Bellroy's Lightweight Foldable Carry-On: A Game-Changer for Travelers

Introducing Bellroy’s New Luggage Collection

Bellroy, a brand known for its sleek and functional bags and wallets, has expanded its product line with the introduction of two new luggage pieces: the Lite Carry-On and the Transit Carry-On. These additions bring the same level of craftsmanship and attention to detail that Bellroy is renowned for. The Lite Carry-On, in particular, draws inspiration from the brand's popular Lite Travel Pack but adds wheels and a handle for added convenience. If you're familiar with Bellroy, you already have an idea of what to expect—streamlined sophistication and practical design.

For those new to the brand, it's worth noting that Bellroy's products may not be as feature-rich as some other options on the market. However, they make the most of their space, offering a minimalist yet effective approach to travel gear. Over the past decade, I've written extensively about technology, gadgets, and the bags that carry them. While my wife might say I have an obsession with finding the perfect backpack or weekender, I prefer to call it a passion. To truly test these new luggage pieces, I took them on a real trip to see how they performed in everyday use.

Design and Specifications

The hard shell Transit Carry-On appears to be the more popular choice due to its four spinning wheels and traditional shape. However, I was particularly drawn to the Lite Carry-On for its versatility. With exterior dimensions of 20.1 x 13.6 x 9.1 inches, it easily fits into any airline's carry-on requirements. Its 38-liter capacity makes it suitable for a five to seven-day trip, depending on the traveler's needs.

The Lite Carry-On features a telescoping handle that locks at 14, 16, and 20 inches tall. A zipper cover ensures the handle stays secure when not in use. One of its standout features is its lightweight design—just 4.6 pounds. This makes it easy to lift into overhead bins without adding unnecessary weight. Additionally, the bag can be squashed flat when not in use, combining the benefits of a duffle bag and a wheeled carry-on.

On the hard shell side, the Transit Carry-On weighs 6.8 pounds and offers a 34-liter capacity (with an overall volume of 41 liters). Its dimensions are 21.9 x 13.8 x 8.9 inches, and the telescoping handle locks at 12, 14, and 18 inches. Both the Lite and Transit Carry-On models come with a 10-year warranty for workmanship and material defects.

If you need even more storage space, the Transit Carry-On Plus offers a 39-liter capacity, though it may require checking if certain airlines enforce strict size rules.

Real-World Performance

Filling the Lite Carry-On with clothes for a weeklong trip initially seemed challenging, given its compact size. However, I found that it could comfortably hold two pairs of jeans, two pairs of shorts, two pairs of lounge pants, seven T-shirts, a bathing suit, running shorts, a fitness shirt, socks, underwear, a toiletry bag, and a few extra items. It stretched without feeling like it would break, proving to be both durable and practical.

The main compartment is spacious, with two zippered compartments on the opening flap. The smaller one is ideal for socks and underwear, while the larger one can hold workout clothes or separate dirty laundry. Even when fully packed, the exterior pocket remained usable, fitting a Bluetooth speaker, snacks, and a rolled-up belt.

I was impressed by the flexible fabric, which felt thick enough to protect contents but still light. After dragging the bag through airports, placing it on conveyor belts, and lifting it into overhead bins, the exterior showed only minor wear, mostly on the plastic rest bar underneath the bag. The zippers were smooth and reliable, even during a TSA inspection.

My wife used the hard shell Transit Carry-On for our trip. Initially skeptical about its 34-liter capacity, she managed to fit everything for a seven-day trip. She appreciated the internal packing cubes, which helped her organize her belongings. Despite being new to packing cubes, she found them useful and was able to squeeze additional items underneath them.

Repairability and Unique Features

Both the Lite and Transit Carry-On models stood out for their high-quality materials. Nothing felt cheap, despite their simple designs. The button to collapse the telescoping handle is located under the top grip, preventing accidental presses—a thoughtful design detail.

One of the most unique features is the ability to repair the bags. Bellroy offers a 10-year warranty for normal workmanship issues. If a part breaks, the company will send a replacement within 10 minutes. For repairs not covered by warranty, parts range from $19 to $49.

Considerations and Alternatives

While there was little I didn’t like about either bag, there are a few minor drawbacks. The Lite Carry-On’s top isn’t the best place to set a backpack due to its lightweight fabric. The integrated packing cubes in the Transit Carry-On are convenient but can be tedious to unhook and rehook.

When considering alternatives, brands like Away, Monos, and Quince offer similar options. The Away Carry-On, for example, is a long-time favorite, though its thinner exterior feels less sturdy than the Bellroy Transit. Aer’s Carry-On is a direct competitor, featuring a compression panel and a wheel locking system. For those who prefer a more traditional look, the Travelpro Platinum Elite Expandable Carry-On offers plenty of pockets and built-in USB charging ports.

Final Thoughts

After traveling with the Bellroy Lite Carry-On, I’m even more impressed than I expected. Its smooth wheels and compact size make it ideal for travelers seeking a lightweight, versatile option. The Transit Carry-On is also a strong choice, especially for those who value organizational flexibility.

At $269 for the Lite and $299 for the Transit, Bellroy’s luggage is a premium option compared to some competitors, but the quality and warranty justify the price. Overall, I’m sold on Bellroy’s entry into the luggage market.