Doesn't help you now (avail in Feb) - but this is supposed to be the ultimate carry-on bag.

http://www.businessinsider.com/former-warby-parker-execs-launch-luggage-brand-2015-11

Seems like it meets much of the criteria others are posting.

We just bought a carry on and determined that the three most important attributes (for us) were: (1) lightweight; (2) 4 wheels that can move in any direction; and (3) good size outer pockets. Good luck!

Anonymous wrote:Agree as lightweight as possible. Also outside pocket for computer and a smaller outside pocket.

Disagree with two wheels. Four wheels changed my life and I thought that feature was a gimmick. I no longer have to drag my carry-on. And I can easily wheel it through aisles by turning it to the narrow side. With two wheels it has to remain on the wide side and you have to take special care to not keep bumping the seats down the aisle.

I also like handles with two prongs. I have a should strap carry on bag with a loop that I fit over the handle of the wheeled carry-on and can easily wheel both with little effort.

+1 on four wheels. Also love the wheels that rotate, so you can change direction maneuver quickly.

I love my Tumi carry-on. It's light but sturdy and you dont ever have to worry about the handle!

I bought this, in navy blue: http://www.ebay.com/itm/5-Piece-Luggage-Set-Black-White-Rugged-Versatile-Expandable-Durable-Nine-West-/131645821361?hash=item1ea6b3d1b1:g:QMEAAOSwunJWFFIN

Look at the piece at 8pm. It's MUCH bigger inside than it looks. I went away for four days with only that, and it wasn't packed fully.

Agree as lightweight as possible. Also outside pocket for computer and a smaller outside pocket.

Disagree with two wheels. Four wheels changed my life and I thought that feature was a gimmick. I no longer have to drag my carry-on. And I can easily wheel it through aisles by turning it to the narrow side. With two wheels it has to remain on the wide side and you have to take special care to not keep bumping the seats down the aisle.

I also like handles with two prongs. I have a should strap carry on bag with a loop that I fit over the handle of the wheeled carry-on and can easily wheel both with little effort.

I have this - it's SO light. I just went to look it up and saw they are having a closeout sale. I might just buy a second one just in case! http://www.rei.com/product/898043/osprey-ozone-wheeled-luggage-22-2015-closeout

Anonymous wrote:Lightweight, smallest you can get away with.

That's exactly what I was going to say.

https://www.aa.com/i18n/travelInformation/baggage/carry-on-baggage.jsp

Look at the picture of the overhead which is designed for the 22x14x9 inc wheels and handles. SW is 24x16x10 and as you all know has 1 checked bag free. The reality is even on SW people bring bigger wheelies as carry-on.

I'd go with a bag that's 21.5 inches tall by 13.5 inches wide by 7.5 inches deep based on this
http://money.cnn.com/2015/06/10/news/airlines-baggage-size-iata/

Plus get a lightweight zip duffle or tote [ie LLbean medium adventure duffle]and put any purse or laptop sleeve into that for under the seat.

Anonymous wrote:Lightweight, smallest you can get away with.

+1

I'd add that it's probably not worth stressing or overspending. You've already traveled some, so you have some idea of what you like and don't like.

Features I like:

The two-wheel style (as opposed to 4 wheel)

An exterior pocket that will accommodate a laptop, and a second exterior pocket for other tiny things.
More generally, I like a carryon that will allow me to put as much weight as possible in that wheeled bag, and as little as possible in my purse/briefcase/whatever.

I also prefer a single handle (as opposed to the typical U shape), but that feature is really hard to find.

I would also try to pick something you'd be comfortable checking in a pinch.

Lightweight, smallest you can get away with.

The pull-up handle on my suitcase was bent, is now kinked, and I struggle to pull it up and down, so I am in the market for a new one.

I travel for work once a month, for 2-5 days at a time, and I try to do it in a carry-on. For personal travel, I prefer a duffle, but I find they don't have enough structure for suits, blouses, etc.

Suggestions for things to look for in a suitcase?