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The Ricardo Beverly Hills Montecito 2.0 Hardside Front Opening Carry-On suitcase is beloved by many travelers, so I wanted to put it to the test to see if it was worth the hype. I took this carry-on on a number of flights and road trips, where it endured getting gate-checked, rained on, and even falling down a flight of stairs.
My favorite feature of the Montecito is the Fast-Access front opening, which allows for a quick retrieval of items without fully opening the suitcase. In this front opening, there are padded sleeves that are big enough to store a laptop and a tablet, making it easy to take them out for inspection at airport security as needed.
I kept everything I needed to have close by in this front pocket, including my laptop, e-reader, travel documents, and toiletries.
Ricardo Carry-On With Front Opening Size
| Exterior Dimensions | Interior Dimensions | Weight | Price |
| 22.25 x 14.75 x 10.25 inches | 20.5 x 14.5 x 10.25 inches | 8.6 lbs | $169 |
Review
Overall, I found the Montecito to be well worth the money. The polycarbonate exterior held up really well to any travel abuse I subjected it to, with only a few minor scuffs and scrapes to show for it. The suitcase definitely looks more luxurious than it is, especially in the beautiful hunter-green color with faux leather accents.
I appreciate all the organizational features of the suitcase, especially the front-opening pocket. You don’t realize just how annoying it is to have to open up your entire suitcase every time you need something until you get one with a handy front pocket!
Pros
- Durable
- Stylish
- Fast Access front-opening pocket makes it easy to grab essentials
- Comfortable top and side carry-handles
- Bottom carry grip
- Comes with a toiletry pouch and laundry bag
- Internally routed USB port and included battery pouch so you can charge your devices
- Smooth-rolling 360-degree wheels
- TSA-approved lock
- Expandable
- Laptop and tablet pockets
Cons
- Weighs 8.6 lbs. This makes the suitcase very heavy before you even pack it.
- Interior lining is not as attractive as the outside of the suitcase
Overall Verdict
If you’re looking for a hard-sided suitcase with a front opening that will help you stay organized, the Montecito is a great affordable option. However, travelers who want to travel light might want to look for a suitcase that weighs less.
Price and Where to Buy
The Ricardo Beverly Hills Montecito 2.0 Hardside Front Opening Carry-On costs $169 and is available on Amazon.
Other Suitcases With Front Openings We Recommend
Not sold on the Ricardo Carry-On With Front Opening? Here are some other carry-on suitcases with front openings:
- Level 8 Grace Carry-On
- Luggex Carry-On with Cup Holder and Front Opening
- Milada Aluminum Carry-On
- Travelpro MaxLite Expandable Softsided Carry-On
- Coolife Spinner Suitcase
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