After years of living abroad and traveling full-time, I’ve gone through my fair share of suitcases. Some were great, others… not so much.
So in this article, I want to share what to look for when choosing the perfect carry-on (especially if you travel often or work remotely), and I’ll give you my honest review of the LEVEL8 Grace Carry-On, which I’ve been using for several months now.
Spoiler: it’s become my go-to suitcase for almost every trip.
Quick Take: Why I Love the LEVEL8 Grace Carry-On
If you’re just here for the highlights, here’s why I love this suitcase:
- Sleek, minimalist design.
- Durable hard shell with 360° smooth spinner wheels.
- Front laptop compartment for easy access to laptop, documents, etc.
- Expandable, perfect for when you need a bit more space.
- TSA-approved lock for stress-free security checks.
- Free shipping to the U.S., Canada & Europe.
Finding the right carry-on can be surprisingly tricky. It has to fit airline rules, be durable and practical for different types of trips.
If you’re anything like me, you don’t want to own 5 different suitcases, so the more versatile a suitcase is, the better.
What to Look for in Carry-On Luggage
To help you choose the perfect carry-on, here are the seven things I always check before buying a new carry-on suitcase:
1. Size & Airline Compatibility
The biggest frustration for frequent travelers (myself included) is that every airline has its own size rules.
Budget airlines, in particular, can be painfully strict.
If you often fly with low-cost carriers, go for a smaller suitcase. But if you usually fly long-haul or with major airlines, you’ll have more flexibility.
Tip: Check the carry-on dimensions of your most-used airlines before buying. It’s not fun to be that person repacking at the gate.
2. Durability & Materials
A hard-shell suitcase (polycarbonate or ABS) offers the best protection for your belongings, especially if you occasionally check it in. We all know baggage handlers aren’t exactly known for being gentle, right?
Hard shells also keep their shape and are easier to clean.
I’ve owned a few soft fabric suitcases and while they’re lighter, they don’t hold up as well in the long run.
3. Weight & Maneuverability
The lighter, the better. Every gram counts when you’re trying to stay under airline limits.
But smooth wheels and a stable handle can make just as big a difference. A lightweight suitcase that’s clunky to pull isn’t worth the trade-off.
4. Interior Design & Organization
Smart compartments, dividers, and compression straps make life so much easier. Especially if, like me, you sometimes live out of your suitcase for weeks at a time.
Also Read: How to Travel While Working Remotely
5. Handles & Wheels
These are the first things to break on cheap luggage.
I once had a handle jam halfway through an airport. Not fun when you’re rushing to a gate!
Make sure the suitcase you buy has sturdy handles and smooth 360° wheels. I recommend focusing on this when reading reviews of suitcases you’re thinking of buying.
6. Style & Professional Look
When it comes to luggage, functionality trumps looks in my opinion. But, ideally, I would want a suitcase that looks nice as well.
7. Warranty & Value
A good suitcase is an investment. Spending a bit more upfront for a quality carry-on that lasts years is worth it. Trust me, I’ve learned that the hard way.
My Honest Review of the LEVEL8 Grace Carry-On
I’ve used the LEVEL8 Grace Carry-On on several trips now. As a carry-on, as checked luggage, and even on road trips.
And honestly? I’m super happy with it.
It’s stylish, durable, and thoughtfully designed.
What I Love About This Carry-On Suitcase
1. The Expandable Depth
This is hands down my favorite feature and something I always look for in carry-on luggage.
I always tell myself I’m a minimalist, until it’s time to pack. Then suddenly, I want to bring everything “just in case.”
That’s why I love that the LEVEL8 Grace expands. When I fly, I keep it compact to meet airline requirements. But the moment I’m on a road trip or traveling by train, I unzip that expansion and suddenly have space for all the “extras.” It’s like having two suitcases in one.
This versatility means I can use it for 90% of my trips, from weekend getaways to months abroad, without needing a second suitcase.
2. The Front Laptop Compartment
This feature actually sold me on the Grace.
The front section easily fits my laptop, tablet, and small essentials like a phone charger, my passport, or my notebook.
I no longer have to carry a separate laptop bag, which just gives me more flexibility. Some airlines only allow one carry-on item, meaning you can’t take a suitcase and a laptop bag. Or for some shorter trips, I just want to travel light and only bring my suitcase and a small handbag.
To me, this setup is a dream.
3. Smooth Wheels and a Sturdy Handle
It glides effortlessly through airports and across cobblestones. The handle feels solid, not wobbly like cheaper ones.
I am also happy that it has both a top and a side handle. This might sound minor, but after dragging it up three flights of narrow stairs in a Spanish Airbnb, I can confirm: having both a top and side handle makes life so much easier. It’s one of those details you don’t think about until you really need it.
4. Sleek, Minimalist Design
The matte finish looks modern and professional without feeling too “business trip.” It fits in anywhere, whether I’m traveling for work or leisure.
5. Durable Build
After several flights and a few less-than-gentle baggage handlers, the hard shell still looks great. Only minor scuffs, which are to be expected.
And the suitcase comes with a 2-year warranty.
What I Like Less About This Suitcase
1. Not Ideal for Strict Budget Airlines
I sometimes fly with Ryanair, and this suitcase is slightly too big for their strict carry-on limits. And unfortunately there are a few other airlines that have size limites that are smaller than this suitcase.
If you mostly fly with budget airlines, LEVEL8 also makes a smaller model. Of course that also means less space, which is why in the end I chose the Grace anyway.
2. A few Surface Marks.
Like most hard-shell suitcases, it can get some scuffs, but nothing dramatic.
Final Thoughts: Is the LEVEL8 Grace Worth It?
For me, absolutely.
The expandable size makes it more flexible than most carry-ons, and the front laptop compartment is just so practical.
The suitcase is stylish, sturdy, and clearly made with frequent travelers in mind. Just remember to double-check airline size restrictions if you fly budget carriers often.
Overall, it’s one of the most practical, well-designed, and actually enjoyable suitcases I’ve ever used.
Who I Recommend the LEVEL8 Grace Carry-On For:
- Frequent travelers who want one suitcase that does it all.
- Digital nomads and remote workers who will enjoy a front laptop compartment.
- People who sometimes check their bag or travel by train/car.
- Anyone who wants durable, stylish luggage without luxury prices.
Check the latest price and availability on Amazon
About LEVEL8
LEVEL8 is a New York–based luggage brand known for making premium-quality travel gear that looks good and lasts.
They focus on durability, smart design, and functionality, everything frequent travelers care about, but without the luxury price tag.
I’ve been genuinely impressed by how solid their suitcases feel and how thoughtfully they’re designed.
The Grace Carry-On is just one of their many options. LEVEL8 also offers larger check-in suitcases and great-value luggage sets, which often go on sale.
If you’re looking for luggage that’s stylish, reliable, and built to last, I highly recommend checking out LEVEL8’s website to see their full collection and current deals.
Also Read:
- What to Pack for a Trip to Europe?
- Travel Planning: How to Plan a Perfect Trip
- How to Stay Safe While Traveling
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