The prospect of spring break and all that accompanies it (making new memories, taking a break from homework) is beyond exciting. It’s so exciting that you may have already made plans to travel during these couple of weeks off school (and we applaud you for your initiative). But if you’re traveling by plane, you likely won’t be enamored with the fees attached to checking in large luggage, let alone with the hassle of waiting an extra forty-five minutes scrummaging through suitcases on a conveyor belt. If you’re anything like us, you just want to get the show on the road! We’ve got you covered! Below is a list of fashion-forward carry-on bags that are perfect for all of your travel needs. Without further ado, here are the cutest carry-on bags for your spring break trip.
1. Quilted Carry On
Do you like something you can throw over your shoulder? Do you like old-school elements and feminine details? Then the quilted style is for you! The cushioned, malleable design means that you have lots of wiggle room to squeeze in essentials like your toothbrush (and a few extra pairs of socks), and is tremendously easy to store in your overhead compartment or under your seat. Plus, with a bright floral or printed design, you’ll have a colorful statement piece without even trying, so you’ll be looking cute even after a three-hour nap on the plane. Vera Bradley of course is the best source for carry-on bags like this, but you can easily find similar styles on Poshmark or even at T.J. Maxx.
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2. Leather Detailed Weekender
Some prefer a style that’s a little more timeless, reminiscent of the early commercial airplane days when people would dress their best and be served complimentary fine meals while they flew. A bag like the one below is perfect for that three-day trip to Cincinnati (or any other big Midwestern city) with its classic Americana design, quirky print, and just enough room for your Keds. We’re big Modcloth fans here, are their retro-inspired pieces are enough to jazz up any wardrobe, but any fashion outlet is sure to have similar styles if you’re on a budget. Hey, on the way back, you may even be able to squeeze in some caramel corn from your trip!
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3. Square Backpack
While rounder styles are traditional for backpacks and carry-on bags (thank you, Jansport) the square design is becoming popular, and here are a couple of reasons why that may be. Firstly, the more boxy design adds a structured or geometrical look to any outfit without being too bulky. Secondly, the squarish look is much more Scandinavian than the traditional round American style, so carrying it with you on your flight or elsewhere will add a bit of European flair. The shape is perfect for carrying your laptop, a cozy sweater, and maybe even a couple of books of magazines. Just make sure to get one that’s big enough for everything you need!
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4. Monogrammed Travel Tote
Hitting up the cape for some sailing and clam bakes? A classy, seaworthy oversized travel tote may be just the thing to take with you to carry your Sperrys and sunblock. The ideal tote for this kind of trip would be made out of some sort of canvas fabric (we think it looks best in ivory), have a thick handle in the middle and on the side (so you can carry it with one elbow or put it over your shoulder), and have three or four bold letters at the front so everyone knows it’s yours. You’ll be surprised just how much you end up using this bag- its versatile design is perfect for storing towels, neck pillows, and everything in between. Ships ahoy!
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5. Weatherproof Backpack
Do you prefer the mountains to the city? Would you take a day of hiking and picnicking over touring towns? Then you may be just the candidate for a weatherproof backpack, one that’s perfect for keeping your supplies safe and venturing into the wild (or… at least a couple miles away from downtown). While you may think that you need a huge, gear-filled bag on your back to properly prepare for your outdoorsy adventure, that isn’t necessarily the case. There are lots of cute options out there when it comes to weatherproof backpacks- from smaller designs to feminine colors to ones you wouldn’t even think were weatherproof until you read the label. Now go- adventure is out there!
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6. Compartmentalized Bag
Some can throw everything into a bag, get up, and go have a worry-free spring break. Others have a more strategic approach to packing. Organization lovers, this next one is for you! You can get a travel tote with a pocket for your phone, pockets for your shoes, keys, and even a sleeve for your laptop. This particular one from Dagne Dover is a foolproof, fashionable way to keep your face wash from touching your blouses. Got a go-getter in your family? This tote would make a great birthday present.
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7. Small Luggage
The last item on our list of carry-on bags isn’t a bag at all, but instead is modeled after a traditional suitcase (only much smaller). While it may take a little vigor to place a suitcase like this under your feet or in your overhead compartment, we can’t get over how elegant and girly the right ones can look. Of course, color is completely up to you, but we love the way the pink contrasts the warm leather accents in the suitcase below. Not to mention, rolling around your belongings will be much easier on your joints than keeping them on your back! Los Angeles, here we come!
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