The Carry-On I Recommend to Everyone Now Comes in a Luxe New Finish

Nikol SlatinskaShopping Writer, Home
Nikol SlatinskaShopping Writer, Home
In my role at Apartment Therapy, I'm most passionate about making my home look beautiful and organized and helping our readers do the same — often at a discount. Although I cover my fair share of newsy pieces, my work focuses on long-form service articles that help our audience…read more
published Mar 14, 2025
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shot of someone folding clothes in a suitcase
Credit: Photo: Christopher Testani; Prop Styling: Carla Gonzalez-Hart

One of the best upgrades I’ve made as an adult has been getting a cute carry-on suitcase. Growing up, my family always traveled with dowdy-looking fabric luggage, so when I finally switched to hard-shell, I felt so bougie, I might as well have been flying private. I haven’t felt tempted to switch out my carry-on since owning it… until now. 

Just a couple of days ago, Quince announced the launch of its aluminum carry-on suitcase, and never have I been more aware of my primal attraction to shiny things. If it looks like a certain luxury suitcase brand whose carry-on retails for more than $1,500, that’s because Quince is a known destination for replicas of top-brand products, only you pay a much lower price.

Not only do I personally recommend Quince’s products after having tested a few of them, but the brand’s original carry-on suitcase is a staff favorite. The aluminum version promises the same durability, but with some notable upgrades and a sleek new appearance.

What is the Aluminum Carry-On Suitcase?

Originally available for preorder late last year, the aluminum carry-on is finally available for purchase and noteworthy for multiple reasons. Like the brand’s bestselling hard-shell carry-on, this one features a waterproof interior lining, Hinomoto 360° spinner wheels, and YKK zippers, which are known for their amazing quality. An interior compression system helps you fit up to seven outfits, while a removable laundry bag separates dirty clothes from clean ones.

At 22.8 inches tall and 14.5 inches wide, the suitcase is a tad larger than your average carry-on, but none of the reviews report any problems regarding size and overhead cabin fit. It’s also highly secure thanks to its TSA-approved lock, and it’ll help keep your belongings organized for the duration of your trip because of its multiple interior storage compartments.

The only issue you’re likely to experience with this suitcase is scuff marks. Although the aluminum exterior is sturdy, the light finish will naturally accumulate black smudges, so Quince recommends wiping them off with either a damp cloth or non-abrasive sponge and mild soap.

Credit: Quince

What Quince Reviewers Are Saying

“Loving my aluminum carry-on! I always wanted a Rimowa, so I bought this instead and am in love and living within my means.” — E O.

“Pre-ordered and it did take a while to get delivered. However, it was completely worth the wait. It is a a great size for a carry-on and I am loving that there is no zipper! Can’t wait to use it on my next trip and hope the check-in size comes soon. I will be buying it, if it does.” — Shelby

“Purchased on preorder, and it’s absolutely perfect! Just as strong, durable, and clean-looking as all the other aluminum suitcases on the market for half the cost.” — Maegann

If you’ve been eyeing an Away or Rimowa aluminum carry-on but can’t justify shelling out the cash for it, I feel you. Luckily, you can achieve the same aesthetic for a fraction of the price with Quince’s new release. Your next seamless travel experience awaits!

Buy: Aluminum Carry-On Suitcase, $275

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