I was tired of the checked-baggage game. The fees, the waiting at the carousel, the anxiety of a lost bag—it all added unnecessary stress to my travels. I needed a smarter solution for my weekend getaways and week-long business trips. My goal was to find a complete carry-on system: a reliable hardshell suitcase, a functional personal item that could hold my laptop, and a way to keep my toiletries organized. The thought of buying three separate pieces felt inefficient, which is what led me to the all-in-one promise of the Joyway Expandable 20-Inch Carry-on Luggage set.
- 3-piece Luggage Sets: Our luggage sets includes 20-inch, plus a multi-functional backpack and a toiletry bag. From short trips to long journeys, it fully...
- Expandable Capacity: Designed with an expandable layer to add 15% more space to your rolling luggage.
Things to Consider Before Buying a Luggage Set
Before you invest in new luggage, it’s crucial to think about how you travel. Are you a chronic over-packer or a minimalist? Do you mostly fly on major airlines or budget carriers with stricter size limits? The ideal carry-on set should be a trifecta of durability, mobility, and smart organization. Look for a hard shell made from a material like ABS or polycarbonate, which offers protection without excessive weight. Four 360-degree spinner wheels are non-negotiable for navigating crowded terminals with ease. A sturdy, multi-stage telescopic handle prevents wrist strain, and a TSA-approved lock provides essential security.
The perfect customer for a set like this is the efficiency-minded traveler who wants a cohesive, out-of-the-box solution. If you value having a matching backpack and toiletry kit that integrates seamlessly with your main carry-on, a bundled set offers incredible value. It simplifies packing and ensures all your pieces work together, like having a backpack with a built-in trolley sleeve. If this sounds like the streamlined travel experience you’re after, the Joyway 3-piece set is designed with you in mind.
While the Joyway Expandable 20-Inch Carry-on Luggage is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
Explore Our Definitive Guide to the Most Durable Hardside Luggage Sets
- ALL-IN-ONE SET: Includes carry-on, medium checked, and large checked suitcase to suit every travel need; carry-on measures 14.8 x 10 x 21.7 inches; medium...
- 【5 Piece Luggage Set】Luggage sets include a 28-inch large suitcase, 24-inch medium checked luggage, 20-inch carry on luggage, an extended duffel bag,...
- Sleek Durability: Crafted with a high-performance polypropylene shell and sandy-smooth texture for superior impact resistance and long-lasting protection.
The Joyway Expandable 20-Inch Carry-on Luggage: First Impressions & Key Features
Right out of the box, the Joyway Expandable 20-Inch Carry-on Luggage set presented itself as more than just a suitcase. The black ABS hardshell has a subtle, textured pattern that looks sleek and feels like it could resist minor scuffs. The real surprise, however, was the quality of the included backpack and toiletry bag. Often, bundled accessories can feel like an afterthought, but the backpack felt substantial, with padded straps and useful compartments. The entire set felt cohesive and thoughtfully designed for the modern traveler. It promised a complete system, and my initial impression was that it delivered on that promise. For those looking to upgrade their entire travel setup in one go, you can see all the included features and color options here.
What We Like
- Complete 3-Piece System: An excellent value with a carry-on, a high-quality backpack, and a toiletry bag.
- Smooth & Stable Mobility: The 360-degree spinner wheels and sturdy telescopic handle make navigation effortless.
- Generous & Expandable Capacity: Easily fits over a week’s worth of clothes, with 15% extra space when needed.
- Smart Bonus Features: The backpack includes a luggage strap, computer compartment, and compression clips.
What We Didn’t Like
- Potential Durability Concerns: Some users report issues with wheels or zippers after minimal use.
- Color Inaccuracy: The color received may differ slightly from the online images (e.g., cream instead of pure white).
A Deep Dive into the Joyway Expandable 20-Inch Carry-on Luggage’s Performance
Design and Durability: A Closer Look at the ABS Hard Shell
The suitcase is constructed from Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), a common material in hardshell luggage known for being lightweight and rigid. During our testing, it felt solid and capable of withstanding the typical bumps and shoves of overhead bin storage. The textured finish is a smart choice, as it does a decent job of hiding the inevitable scuffs that come with travel. While we found it to be perfectly sturdy for our trips, it’s important to note some user feedback. A few reports mentioned a wheel breaking after just one trip, which raises questions about its long-term durability for a true road warrior. For the average vacationer or business traveler, however, the shell provides ample protection.
Mobility and Handling: The Spinner Wheels and Telescopic Handle in Action
This is where the Joyway Expandable 20-Inch Carry-on Luggage truly shines. We glided it through busy airport corridors and across various surfaces, from smooth terrazzo floors to low-pile carpet, and the four spinner wheels were exceptionally smooth. They rotate a full 360 degrees, allowing you to push the case alongside you without any drag on your wrist. This experience was echoed by one user who called it a “travel win,” noting the wheels “glide smoothly (even when I’m weaving through a crowd).” The aluminum telescopic handle locks into place firmly with no annoying wobble or give, a common failure point on lesser luggage. This solid handling inspires confidence when you’re rushing to make a connection.
Packing and Capacity: The Expandable Main Compartment
With a 40-liter capacity, this carry-on hits the sweet spot for trips up to a week or even longer for savvy packers. One traveler confirmed our findings, mentioning they packed for a two-week international trip without even needing to use the expansion feature. When you do need that extra room for souvenirs, a zipper gusset releases to provide an additional 15% of packing space. Inside, the clamshell design is well-organized. One side features a full zippered divider to keep items separate, while the other has cross-straps to compress clothing and prevent shifting. The use of double-layer YKK zippers is another sign of quality, designed to prevent snags and splitting under pressure.
The Bonus Accessories: More Than Just an Afterthought
The included backpack and toiletry bag elevate this from a simple suitcase to a comprehensive travel system. The backpack, in particular, is a standout. It’s not just a flimsy pack-in; it’s a genuinely functional piece of gear. It features a padded computer compartment, a trolley sleeve on the back for securely sliding it over the suitcase handle, and even a built-in USB-C cord for on-the-go charging (you supply the power bank). Other thoughtful touches, like compression clips and a sternum strap, are features you’d expect on a standalone daypack. This cohesive design makes navigating the airport with all your items an absolute breeze.
What Other Users Are Saying
The general sentiment from travelers is overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the set as a fantastic value. One user, who took it on an international flight with multiple layovers, was thrilled they could pack for over two weeks using only the carry-on and backpack. Many agree with our assessment of the smooth wheels and sturdy handle. However, the feedback isn’t universally perfect. We saw a few consistent complaints regarding quality control. The most concerning was a report of a wheel breaking after a single trip and another of a faulty zipper on arrival. A more minor issue noted was a color discrepancy, where a user ordered a white suitcase but received one that was distinctly cream-colored.
How the Joyway Expandable 20-Inch Carry-on Luggage Compares: Top 3 Alternatives
While the Joyway offers a fantastic all-in-one package, it’s wise to consider other options that might better suit your needs, especially if you prioritize brand reputation or different configurations.
1. Samsonite Centric 2 2-Piece Hardside Luggage Set
- Set includes 20" carry on (meets carry-on size restrictions for those traveling domestically and looking to stay light) and 28" Spinner (maximize your...
- 11 Year limited warranty: Samsonite products are rigorously tested to ensure our products meet stringent standards. This bag comes with a 10-year warranty...
If you’re looking for a step up in brand recognition and proven durability, the Samsonite Centric 2 is a formidable competitor. This set typically includes a carry-on and a larger checked bag, making it ideal for those who need options for longer journeys. While you don’t get the integrated backpack and toiletry bag, you are investing in Samsonite’s reputation for quality materials and rigorous testing. It’s a great choice for the frequent flyer who prioritizes long-term resilience over the bundled convenience of the Joyway.
2. Samsonite Evolve SE 2PC Set Double Spinner Hardside Luggage
- SET INCLUDES 20" Carry On (meets carry-on size restrictions for those traveling domestically and looking to stay light) and 24" Spinner (maximize your...
- Industry leading expanded capacity in all sizes.
Similar to the Centric 2, the Samsonite Evolve SE set caters to travelers seeking robust performance from a legacy brand. The key feature here is often the “double spinner wheels,” which can provide even greater stability and a smoother glide. This set also comes in various modern colors, appealing to the style-conscious. The trade-off is the same as with the Centric 2: you’re buying two high-quality suitcases but will need to source your own personal item/backpack, making the Joyway a better value proposition for those starting from scratch.
3. Rockland 3-Piece Expandable Hardside Luggage Set
- Three-piece set of hard-side suitcases with multidirectional spinner wheels and interior mesh zip compartment
- Includes 20 inch, 24 inch , 28 inch Upright
The Rockland Melbourne set is one of the most popular budget-friendly hardside options available. It typically includes three suitcases (20″, 24″, 28″), offering a complete luggage arsenal for one low price. While its value is undeniable, the focus is on providing multiple suitcase sizes rather than an integrated carry-on system like the Joyway. The materials and components may not feel as premium as a Samsonite, placing it in a similar category as the Joyway but with a different configuration philosophy.
Final Verdict: Is the Joyway Expandable 20-Inch Carry-on Luggage Right for You?
After extensive review, we can confidently recommend the Joyway Expandable 20-Inch Carry-on Luggage to a specific type of traveler: the smart, efficiency-focused individual who wants a complete, coordinated carry-on solution without the hassle of buying separate pieces. The value is simply outstanding. The suitcase itself is capable and smooth, but the high-quality, feature-rich backpack is what truly seals the deal. It’s perfect for weekend trips and vacations where you want to avoid checking a bag. While road warriors who are brutal on their gear might want to invest in a brand known for bombproof durability, this set is an absolute winner for the vast majority of travelers.
If you’ve decided the Joyway Expandable 20-Inch Carry-on Luggage is the right fit for your next adventure, you can check its current price and available colors here.
Last update on 2025-10-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API