Finding a suitcase that is sturdy, stylish, and technology-ready is difficult. The Travelarim 22-Inch Carry-On with Cosmetic Case may just be the solution. I tested it to see if it could check all the boxes for a low-cost bag that can handle airport carry-on regulations, charging on the road, and a weekend jaunt with the kids.
After several weeks of evaluating it on short trips, here’s what I think about it. Let’s look at what you can expect, from unboxing to airline check-in.
What’s Included in the Set
- 22-Inch Expandable Carry-On Suitcase (22”x14”x9”, with Wheels)
- Cosmetic Case (12″ L x 6″ W x 10″ H)
- USB Power Port (Power bank not included)
- Laptop and iPad Pockets, Cooler Compartment
- TSA Approved Lock and Stainless Steel Name Tags
The expandable carry-on bag gets an extra 1.2” thanks to its expandable zipper, and has many tech and travel-oriented features that you do not always see at this price point.
Build Quality & Materials
This carry-on and cosmetic case are constructed with a PC+ABS exterior. The PC+ABS composite does not have the higher-end feel of 100% polycarbonate but it has a better impact rating and is lighter.
Edges on the corners have been beveled, which should help absorb small scrapes or bumps if it gets banged around on a shelf or in the baggage area.
The brushed surface is better for scratching resistance than a glossy finish will be. As a result, your bag should hold up and look nicer longer after a few bumpy trips. The telescoping handle has a secure locking mechanism with two settings for height.
Side and top carry handles have soft touch material for more comfort when lifting the bag. Weight is very good here as well, with both bags feeling very light to lift and move. The smaller cosmetic case is even lighter than most personal items with surprising storage space.
Spinner Wheels & Maneuverability
Rolling around the airport was a dream with this carry-on. Four 360-degree spinner wheels glide smoothly in all directions, whether in a carpeted terminal, on cobbled stone in a city center, or weaving around TSA lines.
Internal balls are used as a lubricant in these wheels, and they are impressively quiet for spinning luggage. I could easily push this carry-on with one finger even when fully packed, and it did not tip when walking around. The telescopic handle has a wider base for stability, which is a welcome change on longer walks between flights.
Storage & Interior
Don’t be fooled by its compact look outside, the Travelarim 22-inch carry-on is a TARDIS of suitcases. It features a:
- Padded laptop compartment (up to 15” laptops)
- Padded tablet sleeve
- Power bank pocket with a cable routing through the exterior USB port
- Insulated cooler pouch
- Elastic interior compression straps
- Zippered mesh divider
Travelarim’s front tech compartment was a convenient place to store my MacBook and charger, power bank, and even a snack. The insulated cooler pouch was nice to have for some bread and fruit on the plane. No need to carry around an extra lunch bag!
The main compartment is roomy and well-organized. I used compression cubes and packed 3 days of clothes, shoes, and a jacket with ease. The expandable zipper gave me just a bit more space on the return trip for souvenirs.
Cosmetic Case Review
The cosmetic case is an underdog in this set, but it can be quite handy. It is small but is great for organizing travel toiletries, cords, and small personal items.
It has an interior mesh pocket, zippered divider, and elastic straps to keep travel must-haves organized and easily accessible. An exterior strap on top can slide over the handle of the carry-on for easy stacking. I used mine to store travel-sized toiletries, prescription medicines, and extra face masks.
Some reviewers complain the cosmetic case is too small to be of use, but it was useful for low key travel. It will not be a full-sized personal item for extended vacations, but it works for a quick weekend getaway or to have an essentials kit for on the plane.
Travel Essentials & Technology
Travelarim’s carry-on really excels in the tech and travel perks department.
USB Charging Port
I plugged a power bank inside the suitcase and then used the included cable to charge my smartphone on a layover. The external USB port is located by the TSA lock and is conveniently out of the way.
Laptop & Tablet Sleeves
Both sleeves are padded, and tight enough to keep laptops and tablets in place without moving around while traveling.
Insulated Cooler Compartment
A unique feature for keeping snacks, or perhaps a wet bathing suit separate from clothes.
Stainless Steel Name Tags
You do not often find these stainless steel tags on budget luggage, but this carry-on is an exception. They are a welcome upgrade from the flimsy paper tags that come with many suitcases, and look classier.
Travel Security & TSA-Ready
The TSA-approved lock was simple to set and use, and you can lock the front tech compartment and the main compartment independently or together as you see fit. The zippers are thick and felt durable, without any snags even when packed tightly.
When checking at the gate, it easily fit in the sizer at multiple airlines I’ve used (Delta and United, for example), and the cosmetic case tucked under the seat while the main bag fit overhead.
Reviewer Experiences
Travelarim’s carry-on gets lots of great reviews from customers, and I can see why:
- “This is my new favorite bag. The 22 inch size was perfect, and I got it in the new and in-stock teal color. Durable, large, and compact. I highly recommend this.” — Kristen W.
- “Best purchase ever!! The only thing I wish I did before I left for vacation, to have gotten on sale was this bag. It has a USB charging port, a laptop sleeve, cooler bag. All that I need all in one bag. Amazing.” — TallGirlAmy
- “I bought this bag for international travel and it’s PERFECT. Packed all kinds of fragile items in it and it’s held up GREAT.” — P. Jacobs
- “Its rolling is buttery smooth and the compartments on the side are genius. I can’t say enough good things.” — Mary Lou G.
The main gripes I found were these:
- Cosmetic case does not lock
- Interior space is slightly compromised by tech compartment
- Lock is fiddly to set up initially
But for the most part, these are minor issues and there are many positive reviews for the price.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Travelarim Carry-On | Samsonite Freeform 21″ | LEVEL8 Grace 20″ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 22″ x 14″ x 9″ | 21″ x 14.5″ x 10″ | 20″ x 14.2″ x 9.4″ |
| Expandable | Yes (1.2″) | Yes (1.5″) | Yes |
| USB Port | Yes | No | Yes |
| Laptop Compartment | Yes (up to 15″) | No | Yes (up to 13″) |
| Insulated Cooler Pocket | Yes | No | No |
| TSA Lock | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Weight | ~7 lbs | 6.5 lbs | 8.8 lbs |
| Price Range | ~$130–$160 | ~$140–$180 | ~$150–$200 |
Who It’s Best For
The Travelarim carry-on is ideal for:
- Tech-savvy travelers who want to charge while on the go and carry electronic devices
- Weekend and short business travelers looking for a good quality, durable, and compact carry-on
- Budget travelers and fliers that want quality products without the high price tag
- Fashion-conscious travelers that want a chic, sleek, and modern design and bold colors
Not Ideal For
- Long international trips: If you need to take a week or more of clothing, it may be too small.
- Heavy overpackers: The interior space will not stretch as far as some larger carry-ons, even with the expansion zipper.
- Checked luggage users: If you’re used to checking most of your belongings, this is a different style of efficient light travel.wn.
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Final Verdict
The Travelarim 22-Inch Carry-On is an impressively well-designed suitcase for today’s traveler. With ultra-smooth rolling, great technology features, a smart interior layout, and a stylish look, it has more value than its $160 price would suggest. The included cosmetic case adds even more storage and utility even if you do not think you need it.
I would buy and recommend this product? Yes. If you take short trips and are a tech-heavy traveler, this may be one of the best carry-ons you can get.
Overall Rating: 4.6 / 5
If you have any experience with this suitcase or have other favorite travel gear, let me know. I am always on the hunt for helpful products that help keep your journeys smooth and stylish.
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