Expandable Carry-Ons: The Preferred Pick for Frequent Flyers
Spend less time worrying and more time enjoying the ride with a carry-on that's right for you. Carry-on suitcases are built to comply with TSA luggage regulations, and that often leaves little room for packing everything you need into one case.
Traveling, especially on an airline, can be taxing and stressful as it is, without feeling like you're missing something.
Expandable Carry-Ons come with a variety of features and designs to ensure you have enough room for your trip's essentials, and the peace of mind that comes with knowing you haven't left anything behind. We created this blog to help you decide which one is best for you.
What is Expandable Carry-On Luggage?
Expandable carry-on luggage aims to provide enough space for all your needs, while still meeting the common airline safety requirements. Store clothes, shoes, toiletries, electronics, and anything else you would need for a short trip in one suitcase, instead of hauling around a large checked bag.
This is the perfect suitcase for business trips and short vacations by car, train, or bus, where you want to be able to fit everything you need.
Why Choose an Expandable Carry-On Over a Standard Carry-On
A standard carry-on is limited by size and dimensions, leaving you only so much room. With an expandable carry-on, you don't have to decide between being airline compliant and fitting everything you need. Below is a reference chart for a quick comparison:
| Feature | Expandable Carry-On | Standard (Non-Expandable) Carry-On |
| Typical Dimensions | 22" x 14" x 9", then can expand to 10.5"-11.5" in depth | 22" x 14" x 9" (Fixed) |
| Volume / Capacity | 35 to 45 Liters/up to 55 Liters | 35 to 45 Liters |
| Average Empty Weight | 6 to 8+ lbs | 5 to 7 lbs |
| Airline Sizer Compliance | Fits when compressed | Consistently fits in strict airline sizers. |
| Overhead Bin Fit | May not allow the bin door to close if expanded | Easily slides in "wheels-first" on most planes. |
Key Features to Look For
A high-quality expandable carry-on has all or most of the following:
- Heavy-duty spinner wheels with 360 degrees of motion for easy maneuvering.
- Lightweight design to easily carry.
- Several types of interior accommodations and organization features to store everything you need.
- Durable construction to ensure long-lasting use.
- TSA-approved lock to keep you secure while traveling.
Why Spinners Matter
Spinner luggage makes maneuvering simpler, especially in busy places like airports, hotels, and tourist spots. A standard upright can only move forward or backward, limiting how you move. A spinner provides 360 degrees of smooth motion. You can pull it behind, push it in front of you, or keep it at your side. You need a suitcase that works with you, not against you, and a spinner adapts to your movements, instead of fighting against them.
What Size is Right?
Major Airlines have a standard carry-on size of around 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm). An expandable carry-on suitcase can shrink down to this size, while still holding everything you need for your trip. Most expandable carry-ons can expand up to 1.5 inches (3.8cm).
Best Expandable Carry-On Luggage for Premium Travel
Bric's line of expandable carry-on luggage is the premium travel solution for today's refined traveler. Each carry-on features luxurious Italian artistry and a durable construction, striking the perfect balance of elegance and longevity.
The B|Y Ulisse Carry-On Spinner has a tough outer shell that holds up to all sorts of situations, from TSA scans and overhead bins to car trunks and storage. The split compartments inside keep clothes organized, and the expanding zipper gives you an extra 1.5 inches of space for an extra pair of clothes or last minute souvenir. The wheels glide smoothly across most floor types, hard and soft, and the 360-degree turning is a lifesaver during the bob-and-weave of navigating a busy airport.
Expandable Carry-On FAQs
Are expandable carry-ons airline-approved?
- Bric's Line of expandable carry-on luggage is designed to be airline-compliant, fitting the standard 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm).
Do expandable zippers affect durability?
- While expansion zippers experience greater tension when fully expanded, our zippers are made with heavy-duty materials built to handle the stress of stretching, even from overpacking.
Will it still fit in overhead bins when expanded?
- No, the suitcase must be in its compressed form to be stored in an overhead bin.
Does expanding it exceed carry-on size limits?
- Yes, each carry-on can expand between 1.5 and 2 inches, making them over the regulated limit of airline carry-on sizes.
Can it fit a whole suit?
- Yes, when folded correctly, our expandable carry-ons can fit a wide range of business attire.
Experience Premium Travel with Bric's expandable luggage
Looking for more than just a carry-on? Bric's offers a wide range of travel gear like checked luggage, tote bags, backpacks, and more. Explore luxury collections like the Bellagio, Capri, Positano, and Firenze.
Bric's is a family-owned business specializing in hand-crafted Italian hardshell luggage and leather goods for the past 60 years. Family values, attention to detail, quality, artistry, fashion, and function separate us from the competition.