If you can avoid flying, that is still the best option. Aviation is responsible for 2.5% of global carbon emissions, and the emissions from aircraft could double or triple by 2050. But for journeys where air travel cannot be avoided, one simple way to reduce your impact is to choose a cabin bag instead of checking luggage.
Travelling with a carry-on suitcase usually means packing less, which helps keep the bag lighter and can reduce the fuel needed to transport it. There is also the practical benefit of avoiding hold baggage fees, which can make cabin bags a cheaper option as well as a greener one.
To see which models stand up to the demands of real travel, a seasoned traveller tested a selection of cabin bags on an assault course, braving obstacles and mud in the process. The test compared different styles and price points, from hard-shell cases to lighter designs and more affordable options.
The aim was to find the best carry-on luggage for travellers in the UK, whether the priority is durability, weight, ease of use or value for money. Cabin bags can vary widely in construction and performance, so a practical test can be useful when deciding which one is worth buying.
The roundup highlights two standout choices. The best cabin bag overall is the July Carry On luggage, while the best budget cabin bag is the Tripp Holiday 8 cabin suitcase. Those two models sit at opposite ends of the market, but both were singled out in testing for meeting different traveller needs.
For anyone packing for a short trip, the lesson is straightforward: choosing the right cabin bag can make the journey easier, lighter and less expensive. And if flying is unavoidable, travelling with carry-on luggage is one of the simplest ways to keep baggage to a minimum.
The full test covered a range of cabin bags designed for different kinds of travellers, from those seeking a hard-wearing suitcase to those looking for a lighter or cheaper alternative. The final recommendations reflect that variety, giving readers a place to start when shopping for a new carry-on.
