip a statement.
  • Things we learnt could be improved
  • The premium price point, though is reflective of its high-end features and build.
  • Front zippered pocket more useful when main pocket is less filled.
  • A slightly more generous interior or an expandable option would cater to those “just in case” packing needs.

Best Runner-Up – Level 8 Road Runner Pro Carry-On

£209.99 AT LEVEL 8

German -Made Polycarbonate: Makrolon® | Security: Built-in TSA approved locks | USB Charger Port: Yes| Battery: Power bank not included | High-end wheels: Ultra smooth 360° spinner wheels | Dimensions: 55 cm x 37 cm x 23.5 cm | Volume: 35 l l Weight: 4.2 kg | Warranty: Lifetime

★★★★★

‘The workmanship is exquisite’ is how one reviewer put it, and we couldn’t agree more. You can rest assured embark on your travels with unmatched confidence and style with the Road Runner Pro Carry-On by Level 8.

The robust construction paired with a stylish design makes this carry-on a reliable and fashionable travel accessory.

Its optimized organization features simplify packing and unpacking, making travel more enjoyable.

The smooth mobility offered by its precision-engineered wheels enhances the travel experience by ensuring easy maneuverability

The lack of a built-in power bank is the reason why the we placed the Road Runner as a Runner-Up to the M5 Cabin Luggage, otherwise identical in style and efficiency.

  • The good things we’ve learned
  • Road Runner Pro offers almost the same efficiency and style at less than half the price of the M5 Cabin Luggage by Horizn Studios.
  • Available in 3 different colour choices.
  • Quick release button to access front pocket and snap to close.
  • The compartments and separators help keep your belongings organized and accessible.
  • Things we learnt could be improved
  • Non customisable.
  • Packing for over 4 days might be a struggle with this suitcase as identified through online reviews.

Best Expandable – Victorinox Spectre 3.0 Global Carry-On

£450.00 AT VICTORINOX

Recycled polycarbonate: Made with SORPLAS™, manufactured by Sony | Sustainable: 65% recycled polycarbonate | Security: lockable front pocket with 4 slot TSA locks | USB Charger Port: Yes | Battery: Power bank not included | Wheels: Hinomoto dual caster spinners with LISOF® silent outer rims in large, 60 mm size | Dimensions: 55 cm x 40 cm x 20 cm | Volume: 39 l (expandable to 47 l) l Weight: 3.5 kg | Warranty: 2 to 11 years

★★★★★

From the makers of the Original Swiss Army Knife®, the Spectre 3.0 Expandable Global Carry-On from Victorinox is ideal for those who might come back with more they had left with, thanks to its expandable design.

The recycled polycarbonate shell makes it extremely lightweight but solid. However an expansion system that offers up to 20% additional capacity is what impresses most about this suitcase.

As well as a lockable front-opening quick-access compartment the addition of an USB charger port makes this a solid choice for frequent business travellers in our opinion.

Though the extra space when used will mean the bag would need to be checked in. The trade off of buying another suitcase between your leisurely travels and business ones can be achieved through an hybrid purchase like this one.

  • The good things we’ve learned
  • Integrated multi-tool panel with ID tray, USB port and space pen.
  • A removable divider.
  • 100% recycled lining with SILVADUR™ technology inhibits the growth of microorganisms.
  • An option for personalisation (additional charges may apply)
  • Things we learnt could be improved
  • Does attract marks over time.
  • Standard 3 colours to choose from.

Best Ride-On – Airwheel SE3S Smart Rideable Carry-On

£1095.95 AT SELFRIDGES

Build Material: German laminate and Taiwan Chi Mei ABS with Aluminium frame | Security: Built-in international TSA code lock | USB Charger Port: Dual | Battery: 73.26WH removable power battery | Wheels: high-quality, abrasion-resistant, puncture-resistant TPU solid tires | Dimensions: 55 cm x 36 cm x 24 cm | Volume: 20 l l Weight: 9.4 kg | Warranty: 12 months

★★★★★

We wonder if the Airwheel SE3S is really a suitcase of the future or if it’s specifically designed for the tech-savvy traveller as many claim, one thing is for sure is that it makes travelling functional and a whole lot of fun.

Beyond it’s unique rideable function, the practical design of the SE3S allows the essentials of a quality suitcase still, offering ample storage, durability and organisation.

Imported German laminate and Taiwan Chi Mei ABS makes this case wear-resistant and waterproof. The patented aluminium frame ensures a load capacity of 110kg which is really impressive too.

The brushless motor and Standard V Lithium-ion battery (fully charged in 2 hours) allows it to reach a maximum speed of 8mph and there’s no need to worry about boarding; the smart riding luggage meets the International Air Transport Association (IATA) requirements for non-check-in luggage requirements.

  • The good things we’ve learned
  • With just one button, you can switch the usage mode quickly from riding mode to drag mode easily.
  • Steering is responsive according to users.
  • App available to drive luggage remotely.
  • Battery is removable, ensuring compliance with airline regulations.
  • Despite it’s added functionality there’s still generous packing space and organised compartments.
  • Things we learnt could be improved
  • Sometimes dangerous especially when turning due to high centre of gravity.
  • Not that good on bumpy terrain also battery can dislodge.
  • Battery charge drops if not in use.
  • The addition of motor and battery makes the standalone weight heavy especially for those who prioritise lightweight luggage.

Best Lightweight – American Tourister Airconic Cabin Luggage

£159.00 AT AMERICAN TOURISTER

Build Material: 100% Polypropelene | Security: Recessed combination TSA lock | USB Charger Port: Yes | Battery: Power bank not included | Wheels: 4 wheel spinner | Dimensions: 55 cm x 40 cm x 23 cm | Volume: 34 l l Weight: 2.4 kg | Warranty: 3 years

★★★★★

American Tourister is demonstrating again its strength for innovative lightweight suitcases paired with a contemporary design language.

Weighing in at just 2.4kg makes the Airconic cabin luggage the lightest and most durable front pocket carry-on suitcase you can find in this department.

With recessed TSA locks for added security and an integrated USB port for easy access to charging devices. The Airconic promises to lighten your journey every step of the way.

Constructed from a resistant polypropylene outer shell that can handle the rigours of any corner of the world you’re visiting, the double 4-wheeled design gives you extra rolling comfort through the terminal.

Stand out from the sea of mundane language through the vibrant colour options available. Make it a statement piece that’s as resilient as your spirit of exploration.

  • The good things we’ve learned
  • Generous packing space.
  • Colour options.
  • It’s lightweight design makes travelling less of a chore.
  • Things we learnt could be improved
  • While the design is top notch, additional compartments for organisation would be a plus.
  • Not expandable.

Best Versatile – Samsonite STACK’D Front Pocket Spinner

£225.00 AT CASE LUGGAGE

Build Material: 100% Polycarbonate | Security: Integrated 3-digit TSA combination lock | USB Charger Port: Integrated – Easy Connection | Battery: Power bank not included | Wheels: Smooth-rolling wheels for enhanced mobility | Dimensions: 55 cm x 40 cm x 23 cm | Volume: 39 l (expandable to 47 l) l Weight: 3.1 kg | Warranty: 5 years

★★★★★

Stack’d by Samsonite redefines what it means to travel with ease and style. It’s more than just luggage; it’s a travel system designed to keep you moving smoothly and efficiently, no matter where your journey takes you.

Samsonite has always been at the forefront of luggage innovation, and Stack’d is no exception. The combination of polycarbonate and a sophisticated texture make this carry-on highly scratch-resistant and durable. The wheels are smooth and a double tube pull handle is strong and sturdy.

Whilst it’s the second in expandable choices from our list of the ‘best carry on luggage with laptop compartment’ the Stack’d can easily accommodate those extra items whilst travelling.

The USB charger port rightfully adds the ‘smart’ to the ‘stylish’ aspect of this suitcase making it a truly versatile luggage fitting for travellers demanding functionality and style in one.

  • The good things we’ve learned
  • Good amount of packing space.
  • Good choice of colours.
  • Removable zipped wet pocket to store your liquids, cosmetics or swimsuit.
  • The interior textile is made from 100% post-consumer recycled PET plastic bottles (Recyclex ®).
  • Things we learnt could be improved
  • Taking advantage of the stackable nature of this line would mean purchasing additional suitcases.

Best Reliable – Briggs & Riley International Carry-On

£499.00 AT BRIGGS & RILEY

Build Material: Makrolon | Security: Sentry® Approved Lock | USB Charger Port: Yes | Battery: Power bank not included | Wheels: 4 wheel spinner | Dimensions: 53.5 cm x 35.5 cm x 23 cm | Volume: 38 l | Weight: 3.1 kg | Warranty: lifetime

★★★★★

Renowned for blending durability with innovative design the International 4 wheel spinner by Briggs & Riley is part of the established Torq range that blends style, functionality and reliability in a compact carry-on format.

The 3-layer Makrolon® polycarbonate makes it lightweight and extremely durable and a textured surface helps minimise unwanted marks, especially as you navigate through narrow aircraft aisles and the complexities of international terminals.

A built-in Travel Sentry® approved lock allows your luggage to be opened, inspected and relocked by security authorities without damage. 

The organisational compartments in this suitcase is well thought-out too. The inclusion of a built-in mesh suiter that allows you to neatly hold a suit or shirts securely in place to prevent wrinkling makes it perfect for business trips.

Briggs & Riley products are covered by their Simple As That® Guarantee, which lasts a lifetime.

  • The good things we’ve learned
  • YKK® RC zippers for smooth, self repairing zipper action; ergonomic, lockable double zipper pulls.
  • RFID blocking pocket in front compartment; protects personal data from digital pickpockets.
  • Exceptionally wide, tilt-resistant wheel base for maximum stability.
  • Monogrammable leather nameplate to customize with your initials; easily removable and replaceable.
  • Things we learnt could be improved
  • The premium investment reflects the quality and features offered but may require consideration for budget-conscious travellers.

In our search for the best front pocket carry-on suitcases, we’ve looked at dozens of options, reviewed hundreds of products and spent countless hours reading user feedback to provide you with the most up-to-date, dependable and stylish piece of luggage you can confidently choose from.

theHiflyers Promise – we’ve minimised unnecessary detail to swiftly deliver the information you seek without any time wasted on superfluous content. Be assured that our research-backed recommendations serve as genuine guides to empower you in making well-informed choices.

(Note: We independently evaluate all recommended products and services; the order of reviews does not indicate preference. Our selections are unbiased, and compensation from provided links does not influence our suggestions.)

Conclusion

In conclusion, for those seeking the pinnacle of travel gear that offers smart features, easy access, and is designed with the future in mind, the Horizn Studios M5 Smart Cabin Luggage stands unmatched. It not only addresses the practicalities of travel but does so with an eye for design and a commitment to sustainability, making it the ideal choice for the discerning traveller of 2024.