Aer’s First Carry-On Suitcase Has an Ingenious Feature That I Never Want to Travel Without Now

This 48-liter hardshell has a feature that’s so simple and effective, it makes me wonder why more travel bags don’t have it.

person adjusting a toggle on a black suitcase

By Jack Seemer

Published May 13, 2024

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Updated June 14, 2024

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There is no shortage of carry-on suitcases available to travelers, so it takes more than a bright, trendy color for one to stand out. Meet the Aer Carry-On, a 48-liter hardshell suitcase with a feature that’s so simple and effective, it makes me wonder why it’s not already an industry standard.

Aer Carry-On

$319 at Aer

Founded in 2014, Aer’s sleek, savvy bags have appealed to travelers who appreciate in a lot of thoughtful details in minimalist packages. The brand’s first carry-on ever has plenty of them to go around.

The most novel of the bunch is an integrated brake system hidden under the handle that locks the Hinomoto wheels with a quick toggle.

man carrying a suitcase and entering a city train — Wheel locks could home in handy — literally — when your actual hands are holding onto handrails or other luggage.

Though the features is not an industry first, it’s more rare than it has any right to be. Anyone who has ever hopped on a bus or train after a long flight knows the struggle of keeping their suitcase from rolling away while holding onto a handrail, if not a bunch of other bags.

The Makrolon polycarbonate shell also houses a recycled Cordura liner, quick-action compression system and hidden pocket for an AirTag or other smart tracker.

suitcase pocket for a smart tracker — Thoughtful details include a hidden pocket for an AirTag or other smart tracker.

Premium materials make up the givens: aluminum for the trolley handle (which boasts four heights); Hinomoto wheels for a smooth and silent glide; and puncture-resistant YKK zippers that Aer claims are “3x stronger than other luggage zippers.”