You Need A Ride-On Suitcase For Your Next Flight
They make rolling through airports easier (and dare we say more fun!) for kids and parents. These are the 5 best we’ve found.
Schlepping kids, bags, and suitcases (not to mention a travel stroller and car seat) through the airport has got to be the low point of most family vacations. But, if you add a cute ride-on suitcase that allows your kid to wheel along solo, things can be infinitely easier.
It gives them a place to sit while you wait in check-in and security lines and an easy way to move through the terminals. Plus, giving your child their own carry-on frees up space in your luggage where favourite toys, books and clothes would otherwise be stowed. Best of all, one of the fan-favourite ride-on suitcases below doubles as a fold-out bed, which can be a lifesaver on a long-haul flight.
But before you rush out and outfit your kids with their own luggage, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Age appropriateness: Many of the ride-on luggage options are suitable for kids ages two and up, but you’ll need to take your child’s size and abilities into consideration. (For example, can they balance on a moving seat without a harness? And is the suitcase light enough for them to pull a bit on their own?) Some models are sturdy enough for older kids, too, so if your child is on the far end of the age range, you’ll want to pick a suitcase that can last as long as possible.
- Suitcase size: Dimensions and weight capacity are key. Many airlines have shrinking carry-on guidelines, so if you plan to wheel it all the way to your seats, make sure it complies with their policies.
- Pull options: Airports can be massive, and travel is tiring, so although your kid might be keen to wheel themselves at first, you may want the option of a pull strap so that a grown-up can take over when they need a rest.
The best ride-on suitcases for kids 2025
Trunki Ride-On Suitcase
Age range: 3 to 6 years Size: W 46 cm x H 31cm x D 20.5 cm Weight: 3.8 lb
Why we love it: These suitcases are popular for a reason: they’re affordable, come in cute kid-pleasing designs and have a multifunction strap that parents can use to pull tired kids along or to throw the suitcase over their shoulder.
What Else You Need to Know: These are made from a lightweight but durable plastic that can easily handle most toddlers but might not be sturdy enough for bigger kids.
Stokke JetKids BedBox
Age range: 2 to 7 years Size: W 20 cm x H 39 cm x D 47 cm Weight: 6.6 lb
Why We Love It: This suitcase works hard and has a stylish Scandi design. Kids can pull, ride and steer it themselves, thanks to shock-absorbing swivel wheels. It works overtime as a ride-on suitcase and can be transformed into a footrest and in-flight nap spot.
What Else You Need to Know: There’s a handy strap across the front for kids to hold onto, but it doesn’t have a seatbelt or harness safety feature like some other models do.
MiaMily Carry-On Luggage
Age range: 2 years and up Size: W 29 cm x H 38 cm x D 51 cm Weight: 9.2 lb
Why We Love It: It’s a bit like the Rolls Royce of rollies, with its slick design and multi-functional seat that allows for child riding and adult seating (supporting up to 220 lbs). It also includes a seatbelt for small kids, an adjustable handle with three height options, a TSA lock latch (no zippers!) and so much more.
What Else You Need to Know: The price tag is seriously premium, but parents could make this their primary carry-on for solo travel, too. It’s that nice.
Samsonite Dream Rider Ride-On Suitcase
Age range: 3 to 8 years Size: W 36.83 cm x H 50 cm x D 21 cm Weight: 3.7 lb
Why we love it: This ride-on is packed with practical features, including elastic cross-straps inside to keep their favourite toys and clothing organized and a multi-purpose carry strap.
What Else You Need to Know: There is no harness or seatbelt on this model, which some toddlers may need to stay on securely.
Heys Race Car Ride-On Luggage
Age range: 3 and up Size: W 31 cm x H 40 cm x D 21.5 cm Weight: 4.4 lb
Why we love it: It’s compact, functional and rolls smoothly on four high-quality wheels. They will love that the wheels light up!
What Else You Need to Know: It doesn’t have any exterior pockets for easy-access storage.
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Karen Robock is a writer, editor and mom of two whose work has appeared in dozens of publications in Canada and the U.S., including Prevention, Reader’s Digest, Canadian Living, and The Toronto Star. Once upon a time, Karen was even the managing editor of Today’s Parent. She lives in Toronto with her husband, school-age daughters, and their two dogs.