The best garment bags for travel can do double duty, offering space for accessories, shoes and even additional clothing. Better yet, they can be carried on to the plane and placed in the overhead bin (or in some cases, a closet onboard).
Read on to discover the best carry-on garment bags based on recent consumer reviews. All of the recommended bags are considered carry-on compliant, though it’s always a good idea to check your airline’s carry-on size restrictions before flying.
(Note: Prices were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to demand or other factors. Dimensions are listed in order of height by length by width.)
Folded dimensions: 23 x 22 x 4 inches | Weight: 2.86 pounds
What sets it apart: Available on Amazon for less than $70, the ZEGUR Suit Carry On Bag is a well-constructed garment bag at an approachable price. Offered in black and gray, this garment bag features a semirigid structure piping that allows it to secure clothing in place and prevent wrinkled garments, yet it folds in half for easy transport. The bag also offers inner pockets and an exterior zippered pocket that contains various compartments of its own, perfect for accessories like belts, socks and cuff links. Other convenient features include an adjustable, detachable shoulder strap and a trolley sleeve for securing the garment bag to other luggage.
Travelers appreciate: Reviewers consistently rave about this bag’s durable design at an affordable price.
Folded dimensions: 12 x 22 x 12 inches | Weight: 2.3 pounds
What sets it apart: The Garment Duffel by Halfday is increasingly popular for its two-in-one design – so much so that it now comes in a variety of colors and patterns as well as two different sizes: Original and Compact.
The Original size holds suits and dresses plus a few days’ worth of clothing, while the Compact bag is slightly smaller and ideal for dresses and shirts. Both bags feature two interior shoe pockets, a water-resistant exterior with a pocket for access to essentials, and a trolley sleeve. Since the garment duffel bag provides enough storage for a few days’ worth of clothing, it may be the only luggage you need for your next business trip or weekend getaway.
Travelers appreciate: Buyers love the versatility of this bag and the unwrinkled formalwear it yields.
Folded dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9 inches | Weight: 9.92 pounds
What sets it apart: Launched in 2022, the newest version of the Briggs & Riley Baseline Carry-On 2-Wheel Garment Bag makes several improvements to the already well-rated luggage, including a beige lining, upgraded shock-absorbing wheels and an overall stronger build. Buyers have the option to monogram the garment bag as well.
The best part about this bag, however, is that it’s a rolling carry-on suitcase and a garment bag in one, with separate compartments for a couple of suits, everyday clothing and accessories. These features include the brand’s signature PowerPocket for charging your phone on the go as well as an exterior pocket, which offers quick access to security essentials such as your passport wallet and features an orange lining so you see if it is open.
Travelers appreciate: Recent reviewers say this investment piece is surprisingly spacious given its size, and that it has held up well for everything from business travel to international trips.
Folded dimensions: 30 x 22 x 3 | Weight: 1.9 pounds
What sets it apart: WallyBags specializes in heavy-duty garment bags, with an exclusive WallyLock clamp system that secures up to six hangers in place on all of its bags. Travelers agree the WallyBags 60″ Deluxe Travel Garment Bag is a lightweight yet sturdy choice for all forms of travel, noting it’s strong enough to fit a wedding dress, tuxedo and shoes for destination weddings. The water-repellent bag is available in five colors and also offers durable handles that can be fastened to each other for easy carrying or attaching to other luggage.
Travelers appreciate: Owners of this bag like that it is lockable and folds easily once a dress or suit is placed inside – though some note a shoulder strap would be a helpful addition to this thoughtfully designed bag.
Why Trust U.S. News Travel
Amanda Norcross first discovered the importance of traveling with a quality garment bag after using a clunky old one she borrowed from her mom’s closet. For her sister’s all-inclusive resort wedding in Jamaica, she upgraded to a carry-on garment duffel bag to ensure her matron of honor dress remained wrinkle-free (and wow, what a difference). Along with these firsthand experiences, she consulted consumer ratings, reviews and details for dozens of garment bags to choose the best of the best for travel.