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Best Carry-On Bags for Summer Vacation Flights

These double-duty bag styles are designed to move with you from airport to beach and everywhere in between.
by Coach Editorial
Published June 2026
  • The best carry-on bags come in handy long after you land, continuing to adapt to your vacation style day after day.
  • Read on for the Coach bags that do it all.


A bag that transforms from carry-on to summer style companion in the blink of an eye is a bag worth investing in. Throw it overhead—stashed with all your travel essentials—before ultimately restyling it as your plus-one all trip long. Bags that do both are few and far between. They need to be spacious enough to fit everything you need, versatile enough to match all your vacation looks and comfortable enough to wear day in and day out.

Explore our Coach totes, carryalls and shoulder bags you can rely on midflight and after you touch down.

Tote Bags

Known for their structured, spacious interiors and easy organization, tote bags will safely take on your laptop, water bottle, snacks (and more) while traveling to your next destination. Consider styles with interior or exterior pockets and snap or zip closures for easy access on the go, depending on your travel needs.

And once it’s time to trade in your sneakers for sandals, a versatile tote will transform to match your vacation style. Explore styles in straw, light blue Signature Canvas or vanilla-colored leather for an extra summery feel.

Style Picks: City Tote Bag, Station Tote Bag

Expandable Carryalls

Vacation is a time to kick back and relax—and what better way to match your laid-back style and mood than with a slouchy shoulder bag? Roomy enough to take with you on board your next flight yet not too large that you can’t restyle it for everyday excursions, expandable carryalls truly offer the best of both worlds, all while helping you look and feel effortlessly put together.

Go for style crafted of high-quality leather that gets better with time (like Natural Grain Leather) or add a pop of color to all your vacation looks with a bag crafted of light blue denim suede.

Style Picks: Brooklyn Shoulder Bag 39, Soft Empire Carryall Bag 40

Large Shoulder Bags

Extra-large shoulder bags often offer the same spacious interior as a tote or carryall (all hidden behind their polished, refined exterior). And once you unpack your bag after your flight and repack it for a day full of sightseeing, it’ll serve as a natural extension to all your summer outfits. Carry your phone, keys, wallet, digital camera and reusable water bottle as you explore your next vacation spot.

Style Picks: Lana Shoulder Bag, Juliet Shoulder Bag 38

Here’s what our store associates are saying.

FAQs: You asked. We’ve answered.

What features should I look for in a travel bag?

What features should I look for in a travel bag?

The right travel bag will help you keep everything organized without sacrificing style. Before committing to your next travel companion, consider the key features below.

  • Durability: Travel can be unpredictable, which means you should have a bag that can handle the pressure. A sturdy, durable material can make all the difference—consider full-grain leather, high-quality canvas or coated canvas for a water-resistant choice.
  • Interior Pockets: Quick, convenient access to your passport, wallet and phone is essential. Think about interior and exterior pockets before choosing your travel bag.
  • Snap or Zip Closures: While zippers might offer more protection for all your belongings, snap closures usually provide easier access. Consider what you prefer depending on your typical travel habits.

What size bag is best for travel?

What size bag is best for travel?

The best bag size for when you're traveling really comes down to what your itinerary looks like. Compact crossbodies are the perfect counterpart to days spent exploring when you'll want to keep your hands free, while larger carryalls are ideal for carrying everything you want easy access to—like tech or extra layers—while on long haul flights. It's about traveling smarter, while matching your bag's style to the occasion.

Does a travel bag need to be versatile?

Does a travel bag need to be versatile?

The beauty of a bag that combines both style and utility is that it provides the ability to go from the airport straight out to dinner if need be, or to hold you over while you explore before you can check into your hotel. A versatile travel bag also means that you can pack less while maximizing styling options; for example, bags with convertible straps that can be worn either as a shoulder bag or crossbody.
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