Ricardo Carry-On Luggage Review: My Real Experience Using It
Travel becomes easier when you have the right luggage by your side. Ricardo Beverly Hills has built a solid reputation in the luggage industry, and their carry-on options continue to attract travelers looking for quality without breaking the bank.
This review dives deep into the best Ricardo carry-on luggage available on Amazon, helping you make an informed choice for your next adventure.
Finding the perfect carry-on can feel overwhelming with so many options available. You want something durable yet lightweight, stylish but practical, and affordable without sacrificing quality.
Key Takeaways
- Quality Construction: Ricardo uses durable materials like 100% polycarbonate for hardside options and recycled PET fabric for softside luggage. The brand focuses on creating luggage that can handle the rigors of modern travel while maintaining a lightweight profile that won’t eat into your baggage allowance.
- Warranty Coverage: Most Ricardo luggage comes with a 10-year limited warranty, giving you peace of mind about your investment. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship, though some collections like Flight Essentials offer a three-year commercial warranty instead.
- Expandable Design: Many Ricardo carry-ons feature expandable compartments that give you up to 2 inches of extra packing space when you need it. This flexibility proves invaluable when you pick up souvenirs or need to pack bulkier items on your return trip.
- Smooth Maneuverability: Ricardo equips their luggage with 360-degree dual spinner wheels that glide smoothly through airports. The multi-directional wheel system reduces strain on your arms and shoulders, making navigation through crowded terminals much easier.
- TSA-Approved Locks: Security matters when you travel, and Ricardo includes TSA-recognized combination locks on most models. These locks allow airport security to inspect your luggage without damaging the lock mechanism, protecting both your belongings and your investment.
Ricardo Avalon Softside Carry-On Luggage
The Ricardo Avalon represents the brand’s commitment to sustainable travel without sacrificing functionality. This carry-on stands out because it’s made from 100% recycled PET (rPET) material, turning plastic bottles into a durable travel companion. The Juniper Green color adds a fresh, modern look that helps you spot your bag quickly on the luggage carousel.
This 20-inch carry-on weighs surprisingly little, making it perfect for travelers who want to maximize their packing space without worrying about weight limits. The expandable design gives you flexibility when you need extra room, and the dual spinner wheels make navigation effortless even in crowded spaces.
The interior organization impresses with multiple pockets and compression straps that keep your belongings secure during transit. The telescoping handle extends smoothly and locks at multiple heights, accommodating travelers of different sizes. Customer reviews praise its durability, with many noting that it holds up well even after multiple trips.
Ricardo Montecito 2.0 Hardside Carry-On
The Montecito 2.0 brings a premium feel with its hardside polycarbonate construction and sophisticated Hunter Green finish. This 21-inch carry-on offers more packing space than standard 20-inch models, giving you room for longer trips or bulkier items. The hardside shell protects your belongings from impacts and weather, making it ideal for travelers who carry electronics or fragile items.
Ricardo designed this model with comfort grip handles that make lifting and maneuvering feel natural. The expandable feature adds valuable space when you need it, and the compression straps inside keep everything organized and secure. The dual spinning wheels roll smoothly and quietly, reducing travel fatigue during long airport walks.
The scratch-resistant finish maintains its appearance trip after trip, and the reinforced corners add extra protection in high-impact areas. Many travelers appreciate the spacious interior that accommodates a week’s worth of clothing when packed efficiently. The TSA-approved lock provides security without hassle at checkpoints.
Ricardo Melrose Hardside Expandable Luggage
The Melrose collection showcases Ricardo’s attention to both style and substance. This 20-inch carry-on features a striking Prussian Blue color that stands out while maintaining professional appeal. The lightweight construction makes it easy to lift into overhead compartments, even when fully packed.
What sets the Melrose apart is its thoughtful interior design. You’ll find a PVC-lined wet pocket perfect for damp swimsuits or toiletries, keeping moisture away from your dry clothes. The spacious dual packing compartments with deluxe interiors include three zippered pockets and adjustable tie-down straps for maximum organization.
The polycarbonate shell resists scratches and impacts while keeping the overall weight manageable. The 360-degree spinner wheels glide effortlessly across various surfaces, and the telescoping handle features soft-touch grips for comfortable handling. Travelers consistently rate this model highly for its durability and smart design features.
Top 3 Alternatives for Ricardo Carry-On Luggage
Why Choose Ricardo Over Other Brands
Ricardo Beverly Hills carved out a unique position in the luggage market by offering quality at accessible price points. While premium brands charge hundreds of dollars for similar features, Ricardo delivers comparable functionality without the luxury brand markup. The company stands behind their products with substantial warranty coverage that demonstrates confidence in their construction.
The brand’s focus on practical features rather than trendy gimmicks appeals to travelers who value substance over flash. You get essentials like TSA-approved locks, expandable compartments, and smooth-rolling wheels without paying for unnecessary add-ons. This approach makes Ricardo an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers who refuse to compromise on quality.
Ricardo also responds to modern travel concerns by introducing sustainable options like the Avalon collection. Using recycled materials shows environmental awareness while maintaining the durability travelers expect. This eco-friendly approach resonates with travelers who want their purchasing decisions to reflect their values.
Understanding Ricardo’s Construction Quality
The materials Ricardo uses directly impact how long your luggage lasts. Their hardside options utilize 100% polycarbonate, a material known for flexibility and impact resistance. This plastic can absorb shocks without cracking, protecting your belongings during rough handling by baggage handlers.
Softside models employ high-grade polyester or recycled PET fabrics with water-resistant coatings. These materials balance durability with weight savings, giving you a carry-on that withstands regular use without becoming too heavy. The reinforced stress points at corners and handles extend the life of the luggage significantly.
Ricardo’s wheel systems deserve special mention because they use quality bearings that roll smoothly even when heavily loaded. Cheap wheels can fail quickly or roll unevenly, making your luggage difficult to maneuver. The dual spinner design distributes weight evenly across all four wheels, reducing wear and extending the life of your carry-on.
Size and Airline Compliance
Most Ricardo carry-ons measure approximately 22 inches in height, 14 inches in width, and 9 inches in depth, fitting within standard airline carry-on restrictions. However, you should always verify dimensions with your specific airline because requirements vary slightly between carriers. Budget airlines often impose stricter size limits than major carriers.
The expandable feature adds about 2 inches of depth when fully extended, which might push your luggage beyond carry-on limits on some airlines. Use the expansion capability wisely, expanding only after you’ve cleared security and confirmed your overhead bin space. This flexibility lets you adapt to different situations without needing multiple bags.
Weight matters as much as size for carry-on compliance. Ricardo’s lightweight construction means the empty bag weighs between 6 and 8 pounds, leaving you plenty of room within typical 15 to 22-pound carry-on weight limits. This weight efficiency lets you pack more without exceeding airline restrictions.
Interior Organization and Features
Smart interior design separates good luggage from great luggage. Ricardo incorporates mesh dividers, zippered pockets, and compression straps in most models, helping you keep items separated and secure. The compression straps prevent clothes from shifting during transit, reducing wrinkles and maintaining organization.
Many models include dedicated pockets for shoes, keeping them separate from clean clothes. The zippered mesh dividers let you see what’s inside each compartment without unpacking everything. Some Ricardo carry-ons feature a built-in laundry bag or wet pocket, extremely useful for separating dirty clothes or damp items from the rest of your belongings.
The interior fabric quality impacts both durability and ease of cleaning. Ricardo uses stain-resistant linings that wipe clean easily when spills occur. The fully lined interiors protect both the luggage structure and your belongings, adding another layer of durability to your investment.
Wheel Performance and Maneuverability
The wheel system on your carry-on dramatically affects your travel experience. Ricardo’s 360-degree dual spinner wheels allow you to push your luggage beside you rather than dragging it behind. This reduces strain on your arm and shoulder, making long airport walks much more comfortable.
Quality wheels roll quietly across different surfaces from smooth airport floors to rough sidewalks. The multi-directional capability means you can navigate tight spaces and crowded aisles with precision. Ricardo’s wheel attachments use reinforced mounting systems that resist wobbling even after extended use.
The wheel diameter affects how smoothly your luggage rolls over obstacles like sidewalk cracks or elevator thresholds. Ricardo uses appropriately sized wheels that balance smooth rolling with compact design. Larger wheels roll more easily over bumps but take up valuable interior space, so Ricardo finds an effective middle ground.
Handle System and Grip Comfort
A comfortable handle system makes traveling less tiring. Ricardo’s telescoping handles extend smoothly and lock securely at multiple heights, accommodating travelers from different heights. The push-button release mechanism operates reliably even after thousands of extensions and retractions.
The handle grip material matters for comfort during extended use. Ricardo uses soft-touch materials that feel comfortable in your hand without becoming slippery when wet. The ergonomic shaping fits naturally in your palm, reducing hand fatigue during long airport walks.
Side and top carry handles provide additional lifting options when you need to hoist your luggage into overhead bins or car trunks. Ricardo reinforces these handles with extra stitching and durable materials because they endure significant stress during lifting. The strategic placement of multiple handles gives you flexibility in how you move your luggage.
TSA Lock System Explained
Security features protect your belongings without creating hassles at airport security checkpoints. Ricardo includes TSA-approved combination locks on most carry-ons, allowing Transportation Security Administration agents to open your luggage for inspection using special master keys. This prevents damage to your lock when security needs to examine your bag contents.
Setting your personal combination takes just a few minutes using the instructions included with your luggage. Choose a combination you’ll remember but others can’t easily guess. The three-digit combination system provides 1,000 possible combinations, offering reasonable security for most travel situations.
The lock mechanism integrates smoothly into the luggage design without creating bulky protrusions that could snag on conveyor belts. Ricardo positions the lock for easy access while packing but keeps it protected from accidental damage during handling. Regular testing of your lock ensures it continues functioning properly throughout your travels.
Color Options and Style Choices
Ricardo offers carry-ons in various colors from classic black to vibrant greens and blues. Bright colors help you spot your luggage quickly on crowded carousels, reducing wait times and worry about grabbing the wrong bag. However, lighter colors may show dirt and scuffs more readily than darker options.
Classic colors like black, navy, or gray blend into any setting and maintain a professional appearance for business travel. These neutral tones match easily with other luggage pieces if you’re building a coordinated set. The textured finishes on hardside models help hide minor scratches that accumulate during normal use.
Some Ricardo collections feature stylish accents like faux leather details or metallic hardware that elevate the overall appearance. These design touches add personality without sacrificing functionality. The aesthetic choices let you express your style while maintaining the practical features that make Ricardo luggage reliable.
Maintenance and Care Tips
Proper maintenance extends the life of your Ricardo carry-on significantly. After each trip, wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth to remove dirt and grime before it sets. For hardside luggage, mild soap and water remove most stains without damaging the polycarbonate shell.
Clean the wheels regularly because dirt and hair accumulate in the wheel mechanisms over time, affecting performance. Use a small brush or toothpick to remove debris from wheel crevices. Occasionally apply a small amount of lubricant to wheel bearings to maintain smooth rolling.
Store your luggage in a cool, dry place when not in use. Avoid extreme temperatures that could warp plastic components or damage fabric. Keep your luggage slightly open during storage to allow air circulation and prevent musty odors from developing inside. Check zippers and locks periodically to ensure everything functions smoothly.
Value for Money Analysis
Ricardo positions itself in the mid-range luggage market, offering features typically found in more expensive brands at accessible prices. Most Ricardo carry-ons range from $100 to $170 on Amazon, substantially less than premium brands charging $300 or more for similar features.
The 10-year warranty adds significant value by protecting your investment long-term. When you factor in the cost per use over a decade of travel, Ricardo becomes even more economical. The durable construction means you won’t need to replace your luggage frequently, unlike cheaper alternatives that fail after a season or two.
Compared to budget options that cost $50 to $80, Ricardo offers noticeably better quality in materials, wheels, and overall construction. The modest price increase delivers substantial improvements in durability and functionality. For travelers who fly several times per year, investing in Ricardo quality pays dividends through years of reliable service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Ricardo luggage fit in overhead bins on all airlines?
Most Ricardo carry-ons meet standard airline size requirements and fit in overhead bins on major carriers. The typical dimensions of 22 x 14 x 9 inches comply with most airline policies. However, budget airlines and smaller regional jets sometimes have stricter size limits. Always check your specific airline’s requirements before traveling, especially when using the expandable feature.
How does the 10-year warranty work?
Ricardo’s 10-year limited warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship from the date of purchase. To use the warranty, you’ll need proof of purchase and should contact Ricardo’s customer service to initiate a claim. The warranty typically covers repair or replacement of defective parts, though you may need to pay shipping costs. Normal wear and tear or damage from misuse isn’t covered.
Are Ricardo spinner wheels durable enough for frequent travel?
Ricardo’s dual spinner wheels use quality bearings and reinforced mounting systems designed for regular use. Most travelers report that the wheels hold up well through years of travel when properly maintained. Cleaning the wheels regularly and avoiding dragging your luggage over rough terrain extends wheel life significantly. The wheels represent one of Ricardo’s strongest features.
Can I expand my Ricardo carry-on while it’s packed?
Yes, the expansion zipper allows you to add approximately 2 inches of depth even after packing. However, expanding your luggage may push it beyond carry-on size limits on some airlines. Use the expansion feature strategically, perhaps for your return trip when you have souvenirs but won’t need overhead bin space. The expansion capability works smoothly without putting excessive stress on the zipper.
What’s the difference between Ricardo’s hardside and softside carry-ons?
Hardside models use polycarbonate shells that resist impacts and protect contents from crushing and water damage. They clean easily but offer less flexibility in tight packing situations. Softside options use durable fabric that can compress slightly to fit in tight spaces and often include more exterior pockets. Softside luggage typically weighs slightly less but may not protect fragile items as well as hardside models.
Is Ricardo luggage good for international travel?
Ricardo carry-ons work well for international travel, meeting size requirements for most global airlines. The durable construction withstands the additional handling of international flights, and the TSA locks provide security. Consider that international flights sometimes have stricter weight limits than domestic travel, so pack carefully to stay within restrictions. The luggage performs reliably across different climates and travel conditions.
