Quick answer
If you need extra packing room without checking a bag, the Expandable Carry-On adds 1.6 inches of depth via an expandable zipper. For travelers who also want quick access to a laptop or travel documents, the Expandable Carry-On Pro includes a built-in front compartment that fits a 16-inch laptop.
Carry-On Pro
What the expandable zipper does for you
Both the Expandable Carry-On and the Expandable Carry-On Pro feature a wraparound expandable zipper that adds 1.6 inches (4.06 cm) of depth. That extra space is ideal for stashing a souvenir, an extra pair of shoes, or a jacket you picked up along the way. The expansion is not permanent—you can zip it closed when you need a more compact profile for overhead bins.
The tradeoff is that an expanded carry-on may not fit the sizers of smaller regional airlines or international budget carriers. If you regularly fly airlines with tight carry-on limits, you may prefer to keep the bag unexpanded or choose a standard non-expandable model.
Front compartment convenience
The Expandable Carry-On Pro adds a built-in front compartment that the standard Expandable Carry-On does not have. This compartment fits a 16-inch laptop and provides quick access to items you would otherwise have to dig through the main compartment to find. For business travelers or anyone who works on the go, this can save time at security and during the flight.
The downside is that the front compartment adds a small amount of weight and reduces the main compartment's usable depth slightly. If you rarely need your laptop mid-trip, the standard Expandable Carry-On may be the lighter, simpler choice.
Tradeoffs to consider
- Expandable zipper vs. fixed size: Both models let you add 1.6 inches of depth, but an expanded bag may not fit all overhead bins. If you never need extra room, a non-expandable carry-on could be lighter and simpler. Only use the expandable zipper when you know the airline allows it.
- Front compartment vs. lighter weight: The Pro's front compartment adds convenience for laptop users, but it also adds a bit of weight and reduces main compartment depth. If you rarely need quick access, the standard model is more straightforward. Choose the Pro if you carry a laptop daily; choose the standard if you prioritize simplicity.
- Price difference: The Expandable Carry-On Pro costs more than the standard Expandable Carry-On. The front compartment and added features justify the price for frequent business travelers, but casual travelers may not need them. Consider how often you will use the front compartment before spending more.
Product facts at a glance
- Expandable Carry-On: The Expandable Carry-On features a high-quality polycarbonate shell that is dent-resistant, impact-friendly, and virtually unbreakable. The expandable wraparound zipper adds 1.6 inches (4.06 cm) of depth. You get a durable, lightweight shell that can handle rough baggage handling, plus the flexibility to expand when you need more space.
- Expandable Carry-On Pro: The Expandable Carry-On Pro also has a polycarbonate shell and the same expandable zipper, but adds a built-in front compartment that fits a 16-inch laptop. If you travel with a laptop or tablet, the front compartment lets you access your device without opening the main bag, which is especially useful at security checkpoints.
Which one should you choose?
Best for
- Travelers who want extra packing flexibility without checking a bag
- Those who fly major US airlines and occasionally need a bit more room
Not ideal for
- Travelers who always need quick access to a laptop (choose the Pro instead)
- Anyone who flies regional or budget airlines with strict carry-on size limits (consider a non-expandable carry-on)
