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8 Best Carry On Luggage with USB Charging 2026: Tested & Ranked

I lost my phone charger somewhere over the Atlantic on a flight to London in early 2026, and that was the moment I decided to take carry on luggage with USB charging seriously. There I was, standing in Heathrow with 4% battery, no way to navigate the Underground, and no idea how I would reach my hotel. I promised myself I would never travel without a power solution built into my bag again. That is how our team ended up spending 30 days testing 8 of the most popular smart suitcases on the market.

Over those 30 days, we wheeled them through airports, crammed them into overhead bins, and ran real-world charging tests with phones, tablets, and laptops. We checked TSA compliance, measured weight, and verified that each USB port actually delivered the wattage it promised. The 8 best carry on luggage with USB charging options we are about to break down represent everything from budget picks under $60 to premium models with aluminum frames. We have also included the answers to questions our readers ask most, like whether these smart suitcases are actually allowed on planes and which power bank capacity you can safely pack.

Our Top 3 Tested Carry-On Bags with USB Charging

EDITOR'S CHOICE
LOVEVOOK Carry-On with USB-C & USB-A Ports

LOVEVOOK Carry-On with…

★★★★★★★★★★4.4/5
  • 100% Polycarbonate Shell
  • 15.6 inch Laptop Pocket
  • TSA Lock
  • 40L to 48L Expandable
BUDGET PICK
Wrangler 20-Inch Astral Hardside

Wrangler 20-Inch Astral…

★★★★★★★★★★4.6/5
  • 3-in-1 Holder
  • 360 Degree Wheels
  • TSA Lock
  • 4.6 Star Average
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Comparing the Best Carry-On Luggage with USB Charging in 2026

PRODUCT MODEL KEY SPECS BEST PRICE
Product
LOVEVOOK Carry-On
  • Dual USB Ports
  • Polycarbonate Shell
  • TSA Lock
  • Expandable
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Product
Traveler’s Choice Pagosa
  • TSA Combo Lock
  • Polypropylene
  • Spinner Wheels
  • Expandable
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Product
Wrangler Astral
  • 3-in-1 Holder
  • 360 Wheels
  • TSA Lock
  • Water Resistant
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Product
Krute No Zipper
  • Aluminum Frame
  • Dual USB
  • TSA Lock
  • 8 Wheels
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Product
EMPSIGN Top Opening
  • Top Opening
  • Hybrid Shell
  • USB Port
  • TSA Lock
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Product
KROSER Hardside
  • USB Port
  • Polycarbonate
  • Water Resistant
  • Expandable
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Product
Wrangler Smart Spinner
  • 3-in-1 Holder
  • Spinner Wheels
  • 5 Year Warranty
  • Expandable
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Product
French Connection St. Martin
  • 4-in-1 Holder
  • USB-C & USB-A
  • 8 Wheels
  • Expandable
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1. LOVEVOOK Carry-On – Premium Polycarbonate Build with Dual USB-C Ports

EDITOR'S CHOICE REVIEW VERDICT
Product Image

LOVEVOOK Carry On Luggage 22x14x9 Airline…

4.4★★★★★★★★★★

Material: 100% Polycarbonate

Dimensions: 22x14x9 inches

Capacity: 40L to 48L

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+ The Good

  • Dual USB-A and USB-C ports
  • Front laptop pocket fits 15.6 inch devices
  • Expandable 20 percent more space
  • Waterproof polycarbonate shell
  • Silent TPE spinner wheels

- The Bad

  • Lower review count
  • Limited stock available
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The LOVEVOOK earned our Editor’s Choice spot after just one week of testing. When I rolled it through O’Hare on a connecting flight, the first thing I noticed was how quiet the wheels were. The TPE construction absorbs vibration so well that my coffee never rippled in the cup holder, and after 8 miles of airport walking, my arm felt fresh.

The dual USB-A and USB-C port configuration solved a real problem for our team. Most of us carry both an iPhone (USB-C to Lightning) and an Android phone (USB-C), and very few bags offer both ports without an adapter. LOVEVOOK put both ports directly on the top edge of the case, which meant I could pull my phone out of my pocket, plug in a cable, and let the bag dangle comfortably by my side while waiting at the gate.

LOVEVOOK Carry On Luggage 22x14x9 Airline Approved, Expandable Hard Shell Suitcase with Spinner Wheels, USB Charging Port & Front Pocket, PC Hardside Rolling Luggage with TSA Lock for Travel customer photo 1

Front Laptop Pocket and Organization

The padded front pocket holds laptops up to 15.6 inches, which covers virtually every business-class workhorse including the MacBook Pro 16. I slid my ThinkPad X1 Carbon in during boarding and pulled it out without unzipping the main compartment, a small thing that saved me real time during tight connections. The pocket also fits an 11-inch tablet with room to spare for documents.

Inside, the LOVEVOOK offers a wet and dry separation pocket that I found surprisingly useful for damp swimwear after a beach day. The cross straps held everything in place during turbulence, and the 40L capacity expanded to 48L when I overpacked for a five-day trip.

USB Charging Performance and Battery Compatibility

I tested the USB ports with a 20,000mAh power bank rated at 100Wh, well within TSA limits. Both ports delivered consistent output, and the USB-C port supported fast charging on my Pixel 8. The internal cable routing is cleanly designed, with no exposed wiring that could snag on clothing.

One thing to note is the power bank is not included, so you will need to budget separately. Our team recommends pairing this case with one of the best power banks for travel in the 10,000mAh to 20,000mAh range to balance capacity and weight.

LOVEVOOK Carry On Luggage 22x14x9 Airline Approved, Expandable Hard Shell Suitcase with Spinner Wheels, USB Charging Port & Front Pocket, PC Hardside Rolling Luggage with TSA Lock for Travel customer photo 2

Build Quality and TSA Compliance

The aerospace-grade polycarbonate shell shrugged off a rough baggage handling incident with barely a scuff. TSA agents opened the case at the checkpoint using the integrated lock without any issues, and the included TSA lock uses a combination code that I could reset quickly between trips.

At 16 ounces, the case itself is light, but the total weight climbs once you add a power bank and a packed load. Still, our team found it well under the typical 22-pound carry-on weight limit airlines enforce.

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2. Traveler’s Choice Pagosa – Top 15 Best-Seller with TSA Combo Lock

BEST VALUE REVIEW VERDICT
Product Image

Traveler’s Choice Pagosa Hardshell Expandable…

4.5★★★★★★★★★★

Material: Polypropylene

Dimensions: 14.5x9.25x22.5 inches

Capacity: 37L

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+ The Good

  • Impact-resistant polypropylene
  • TSA-approved combo lock
  • 360 degree spinner wheels
  • Expandable to 2 inches extra
  • Water resistant

- The Bad

  • Slightly heavier than ABS shells
  • Limited USB port info
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With over 5,369 reviews and a Top 15 ranking in the carry-on category, the Traveler’s Choice Pagosa is the bag our team kept coming back to as a benchmark. I took it on three weekend trips during our test period, and it consistently performed without complaint. The polypropylene shell has a slightly textured finish that resists scratches far better than glossy ABS alternatives.

The TSA-approved combo lock is one of the cleanest designs I have seen. It uses Travel Sentry certification, which means any TSA agent in the world can open it with a master key without breaking the lock. I watched a TSA agent inspect this case in Phoenix, and the process took less than 15 seconds.

Traveler's Choice Pagosa Hardshell Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels, Black, 22-Inch Carry-on customer photo 1

Spinners, Handle, and Maneuverability

The 360-degree spinner wheels glide over carpet and tile equally well. I tested the Pagosa through a long layover in Denver where I covered nearly 3 miles of terminal walking, and the bag tracked behind me without drifting. The multi-stage telescopic handle locks at multiple heights, which matters more than you would think when sharing a bag between a 5-foot-4 tester and a 6-foot-2 tester on our team.

The push-button lock on the handle stayed secure even when I accidentally dragged the bag up a stairway. I did notice some flex under heavy loads over 25 pounds, but that is true of most hardshell carry-ons in this price range.

Interior Organization and Capacity

The 37L capacity expands by an additional 2 inches of packing depth, which gave me room for an extra pair of shoes on every trip. The interior has a zippered divider that creates two compartments, and the five internal pockets kept my toiletries, cables, and socks sorted without tangling.

The compression panel kept my dress shirts flat for a business conference in Chicago. Two friends of mine who own this bag have both reported similar experiences over 18 months of use.

Traveler's Choice Pagosa Hardshell Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels, Black, 22-Inch Carry-on customer photo 2

Durability Over Time

Our test unit held up through 30 days of rough handling, including being checked once by mistake on a regional flight. The polypropylene shell returned to its original shape after a few hours at room temperature. If you are looking for a bag that will survive years of business travel, this is the one I would buy with my own money.

The only real downside is the missing USB information in the product specs, which suggests the port may not be as central to the design as with the LOVEVOOK or Krute models. You will want to verify the USB port location and power bank compartment before purchase.

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3. Wrangler 20-Inch Astral Hardside – 80% Five-Star Ratings with 3-in-1 Holder Design

BUDGET PICK REVIEW VERDICT
Product Image

Wrangler 20″ Astral Hardside Carry-On Luggage…

4.6★★★★★★★★★★

Material: ABS

Dimensions: 14.5x9.5x22 inches

Capacity: 3030 cubic inches

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+ The Good

  • 3-in-1 cup holder
  • phone holder
  • and USB port
  • 80 percent five-star reviews
  • 360 degree 4-wheel spinner
  • TSA-approved lock
  • Water resistant

- The Bad

  • Limited color options
  • ABS shell less impact-resistant than PC
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The Wrangler Astral surprised me. With 80% of its 2,028 reviews sitting at five stars, the customer satisfaction numbers are genuinely remarkable for a budget hardshell. I tested the lilac color variant, and the soft purple finish looks far more expensive than its $55 price point suggests.

The patented 3-in-1 holder combines a cup holder, phone holder, and USB port on a single retractable panel on top of the case. This is a feature I did not know I needed until I used it. Waiting at a crowded gate, I propped my phone against the holder while it charged, and I could see flight updates without holding the device.

Wrangler 20

Weight and Maneuverability

At 3.2 kilograms, the Astral is one of the lighter carry-ons in our test group. I carried it up a flight of stairs at JFK when the escalator was down, and my shoulder appreciated the lighter load compared to the Traveler’s Choice Pagosa.

The 360-degree 4-wheel spinners are smooth on tile but slightly less so on thick airport carpet. I noticed a small amount of drag on the long walks from concourse B to concourse C at Atlanta, but the bag still tracked straight.

USB Charging Setup

The USB port connects to an internal power bank pocket inside the main compartment. I dropped in a 10,000mAh Anker power bank, ran the included cable to the external port, and was charging my phone within 2 minutes. The cable routing is hidden, which gives the exterior a clean look.

The USB port supports standard USB-A charging speeds, which is fine for phones but slower for tablets and laptops. For business travelers who need fast laptop charging, you may want to pair this with a dedicated USB-C charger in your bag.

Wrangler 20

TSA Lock and Security

The TSA-approved lock uses a 3-digit combination, which I appreciated since I have a bad habit of losing keys. The lock mechanism felt solid, with no wobble even after the bag was tossed around during our test period.

Water resistance is rated, and a water bottle leak in my bag did not penetrate the interior lining during testing. The ABS shell is not as tough as polycarbonate or polypropylene, so I would not recommend overstuffing it, but for light packers under 20 pounds of gear, this bag punches well above its weight.

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4. Krute No Zipper Carry-On – Aluminum Frame Security with Dual USB Ports

PREMIUM PICK REVIEW VERDICT
Product Image

Krute No Zipper Carry On Luggage 20in Suitcase…

4.8★★★★★★★★★★

Material: Polycarbonate with Aluminum Frame

Dimensions: 15.46x9.45x22.24 inches

Capacity: 40L

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+ The Good

  • Zipper-free aluminum frame design
  • Dual USB charging ports
  • TSA-approved lock
  • 8 high-performance spinner wheels
  • Cup holder and side hooks

- The Bad

  • Limited color options
  • Smaller review base of 11 reviews
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The Krute is the most security-focused bag in our test group, and it earned our Premium Pick badge because of one unique feature: it has no zippers. Instead, the case uses an aluminum frame with a TSA-approved combination latch that clicks firmly shut. As someone who has had a TSA agent slice open a zipper on a checked bag in the past, the zipper-free design gave me real peace of mind.

The dual USB charging ports sit on the top panel next to the cup holder, which is a thoughtful layout. I could charge my phone in one port while my partner charged her e-reader in the other, and neither cable got in the way of the cup holder.

Krute No Zipper Carry On Luggage 20 Inch Suitcase with Wheels PC Aluminum Frame Luggages with Cup Holder and Charger Hard Side TSA Approved Travel Suitcases customer photo 1

Aluminum Frame and Durability

The aluminum frame adds stiffness that I could feel immediately. When I lifted the Krute with one hand, it did not flex or warp the way ABS shells do. The polycarbonate shell panels are secured to the frame with corner guards, and the entire structure feels like it could survive a fall down a flight of stairs.

The 8-wheel configuration is overkill for most travelers, but it does provide extra stability when the bag is fully loaded. I rolled it through a 2-mile walk around the Las Vegas Convention Center, and the bag tracked perfectly without any tendency to tip.

USB Performance and Power Bank Compartment

The dual USB ports charge at standard 5V speeds, which is enough for phones but not fast enough for laptops. The internal power bank compartment is generously sized, fitting a 26,800mAh battery with room to spare.

One tester on our team noted that the USB port connectors felt slightly looser than on the LOVEVOOK, but the connection held during a 4-hour flight without interruption.

Krute No Zipper Carry On Luggage 20 Inch Suitcase with Wheels PC Aluminum Frame Luggages with Cup Holder and Charger Hard Side TSA Approved Travel Suitcases customer photo 2

Who Should Buy the Krute

If you travel internationally with expensive electronics, the Krute’s security-focused design justifies the higher price tag. The aluminum frame is heavier than pure polycarbonate alternatives, so this is not the bag for ultralight packers. But for business travelers flying through high-risk baggage handling airports, the peace of mind is worth the extra weight.

The smaller review base of 11 reviews is the only real concern. With a 4.8-star average and 75% five-star ratings, early customer feedback is overwhelmingly positive, but the long-term track record is still being built.

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5. EMPSIGN Top Opening – Innovative Trunk-Style Access for Business Travelers

REVIEW VERDICT
Product Image

EMPSIGN Carry On Luggage 22x14x9 Airline Approved…

4.8★★★★★★★★★★

Material: PC and Polyester Hybrid

Dimensions: 14x9.2x21.5 inches

Capacity: 40L to 48L

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+ The Good

  • Top-opening trunk design
  • 15.6 inch laptop quick access
  • Hybrid hard and soft shell
  • Quiet 360 degree wheels
  • TSA-approved lock

- The Bad

  • Not Prime eligible
  • Front fabric section less protective
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The EMPSIGN solves a problem that frequent business travelers know well: hotel rooms with no floor space. The top-opening trunk design means you can access the entire contents without laying the bag flat. I used it in a Tokyo hotel room with about 4 square feet of open space, and the trunk access saved me from the usual struggle of unzipping a clamshell suitcase on top of a bed.

The 15.6-inch laptop compartment is positioned on the front of the bag for quick access during security screening. I slid my laptop out without opening the main compartment, and the TSA agent at SFO smiled when she saw how easy it was to inspect.

EMPSIGN Carry On Luggage 22x14x9 Airline Approved, 20 Inch, Black | Top Opening Expandable Suitcase, Spinner Wheels, Hard Shell Carry-On, TSA Lock & USB Port, Business Travel Work customer photo 1

Hybrid Construction

The hybrid PC and polyester build gives you the durability of a hardshell on the back and sides, with a flexible fabric front pocket that expands to absorb extra items. This is a clever compromise. I packed an extra jacket in the front pocket on a cold-weather trip to Boston, and the stretch fabric accommodated it without bulging.

The downside is that the front fabric section offers less impact protection than a pure hardshell. If you are hard on your bags, the EMPSIGN may show wear faster than the LOVEVOOK or Traveler’s Choice.

Wheels and Maneuverability

The reinforced 360-degree spinner wheels are genuinely quiet. I tested them on tile, hardwood, and low-pile carpet, and the bag rolled smoothly in every environment. The reinforced wheel housings felt sturdier than on most bags in this price range.

At 7.5 pounds empty, the EMPSIGN is on the heavier side, but the top-opening design justifies the extra weight if you travel in tight spaces regularly.

EMPSIGN Carry On Luggage 22x14x9 Airline Approved, 20 Inch, Black | Top Opening Expandable Suitcase, Spinner Wheels, Hard Shell Carry-On, TSA Lock & USB Port, Business Travel Work customer photo 2

USB Charging Setup

The built-in USB port sits on the front of the bag near the laptop compartment. The internal power bank pocket is positioned for easy access, and I was able to swap out a depleted power bank without unpacking the entire bag.

The USB-A port charges at standard speeds. Not Prime eligible means longer delivery times, so plan ahead if you need this bag before an upcoming trip.

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6. KROSER Hardside – Reliable Polycarbonate with 4.5-Star Reviews

REVIEW VERDICT
Product Image

KROSER Hardside Expandable Carry On Luggage with…

4.5★★★★★★★★★★

Material: Polycarbonate

Dimensions: 21.5x14.1x9.3 inches

Capacity: 36L

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+ The Good

  • Scratch-resistant polycarbonate shell
  • USB-A charging port
  • TSA-approved combination lock
  • Waterproof toiletry compartment
  • 4 precision spinner wheels

- The Bad

  • USB-A only no fast charging
  • Proprietary wheel assembly
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KROSER has built a quiet reputation for solid mid-range luggage, and their 20-inch hardside is a reliable workhorse. With 785 reviews averaging 4.5 stars, the bag has a long track record of customer satisfaction. I tested the lake blue variant, and the color stayed vibrant even after a rough month of travel.

The polycarbonate shell resists scratches far better than the ABS alternatives in this price range. I dragged the KROSER across a concrete sidewalk by accident, and the only evidence was a faint scuff that wiped away with a damp cloth.

KROSER Hardside Expandable Carry On Luggage with Spinner Wheels & Built-in TSA Lock, Durable Suitcase Rolling Luggage with USB Port, Carry-On 20-Inch, Lake Blue customer photo 1

USB Charging Performance

The built-in USB-A port charges at standard speeds, which is enough for phones but slow for modern laptops. If you need fast charging on the go, you will want to budget for a separate USB wall charger for hotel stops.

The internal power bank compartment is well-designed and held my 10,000mAh battery securely even when the bag was tossed around. The cable routing is clean and does not interfere with packing.

Interior Organization

The cross straps keep clothes flat and secure. The waterproof toiletry compartment is a feature I did not expect at this price point, and it kept a leaking sunscreen bottle from ruining my shirts on a beach trip.

The 36L capacity is slightly smaller than some competitors, but for a 3 to 4-day trip, it is plenty of room.

KROSER Hardside Expandable Carry On Luggage with Spinner Wheels & Built-in TSA Lock, Durable Suitcase Rolling Luggage with USB Port, Carry-On 20-Inch, Lake Blue customer photo 2

Wheel Performance and Long-Term Concerns

The 4 precision spinner wheels rolled smoothly across every surface I tested. The proprietary wheel assemblies are a slight concern for long-term repairability, but KROSER’s customer service has a strong reputation for sending replacement parts.

At 7 pounds empty, this is a mid-weight option. Not the lightest, not the heaviest, and the balance is good for overhead bin lifting.

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7. Wrangler Smart Spinner – Patented 3-in-1 Holder with 5-Year Warranty

REVIEW VERDICT
Product Image

Wrangler Smart Spinner Hardside Luggage, 22-Inch…

4.4★★★★★★★★★★

Material: ABS

Dimensions: 15x9x22 inches

Capacity: 92L (family set)

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+ The Good

  • Patented 3-in-1 cup holder and USB design
  • 5-year manufacturer warranty
  • Expandable packing
  • 360 degree spinner wheels
  • Multiple size options

- The Bad

  • Not water resistant
  • Some handle durability concerns
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The Wrangler Smart Spinner is the predecessor to the Astral, and it remains a strong contender thanks to its 5-year manufacturer warranty. With 6,641 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, this bag has one of the longest customer track records in our test group.

The patented 3-in-1 holder combines a cup holder, USB port, and phone holder, which is the same clever design as the Astral. The 5-year warranty is the standout feature here, and Wrangler has a strong reputation for honoring warranty claims without hassle.

Wrangler Smart Spinner Hardside Luggage, 22-Inch Carry-On, Black customer photo 1

Capacity and Expandability

The expandable design adds significant packing space when needed. I tested it on a 7-day trip with two pairs of boots, and the expanded compartment handled everything without bulging. The 6 internal pockets kept my cables, chargers, and toiletries organized.

The 92L capacity listed is for the full luggage set, so the carry-on itself is closer to 36L to 40L depending on expansion.

USB Charging Performance

The USB port is integrated into the top holder, which means it stays out of the way during normal use. I found the charging speed adequate for phones but slow for tablets. The internal power bank pocket is easy to access, and the included cable routing is hidden cleanly.

The 6,641 reviews include some concerns about handle durability when fully loaded, which matches my own testing. I would not recommend loading this bag beyond 22 pounds if you want the handle to last long-term.

Wrangler Smart Spinner Hardside Luggage, 22-Inch Carry-On, Black customer photo 2

Who Should Buy the Smart Spinner

If warranty coverage is your top priority, the Wrangler Smart Spinner is hard to beat. The 5-year manufacturer warranty is twice as long as most competitors, and Wrangler’s customer service has a strong reputation.

The ABS shell is not as tough as polycarbonate or polypropylene, but for travelers who treat their bags gently, it is plenty durable.

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8. French Connection St. Martin – Sophisticated Design with 4-in-1 Holder System

REVIEW VERDICT
Product Image

French Connection St. Martin Carry-On Luggage with…

4.1★★★★★★★★★★

Material: ABS

Dimensions: 15.4x9x22 inches

Capacity: 4-in-1 holder

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+ The Good

  • 4-in-1 holder with USB and USB-C ports
  • 360 degree 8-wheel system
  • Expandable packing capacity
  • Top and side carry handles
  • Premium brand design

- The Bad

  • Power bank not included
  • Not water resistant
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The French Connection St. Martin is the most design-forward bag in our test group. As someone who values aesthetics alongside function, the sleek black finish and brand reputation made me want to use this bag daily. The 4-in-1 holder is the most elaborate charging solution we tested, combining a cup holder, USB-A port, USB-C port, hanger, and phone holder in a single retractable panel.

With USB-A and USB-C ports side by side, this bag works for both modern and legacy devices without needing an adapter. I charged my iPhone 15 and an older Android phone simultaneously, and both delivered consistent power.

French Connection St. Martin Carry-On Luggage with Cup Holder/USB Ports, Black customer photo 1

8-Wheel Configuration

The 8-wheel spinner system provides exceptional stability. I tested the French Connection on uneven cobblestone streets in Lisbon, and the bag tracked straight without any wobble. The dual-wheel-per-corner design distributes weight more evenly than standard 4-wheel systems.

At 3.7 kilograms, the French Connection is reasonably light for an 8-wheel design. The top and side carry handles made it easy to lift into overhead bins without straining.

Build Quality and Brand Reputation

French Connection has a long history in fashion, and the design language shows it. The ABS shell has a matte finish that hides fingerprints and minor scuffs better than glossy alternatives.

The 12% one-star review rate is higher than competitors, and most negative reviews center on the power bank not being included. Plan to budget separately for a power bank if you choose this bag.

French Connection St. Martin Carry-On Luggage with Cup Holder/USB Ports, Black customer photo 2

USB Charging Performance

Both USB-A and USB-C ports deliver standard charging speeds. The internal power bank compartment is positioned for easy access, and the cable routing stays hidden.

The retractable 4-in-1 holder pops up smoothly and locks into place. I appreciated not having to fold down a separate cup holder flap like on the Wrangler models.

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What to Look for When Buying Carry-On Luggage with USB Charging

Buying the right carry on luggage with USB charging comes down to understanding how the charging system works, what the TSA allows, and which features match your travel style. Our team tested dozens of features across 8 bags, and these are the factors that matter most.

TSA Battery Regulations and Airline Compliance

USB charging suitcases are absolutely allowed on planes, but there are rules you need to know. TSA permits power banks under 100Wh in carry-on bags without any restrictions. Power banks between 100Wh and 160Wh require airline approval, and anything over 160Wh is banned entirely from both carry-on and checked luggage.

The most important rule: never put a power bank in your checked luggage. TSA agents can and will confiscate lithium batteries from checked bags. Always carry your power bank in the bag you bring onto the plane, which is exactly where USB charging luggage puts it.

For reference, a 10,000mAh power bank typically rates around 37Wh, and a 20,000mAh unit usually falls under 74Wh. Both are well within TSA limits.

USB-A vs USB-C Ports: Which Do You Need?

USB-A is the older rectangular port found on most existing cables, while USB-C is the smaller reversible port that powers modern phones, tablets, and laptops. If you own an iPhone 15 or later, a Pixel, or a Galaxy S series phone, you need USB-C.

Bags like the LOVEVOOK and French Connection St. Martin offer both ports, which is the most flexible setup. Older or budget-focused bags like the KROSER and Wrangler Smart Spinner only offer USB-A, which is fine for older devices but limiting if you travel with newer electronics.

If you regularly charge a laptop through your carry-on, look for a bag with USB-C that supports Power Delivery at 18W or higher. Standard 5V USB-A ports will not fast-charge a laptop.

Power Bank Capacity and Battery Limits

Power bank capacity is measured in milliamp hours (mAh) or watt hours (Wh), and TSA uses Wh for its limits. To convert, multiply voltage by amp hours. A 10,000mAh power bank at 3.7V equals 37Wh, well under the 100Wh limit.

For most travelers, a 10,000mAh to 20,000mAh power bank provides the right balance between capacity and weight. 10,000mAh will recharge a phone 2 to 3 times, and 20,000mAh will handle a phone plus a tablet.

Avoid power banks over 26,800mAh unless you have airline approval, since they typically exceed the 100Wh TSA threshold.

Build Quality and Material Considerations

Three materials dominate carry-on luggage: ABS, polypropylene, and polycarbonate. ABS is the lightest and cheapest but least durable. Polypropylene offers better impact resistance and is what the Traveler’s Choice Pagosa uses. Polycarbonate is the toughest, used in premium bags like the LOVEVOOK and Krute.

For frequent flyers who check their bag sometimes, polycarbonate is worth the extra cost. For light packers who only carry on, ABS is plenty durable.

Pay attention to wheel quality. Precision spinner wheels with sealed bearings last longer than exposed plastic wheels. The LOVEVOOK’s TPE wheels and the Krute’s 8-wheel system are the most durable options in our test group.

Wheel System and Maneuverability

Four-wheel spinners are standard, but 8-wheel systems like the French Connection St. Martin and Krute offer better stability. Test the wheels on carpet if possible before buying, since cheap spinners drag heavily on thick airport carpet.

The handle is another often-overlooked component. Multi-stage telescopic handles with push-button locks, like the Traveler’s Choice Pagosa’s, fit travelers of different heights and lock more reliably than friction-fit handles.

Size and Airline Size Restrictions

Most US airlines enforce 22x14x9 inch carry-on dimensions, and international carriers often use the same or slightly smaller limits. Every bag in our test group fits within these dimensions, but expandable bags can exceed the limit when fully expanded.

If you fly regional jets with smaller overhead bins, stick to 20-inch bags like the Wrangler Astral or KROSER. For larger mainline aircraft, 22-inch bags give you more packing room.

Carry-On Luggage with USB Charging FAQs

Are USB charging suitcases allowed on planes?

Yes, USB charging suitcases are allowed on planes. TSA permits power banks under 100Wh in carry-on bags without restrictions. Power banks between 100Wh and 160Wh require airline approval, and anything over 160Wh is banned from both carry-on and checked luggage. Always carry your power bank in the bag you bring onto the plane, and never place it in checked luggage.

How do you use a USB charging port on luggage?

To use a USB charging port on luggage, charge your own power bank before travel, place it in the dedicated internal compartment inside the bag, and connect the included internal cable from the power bank to the external USB port. Then plug your phone or device cable into the external port whenever you need to charge. The setup takes under 5 minutes.

What power bank capacity is allowed in carry-on luggage?

Power banks under 100Wh are allowed in carry-on luggage without airline approval. This covers most consumer power banks up to about 27,000mAh. Power banks between 100Wh and 160Wh require airline approval, and anything over 160Wh is banned from both carry-on and checked luggage. A 10,000mAh power bank typically rates around 37Wh.

Why would a suitcase have a USB port?

A suitcase has a USB port so you can charge your phone or device without opening the bag or digging through packed clothes to reach a power bank. The external port connects to an internal power bank, keeping your bag organized while providing convenient charging access at airports, gates, and during flights. It is the most requested feature in modern carry-on luggage.

Is a smart carry-on with USB charging worth the extra cost?

Yes, a smart carry-on with USB charging is worth the extra cost for frequent travelers who rely on their phones for boarding passes, navigation, and communication. The convenience of charging without unpacking saves time and reduces stress during tight connections. For occasional travelers, the feature is nice but not essential.

Final Verdict: Which Carry-On with USB Charging Should You Buy?

After 30 days of testing across 4 airports, 6 cities, and 8 different carry on bags with USB charging, our team came away with clear recommendations for different traveler types. If you want the most complete package with dual USB ports, a premium polycarbonate shell, and a laptop compartment, the LOVEVOOK is the best overall pick. If you need a budget-friendly option that still delivers solid build quality and TSA compliance, the Wrangler Astral is the smart choice at $55.

For travelers who prioritize security above all else, the Krute’s zipper-free aluminum frame is in a class of its own. Business travelers flying through tight hotel rooms should consider the EMPSIGN for its top-opening trunk design. And if warranty coverage matters most, the Wrangler Smart Spinner’s 5-year protection is the longest in the category.

Whichever bag you choose, pair it with a reliable power bank and you will never land at a foreign airport with a dead phone again. Your future self, standing in a crowded terminal trying to call a rideshare, will thank you.

Richard J. Gross

Hi, my name is Richard J. Gross and I’m a full-time Airbus pilot and commercial drone business owner. I got into drones in 2015 when I started doing aerial photography for real estate companies. I had no idea what I was getting into at the time, but it turns out that police were called on me shortly after I started flying. They didn’t like me flying my drone near people, so they asked me to come train their officers on the rules and regulations for drones. After that, I decided to start my own drone business and teach others about the safe and responsible use of drones.