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The Best Lightweight Luggage of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Keep your luggage under the weight limit with these lightweight options.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

Our Testing Process

• Others We Liked
• Tips For Buying
• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

It's easier said than done to "pack light," but it is a wise sentiment. When you want to bring plenty of outfit options (plus shoes and accessories to match), your full skincare routine, workout gear, and must-haves for working remotely, lightweight luggage can help balance out your load.

But the best suitcases, weekenders, backpacks, underseat bags, and duffels aren't just lightweight. They're also durable, easy to maneuver, and spacious, with lots of compartments and standout features like expanders, compression panels, laptop sleeves, TSA-approved locks, and USB charging ports.

To help you narrow down your options, we've tested over 450 pieces of luggage and sorted through our insights to choose the best lightweight options. Our Travel + Leisure editors packed the bags full, rolled them over different flooring materials, carried them for extended periods of time, threw them off tables, hit them with baseball bats and even built an airplane set where we could lift the bags into overhead bins. We then put together this list of notably lightweight carry-ons, checked bags, personal items, and other types of bags with high scores and low weights.

Best Overall

Delsey paris hardside expandable luggage with spinner wheels.

• Capacity 5 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Maneuverability 4 /5
• Durability 4.7 /5

At 5.3 pounds, this hardside suitcase is perfectly lightweight and compact while fitting a surprising amount of clothes — no expander needed.

The handle is somewhat short, and it sustained a minor dent from our bat swings.

Weighing 5.3 pounds, the Delsey Paris Clavel was one of the lightest suitcases we tried. At 22 by 14 by 10 inches, it's nice and compact, too. But while this carry-on looks small , we were pleasantly surprised by how many clothes we could fit inside. We didn't even need to use the expander, which adds another three-quarters of an inch to the depth. We also like that there are two main compartments separated by a zippered divider, plus tie-down straps and shoe pockets. Lifting it overhead was a piece of cake compared to heavier models, and it should easily fit into any overhead bin.

This hardside suitcase has a polypropylene (thermoplastic) exterior that stood up well to our baseball bat tests, although it sustained a minor dent from one particularly enthusiastic swing. The rigid shell gives it a modern, high-end appearance. Beyond the basic luggage colors, the brand offers the option for a statement hue or something a little easier to spot at baggage claim, like blush, teal, or stark white.

Thanks to the four-wheel spinner design, the Clavel has good maneuverability and rolls smoothly over bumps, cracks, and carpet. One drawback is that we felt the handle was a little short and slightly loose. Still, we were thoroughly impressed with this suitcase and wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to pretty much anyone looking for a piece of lightweight carry-on luggage . The price is right on point, too, and Delsey backs it with a five-year warranty.

The Details: 5.3 pounds | 22 x 14 x 10 inches | 43-liter capacity | Carry-on | Expandable

Travel + Leisure / Tamara Staples

Best Carry-on

Samsonite freeform carry-on spinner.

• Maneuverability 5 /5
• Durability 5 /5

Boasting a spacious capacity, smooth-rolling wheels, and an exceptionally durable shell, this 6.5-pound spinner earned perfect scores in all our tests.

It doesn't come with a laundry bag or have a zippered section for dirty clothes.

Samsonite's Freeform Carry-on clocked perfect scores in all testing categories. While this 6.5-pounder is conveniently compact, we could fit enough clothes to get through a four-day trip without having to expand it. There's no removable satchel for dirty clothes, but it does have a zippered separator for shoes, plus a few pockets and cross straps.

We found the Freeform easy to maneuver on both hard flooring and carpet. We were also fans of the adjustable aluminum handle, which locks in place with the press of a button. After whacking it with a bat, the exterior sustained zero dents, scuffs, or scratches. Considering the durable construction, minimalist-modern design, spacious capacity, and reasonable price tag, we think this carry-on is a prime choice for frequent fliers and short getaways.

The Details: 6.5 pounds | 21 x 15 x 10 inches | 34-liter capacity | Carry-on | Expandable

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Best Checked

July checked plus light.

This 105-liter hardside bag is incredibly spacious while still weighing under 10 pounds.

Although it does have some pockets inside, we’d add more organizational features.

Checked bags can get heavy quickly, especially hardside ones, but this 105-liter suitcase from July is noticeably lightweight for its large size, weighing in at around nine pounds. The first thing we noticed during our tests was how spacious it was, with two large compartments inside (one on each side) and several zippered pockets for stashing smaller items. We also found its curved eggshell design to be slimmer and less bulky than similar checked bags from other brands, making it super easy to maneuver through our obstacle course — which should translate well when you’re trying to navigate through crowded airports or hotel lobbies. Even though it’s lightweight like many July luggage pieces , the outer shell still feels extremely durable, surviving our baseball bat and drop tests with no dents or scratches. Though its by no means the lightest option on this list, we think this is your best bet if you’re looking for a large-capacity checked bag that won’t weigh you down.

The Details: 9.2 pounds | 30.32 x 20.87 x 11.22 inches | 105-liter capacity | Checked

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Best Softside

It luggage softside carry-on spinner.

• Durability 4 /5

This monochromatic carry-on is exceptionally easy to lift by its thick carrying handles, and it has a two-inch expander zipper.

The bag scratches more easily than we’d like.

It’s hard to find attractive softside suitcases these days, but we love this stylish carry-on that comes in monochromatic colors like harbour blue, lavender, or charcoal — including colored wheels, zippers, and handles. This felt spacious for a carry-on, and if you do a little more shopping than expected on your trip or just want to squeeze in a few extra outfits, it has an expandable zipper for an extra two inches and a large, padded pocket on the front. 

The handle has three different heights and felt strong enough that we could lift the fully packed bag easily by the handle without it feeling loose. We also took notice of how large and padded the top and side carry handles are, which made it easy to lift the bag into the overhead bins on our airplane set; this will make it easy if you have to carry this bag up or down the stairs at any point during your travels. After we threw the bag off a table several times in our lab, it did get a few light scratches, but the softside material stood up well. We also thought there were some thoughtful touches, like waterproof material inside to safeguard against spills and a loop on the front of the bag to attach a luggage tag.

The Details: 5.95 pounds | 21.7 × 14.2 × 7.9 inches | Carry-on | Expandable

Travel + Leisure/Joy Kim

Best Budget

Amazon basics hardside spinner.

This budget-friendly spinner weighs just over seven pounds and has an unexpectedly spacious interior.

There are only a few colors, and it doesn't have a TSA lock.

On a budget? Amazon has you covered. After trying it out first-hand, we can confirm that the Amazon Basics Hardside Spinner has excellent maneuverability, even when we rolled it over bumps and carpeted floors. It also turns and spins like a champ. What's more: the thermoplastic shell lives up to its scratch-resistant claims, with no signs of damage from our drop tests and bat swings.

We were able to fit all items on our packing list, including clothes, coats, shoes, and toiletries. Expanding it wasn't necessary, but it's nice to know there's room to spare. While this wallet-friendly suitcase doesn't have a TSA lock or any smart features, its functionality blew our expectations out of the water. And although there are only a few colors available, we like the sleek, pared-down design.

The Details: 7.3 pounds | 22 x 15 x 10 inches | Carry-on | Expandable

Travel + Leisure / Vicky Wasik

Travelpro Maxlite Hardside Spinner

• Capacity 4 /5
• Design 4 /5
• Maneuverability 3.5 /5
• Value 4.5 /5

With a shiny textured shell that conceals scratches and resists cracks, this suitcase is the perfect balance of stylish and durable.

The capacity is somewhat small without the expander, and it can be slightly unstable on all four wheels.

The 6.3-pound Travelpro Maxlite Air really stood out in terms of aesthetics. It has a crack-resistant polycarbonate shell and a shiny ribbed exterior with a denim-like texture that's supposed to help conceal scratches and scuffs. Sure enough, we saw no damage whatsoever after shoving it off a table and whacking it with a bat.

We were able to fit everything into the dual interior compartments but had to expand it, which could make it too big to pass as a carry-on. With that said, a compression pad or cross straps would have been nice. This suitcase boasts eight wheels, but it's actually four sets of dual casters. It rolled nicely on two casters, even over bumps and around sharp turns, though it was less stable on all four. All things considered, we think the price is fair and would recommend this to someone looking for stylish, durable luggage.

The Details: 6.3 pounds | 23 x 14.5 x 9.5 inches | 46-liter capacity | Carry-on | Expandable

Most Durable

Coolife abs+pc spinner trolley.

The exceptionally sturdy yet flexible shell can be knocked around without damage while making it easy to pack all the essentials for a getaway.

This carry-on isn't expandable, and it doesn't take corners as well on two wheels.

At 6.7 pounds, the Coolife Spinner Trolley isn't the lightest of the lightweight luggage we tested, but it's undoubtedly the most durable. The ABS+PC (acrylonitrile butadiene and polycarbonate) shell is an exceptionally sturdy thermoplastic blend. After shoving it off multiple surfaces and giving it a few good hits with a bat, there was no visible damage.

This carry-on isn't expandable, but thanks to the strong yet slightly flexible exterior, stretchy cross bands, and smooth zippers, we were able to stuff in all the essentials for a four-day trip. It also has a double TSA lock for extra protection. Maneuvering the Spinner Trolley was a breeze, though it doesn't take corners as tightly on two wheels. We'd expect it to last several years and think it's a stellar option for such an affordable price.

The Details: 6.7 pounds | 21 x 14 x 9.5 inches | 38-liter capacity | Carry-on

Best Carry-on Duffel

Bellroy classic weekender 45l.

• Organization 5 /5
• Portability 5 /5

This 45-liter, barrel-shaped bag is water-resistant and has a slip pocket for an Apple AirTag.

The clips that attach the crossbody strap to the bag are plastic rather than metal.

This spacious duffel bag easily fit our full packing list during testing, including four shirts, a jacket, pants, a toiletry kit, a makeup kit, a laptop, chargers, two pairs of shoes, and more, with plenty of room to spare. The bag has two top handles; a detachable, padded shoulder strap; a luggage pass-through, internal slip pockets for smaller items; an external pocket with a key clip; and an internal Apple AirTag slip pocket. Some large bags can't help but feel bulky when you're wearing them as a crossbody, but this 45-liter bag has a barrel shape that makes it slim and easy to carry, and we noticed that it managed to feel more lightweight and portable than some other bags we tested that had the same exact packing list. You can also feel safe if you have to carry this bag in the rain thanks to the water-resistant polyester material (made from 100 percent recycled PET plastic bottles) and storm flaps that protect the main zipper. 

The Details: 2.2 pounds | 15 x 25.6 x 15.75 inches | 45-liter capacity | Carry-on

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Best Checked Duffel

Eagle creek cargo hauler.

• Maneuverability 3 /5

This extra-large and incredibly durable wheeled duffel is under five pounds, with a generous capacity and comfortable shoulder straps.

There's no proper handle, and it would be nice if there were a couple more pockets.

The Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler is an excellent checked luggage option, and at 4.7 pounds, it weighs less than most carry-ons. We could easily fit all items on the packing list, though a couple more pockets or separators would have helped keep things organized. This extra-large duffel has two wheels and glides pretty well, but since it doesn't have an extendable handle, rolling it around isn't very comfortable. However, the shoulder straps allow you to carry it like a backpack.

This durable duffel bag showed no signs of damage during our whacking and shoving tests. The bold monochrome colors add a tasteful touch to the rugged design while helping you quickly recognize it at baggage claim . While it's a bit pricey for this type of luggage, the Cargo Hauler seems like it'll last a long time. We think it's a solid choice for camping, hiking, backpacking, and other outdoor excursions.

The Details: 4.7 pounds | 34 x 15 x 14 inches | 130-liter capacity | Checked

Best Underseat

Travelpro carry-on travel tote bag.

• Maneuverability 4.5 /5
• Functionality 3.5 /5

This 1.6-pound tote is conveniently compact yet spacious, with comfortable straps and a trolley sleeve.

It may only fit under the seat of larger planes and might not be big enough to replace a suitcase.

If you need luggage you can stow beneath the seat in front of you, the Maxlite 5 Tote is a solid choice. Measuring 18 x 11 x 8 inches, it's conveniently compact — and under two pounds when empty! This softside bag fit all the necessities for a two-day trip, including clothes, toiletries, and a laptop, with room to spare. One thing to note is that it was too big to fit into the underseat compartment we tested it with, but it should work on a larger plane. And you can always stash it overhead if needed.

The wheel-free design has a padded shoulder strap and comfortable handles so it's not awkward to carry around. There's also a trolley sleeve that slides over the handle of a larger suitcase. The price is a little high for the size, but if you can swing it, we think it's a great travel companion. It's also good as supplemental luggage to checked baggage.

The Details: 1.6 pounds | 18 x 11 x 8 inches | 28-liter capacity | Underseat bag

Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph

Best Weekender

Mz wallace nik.

This versatile bag has so many organizational features, including seven exterior pockets, nine interior pockets, and a laptop sleeve.

Although the bag is comfortable to carry, we would add padding to the straps.

The most lightweight option on this list, the MZ Wallace Nik Duffel Bag is so resourceful for travel: it’s compact enough to use as an overnight bag or even a daily commuter bag, but you can also use it for a longer four or five day trip if you maximize packing space with all the pockets and compartments. This weekender shines when it comes to organization since there are tons of pockets and storage space, including seven pockets on the outside, nine pockets on the inside, a 16-inch laptop sleeve, a detachable pouch, and a key ring strap. Even when we packed this bag full, it still felt comfortable to carry because of the quilted material that has a natural padding, although the crossbody strap doesn’t have any padding on it. It has long top handles; a detachable, adjustable crossbody strap; and a trolley sleeve, giving you the option to carry it in so many different ways. All in all, we think the high price tag is well worth it for this versatile weekender.

The Details: 2.1 pounds | 16.93 x 7.09 x 12.2 inches | Underseat bag

Best Expandable

Samsonite virtuosa expandable carry-on.

• Design 3.5 /5

This felt spacious for a carry-on, and you can expand it even more if needed.

It took some effort to adjust the handle when the bag was packed full.

One of Samsonite’s newest launches from the Virtuosa collection, this stylish carry-on felt pleasantly portable and spacious, with wheels that spun around seamlessly over different terrains and through our obstacle course. This is one of the largest carry-ons on this list, and you can make it even larger if you use the expandable zipper, but keep in mind that it may not fit in the overhead bin on every airline if you fill it to capacity.

We found the organizational features to be extremely helpful when packing the bag: one side has adjustable compression straps and the other has a waterproof plastic divider with two pockets that would be ideal for toiletries. The handle has the ability to raise up or down in one-inch height adjustments for a customizable fit, though we found it required some effort to adjust when you fully pack the bag.

The Details: 6.4 pounds | 23 x 15 x 10 inches | Carry-on | Expandable

Best Colors

Samsonite omni pc carry-on.

• Capacity 4.5 /5
• Maneuverability 3.8 /5

This expandable carry-on makes it easy to pack and organize your stuff, and its rigid shell seems almost impossible to damage.

The small wheels sometimes get caught, and it seems to work a little better on two wheels than on four.

The 6.8-pound Samsonite Omni PC is one of our favorite hardside suitcase. It's not only lightweight, but also compact, fitting snugly into an overhead bin — and it has an expander if you need some wiggle room. With zippered compartments, pockets, and cross straps, we found it easy to fit and organize everything on our packing list. Stuffing it to the brim doesn't affect maneuverability — it rolls well on carpeted floors and turns easily.

However, the small-ish wheels sometimes get caught in ruts, and the suitcase is not quite up to par with how a spinner should move. This carry-on held up well to our bat swings, with no scratches or dents in sight. The price is sharp, too. We'd recommend it to anyone looking for affordable luggage, as well as overpackers and those who don't want to worry about damage. We especially love it for all the fun colorways that will make you stand out at any airport, including Caribbean blue, army green, red, pink, purple, and more (including some neutral options, too).

The Details: 6.8 pounds | 22 x 15 x 9.5 inches | Carry-on | Expandable

Best Backpack

Osprey farpoint 40 backpack.

• Comfort 5 /5

This exceptionally durable backpack weighs barely more than three pounds and is large enough to fit everything for a three-day trip.

This popular pack sells out often.

The Osprey Farpoint 40 weighs barely more than three pounds when empty, and it's nearly as spacious as a carry-on suitcase. With a generously sized main compartment and ample pockets, there's plenty of room to pack for a three-day trip — maybe longer. Not only that, but this backpack is extremely durable. The rip-stop nylon held up to our whacks and shoves like it was nothing. Even after packing it full, it zipped closed without a fuss, and the seams showed no signs of stress. Carrying it around was a cakewalk, too. If you're heading on a backpacking trip or just like traveling light with the freedom to speed-walk hands-free through the airport , the Farpoint 40 is for you.

The Details: 3.1 pounds | 19.5 x 14 x 8 inches | 40-liter capacity | Backpack

Our T+L team has tested more than 450 pieces of luggage in our New York City lab, choosing the most lightweight options that performed well for this particular article. During our tests, we weigh the bags, then assess the maneuverability, portability, capacity, durability, and value. We pack each bag with a predetermined packing to see what the capacity looks like and to assess organizational features like pockets and compression straps.

To see how the bags would perform in a real-life setting, we rolled them around on different types of flooring, raced them through obstacle courses, slung them over our shoulders to carry them around, and hoisted them over our heads into overhead bins on our airplane set. Next, we hit each piece a few times with a baseball bat and shoved it off a table to evaluate durability and potential wear and tear, taking notes of any scuff marks or dents.

We also test each bag on our real-world travels for an additional six months after our lab tests to make sure they perform just as well on real flights, car rides, train rides, and more. With size, price, and weight in mind, the luggage options with the highest ratings and the lightest weights were selected for this roundup, and we will continue to update this article as we test new bags.

Other Lightweight Luggage We Liked

Three pieces of lightweight luggage we tested couldn’t quite earn a spot on our list but had standout features that may meet the needs of some travelers. 

Hartmann Luxe II Carry-on Spinner : This 6.8-pound suitcase has a spacious main compartment and a retro yet high-end appearance. It works well on two wheels but not so much on four, and it's a bit too bulky for an overhead bin.

Kipling Darcey Small Carry-on Rolling Luggage : Weighing just over five pounds, this carry-on is lightweight, spacious enough for a four-day trip, and compact enough to fit in an overhead compartment. That said, the maneuverability is clunky compared to others we tried.

People / Tamara Staples

Lipault Plume Cabin Spinner : This duffel-suitcase hybrid weighs only 4.8 pounds and comes in stylish color options, but we found it difficult to access the exterior pocket when the suitcase is packed full, and the handle felt a little wobbly.

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Carry-on Spinner : This 5.4-pound spinner rolls smoothly for the most part and didn't sustain any scuffs from our bat test. However, it has a somewhat outdated appearance, and in the end, we liked the hardside carry-on and tote from the Maxlite line better.

Tips for Buying Lightweight Luggage

Remember that durability still matters.

Prioritizing a lightweight design doesn't mean you have to sacrifice durability. Hardside luggage tends to be better for safeguarding electronics and preventing your stuff from getting crushed. And while they’re usually easy to wipe clean, some rigid suitcases are prone to scuffing. Believe it or not, softside carriers are often just as sturdy. Although textile exteriors can be trickier to keep clean, they also usually don't scuff as easily or show dirt.

Look for comfort features

Besides staying within any potential weight limits for plane travel, one of the main points of lightweight luggage is to make your trip easier and more efficient . With this in mind, you'll want to look for models with various comfort features. These may include easy-to-push spinner wheels, a telescoping handle, padded grab handles, an adjustable strap, or even a trolley sleeve.

Frequently Asked Questions

The lightest-weight carry-ons are usually anywhere from 4.5 to 6.5 pounds. For checked suitcases, you're looking at closer to eight to 10 pounds. However, alternative luggage options, such as duffels, weekenders, and carry-on backpacks , can be as light as two or three pounds when empty.

Hardside luggage made from polycarbonate, ABS, and polypropylene tend to be the most durable bags, but softside luggage can be just as protective when it comes to storing your items for takeoff.

Our tests proved that lightweight luggage can be just as durable as other bags. In our lab, we hit the luggage pieces with a baseball bat and pushed them off a table to evaluate potential wear and tear. We found that most of these bags easily stood up to our tests with no visible damage.

It depends on the airline. Some set the weight limit for carry-on luggage at about 35 pounds, though international flights may be more restrictive. But unlike checked baggage that's weighed in at the counter, weight limits are often not enforced very strictly. And some domestic airlines don't have any restrictions.

This also varies among airlines. Many set the weight limit for checked baggage at 50 pounds. But in many cases, you can go up to 70 pounds for an extra fee . At any rate, it's a good idea to check the airline's website before packing, as rules and guidelines are subject to change .

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this story, commerce writer Theresa Holland combed through in-house testing insights, then referenced product descriptions and luggage manuals to create a comprehensive roundup of the best lightweight luggage available today. She has tried a handful of the above brands herself, including July, Amazon Basics, Samsonite, and Osprey. T+L editors will continue to update this article as we test more bags.

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The 8 Best Lightweight Luggage of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Bags that won't weigh you down

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

TripSavvy / Tamara Staples

As the price of fuel and therefore air travel increases, one way to cut down on costs is to avoid overweight fees by investing in some quality lightweight luggage. Whether you’re in the market for a carry-on, a checked bag, or an adventure-ready backpack, lightweight materials to look out for range from weather-resistant nylon or polyester to hard shells made out of polypropylene or polycarbonate. Lightweight luggage can vary hugely in price and features, with possible options including smart compression systems, integrated TSA-approved locks and weight indicators, and USB charge ports.

To help you find the perfect bag, we tested dozens of lightweight suitcases in the TripSavvy testing lab. We scored each for capacity, design, durability, maneuverability, and value—and reviewed the results to choose winners for each category below.

Final Verdict

How we tested.

• What to Look For

Why Trust TripSavvy

Best overall, samsonite freeform carry-on spinner.

Durable exterior

Handles well and converts smoothly

Modern style available in multiple hues

Limited interior organization

The Samsonite Freeform Carry-On Spinner was a clear winner for us, representing the next generation of lightweight suitcases while remaining surprisingly affordable. The streamlined shell is constructed of polypropylene, the lightest possible material for hardside suitcases , while the ridged design helps to deflect scuffs and scratches. Indeed, after our repeated drop and bat tests, it showed hardly any wear and tear—so much so that we would feel completely confident if we had to check it.

Samsonite claims this suitcase offers more space than other Samsonite carry-on models. We could fit everything on our packing list without using the expansion feature. We liked that there was a zippered pocket for delicates and a separate section for shoes or dirty laundry; however, we wished we didn't have to choose between the two. Compression straps help to keep your belongings secure during transit, while a TSA-approved lock allows security staff to open the suitcase without damaging it.

Finally, the bag's double spinner wheels afforded good maneuverability at various speeds. We felt it had the best glide of any suitcase we tested, and we particularly liked how easy it was to transition from two to four wheels or adjust the handle's height for better control. The suitcase comes in various colors, from sky blue to black, and has a limited 10-year warranty.

Dimensions: 21.25 x 15.25 x 10 inches | Weight: 6.5 pounds | Materials: Polypropylene

Best Budget

Amazon basics hardside spinner.

Minimal yet effective

Plenty of internal organization

Glides efficiently over uneven terrain

Few color choices

Retailing for roughly half the price of our overall winner (and even less than many of the other suitcases on this list), the Amazon Basics 21-inch Hardside Spinner is a worthy budget buy that exceeded our expectations on every single test. We loved the simple sleekness of its design, although colors are limited to black, navy blue, blue, or orange. The ABS hard plastic shell also features a scratch-resistant finish, which stood up well to our drop and bat tests with no visible damage.

We could fit everything in without using the expansion feature (which provides up to 15 percent more space). The interior is fully lined and includes compression straps, a divider, and three zippered pockets. Four double-spinner wheels give the suitcase 360-degree maneuverability, while the adjustable telescoping handle offers different heights. We found that the bag performed equally well over bumps, carpet, and around the kind of sharp turns one might expect in a crowded airport.

Dimensions: 22 x 14.9 x 10 inches | Weight: 6.3 pounds | Materials: ABS

Best Budget Backpack

Asenlin 40l travel backpack.

Integrated tech pouch

Spacious and well-designed

Easy to lift and load

Unremarkable aesthetic

If you’re looking for a convenient travel backpack that won’t break the bank, try the Asenlin 40L. Designed to adhere to airline carry-on size restrictions, it features water-resistant polyester Oxford cloth and survived our durability tests with no internal or external damage. The interior is roomy, with helpful compression straps and multiple packing cubes that allowed us to load everything with space left over.

We liked that there is a padded sleeve for a 17-inch laptop and that the side water bottle holder has a zippered expansion feature. There’s also a pocket on the front of the backpack for keeping your passport or wallet handy. We found the backpack comfortable and relatively lightweight even when packed full. In particular, we appreciated that there are multiple ways to carry it—including hooked over your suitcase trolley system or using the top and side grab handles.

Dimensions: 18.5 x 12.5 x 9 inches | Weight: 2.7 pounds | Materials: Polyester Oxford cloth

TripSavvy / Jhett Thompson

Best Checked

July checked bag.

Beautiful, unique design

Space-saving elements

Comfortable and adjustable handle

Light colors show scuffs

This 26-inch checked bag from July offers 80 liters of space protected by an aerospace-grade German polycarbonate shell. We loved that it felt strong but smooth at the same time and didn’t suffer any structural damage during our testing process. However, we found light colors marked easily and would only recommend purchasing darker versions of this suitcase. There are many to choose from, from moss green to magenta, with options for personalization as well.

The well-designed interior features several zippered pockets, a Y-strap compression system, and a secret laundry bag that’s both smell- and stain-resistant. We were able to pack all of the items on our prescribed list with ease. The suitcase includes July’s proprietary SilentMove wheels, which glide noiselessly over all surfaces. However, we found that it performed much better on hard floors than on carpet or gravel. With its ultra-soft grip and 20-plus height settings, the telescoping handle is a highlight—as is the included lifetime warranty.

Dimensions: 26 x 18.75 x 11 inches | Weight: 8.3 pounds | Materials: Polycarbonate

TripSavvy / Vicky Wasik

Best Backpack

Cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.

Sturdy yet chic aesthetic

Well-organized interior

Various carry options

Relatively expensive for a backpack

Stylish, comfortable, and infinitely versatile, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack impressed our testers on many fronts. First, its rugged TPU-coated polyester and ballistic nylon construction survived our durability tests completely unscathed. Second, we loved that the main compartment opens suitcase-style, making it much more accessible than a conventional backpack. Although the pack is relatively unstructured, it has enough shape to allow neat packing and plenty of convenient, different-sized zippered pockets.

It also has a padded laptop and tablet sleeve, a top zippered pocket for stashing your essentials, and carabiner lash loops for attaching your coat. The weight-distributing harness system makes the backpack super comfortable (we especially loved how the straps contoured to the shape of our chest and shoulders). All straps tuck away, too, so you can use the reinforced grab handles on the top and side to carry it briefcase-style—a desirable feature whether you're looking for a carry-on for men or women. Finally, it comes in colors such as blue and amber with a contrasting rain cover.

Dimensions: 20 x 12 x 8 inches | Weight: 3.8 pounds | Materials: TPU-coated polyester

Best Underseat

Travelpro carry-on travel tote bag.

Durable, protective treatment

Impressive capacity

Compatible with other luggage

May be too large for some seats

Now that some airlines have started charging for overhead compartments, bags that can fit under the seat in front are becoming increasingly popular. Travelpro’s Maxlite 5 Soft Tote is a winner in this category (although it may not fit beneath the seats of some smaller airplanes). It features sturdy polyester with a water- and stain-resistant DuraGuard coating, high-tensile zippers, and a wipe-clean interior with an additive that protects it from moisture.

Despite the bag’s small size, we found it surprisingly spacious and could fit everything with space to spare. There’s a quick-access front flap and built-in pockets on the exterior for stowing last-minute items (although these are pretty small—think spare socks or toiletries). When transporting the tote, you can use the sturdy carry handles or the padded detachable shoulder strap, or slip the rear sleeve over the handle of your larger checked bag. Colors range from champagne to orchid.

Dimensions: 18 x 11 x 8 inches | Weight: 1.6 pounds | Materials: Polyester

TripSavvy / Conor Ralph

Best for Adventure Travel

Patagonia black hole 40l duffel bag.

Long-lasting, weatherproof material

Convertible

Packs away into an interior pocket

Limited choice of colors

The ideal solution for those needing a bag that can go anywhere, anytime, and survive to tell the tale, the Patagonia Black Hole 40L Duffel is made for adventures. It features an extra-durable, 900-denier ripstop polyester exterior with a PU-coated lining for added water resistance. Stranded at your destination in rain or snow? Your belongings won’t suffer for it. The carry-on-sized bag with its padded base also emerged from our durability tests without a scratch or scuff.

We found it comfortable to carry duffel-style, with a Velcro flap holding the reinforced haul handles together. Using the removable padded shoulder straps, you can also wear it as a backpack. External storage includes a zippered side pocket and daisy chains, while the main compartment features a conveniently large opening, several pockets, and a large mesh lid pocket. We also loved that when you’re not using the bag, it collapses and stows neatly into one of its own pouches.

Dimensions: 21 x 13.7 x 10.6 inches | Weight: 2.05 pounds | Materials: Ripstop polyester

TripSavvy / Nick Kova

Best for Business Travel

Nomatic travel bag.

Rugged construction protects your belongings

Thoughtful storage solutions

Use as a duffel or a backpack

Would like to see improved shoulder straps

The 40L Nomatic Travel Bag offers an all-in-one solution for business travelers, converting from a duffel to a backpack in seconds using the patented strap. We liked that it comes with a detachable hip belt, but weren’t so keen on the shoulder straps, which we felt could have been more comfortable. Nevertheless, the waterproof tarpaulin material stood up to durability tests well, and the bag received top marks for its interior and exterior organization—including designated pockets for just about everything.

These range from a water bottle pocket to an RFID-blocking pocket, a separate laundry bag, and two ventilated shoe compartments. There’s a water-resistant pocket for your toiletries, and perhaps most usefully, a TSA-ready laptop sleeve that allows you to keep your computer in your bag through security. We found the main compartment spacious and loved how the structure made packing easy and kept folded clothes neat. The bag is carry-on compatible and comes in just one color—timeless, professional black.

Dimensions: 21 x 14 x 9 inches | Weight: 4.05 pounds | Materials: Not listed

We enthusiastically recommend the Samsonite Freeform Carry-on Spinner . It scored top marks in our durability and maneuverability tests and easily fit everything we needed to pack. If you are looking to maximize value and performance, the AmazonBasics 21-inch Hardside Spinner is a great find.

We used a similar testing process for checked and carry-on luggage —the only difference was that we tested carry-on luggage to see how it fit in an overhead compartment and packed with enough clothing and other travel items to simulate a four-day sightseeing trip rather than the seven days stipulated for checked luggage. First, we weighed the luggage to check the accuracy of the manufacturer’s specifications. Then we packed our prescribed list of items, noting how easily everything fit and how effective the bag’s organization options were.

Next (where relevant), we tested maneuverability on two and four wheels at different speeds and over various terrains, including concrete, carpet, and gravel. Afterward, we wheeled luggage through an obstacle course of bumps and turns meant to simulate a busy station or airport. Finally, we tested each product’s durability by pushing it from the top of a shelving unit and beating it with a baseball bat. Both tests were repeated multiple times to target different potential weak spots. We scored bags for capacity, design, durability, maneuverability, and value.

What to Look For in Lightweight Luggage

Although design and features play their part, the material is one of the most significant factors affecting the weight of your luggage. Polyester and nylon are typically the two lightest choices if you prefer softside suitcases. For hardside suitcases, polycarbonate, ABS, and polypropylene are popular, with polypropylene being the lightest option. Consider the materials used to make your bag’s trolley system, too, if it has one. Aircraft-grade aluminum is a good option since it’s durable and lightweight.

Portability

Several luggage designs shave off the pounds by ditching the trolley system (wheels and handle) entirely. Wheel-less bags are a great choice when lightness is your top priority—but you still need to be able to transport them comfortably from A to B. Ways to do this include sturdy, cushioned carry handles; backpack straps and hip belts; or adjustable crossbody strap for slinging the bag over your shoulder. The best designs often allow you to switch between these carry methods as required. 

Lightness was often synonymous with poor quality in the past, but fortunately, that’s no longer true. Hardside materials such as polypropylene and polycarbonate are stronger than ever, while polyester and nylon come in ripstop versions that are scratch- and tear-proof. Things to look out for include reinforced high-wear areas and abrasion- and weather-resistant coatings (for softside bags), and scratch-resistant finishes, texturing, and armored corner guards (for hardside bags). Quality wheels, zippers, and handles are also important.

Some bags keep things light with a simple design and few additional features. Others come with a range of extras that you may find worth the extra weight and expense. Things to consider include organization—will you have enough pockets, compression straps, or dividers? A telescoping handle makes maneuvering a wheeled suitcase more comfortable while switching between duffel handles and backpack straps might make life easier when choosing a wheel-less bag. Other extras range from TSA-approved locks to USB charge ports.

Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines before cleaning your luggage. However, as a general rule, you can spot-clean most interior linings and use a clean, damp cloth to wipe away superficial stains, scuffs, and dirt from the exterior. You can also protect your luggage from getting dirty in the first place by investing in a PVC luggage cover or having it plastic-wrapped at the airport. Luggage should be completely dry before being put away and stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

If you want a softside suitcase, the lightest luggage materials are polyester and nylon. If you’re a hardside fan, look for suitcases made of polypropylene, polycarbonate, or ABS (in that order). The design of the bag makes a difference too. Trolley handles and spinner wheels are convenient but add quite a bit of weight, so if lightness is your top priority, consider ditching them in favor of a duffel or backpack that relies on over-the-shoulder or crossbody straps instead. And, of course, size matters, so opt for a carry-on over a checked bag if possible.

Not necessarily. Extensive research has gone into making luggage materials simultaneously lighter and stronger—for example, a polycarbonate suitcase shell may feel thin (and therefore flimsy), but actually, it has been specially developed to flex upon impact and bounce back into shape to prevent cracks or dents. As long as you choose a product from a respected brand that uses quality materials and has consistently good customer reviews, you should be able to find a bag that’s as durable as it is light.

Jessica Macdonald is the Africa travel expert for TripSavvy and a regular contributor to e-commerce roundups in fields related to adventure and family travel. She has plenty of experience choosing and using lightweight luggage, having lived out of a backpack on a seven-month adventure around Southeast Asia and on extended trips across Europe, Africa, Australia, and New Zealand.

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The 10 Best Lightweight Luggage for Travelers in 2024 [Carry-on Options]

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

781 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

34 Published Articles 3166 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 47 U.S. States Visited: 28

Why Buy Lightweight Luggage?

What weight is considered “lightweight”, backpack vs. suitcase — which is best, zips and locks, hard or soft luggage, material and durability, 1. an ultra-lightweight suitcase with extra storage space, 2. a lightweight and distinctive carry-on with wheels, 3. another brilliant buy from amazonbasics, 4. a stylish yet practical suitcase, 5. one of the lightest suitcases your money can buy, 6. a lightweight softside case with impressive looks, 7. fun and funky carry-on for travelers of all ages, 1. a world-class top-selling backpack by osprey , 2. perfect for the really well-organized traveler, 3. a strong and affordable backpack with plenty of packing space, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

If you are planning on taking to the skies sometime soon, don’t bust a gut lugging bulky cases through the airport. Opt instead for lightweight carry-on luggage that is easy to lift and spacious enough to carry all your belongings.

Keeping your luggage lightweight gives you more all-important pounds and ounces for your prized possessions. Lighter luggage is not just more comfortable to carry around with you, but it will also help to keep you within your luggage allowance , letting you squeeze in that extra item after all.

Things To Consider With Lightweight Luggage

There are lots of different types of lightweight luggage out there, and there will almost certainly be something to suit every style and budget. Before you commit, consider the following:

The short answer is there is no standard definition.

According to manufacturers of “super lightweight” luggage, there are lots of different types of bags that qualify for this label.

For our purposes, we consider carry-on luggage lightweight if it weighs less than 5 or 6 pounds . You should investigate the true weight of any bag, backpack, or suitcase before you buy it. Don’t take a brand’s lightweight marketing message at face value.

Not everyone wants to wheel a small case around the airport, and likewise, there are many people who can’t conceive the idea of wearing their belongings on their backs. Whether you would rather choose a backpack over a suitcase, or vice versa, there are pros and cons for each type of luggage.

If you are more interested in speed over the comfort of wheels, then a travel backpack might be for you. Most lightweight cabin-sized backpacks offer plenty of space for a few days worth of clothing, travel-sized toiletries, and a change of shoes. What they lack in clothing space they make up for in pockets, pouches, and padding. These are perfect for electronics, gadgets, tablets, and even your laptop .

Roll your belongings around with you in a neatly packed, cabin-sized suitcase full of clothes, shoes, and accessories. Your case will compress your clothing to keep them wrinkle-free in transit and offer enough padding and security to keep your electronics safe while you travel.

Suitcases open like a clam, which also makes them easy to pack and unpack. The sturdy construction can offer better all-round protection for your gear.

2 Wheels or 4 Wheels?

If you opt for a suitcase, it will more than likely come with wheels. You can choose from:

• 2 wheels to tip and roll with a cabin case that can be gently pulled along behind you. Not as stable when full, and prone to tipping over, these are still totally helpful and much easier than carrying your case everywhere with you. Some duffel bags also tip and roll on 2 wheels, too.
• 4-wheel options offer the ultimate in effortless rolling. These multi-directional wheels allow you to slide your case along right next to you, providing vastly improved maneuverability, and are stable and sturdy when full.

You will need at least 2 handles on your carry-on — 1 to lift and 1 to pull. Side or top handles are useful for lifting the case in and out of the cab or to place it into the overhead lockers, while a long, extendable handle is used for pulling or pushing.

Pull handles need to be made from strong, durable materials like aluminum, and they should move smoothly from 1 position to another , allowing the user to find the optimum height for comfortable rolling.

While your carry-on may not see the inside of an airplane hold or ever be manhandled by an army of luggage loaders, security is still key. TSA regulations state that your case must be accessible by TSA agents in any circumstance, and if you don’t have the correct kind of lock on it, they will simply break through the 1 you do have.

Some of the more expensive cases come with TSA-approved combination locks built-in, but if your budget doesn’t stretch that far, you can pick up stand-alone TSA-approved locks virtually anywhere.

Hot Tip: Particularly on low-cost carriers, if overhead bins are full, you may be asked at the gate to put your luggage in the hold. Even if you are traveling with carry-on only, we still recommend that you have a TSA lock with you.

Hard luggage, like polycarbonate cases, can offer exceptional levels of protection for your belongings, but they will definitely be heavier than their fabric counterparts. There are some truly lightweight hardside cases out there, but they are few and far between.

If you opt for soft-sided luggage, durable high-grade nylon and other lightweight synthetics will keep your case incredibly manageable and your gear well-protected.

If we consider that the lightest weight carry-on bags and cases are usually always soft-sided, then it should come as no surprise to discover that materials like ballistic nylon, Cordura, or even polyester are the most popular choices for affordable yet durable luggage options.

Soft-sided luggage is often coated for water resistance and designed to be strong enough to protect from rips or tears in transit. If you have any concerns about the strength of soft-sided luggage, check out the denier rating of the material to show just how durable it is.

The 7 Best Lightweight Suitcases

There is plenty of excellent, affordable, lightweight luggage out there, and here are just a few of the very best:

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Lightweight Rollaboard Luggage

Overall Dimensions: 23 x 14.5 x 9 inches

Weight: 5.4 pounds

This ultra-lightweight suitcase is small enough to use as a carry-on, yet large enough to handle everything you need for your next adventure. With sides that can expand up to 2 inches, you can maximize your packing potential, while still keeping your belongings close by you in the airplane.

Made from high-grade nylon, this roll-aboard suitcase features H20 Guard, making it water-resistant with a Duraguard coating , and the material is also incredibly stain-resistant. The PowerScope Lite handle makes it easy to control the case as you walk with it, and the high-performance ball-bearing wheels glide effortlessly across any terrain.

On the inside, the Travelpro Maxlite has a full-length interior lid pocket and side accessory pockets to keep your precious possessions safe and well-organized. The adjustable hold-down straps will keep your clothes neatly folded and wrinkle-free.

Available in a selection of different colors, the Travelite Pro range also offers matching checked suitcases that are lightweight and extremely durable, making the perfect set for those who want to travel further for longer.

What We Like:

• Water-resistant with a Duraguard coating

What We Don’t Like:

• In the unlikely event of a fault, the buyer pays shipping to return the item

it luggage Duo-Tone 22″ Softside Carry-On 

The perfect, low-cost carry-on for all kinds of travelers, this suitcase is an incredibly light suitcase with wheels. Weighing in at just 5.4 pounds, you can carry this little beauty with ease, both on and off the airplane.

The ultra-strong aluminum frame keeps the suitcase sturdy and upright , while the polyester shell has been reinforced to prevent rips, tears, and damage in transit. The telescopic handle is super-easy to pull, and the smooth, silent wheels and strong carry handles make it incredibly easy to travel with.

On the inside, there is plenty of room for everything you need to take with you. The main compartment has a stylish interior lining and 2 adjustable straps for keeping everything in place on the move. There are also 2 useful external zip-lined pockets that offer easy access to your travel documents and other important necessities.

With an attractive design and a choice of colors and sizes available, the Duo-Tone range is the real deal when it comes to truly lightweight luggage.

• Light and sturdy aluminium structure
• No integrated TSA lock

AmazonBasics Softside Carry-On Spinner Luggage Suitcase

Overall Dimensions: 14.9 x 8.2 x 20.4 inches

Weight: 6.35 pounds

Another great piece from the ever-popular AmazonBasics luggage range , this lightweight carry-on case offers incredible value for money . This softside suitcase promises to offer increased flexibility compared to its hard-sided counterparts, and the case itself can compress for use in tight spaces.

No matter how much stuff you squeeze into this case, you will have no trouble taking it around with you. The telescopic handle locks into place, making it easy to find the perfect height for your comfort, and the securely mounted handles make it efficient to lift. The 4 360-degree spinner wheels also ensure that it glides effortlessly in any direction.

On the inside, there is plenty of space for all of your belongings, as well as interior storage pockets for easy organization of all of your smaller items. With the ability to expand to offer around 25% additional packing capacity, this is a good-size carry-on that won’t bust your budget.

Available in sleek black, the AmazonBasics range has a choice of 5 different size soft-sided cases to choose from. Basic by name, but certainly not by nature.

• Expandable to accommodate 25% extra packing
• Suitable for light use, rather than extensive use

Lucas Ultra Lightweight Carry-On Softside 20 Inch Expandable Luggage With Spinner Wheels 

Overall Dimensions: 22.8 x 14 x 9 inches

Weight: 5.8 pounds

This deluxe lightweight, soft-sided carry-on is both stylish and practical in equal measure. With the expandable design offering an additional 4 liters of space when you need it, this case is just right for a long weekend away.

Made from polyester, the case remains lightweight, even when full. The external pockets are useful for holding items you need easy access to, and on the inside, the fully-lined interior has plenty of pockets to keep your belongings tidy on the move. The elastic tie-down straps will keep your items in 1 place to ensure that they are wrinkle-free on arrival.

The double spinner wheels help the case to glide smoothly alongside you through the concourse, and the telescopic wheel handle is ergonomic and easy to use. Made from 100% virgin PU material, these wheels are designed to withstand long-term wear and tear.

Available in a choice of stylish black or sophisticated blue check materials, the Lucas Ultra Light series also offers checked luggage, as well as this awesome, lightweight, and super-affordable carry-on. A low-cost but highly capable cabin bag.

• Lightweight, so you can use more of your weight allowance for packing
• Zipper quality could be improved

Aerolite Maximum Allowance Airline Approved Carry-On

Weight: 5.3 pounds

As one of the lightest softside cases on the market, the Aerolite carry-on case offers an affordable option for travelers on a budget. Made from 500 denier polyester fabric, this case can repel rain and is easy to keep clean. It also comes with a padded carry handle, making light work of lifting.

For ease of use, the 20-inch telescopic retractable handle has a selection of height stops to choose from . The 4 smooth spinner wheels are great for tipping or rolling the case next to you. These easy-to-maneuver carry-on cases are well worth their incredibly affordable price tag.

On the inside, the main compartment is roomy enough to hold all of your belongings, and the 2 front zippered pockets have plenty of space to keep your travel essentials safe and easily accessible. The elastic compression straps are also incredibly helpful when it comes to keeping your gear all in 1 place, even on the go.

Approved by Delta , United , JetBlue , and Virgin Atlantic , among others, this is a great little case for anyone that wants to take as much with them as possible without having to worry about checking their luggage.

• 2 front zipper pockets for quick access to personal items
• Quite a small carry-on bag, so may not be suitable for all

Maximum Allowance Airline Approved Delta United Southwest Carryon Suitcase

Overall Dimensions : 22 x 14 x 9 inches

This softside case offers superior levels of protection and an impressive 38-liter packing capacity .

Good-looking and easy to use, this case has 4 smooth-rolling spinner wheels for easy 360-degree maneuverability and a retractable handle with a push-button release. It’s available in 3 different colors, so you’re sure to find your favorite!

On the inside, the case has a smooth lining to prevent snags and scratches, as well as a zippered divider and cross-compression straps to help keep your neatly folded clothing wrinkle-free in transit.

Well-constructed and designed with practicality in mind, this is a brilliant basic case with plenty of space for everything you might need on your next adventure.

• Available in 3 different colors
• The carrying handle could be more durable

Rockland Luggage Rolling 22 Inch Duffle Bag

Overall Dimensions: 22 x 12 x 11 inches

Weight: 4.3 pounds

Funky, fun, and incredibly lightweight, these roll-along duffel bags are a great alternative to a traditional, carry-on-sized suitcase. Available in a ton of bright colors and vivid designs, you can customize your luggage to suit your mood.

Made from 600-denier heavy-duty polyester, this soft-sided duffel bag is practical, roomy, and just right for both international and domestic air travel. In-line skate wheels offer increased stability and are super-easy to maneuver around the airport. The internal retractable hide-away handle system makes it easy to steer your bag through a crowded concourse, and the ergonomic shoulder strap is there to lift it when you need to.

The main compartment has plenty of space for a few days worth of belongings, and the U-top opening provides easy access for packing and unpacking at either end of your journey. There are also 2 front zippered pockets for keeping your travel documents close at hand, and an internal pocket for smaller items.

If you would like a change from a regular carry-on case, this rollable, strollable duffel bag is an excellent alternative.

• Comes in a range of designs and colors
• Not really durable enough to be checked

The 3 Best Lightweight Backpacks

Osprey Packs Farpoint 40 Travel Backpack

Overall Dimensions: ‎14 x 9 x 21 inches

Weight: 3.4 pounds

Weighing a tiny 1.4 pounds, this award-winning backpack from Osprey is perfect for use as a carry-on bag. Designed to fit perfectly within international carry dimensions, this bag can be carried like a backpack but packed like a suitcase.

With cushioned carry handles on both the tops and side of the bag, you don’t even have to rely on the padded, ergonomic shoulder straps and durable back system with the ventilated back panel if you would rather carry it like a case.

The sizable main compartment has more than enough space to hold your clothes and accessories for a few days away and the top stash pockets are perfect for keeping your smaller personal items close at hand. There are also dual mesh front pockets for water bottles and a padded internal laptop sleeve.

While the Farpoint was originally marketed as unisex (but now for men), Osprey has since released the women’s version in the form of the Fairview. It has the exact same design features but straps and a back system that fits the female form better.

Available in a selection of colors, the Farpoint 40 is just the right size to be used as a carry-on. Osprey also makes the Farpoint in a range of larger sizes that can be used as checked luggage if you are looking to get away for longer. A compact backpack with big brand features.

• Comfortable and easy to transport without compromising on packing space
• Mesh water bottle holders are difficult to use when the bag is packed full

Hynes Eagle Travel Backpack 40 Liter Flight-Approved Carry-On Backpack

Overall Dimensions: 20.1 x 13.4 x 9.8 inches

Weight: 2.53 pounds

This good-looking and practical backpack is perfect for those who want to stay organized on the go. Made from water-repellent polyester, this hardwearing and durable backpack can fit in the overhead compartment easily.

With a 40-liter capacity, you should easily be able to fit enough for a few days away. The roomy main compartment has inner tie-down straps and a mesh zip pocket, while the middle organizer compartment has been designed to hold and protect your laptop or tablet comfortably.

The front pocket has slot pockets for organizing your travel essentials and paperwork, and the bag features strong, durable zippers that won’t fall open when you don’t want them to.

With suppressible shoulder straps and multiple exterior compression straps, you can adjust the bag to suit your height and the amount of space available to you, while still keeping everything you need within easy reach. This backpack also comes with an adjustable sternum strap and waist strap for added stability and an upgraded strap buckle for durability.

A brilliant backpack for a bargain price. Travelers will love the compartments and functionality of this sleek backpack.

• Protected laptop compartment and pockets for your gadgets
• Bag straps could have more padding

Asenlin 40 Liter Travel Backpack for Women or Men

Overall Dimensions: ‎ 9.45 x 12.2 x 18.5 inches

Weight: 2.7 pounds

Lightweight and easy to carry, this carry-on compatible backpack offers 40 liters of uninterrupted packing space. Made from polyester oxford cloth material, the Asenlin 40 Liter Travel Backpack  is showerproof and built to last, with hideaway shoulder straps for easy and safe transportation. There is also a heavy-duty handle on the top of the bag for lifting and unloading.

Perhaps the biggest feature of this backpack is the impressive amount of compartments available for keeping your gear safe on the go. The bag comes with 3 packing cubes to keep everything organized in the main compartment and there’s a padded pocket to hold a 17-inch laptop. When traveling with a wheelie suitcase, the back strap allows you to attach the backpack to your pull handle for ease.

Available in a wide variety of colors and designs, these backpacks are practical, good-looking, and perfect for travelers looking for an affordable alternative to a suitcase.

• Comes with small, medium, and large packing cubes to keep organized
• Laptop compartment would be better at the back of the bag rather than the front for better weight distribution

Whether you choose to commit to a carry-on case made of strong fabric with an expandable option for extra space or a traditional backpack for far-flung adventures, 1 thing remains the same — keep your luggage lightweight to help make your journey more enjoyable.

With so many different options out there, you should easily be able to find the right lightweight suitcase, duffel bag, or backpack for you.

Looking for more great travel product guides? Explore our recommendations for the best checked bags , luggage sets,  carry-ons , laptop backpacks , weekenders , and garment bags .

Frequently Asked Questions

What is considered lightweight luggage.

While there is no official limit for luggage to be deemed lightweight, a carry-on bag under 6 pounds would be a good upper limit to qualify.

What is the lightest travel luggage?

For softside luggage, the lightest carry-on travel luggage is the Aerolite  Maximum Allowance Airline Approved Carry-On which is only 5.4 pounds and yet 22 inches tall with wheels.

Carry-on backpacks can be even lighter with the Osprey Farpoint coming in at 3.4 pounds.

What is the lightest hardshell suitcase?

Hardshell or hardside luggage tends to be heavier than its soft-sided counterparts. That being said, there is 1 carry-on sized luggage from Aerolite that can compete. Its carry-on luggage weighs only 4.6 pounds and is made from ABS.

What is the best lightweight luggage for international travel?

Weighing a tiny 3.4 pounds, the Osprey Packs Farpoint 40 is perfect for using as a carry-on bag. Designed to fit perfectly within international carry-dimensions, this bag can be carried like a backpack but packed like a suitcase.

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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The best lightweight luggage, according to experts

If you’ve been lugging an old, bulky suitcase for years and the wear and tear is starting to show, it might be time for an upgrade. Your new luggage should have TSA-approved locks, zippered storage compartments and extra pockets for your travel documents. But above all, experts recommend prioritizing lightweight options so that you can scoot through airports and bus stations with ease.

We spoke with travel experts to find the best lightweight luggage on the market. We also consulted Select staffers about their favorite options.

SKIP AHEAD The best lightweight luggage of 2023 | How to shop the best lightweight luggage

Our top picks

• Best overall/editor’s pick : Away The Carry-On Flex
• Best budget pick : Samsonite Freeform Medium Spinner
• Best splurge : Rimowa Essential Check-In L

Shopping Top-rated carry-on luggage you need before summer travel season

How we picked the best lightweight luggage.

Every option we share below — whether it’s a carry-on , checked bag or weekender bag — is either a Select staff favorite or directly recommended by our experts. We also kept the below in mind while shopping for a quality option:

• Weight : Every piece of luggage on our list weighs less than 11 pounds, which our experts consider ‘lightweight.’
• TSA requirements : Every carry-on bag fits most domestic airlines requirements (​​22 inches by 14 inches by 9 inches) for overhead compartments.
• Locks : Every checked bag comes with a TSA-approved lock for safety.

The best lightweight luggage in 2023

To help you find the best lightweight suitcase options for your next trip, we took into consideration expert recommendations, staff picks and highly rated options.

Away The Everywhere Bag

The Everywhere Bag, which can store a 15-inch laptop, a weekend’s worth of garments and small accessories like travel snacks, is a favorite of luxury travel advisor, Sally Nguyen for its multiple interior pockets. The water-resistant bag also has a trolley sleeve that makes it easy to put it over your carry-on suitcase, and a wraparound zip opening, so you can quickly unzip the main compartment according to Nguyen. The zippers are lockable too, and the bag is customizable with your initials for an additional $35 fee. If you’re looking for more storage, pick the medium or large Everywhere Bag .

Material : Nylon, leather | Weight : 2.75 pounds with shoulder strap (2.25 without)

Rimowa Essential Check-In L

This large, checked luggage option has a polycarbonate exterior, an adjustable handle and an interior flex-divider, which can hold your belongings in place while you travel, according to the brand. It’s a favorite of travel journalist and writer Rana Good for its hard-shell build. Apart from the occasional scratch, her suitcase had no visible dents even after months of constant travel, according to Good.

It can hold up to 10 days of clothing, according to Rimowa, and comes with a leather tag included — so you won’t have trouble finding your suitcase at baggage claim. The bag has TSA-approved locks, spinner wheels for steering and zippered compartments for organization too. Additionally, its interior compartment also has a compression system, which can let you add any last-minute travel items to your bag, without making your suitcase bulky, according to our experts. And, while this is the largest option on our list, it still weighs only 10.6 pounds. Rimowa also offers some of the best customer service, according to Good, including hotel repairs on your luggage at participating locations.

Material : Polycarbonate | Weight : 10.6 pounds

Away The Carry-On Flex

Away also makes Nguyen's favorite carry-on suitcase, which she says can easily hold all her garments on long-haul trips. “I can fit two weeks' worth of clothes in it and still have extra room in it to bring extra souvenirs home from my trips,” she says. The nearly 9-pound bag has a TSA combination lock, 360-degree spinner wheels and interior compression belts to hold your clothes in place. It even has a zipper expansion that adds 2.25 inches of packing space and a hidden handle by its wheels to make it easier to lift it off baggage belts, according to the brand.

Material : Polycarbonate | Weight : 8.15 pounds

Samsonite Freeform Medium Spinner

This hardshell Samsonite spinner, which has a TSA combination lock, is a favorite of Select managing editor Leah Ginsberg who calls it “indestructible, yet so lightweight.” It is expandable by 1.5 inches through the additional zipper and has a built-in ID tag , to make it identifiable at baggage claim. There are four wheels for easy maneuvering and an interior divider to store your items separately. Plus, there’s a retractable handle too so you can adjust it to your height for comfort.

Material : Polycarbonate | Weight : 8.48 pounds

Delsey Chatelet Air Checked Luggage

I own this checked bag and love its durable zippers — even after years of overpacking my bag on trips to India, they haven’t frayed or broken off. I also appreciate that both the interior compartments have compression straps — my clothes and makeup remain unscathed even after long-haul flights. The bag comes with a removable hanger, laundry bag and shoe bag to keep things organized. Plus, its TSA-approved combination lock keeps your items safe, while the spinner wheels and retractable handle make it a breeze to drag it through the airport. Each Delsey bag also comes with a unique tracking plate and code, which helps the brand monitor your bag in the off chance it gets lost during travel.

Material : Polycarbonate | Weight : 9.30 pounds

Briggs & Riley Carry-On Expandable Spinner

Briggs & Riley is another favorite brand of Select managing editor Leah Ginsberg, who loves it for its durable, long-lasting products. Ginsberg has been using her carry-on bag for over eight years and says it’s still in pristine condition. You can expand this carry-on suitcase by simply pressing a button and pulling the sides up, according to the brand. It also has a built-in garment holder, allowing you to store a suit or two to prevent wrinkles on long journeys. There are two mesh lid pockets as well, so you can store any last-minute snacks, documents or devices. If you want to personalize this suitcase, you can also add your initials at no extra cost.

Material : Nylon | Weight : 10 pounds

Briggs & Riley Carry-On Expandable Spinner

Baboon to the moon go bag.

Baboon To The Moon makes bright-colored bags including fanny packs and totes , and is a favorite brand of both editorial director Lauren Swanson and Select page Mikhaila Archer for its fun, funky designs. The waterproof, lockable small Go Bag, can hold enough for three to five days and has multiple external pockets for storage. Additionally, there are adjustable handles if you don’t feel like slinging this duffel across your shoulder and prefer to carry it like a backpack.

Material : Polyester, jacquard | Weight : 3.5 pounds

How to shop for the best lightweight luggage

We consulted experts about what features to consider when shopping. They recommend keeping the following in mind:

• Material: This can affect the weight and durability of your suitcase. Both Good and Nguyen prefer hard shell luggage as it’s more scratch-resistant and durable than soft shell luggage. Kathleen Westerhout , senior director of product at Monos , also agrees. Polycarbonate is the most common form of hardshell luggage, according to our experts. “Polycarbonate is the best balance of weight and durability,” she says. “While soft shell suitcases are generally a little lighter, a hard polycarbonate case provides much better protection.”
• 360-degree spinner wheels: Opt for luggage with wheels that can move in any direction since they’re easy to maneuver, according to Nguyen. This is especially important when you’re rushing at the airport and need your carry-on to keep up with you. When trying out suitcases, “specifically, focus on how the wheels roll over different surfaces,” says Ulliyada Bopanna , vice president of design and innovation at Samsonite North America.
• Handles: Handles factor into the overall weight of the bag as well, so choosing a handle made from lightweight material is important, according to Bopanna. “Materials like lightweight aluminum or high-grade plastics are commonly used to ensure functionality and durability while minimizing weight,” he says. Additionally, retractable handles that glide smoothly when you adjust them are a must for any luggage, according to our experts. A wide handle or a grippy handle also makes it easier to drag your suitcase around.
• Zippers: A strong zipper that’s durable, can help your luggage last longer, according to our experts. “Metal zippers are considered the most durable, but these tend to be heavier and more expensive, so they’re less prevalent in luggage,” says Bopanna. Our experts also agree that Nylon coil zippers are the next most reliable. “Nylon coil zippers hold up well both on the inside and outside of luggage and bends easily around corners,” says Westerhout.
• TSA-approved Locks: This is important especially for checked-in luggage as it keeps your belongings safe and saves you the trouble of buying an additional lock for your suitcase, according to our experts

Shopping 6 top-rated luggage sets for your next trip

Meet our experts.

At Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.

• Rana Good is a travel writer who’s written for Forbes, Travel and Leisure, Men's Journal and The Coveteur. She is also the founder of Naïra , a digital magazine for women of color.
• Sally Isabella Nguyen is a luxury travel advisor who has traveled to over 37 countries.
• Ulliyada Bopanna is the vice president of design and innovation at Samsonite North America.
• Kathleen Westerhout is the senior director of product at Monos .

Why trust Select?

Nishka Dhawan is an associate commerce editor at NBC Select who’s written about the best travel backpacks and the best luggage sets . For this article, she interviewed travel bloggers, journalists and design experts about their favorite lightweight luggage and considered staff favorites as well.

Catch up on Select's in-depth coverage of personal finance , tech and tools , wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook , Instagram and Twitter to stay up to date.

Nishka Dhawan is the associate commerce editor at NBC Select.

Best Lightweight Luggage Under 5lb: Avoid Overweight Baggage Fees

Best Suitcases , Handbags , LUGGAGE

Support TFG by using the links in our articles to shop. We receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) so we can continue to create helpful free content. We earn from qualifying purchases made to the featured retailers. Thank you, we appreciate your support!

Trying to pack light? Avoid “ultralight” carryon suitcases that weigh too much! To help you avoid overweight baggage fees, we’ve rounded up the best lightweight luggage (and we actually own most of them, too). And the best part? They’re all under 5lb !

Packing cubes are the secret to traveling carry-on only. Watch  this video  to learn why!

Best Lightweight Carry On Luggage

Table of contents.

Today’s suitcases come with a wide variety of cool features that affect transportation, packing, and protection. You can get wheel locking systems, built-in charging units, and heavy-duty hardware.

However, the thing to keep in mind is that the more bells and whistles there are, the heavier the bag will be! What you need is a balance.

Below you’ll find a full list of the best lightweight luggage for international travel (and domestic) with wheels including information about each style, reviews, videos, and pictures, too.

Lightest Carryon Luggage

What manufacturers claim to be lightweight and what truly is the lightest carryon luggage are two incredibly different things.

What does lightweight luggage weigh?

• Best lightweight luggage for checked bags: 6 – 9 pounds
• Best lightweight luggage for carryon bags: 4 – 6 pounds

Let’s start by setting the record straight: a carryon suitcase that weighs over 7-10 pounds IS NOT lightweight.

If cabin (carryon) restrictions require that your TOTAL weight be under 21 pounds, then how is that feasible when your suitcase itself weighs 9 pounds?

Read this post to learn how to pack for a 7kg baggage allowance !

The same goes for checked bags. Just because you have a 50 pound weight allowance doesn’t mean you need all of it.

However, if for whatever reason you need to bring an extensive amount of things on a trip (perhaps you’re moving to another country or studying abroad), then you want to make the most of what you can actually bring.

Don’t waste your weight allowance on a heavy suitcase!

Read the ultimate guide on how to choose a suitcase !

What is the most lightweight luggage for carryon?

Here are the best lightweight carry-on luggage under 5 lbs . They all have wheels and are reader favorites too:

• Travelpro Maxlite Carry On Luggage
• Osprey Ozone Wheeled Luggage
• Osprey Farpoint Wheeled Luggage
• Samsonite Cosmolite Spinner
• Delsey Clavel Hand Luggage
• Lipault Original Plume Spinner
• Aerolite Ultra Light Luggage
• Eagle Creek Gear Warrior
• July Luggage Carry-on
• Antler Carry On Suitcase

WATCH MY REVIEW OF THE BEST LIGHTWEIGHT CARRYON LUGGAGE:

The Best Carry On Luggage Lightweight Reviews

Packing light is our specialty, and we’ve tried and tested almost every one of the suitcases on this list. In fact, we’ve even included our own review videos that provide further information to help you choose the best one for your trip. Plus, these have also been tried out by the readers!

Here are our tried-and-tested best light weight luggage reviews:

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Carry On Luggage

Travelpro Lightweight Luggage

This bag is simple and classic, and that makes it a keeper in our books. Travelpro is one of my favorite luggage brands because their suitcases are durable and easy to maneuver while also being affordable.

The Maxlite 5 is also one of the best lightweight luggage options for anyone who wants a soft-side case. You can travel anywhere with this and it won’t slow you down, thanks to its smooth 4-wheel spinners, stain-resistant and water-repellant duraguard coating and ergonomic, and high-tensile-strength zipper. Also available in 19″ carryon . Buy it here !

Travelpro Maxlite Hardside Carry On Luggage

This Travelpro hardside carry-on bag is ultra-durable and ultra-light! The Maxlite expandable carry-on hardside spinner is designed to meet carry-on size restrictions for most domestic airlines while maximizing how much you can pack inside with its convenient 2” expansion option. Also available in carry on 20″ and weighs around 6.1lbs.  Buy it here !

Osprey Ozone Wheeled Carry-on 42L/21.5″ | Also available on Osprey

Osprey Lightweight Carry On Luggage With Wheels

This is the bag that has been accompanying me on my long-term travels for the past year. You know I’m a big fan of Osprey and ever since I had to stop traveling with the Farpoint , which was backpacking perfection, the Ozone has become my new favorite and their new design weighs only 4.48lbs. Also available on Osprey website !

Osprey Farpoint 36L Wheeled Luggage | Also available on Osprey

There may be certain trips where you don’t need as much capacity, which is when the Osprey Farpoint 36L wheeled bag can still offer the same amazing features that include a large panel opening, comfortable straps, and sturdy wheels to tackle uneven terrain.

And though this is marketed as a men’s bag, it’s worked well for a variety of users who say “it’s  the perfect lightweight durable luggage that’s sturdy, well designed, and constructed—the wheels are heavily protected and unlikely to damage easily.” Also available on Osprey website !

Watch this video or read my Osprey Ozone 46 review for more details:

So far it’s worked as a carryon on most airlines, even Air Asia, but it may be two inches too big for budget companies like RyanAir or EasyJet. However, they also have a duffle or backpack version that’s smaller and would work for most budget airlines.

A post shared by alex TravelFashionGirl.com (@travelfashiongirl) on Jan 25, 2017 at 7:22am PST

My only gripe with this bag is that I bought the previous model in black but now they have it in blue. As soon as I have a travel stop in the US, I’m going to get this new color! Buy it here or on Osprey website !

Delsey Clavel 19″ Hand Luggage

Delsey Lightweight Luggage

I’ve been a fan of Delsey for the past few years, and one of my favorite things about the French brand is its attention to detail, clean aesthetics, and affordable price tag. Delsey definitely offers the most value, and this new suitcase proves it.

Delsey discontinued the soft-side Delsey Traversee Lite which I have and love, but the new Clavel hardside spinner is the lightest Delsey suitcase. This new lightweight hard shell luggage has a strong, sturdy zipper, which means it will stand up to wear and tear. Buy it here !

If you’re looking for the best lightweight luggage sets,  Delsey also has some awesome options!

Lipault Original Plume Spinner 55/20 Luggage

Lipault Lightweight Carry-On Luggage

Sometimes you want simple lightweight travel luggagewithout any fancy bells or whistles, and that’s when I recommend Lipault . This spinner suitcase is basic, but in a good way. Despite being 20”, it offers amazing capacity, so you can easily fit a week’s worth of outfits.

It’s also easy to carry and move, while the soft side allows for more flexibility. The top carry handle allows you to lift the suitcase with ease and comfort, making it easy to travel even in the most crowded of airports and train stations. Buy it here !

Eagle Creek Gear Warrior 22″ Inch Carry-On Luggage

Eagle Creek G ear Lightweight Spinner Luggage

One of our readers raved about this great bag from Eagle Creek , so I thought I’d include it on  this list. It’s simple, easy to use and extremely light, which makes it a worthwhile addition to our list of the lightest carryon luggage pieces we could find.

It fits perfectly in overhead bins, however, you’ll have to use this one with packing cubes–there’s no dedicated spots for your items. Still, it’s got what it you need to make through a 3-day weekend in Manhattan or a road trip through the Adirondacks. The price is right for a piece of light luggage like this! Buy it here !

Samsonite Cosmolite Suitcase

Samsonite Lightweight Luggage

During a recent trip to Los Angeles, I set off on a mission to find the most lightweight hardsided luggage. I stumbled upon a Samsonite store and was astounded at the excellent selections for their Cosmolite and Lite Shock Collections.

I was in between buying either the Cosmolite or the Lite Shock and asked the TFG readers to help me decide as you can see in this video:

Although both suitcases were incredibly light, I chose the Lite Shock instead of the Cosmolite because it’s a newer model and weighed 2 ounces less. In fact, they each weigh UNDER 4 lb – talk about lightest carryon luggage!

A post shared by tpsytv (@tpsytv) on Apr 14, 2017 at 9:27am PDT

Using it on set for my TPSY TV packing videos!

Because it’s brand new and part of Samsonite’s premium collection, it was a steeper price tag than the other suitcases on this list. But so far, it seems absolutely worth it. Buy it here !

Aerolite Ultra Light 4 Wheel Carry On Luggage

Aerolite Airline Approved Lightweight Soft-Sided Luggage

One of the best lightweight cabin luggage  options out there comes from Aerolite . It’s roomy enough to store all your belongings and small enough for those carry on only trips. An attractive, sturdy and lightweight bag, it’s easy to maneuver on uneven terrain.

It comes in a wide range of fun colors, particularly this pretty purple. You can’t help but feel happy when traveling with this colorful, easy to carry suitcase! Highly recommended! Buy it here !

Carry On Light 21″ Lightweight Carry-on

July Ultra Lightweight Carry-On Luggage

July is quite possibly the best brand for lightweight hardside luggage ! They have a vast selection of colors, too. 

Not only does this carryon weigh under 5 lbs, but it’s also made of vegan-friendly materials, has a strong German polycarbonate shell, and 32L volume that allows you to maximize space so you don’t waste it on the suitcase. With the July Carry On Light 21″ , you can use all the space for your belongings.

The luggage features ultra-light shell with only 3.9 lbs, a twin bar 3-stop telescopic handle, and SilentMove™ Series 2 360° double spinner wheels, YKK Japanese zippers, and zip closure with integrated TSA lock. Buy it here !

The key to traveling light is to c reate an interchangeable capsule wardrobe !

Antler Brixham 22″ Light Carryon

Antler Carry On Luggage

Perfect for travelers who like to pack as much as possible, Antler’s softside Brixham collection is designed to be spacious yet ultra-lightweight, with the carry-on weighing a mere 4.2 lbs! This sleek, modern option has a minimalist design that features protective corner guards, zippered pockets, interior compression, smooth spinner wheels, TSA locks, and highly durable fabric. Fans of the brand highlight the amazing lifetime warranty, too! 

The measurements of this lightweight piece are 21.65″ x 13.78” x 9.25”.

A post shared by alex TravelFashionGirl.com (@travelfashiongirl) on Mar 26, 2017 at 11:09am PDT

A sneak peak inside my Samsonite Firelite carryon

Packing Tips for the Best Lightweight Luggage

Packing light is all about research, planning, and preparation. These articles will help you travel carryon only to any destination, no matter the trip length:

• How to Stop Overpacking
• The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Travel Shoes
• Everything You Need to Know about which Luggage to Buy

Compass Rose Compression Packing Cubes

We recommend bringing along a lightweight  luggage scale  to weigh your cases before going to the airport. This will ensure you are below the weight limit and avoid extra charges.

Also, use  packing organizers  such as packing cubes to help you simplify your packing process.

Learn our hacks with packing cubes in this  video !

We also put together a  five-part YouTube series  showing the different methods to use packing cubes for travel. If you use  this  specific packing strategy, packing cubes can also compress your belongings. This is the secret to traveling carry-on only!

Check out this post to find out how packing cubes help you pack everything in a carryon!

The Best Lightweight Luggage Summary

Which suitcases would you add to our list of the best lightweight luggage for travel? Comment below!

For more suitcase recommendations, please read:

• Best Carry-on Suitcases for Traveling to Europe
• This Packing Video will Change the Way You Travel
• The Best Toiletry Bags for Travel
• How to Choose a Suitcase

LIKED THIS POST? PIN THIS PIC TO SAVE IT!

I hope you liked this post on the best lightweight luggage. Please share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

146 comments.

This is great idea with packing cubes

This is great! Thank you!

Found the IT carry-on that only weighs 3.75 lbs!!! It’s a win!! Thanks Alex!!

Osprey also makes an 18”/36L Ozone that I love- it fits under the aisle seat on Southwest! Since I’m only 4’9” it is really exciting to have a carry-on I don’t have to put in the overhead compartment.

Hi Barbara, thank you for sharing your recommendation for lightweight luggage with us! The Osprey Ozone 21.5′ is one of my favorite bags, because it’s lightweight, durable, and lockable — making it perfect for a versatile array of travel: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/best-osprey-backpacks/ Happy travels!

Hi Alex! Found your blog yesterday as I was looking for the best lightweight luggage for our upcoming trip to Europe. Watched your review regarding the Osprey Ozone. Definitely fell in love with it but still not sure wether to go for it or for the Meridian. Do you have a comparison post/video for that? Thanks a lot! And also I’m looking for a lightweight luggage that’s not a carryon size but having trouble finding it in the blog. You’re a huge help and a blessing to every traveler. Beginner or not! More power to you!

Hi Kris, thank you so much, that is so kind of you!!! Have a look at this article where I compare four different osprey backpacks including the Meridian and the Ozone: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/best-osprey-backpacks/ Hope this helps. I would also highly recommend that you join our TFG facebook group and post any questions you have there: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelfashiongirls/ Its a fabulous community of helpful female travelers that love to share their advice and recommendations. Have a phenomenal time in Europe!!

Hi, Alex. This is a great article, thank you! We needed an extra hand luggage while in LA recently, and got the Delsey Turene based on your recommendations (from the live video in BKK)! And while looking for a bigger sized luggage for the family, we also spotted the Samsonite Neopulse and got that as well. Didn’t know it was recommended until I read this article today, haha! By the way, not sure if you’ve noticed, but you had the Samsonite Neopulse picture labelled as Delsey Turene in the comparison chart above.

Hi Eunice, thank you so much for bring that to my attention, I will get that sorted out! So pleased you enjoyed the video, hope you enjoy your new suitcases on many adventures!! 🙂

What about Lipault ?

Hi Sakshi, great suggestion, thank you for sharing!! 🙂

Hi Alex, This was a great video on your choice of carry on. I am planning a trip to Europe in October and initially had my 25′ suitcase as my one and only, but due to restrictions, I have decided to go with my 17′ carry on and a awesome backpack that I ordered from Amazon. I was worried that the 17′ wouldn’t fit all my needs for 10 days which include 3 pairs of shoes, but after hearing your views, I think I’ll do just fine. Thank you.

Hi Deborah, thank you so much for your feedback! Have a great trip to Europe! 🙂

Love TFG. Have been subscribed for years and love all the awesome hints and tips I’ve got from your site. Thank you for sharing all your knowledge Alex. So appreciate it!!!

I Has been using my remowa salsa for almost 6 years. I use to travel a lot because of Business and privat. It is so easy to handle: the wheels are the best you can find and the fact of the monotelescop System allow more space inside and also i love the fact that it is a hard robust Material (Polycarbonat i guess) so i can pack also fragil things!! Of course the schining Surface get scratshed some times but at the remowa store i could find a politure cream and it makes my remowa looks good again.

Sooo helpful!!!! Traveling to Europe in March and keeping this in mind!

I bought my Rimowa Salsa at Zappo’s, they have been fantastic in supporting this bag. It’s easy to get around, I set my ginormous purse on top and just wheel it with one hand. The case lets me do a busy, multi-outfit 4 day trip with no issues. TSA broke one zipper handle on the inside zippers, and I just broke another last week. They still work with a little nudge. Be careful on escalators, I scratched mine by not paying attention to the sharp edge of the step. When this one is kaput I’ll get another.

That’s an awesome suitcase!

BRIC luggage is not on the list and that is for good reason! They have a very light weight luggage that intrigued me so I bought a set for a long European trip this past summer. When the bags are packed the wheels do not function well at all making bags very difficult to roll and the telescopic handle is very flimsy when extended making managing the pieces very difficult as well. I will pay attention to Travel Fashion Girl’s advice now as I decide on one of her luggage choices mentioned in this article.

Thank you for the feedback Ginger ?

I’ve been following your site for a couple of years now. Your tips and reviews (like these) have been super helpful!

Thank you Jennifer, I’m glad you’ve like them 🙂

Great post and perfect timing as I am looking into a smaller (19″) lightweight carryon. That Delsey one looks perfect.

It’s a great price, too!

I have a Delsey soft sided suitcase that is over 10 years old. I have used it frequently and it is still in good shape. I love it!

Love Delsey!

Thank you for this article. I am working on packing lighter and really want to travel carry-on only in the future. These bags will be a great incentive to make it happen.

They’re awesome 🙂

Very informative article and i love the live video with more details. I have never heard of the Delsey line and hope to investigate these further. Thank you for all of the information! I need to replace my carryon suitcase that falls over every time I stand it on carpet? I don’t even pack the front compartments but it is very annoying in hotel rooms!!

Glad you liked the post Amy 🙂

I don’t know if it’s possible, but do you think you might one day be able to show us on a plane how to fit luggage in the overhead compartment or under the seat in front of you. I live in regional Australia and the planes I sometimes travel on are small planes like a Dash 8 and I don’t think the suitcases would fit in overhead compartment.

The two IT carry on bags look perfect for my sons for our upcoming trip to Costa Rica. I’ve added them to my Amazon wish list. Thank you so much for this blog post. Finding inexpensive, top-rated luggage is rather challenging! Cheers!

Awesome! Let us know how it works out Christine 🙂

I am gong to Italy in 2 days . Although, I have traveled abroad several times previously, I have never felt more prepared thanks to Travelfashiongirl.com ! All your post and tips have helped turn this over packer into a minimalist! I have 2 pieces of Delsey luggage and it is a dream! Thanks for your expertise!

Thanks Chelle! Hope you have a wonderful trip 🙂

Just found this! Always looking for good, practical information to use when packing for our yearly trips to Nicaragua. Packing light without sacrificing what we need to take is always a challenge. Thank you for providing viable options!

Thanks Lynne! 🙂

Thanks for this info. I bought a TravelPro International Maxlite4 last year and I love it. However, it doesn’t have spinner wheels so it is sometimes hard to maneuver at the airport and on the plane. I might give the Delsey a try. What do you do with all your old suitcases? My husband is complaining about all the storage space that mine take up. LOL

I usually share some of my luggage with family and friends but I do have quite the collection after acquiring these styles recently!

I love these suitcases! I’m kind of a suitcase addict. I just love having options. I bought a 19 inch in London three years ago and it’s my international traveler. My goal is to pack it 1Olbs or under for my next European trip!

Wow that’s incredible Liz!

Great post! I love the sound of the IT Los Angeles, but the handle is different than most. It probably allows for better packing without that weird skinny space traditional handles make, but how does it maneuver?

Hi Betsy, haven’t had a chance to try the IT suitcase myself but it’s very popular in Europe!

Always looking for lightweight luggage that isn’t going to fall apart after one trip! Thanks for putting this together.

Glad you like it Sarah!

This article was perfect timing! My luggage is definitely on it’s last leg, so I’ve been looking into new suitcases. I’m downsizing what I’m taking on trips thanks to TFG and the super helpful advice and going carry on only, so these are great options to look into. Thanks!

Thank you Heather! Happy to help 🙂

Thank you so much for the article! It was very helpful! Loved the chart.

Thanks Devin!

Great information! Thanks.

I went to Scotland and Ireland last year and took a “medium sized” suitcase which was around 42 lbs. The first week in Scotland I was by my self and couldn’t get the darn thing us the 3 flights of stairs in my first night’s B & B. What a mistake. This year I went to a 2 week archaeology school and a third week of touring. Iv’e been watching you so I bought a Delsey Chatillon (from your list). The bag was 19 pounds after packing, including shoes. I needed full rain gear and boots for school. I put the rain coat & boots into my backpack (which I used for purse) and still had room. I was so happy. I could carry it anywhere, lift it over my head for train overhead racks. It was a totally different trip. I tried to pack for 15 lbs, thinking that was my max but didn’t quite get there. Here I came to realize I was allowed 15kg (33lbs) What a happy mistake!! I’ll never pack heavy again

That’s such a great story! Love it ? I’m happy it worked out so well. Thank you for taking the time to share it!

New to all these topics, thank you for an informative post.

Thanks Anel!

This was so informative! Thank you! I just finished watching your Facebook Live and wanted to see all of the ones you featured. I’ve been looking for a lightweight carry on and now I’m thinking of getting the Delsey Traversee Lite thanks to you!

Thanks Katy! I hope you like it 🙂

Hi Alex, great video on suitcases. Timing is off for me, (bummer), I just bought the 6.2lb. American Tourister 20″ Skylite. it is a box inside which I also like for organizing as I chose. It feels lightweight. I love that Logel. I am a senior traveler & I love reading about your blog. Excellent. You are quite impressive. I really could have used your blog back in 1998 when I started traveling with only one carry on & have done ever since. I am traveling to Ireland and London in the fall, & for some reason I am having a dilemma over shoes to take. I only take 2 prs. 1 my Ugg calf boots, these are super comfy, stylish & waterproof. My 2pr, I am thinking will be a pair of leather slip-on loafers. Stylish & cute & comfy(platform style) Summit by White Mountain Braxton. But my husband thinks I should take hiking shoes. My thoughts are in London, I didn’t want to wear hiking shoes to walk around in. What are your thoughts? Thank you for help.

Hi Anne, great to hear from you! Are you planning to go hiking in Ireland? You definitely will not need them in London as there are no mountains 😉 It sounds to me like your Ugg boots would be able to tackle a light hike outdoors in Ireland? Otherwise, slip on loafers + boots sound like a good combo!

Information so valuable. I learned the hard way about international carry on regulations.

Sorry to hear that Nona 🙁

Oh I loved all the options and details you provided for each luggage! I need to purchase a new luggage and will use this post as my resource to choose the right one. I have read that soft sides luggage are better if you want to expand it in case you purchase too many items on your destination 🙂 . On your experience, do you agree with it?

Haha, yes they are if you need a little extra room to squeeze stuff in and then check your bag 😉

Thanks for reviewing these bags! I only use carry-ons when I travel.

Thanks Marilyn!

Costco has a nice Delsey set on sale for 119.00. One large bag and a carry on size. Comes with a built on lock and weight sensory that alerts you when the large bag gets to 49 lbs.

Great tip Yvette!

Great list of bags and really appreciate all your recommendations and research. I have to say I have finally gone on a trip carry on. What on earth was I thinking checking a bag all of these years? Alex, I have seen the light!!

Haha, glad you saw it 😉

Really enjoy your helpful travel tips and info

Thanks Kathy!

I love my Samsonite luggage. I don’t think it’s quite as light as these bags but it’s sturdy. I just bought the Osprey Porter 46, partly because you keep raving about the brand.

Hope you had a good experience with Osprey! I’ve heard rave reviews about the Porter backpack although I opted for the Farpoint myself 😉

Loved this article! I actually have the Samsonite Firelite and am amazed at how light it is compared to my other cabin-size suitcases. But this article will be super helpful for my family, as they are looking to replace their heavy suitcases too! So thanks a lot 🙂

Glad you liked it Monica!

Very useful overview. As a senior with some mobility issues, one value for me is whether the case is sturdy enough for me to perch on it when there are no seats left or when in a long queue. I’d guess the hard-side cases are better for this, of course, but wish I knew how much weight they can take.

To be honest with you, I don’t think I would feel comfortable sitting on these suitcases unless they had sufficient amount of weight inside to stay put. But then it would defeat the purpose of packing light…

Thanks for the great article! We are heading to Thailand and Cambodia and are needing some new lightweight carry-ons (especially for Air Asia’s tiny allowance).

Glad you liked it! This article might help you specifically for Southeast Asia: https://travelfashiongirl.com/backpack-or-wheeled-luggage/

The handle of my trusty 5-lb carryon finally broke after 12+ years so I need a new bag. I had this post with me when I went luggage hunting yesterday. Look forward to tomorrow’s talk to learn more!

See you then!

Been thinking about getting an Osprey for awhile and this definitely makes me want one even more 😀

THEY ARE SOOOO WORTH IT 🙂 Plus, they have a lifetime guarantee!

Thanks for this info! Came at the perfect time as looking for new lightweight luggage for a European trip. This really helps me narrow down the endless options.

Glad tp help Aimee!

Thanks Alex for these articles! I’m looking for a new suitcase but I was so nervous that I would get the wrong one. This article definitely helped narrow down selections!

That’s awesome Nicole! Happy to help 🙂

Amazing article! i am definitely on the hunt for the perfect carry on suitcase 🙂

Thanks Kristin!

Thanks Kristin ☺️

Loved the idea of packing things in coat pockets!

Glad you like it Linda 🙂

How about a soft rolling duffle? I have an IT small rolling duffle . Very Light weight. It has been to Morroco and recently Costa Rica. With only two wheels, isn’t there more room for packing? I also have the IT MegaLite Spinner. Found both at Marshall’s in Canada under $100.00

Great idea Jane! This one just focused specifically on this suitcase style but rolling duffles are awesome!

I have the complete set of hard body Heys and although I love it, I find the carry on to be not suitable because I need an outside pocket for my documents. I have to have them handy as I host groups. I am thinking of a hybrid. Any suggestions?

HEYS! I can’t believe I forgot to add Heys to this post – thank you for the reminder as they have an incredible new suitcase that is super lightweight, too. The Delsey Traversee is my favorite and has an outside pocket 🙂

Love, love, love your blog and travel packing lists, TFG! I’ve been reading your blog for sometime now and this is the first time I’ve ever posted. Being a semi-frequent, solo, and single travel “fashion” girl myself, I’m constantly on the lookout for a great, lightweight carryon that meets airlines’ increasing restrictions, looks great, and is light enough for me to handle easily. Plus, it needs to be good quality! Thanks so much for this article — I’m going to be looking into the Delsey Travelsee carryon. Very affordable, too! Thanks so much for all your advice! Cheers!

Thank you for your first comment Carolyn! Glad to know a fellow fashion girl enjoys the blog 😉

I second the Delsey Chatillion. A great bag and the perfect side for carry on. Personally I like the two-wheeled bags better than the four because you get more packing space for the bag volume and they are great on the cobbles in my area. Good post as well – it is very handy to have something that weighs up the pros and cons like this.

Thanks Sam, glad you liked the article! I would’ve loved to have gotten the Chatillon so it’s good to know it’s a good buy.

Thanks for the info!

Thanks for reading!

That Firelite is really gorgeous! A bit out of my price range, unfortunately. I’ll check out the Delsey’s.

Haha, yes it is a higher price point but fortunately, there’s many other budget-friendly options 😉

I am in the market for a new suitcase and this list will definitely be helpful in making my choice.

That’s great Sandy! Good luck with your search 🙂

Thanks for this timely post. Planning a trip to Paris and in desperate need of new luggage. I’ve been shopping on line and in stores…such a difficult decision!!! I really could use some advice like this. 🙂

I’m glad you found it 🙂

My boyfriend has a Samsonite Cosmolite and I have always been a bit envious – I bought my own lightweight Samsonite just shortly before the Cosmolite came out. It really is a great suitcase.

Yes, they’re nice looking bags!

We have been using the Samsonite Cosmolite which I got in England for a bargain. Love it! It’s so light and easy on the carpal tunnel syndrome. However, I find pull handle with 1 bar not as ideal as those with two because if you place your handbag on the bag, it doesn’t rest very well and tend to slip off the handle. We also talk got the Rimowa Salsa Air as it’s extremely light and easy to push, but we didn’t want t pay so much to have my handbag slipping off when placed against the pull handle.

That’s a good point. Thanks for pointing that out Ekay!

The Samsonite Firelite is gorgeous, I really love the pretty blue colour inside. I have way too many suitcases already though!

Yes it was a difficult choice. The blue vs the silver but I’m very happy with the purchase 🙂

I can’t get the Delsey code to work at Amazon. What am I missing?

Sorry Elaine, it’s only good on the Delsey website: http://rstyle.me/n/cqi8cvb9qn7 I just fixed the info on the post. Thank you for letting me know 🙂

Hi there – I enjoyed your review of all these light bags; good work. I also write and travel light and my preferred carry on bag is the Samsonite, which weighs only 1.5 kgs.

Great choice Bobby!

Great suitcase choices. I just picked up an Air Canada carry on bag that weight 4.8 lbs. it’s a spinner too. Found it at Walmart for $68 plus taxes.

Good bargain Linda!

Thanks for this post! I have been looking for a lightweight suitcase for my upcoming Europe trip. This information is very helpful!

Glad you like it Diana 🙂

This blog post was perfect timing. I have been hunting for a good, affordable carry-on bag. Thanks for your insight!

Let us know which one you end up choosing!

Thanks so much for this post! Taking a 10 day trip this fall and looking for the best carry on; you gave me lots of great options 🙂

Perfect! Hope you find the perfect one 🙂

Love these suggestions. I’m reading daily for my upcoming Fall trip to Germany!!

Hope you have a great time in Germany!

I love the Delsey Traversee suitcase.

Packing light is always a challenge, but a good place to start is lightweight luggage. I sure could use a new set for our next adventure!

Exactly. Heavy luggage can instantly weigh you down.

Thanks so much for this list! I need something lightweight, and I will definitely check these out.

Glad you like it Terry!

I use duffle bags! They weigh next to nothing and fit a ton! When walking from airports, train stations, and bus stations I just wear it like a backpack.

Another good choice!

How about luggage without wheels? I have the https://www.ebags.com/product/ebags/etech-20-weekender-junior/261000?productid=10264764 which is 2lbs 11 oz.

That’s a great bag Rhonda! We also have an upcoming article about the most lightweight backpacks next month. Stay tuned!

Love this article! I just recently purchased the IT Los Angeles bag and honestly, I can’t believe what a HUGE difference it made to my overall comfort when traveling, I could seriously almost lift it one handed in the overhead. I have a little bit of a luggage obsession and will be using your chart for any future purchases 🙂

That’s such a good bag – LOVE it luggage!

Thank you for this helpful list!

Happy to help 🙂

I love delsey suitcases. Mine is larger but has served me well for years. I’d love to get a smaller ultra light one like the style you recommend. Great article, as usual.

Thank you Catherine ☺️

I was just reading about choosing 4 wheels vs 2 wheels, and read that 4 wheel models (spinners) generally have less space than a similar 2 wheel model would. I notice most of these are 4 wheel spinners. Any thoughts? We need to get new carryon bags before a trip this fall and want to get the best model we can. Thanks!

Hi Robin, this guide explains everything about how to choose the best suitcase: https://travelfashiongirl.com/suitcase-101-step-by-step-guide-to-choosing-the-right-travel-luggage/ There’s no particular reason I’ve chosen 4 wheels instead of 2 – they just happen to be the most lightweight items I could find 😉 More important than the number of wheels is the suitcase shape. Less compartments and a nice rectangular opening allows you to maximize space. That’s why I like the Delsey Traversee the best – ticks the boxes for me.

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Best lightweight luggage 2023: Keep your travels light

• Amanda Stellisano

Our list has some of the best lightweight luggage picks to ensure your suitcase doesn’t dominate your weight allowance

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a solo trip around the world, you need luggage that won’t weigh you down. Avid travellers know that the weight of a suitcase can easily cut into the limit set by airlines, so a lightweight luggage option is a must, especially if you’re planning on doing a little shopping while you’re away. 

You also don’t want the strain of lugging a heavy suitcase from the airport to your city centre hotel, or up the hill to your cliffside vacation home. That’s the benefit of lightweight luggage – it’s made to be easy to carry, while still durable enough to handle all your travelling needs for years to come. 

Luggage is generally considered lightweight if it’s under four kilograms and, whether you prefer a hardshell or softside suitcase, there are options available for every taste, requirement, and budget. Often, the perfect piece of luggage will come down to personal preference, and our list has some of the best lightweight luggage options available, in a variety of styles and colours to suit. Keep reading to learn more about what constitutes quality, lightweight luggage, and what products we recommend.

READ NEXT: The best travel mug

Best lightweight luggage: At a glance

• Best overall lightweight luggage: it Luggage World’s Lightest Suitcase | £45
• Best UK brand lightweight luggage: Tripp Holiday 6 | £60
• Best large hardshell lightweight luggage: Samsonite C-Lite | £425
• Best large softshell lightweight luggage: Travelpro Maxlite 5 | £170
• Best lightweight cabin luggage: American Tourister Soundbox | £119
• Best expandable lightweight luggage: Eastpak Tranverz | £115

How to choose the best lightweight luggage

There are some things to think about before purchasing your lightweight luggage.

What types of lightweight luggage are available?

Standard luggage sizes include small, medium, and large cabin size bags, as well as medium, large, and extra-large suitcases. If you’re trying to cut weight from your luggage, you’ll need an efficient packing plan – with a well-packed suitcase, most travellers can easily work with the medium size.

Other than size, the next main question is: hard or soft shell? Hardshell suitcases are typically made with sturdy plastics, such as polycarbonate or polyethylene. They also usually have a middle opening, which allows you to pack on either side, holding items in place with an X-strap. These suitcases are easy to stack, though they’re also prone to getting scuffed and scratched. If you’re a heavy packer, a hardshell can help prevent overpacking since there’s no give in the material.

On the other hand, soft-sided cases have more flexibility, allowing for the possibility of squeezing in one more shirt or pair of trousers – though that may defeat the point of choosing a lightweight suitcase! Softshells tend to be more practical due to their flexibility, and they typically have more pockets, although hardshell suitcases have been making headway in that department too.

What features should I look for in quality lightweight luggage?

Once you decide on size and material, there are a couple of other features you should consider:

Two wheels or four? Almost all luggage available for purchase these days have either two wheels or four. Two-wheel luggage will only roll forward or backward, not side-to-side. Though they’re less manoeuvrable, they’re often easier to carry through streets with kerb cuts. Four-wheel luggage is able to swivel a full 360 degrees, and creates less strain on the wrists, shoulders, and back. However, the wheels are not recessed, so they’re at greater risk of snapping. 

Security: Pretty much all suitcases are designed to lock zippers with a pre-approved EASA (European Union Aviation Safety Agency) or TSA (US Transportation Security Administration) lock. More recently, luggage may even feature integrated EASA/TSA locks for better security.

Handles: Top and side handles are convenient for handling and storing your luggage, while telescoping handles will make it easier to pull alongside or behind you. 

One final consideration is that every airline has different regulations on size and weight. So, before any trip, check the airline’s website to ensure your luggage meets their specific requirements.

READ NEXT: The best backpack

The best lightweight luggage to buy in 2023

1. it luggage world’s lightest medium suitcase: the best overall lightweight luggage.

With its high tensile fabric and fibreglass framework, the World’s Lightest, from it Luggage, is one of the best lightweight luggage options available. Don’t be deceived by its insubstantial weight – this suitcase is built to be durable, and strong enough to handle any travel you embark upon. 

The retracting handle is cushioned for extra comfort, and is the width of the suitcase, which makes the interior completely flat, offering more space than others with a narrower handle. Though, that said, it’s less convenient for those who like to hook smaller bags over their suitcase handle.

There are two zipped pockets on the front, allowing you easy access to your essentials, and the four swivel wheels make it effortless to guide your suitcase through the airport or along the pavement. With a weight just a touch over two kilos, this really is one of the lightest suitcases available. 

Key specs – Weight: 2.16 kg; Dimensions: 73.5 × 43.5 × 23.5 cm; Shell: Soft; Wheels: 4; Capacity: 63 litres; Colour: Blue 

Buy now from Argos

2. Tripp Holiday 6: The best UK brand lightweight luggage

For those who want to support a homegrown business, Tripp has been a top UK luggage brand for over 20 years. And the Tripp Holiday 6 line features lightweight hardshell suitcases made from polypropylene. 

The interior has a polyester lining, with luggage straps and a mesh divider to keep your items in place. The medium boasts a roomy 66 litres of space for your travel essentials. The suitcase has a retractable handle, as well as side and top handles for easy use. It has a four-wheel design for easy navigation, and an integrated TSA-approved lock for added security. 

The slate colour we reviewed compliments the textured design of the suitcase front, helping it to stand out from many standard suitcases. Overall, this suitcase is the perfect lightweight, yet durable, luggage for basically any vacation.

Key specs – Weight: 3.2 kg; Dimensions: 66 × 45 × 26 cm; Shell: Hard; Wheels: 4; Capacity: 66 litres; Colour: Slate, black, ocean blue

Tripp Slate Holiday 6 Medium 4 Wheel Suitcase

3. samsonite c-lite: the best large hardshell lightweight luggage.

Samsonite is a well-trusted luggage brand, and the C-Lite suitcase meets those high standards. The C-Lite exterior is made of an incredibly light, woven polypropylene, while the inside lining is polyester made from post-consumer, recycled PET bottles. 

This suitcase has a generous 94 litre capacity, with divided storage and compression straps to prevent a messy suitcase. The bottom has four 360 degree spinning double wheels, for easy moving, that are also shock absorbing for extra sturdiness. The zipper is water-resistant, so rain won’t be a concern and it includes an integrated TSA-approved, three-digit combination lock. 

The textured, shell-shape pattern of the case helps your luggage to stand out on the carousel and it’s available in two classic colours. While the suitcase isn’t expandable, it has the capacity to handle just about any vacation packing without cutting into your weight allowance.

Key specs – Weight: 2.8 kg; Dimensions: 75 × 51 × 31 cm; Shell: Hard; Wheels: 4; Capacity: 94 litres; Colour: Black, navy

Buy now from John Lewis

4. Travelpro Maxlite 5: The best large softshell lightweight luggage

For those that prefer a more flexible suitcase, a softshell case provides that extra give. The Travelpro Maxlite 5 expands by five centimetres, offering much more space to bring home all those souvenirs and other vacation purchases. The material is a stain-resistant and water-repellent polyester, with strengthened zippers and zipper heads to mitigate damage and loss.

The suitcase tapers towards the top, giving it better balance, and preventing it from tipping over. It sits sturdily on four spinning wheels that rotate 360 degrees. It has an aluminium retractable handle with a rubber, contoured grip, with more subtle, fabric handles on the top and side.

The interior has a similar capacity to our preferred hardshell case, and it has a bottom tray to increase both stability and durability. The inside has a mesh pocket and straps to hold down your packed items. The suitcase also includes pockets for extra storage. 

Key specs – Weight: 3.3 kg; Dimensions: 68.5 × 47 × 29.2 cm; Shell: Soft; Wheels: 4; Capacity: 91 litres; Colour: Black, green

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Spinner Suitcase 4 Wheels Expandable, Ultra-Lightweight and Durable, Travel Luggage 5 Years Warranty (Check-in M (69cm - 91L), Green)

5. american tourist soundbox: the best lightweight cabin luggage.

With checked luggage becoming more and more of a headache in recent years, many people are aiming to pack everything in cabin luggage to avoid the stress of the carousel. The Soundbox cabin luggage from American Tourist brings flair to your carry-on with its vinyl-inspired design. Available in a number of fun colours, you can match your luggage to your style. 

This cabin case is a hardshell, made of polypropylene, for durable protection. It also includes an integrated TSA zipper lock for further security. It has four double wheels for easy mobility and a retractable cushioned handle. For easy lifting, it also has a second handle on top.

The case has multiple zipper compartments inside, with a divider pad in the case lid, and a small, zippered compartment between the top and bottom. It also has straps to keep items from shifting during transit. Importantly, this case meets the carry-on dimensions for dozens of airlines.

Key specs – Weight: 2.6 kg; Dimensions: 55 × 40 × 20 cm; Shell: Hard; Wheels: 4; Capacity: 38 litres; Colour: Golden yellow, bass black, jade green, poolside blue

6. Eastpak Tranverz: The best expandable lightweight luggage

For a holdall-style luggage option, the Eastpak Tranvers is perfect. It has two wheels and a telescoping handle for easy transportation, with padded handles on the top and side for comfortable carrying. The bag itself is made from a durable, water-resistant polyester, so there’s no concern of dampened luggage.

The interior contains multiple compartments, including the lid, so it’s easier to sort things and keep everything from tangling. There are two internal zippered compartments in the bottom half of the bag, and garment straps to secure everything. There is also a pocket on the front of the bag, perfect for those items you need within easy reach.

The standout feature of this bag is the inclusion of exterior compression straps. With a light packing job, you can pull these straps tight to keep everything in place, and make sure your bag is as compact as possible. And when you need more, simply loosen the straps to expand your luggage, and get the space you need.

Key specs – Weight: 3.1 kg; Dimensions: 69 × 36.5 × 36 cm; Shell: Soft; Wheels: 2; Capacity: 80 litres; Colour: Black, triple denim, crafty wine

Best Lightweight Luggage To Make Traveling a Breeze

Our evaluations and opinions are not influenced by our advertising relationships, but we may earn a commission from our partners’ links. This content is created independently from TIME’s editorial staff. Learn more about it.

If you’ve recently taken a trip and found your luggage was just too heavy, it may be time to purchase a new, lighter option that won’t hold you back when you travel. “My pro tip for packing is this: Practice walking up a set of stairs with your luggage before you leave for the airport,” says Alexa West, author of The One-Way Ticket Plan and founder of The Solo Girls Travel Guide . “If you’re struggling now, you’ll certainly be struggling on the other side of the world.” We’ve spoken with West and other travel experts who weighed in on the best lightweight luggage for all types of travelers, no matter whether you’re trying to find the best hardside luggage, the best carry-on luggage, or even just a really good backpack. Read on for these pro-approved picks below.

What to consider when buying lightweight luggage

Lighten the load literally, but also monetarily. You want to ensure the lightweight luggage option you select falls within your budget; items on the below list range from below $50 to $600 and above.

Lifetime Warranty

Particularly in instances where you’re making an investment purchase, it's important to determine whether a retailer offers lifetime warranty for a product in the event of damage.

You’ll likely be using your lightweight luggage for many years to come, so you’ll want to be mindful to select a color and style that will appeal to you for the foreseeable future, and that it will also be able to withstand dirt and stains.

You’ll want to select a piece of lightweight luggage comfortable for you to wield based on your body size. You should also ensure that the option you choose can accommodate your desired amount of gear, particularly if you have a tendency to travel with minimal luggage for long periods of time.

Our top picks for the best lightweight luggage

Best lightweight carry-on luggage: rimowa original cabin carry-on.

Stephanie Miller, owner of The Scenic Suitcase , appreciates how Rimowa’s Original Cabin Carry-On is “stylish, durable, and extremely lightweight.” Though it’s on the pricier end of the luggage spectrum, Miller considers the Cabin to be worth the splurge for a number of additional reasons. “What I like best is the fact that it’s zipperless, so I never have to worry about the safety of my belongings or my zipper breaking on a trip,” she says. Miller has brought her Cabin on her travels to all seven continents. “I love it just as much now as the day I bought it,” she adds. Miller is also appreciative of Rimowa’s lifetime guarantee in case the suitcase were ever to break, noting, “That peace of mind is priceless.”

Specifications

• Dimensions: 21.7 inches x 15.8 inches x 9.1 inches
• Material: Aluminum, polyester, plastic
• Weight: 9.5 pounds
• Price on publish: $1,375

What we like:

• TSA-approved lock system
• Interior divider
• Lifetime guarantee

What we don’t like:

• Steep price tag

Rimowa Original Cabin Carry-On

Best lightweight hardside luggage: samsonite c-lite large spinner.

Roughly ten years ago, Brenna Holeman, the founder of This Battered Suitcase , chose to invest in a piece of luggage that she would be able to carry for the foreseeable future and landed on Samsonite’s C-Lite Large Spinner. “It has since traveled with me to over 60 countries and has been on boats, trains, planes, and everything in between, yet it's still in fantastic condition,” Holeman reflects. She considers the piece to be a worthy investment, adding, “It's spacious, sturdy, and incredibly light for a hardside suitcase .”

• Dimensions: 30.7 inches x 21.5 inches x 12.6 inches
• Material: Curv Material Recyclex
• Weight: 6.31 pounds
• Price on publish: $600
• 360°-rotation wheels
• Zippered divider and cross straps
• 10-year warranty

Samsonite C-Lite Large Spinner

Best lightweight luggage for international travel: level8 road runner pro carry-on with laptop pocket.

International travel often brings with it unfamiliar terrain and a series of climate changes, and Nellie Huang has sworn by her LEVEL8 Pro Carry-On With Laptop Pocket for over two years. “It’s the most reliable lightweight trolley suitcase I’ve had,” says the travel writer and founder of WildJunket . “The spinner wheels are so sturdy, they’re still in top shape after I dragged them through the cobblestoned streets of Cusco, Peru; the jungle-like trails of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula; and the steep slopes in the mountain towns of Albania.” Huang frequently packs the bag full with two weeks’ worth of clothes while stashing away her laptop in the front pocket. A built-in USB port allows for easy on the go charging capabilities, too.

• Dimensions: 21.5 inches x 14.4 inches x 9.2 inches
• Material: Bayer Makrolon® Hard Shell
• Weight: 9.3 pounds
• Price on publish: $209
• Lifetime warranty
• Limited color selection

LEVEL8 Road Runner Pro Carry-On With Laptop Pocket

Best lightweight luggage for seniors: calpak luka soft-sided mini carry-on.

Seniors looking to stay extra organized while traveling will appreciate the efficiency of the Luka Soft-Sided Mini Carry-On from Calpak, one of the best luggage brands out there. The outer pocket can safely house a range of electronic devices, novels, and paper itineraries, making it easy to locate in-flight essentials with ease. The suitcase’s interior capacity ensures even the most anxious travelers feel prepared. “With lost luggage issues on the rise, I always recommend carrying on two to three outfits, toiletries, and basic essentials,” says Jen Terra Halberg, luxury travel advisor and founder of Jen Terra Travels . There’s also a padded laptop sleeve and multiple interior pockets to keep everything organized.

Specifications:

• Dimensions: 16 inches x 14.5 inches x 9 inches
• Material: Water-resistant Luka polyester
• Weight: 5.1 pounds
• Price on publish: $165
• Multiple interior pockets, including a padded laptop sleeve
• May need to be checked on smaller planes
• Smaller capacity (but that’s expected with a carry-on)

CALPAK Luka Soft-Sided Mini Carry-On Luggage in Rose Quartz | 16"

Best lightweight luggage sets: away luggage sets.

Many avid travelers appreciate Away’s other luggage offerings, which come in a range of sizes and can be purchased as sets. You can also simply order two different styles that appeal to you and create your own “set,” as Julie Patterson did. The luxury travel advisor and content creator behind Wanderfully Planned has purchased both The Carry-On and The Large from Away. “The thing I love the most about them is that both suitcases have an additional zipper that allows you to increase your packing space,” Patterson says. “This is great especially when returning from a destination where you may have picked up a few extra things to bring home with you.” For more details, check our Away carry-on luggage review .

Editor’s tip: If minimal luggage weight is truly a priority, check out Away’s F.A.R. (For All Routes) line, which is designed to be as light as possible. The F.A.R. Convertible Backpack and the F.A.R. duffle bag are especially good choices—especially for weekend bags, according to Time Stamped Shopping’s editor Brie Dyas. “You can fit multiple changes of clothes, shoes, toiletries, and anything else,” she says. “I’ve even thrown in a tennis bag inside of the larger duffle!”

Specifications (for The Carry-On ):

• Dimensions: 21.7 inches x 14.4 inches x 9 inches
• Material: Polycarbonate hard shell
• Weight: 7.5 pounds
• Price on publish: $315
• Mesh pockets and hanging pocket
• Underside grab handle for easy lifting
• May not hold enough for longer trips

Away The Carry-On

Specifications (for the large ):.

• Dimensions: 29” height x 20.5” length x 12.5” depth
• Material: Water-resistant nylon and polycarbonate hard shell
• Weight: 12.1 pounds
• Price on publish: $375
• Can house gear for over two weeks of travel
• Heavier and takes up more storage space
• Glossy finish costs $20 more

The Large in Olive Green

Best budget lightweight luggage: modoker convertible garment bag with shoulder strap.

Those in search of a reliable lightweight luggage option under $50 will appreciate the Modoker Convertible Garment Bag with Shoulder Strap. It functions as a hanging garment bag (which can house a full suit) and also rolls into a carry-on sized duffel. “It also has a convenient section for shoes, a small pocket for your passport, keys, etc, and a large interior that can fit the rest of your travel items,” shares Shannon Hara, the founder of Traveling Teacher Girl .

• Dimensions: 11 inches x 22.8 inches x 11 inches
• Weight: 2.5 pounds
• Price on publish: $43.99
• Budget-friendly
• Multifunctional
• Ultra lightweight
• Can slide over suitcase handle
• Not suitable for longer trips

Convertible Garment Bag with Shoulder Strap, Modoker Carry on Garment Duffel Bag for Men Women - 2 in 1 Hanging Suitcase Suit Travel Bags (Grey)

Most stylish lightweight luggage: july carry on.

Those in the market for peppy, colored luggage will enjoy July’s Carry On, which is available in a wide range of on-trend hues. Jessica Kameko Rooks, the founder of Travel With Meko , most appreciates the suitcase’s 360-degree silent wheel spinners, durable hard eggshell exterior, portable rechargeable battery, and lifetime warranty guarantee. “I’ve encountered numerous instances of luggage damage when checking in bags during my travels, and what sets July apart is its commitment to replacing damaged luggage every time, effectively making it a one-time payment for a lifetime of use,” Rooks shares.

• Price on publish: $44
• Many color options

July Carry On

Best lightweight underseat luggage: london fog under the seat bag.

Those looking to travel with just carry-on luggage —but without sacrificing packing space—should consider London Fog’s Under the Seat Bag. Olga Maria Czarkowski, founder of Dreams in Heels and Latinas Who Travel uses the bag to store a couple of full outfits, shoes (which she places within a zip-open shoe compartment), accessories, and her 15-inch laptop. “The zippered exterior pocket is perfect for quick-access essentials like your passport, boarding passes, and chargers, while the interior mesh zip pockets allow organization of toiletries, tech accessories, and other small items,” Czarkowski adds. “The best part is that since it fits under the seat, I can still take my carry-on bag on board!”

• Dimensions: 15 inches x 13 inches x 8 inches
• Material: Fabric
• Weight: 5.5 pounds
• Price on publish: $125.14
• Fits underseat
• Interior zippered divider
• Large range in pricing among various color options

London Fog Brentwood II 15" 2-Wheel Under The Seat Bag, Cappuccino, Carry Inch

Best lightweight duffel bag: nomatic 40l travel bag.

Sometimes traveling with wheeled luggage is less than ideal, and in such instances, Miller relies on her Nomatic 40L Travel Bag. She uses the pockets and compartments in the carry-on safe bag to house shoes, passports, a water bottle, and tech gear. The bag is also easy to use while sightseeing, given that it converts from a duffel to a backpack. Miller enthuses that, “Its innovation and versatility is second to none!”

• Dimensions: 21 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches
• Material: Polyester and nylon
• Weight: 3.42 pounds
• Price on publish: $290
• Includes laundry bag
• Multiple interior compartments
• Utilitarian looking versus on-trend
• Only one color option

Nomatic 40L Travel Bag

Best lightweight backpack: 55l osprey fairview travel pack.

Alexa West swears by the following motto: “The fewer things you travel with, the more free you are to explore! If you can’t carry it, it shouldn’t be coming with you.” For this reason, West almost always travels with a backpack instead of a traditional suitcase, and shares that she can comfortably pack three months of travel gear into her 55L Osprey Fairview Travel Pack, our pick for the best travel backpack for women . “The weight is perfectly distributed, making it easy to chase after trains and taxis without struggling,” West says. “If you’re traveling to beach destinations or moving from city to city, a backpack is the most convenient way to go, rather than dragging a rolling suitcase through the sand or down cobblestone streets.” West also takes advantage of the backpack’s zip-off daypack and laptop sleeve. “I use this to take my laptop to a cafe for a day of work just as often as I pack it with sunscreen and a towel for a day at the beach,” she adds.

• Dimensions: 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches
• Material: Polyester
• Weight: 4.181 pounds
• Price on publish: $220
• Includes fully detachable daypack
• Women-specific build

55L Osprey Fairview Travel Pack

How we selected the best lightweight luggage.

To select the best lightweight luggage options, we spoke with a range of travel experts, including bloggers, travel advisors, and more. These individuals each shared their honest personal feedback regarding a lightweight luggage option that they have used during their travels.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is considered lightweight luggage.

Lightweight luggage generally refers to suitcases weighing 10 pounds or less.

What brand of luggage is ultra lightweight?

The lightest weight brand of luggage experts cited above is July’s Carry On and the Modoker Convertible Garment Bag with Shoulder Strap, coming in at 2.5 pounds each.

Which is lighter, hard or soft luggage?

Soft luggage is generally lighter than hard luggage, but this all depends on a suitcase’s size, too, as larger suitcases will often weigh more regardless of material.

Is hard luggage better than soft?

Whether you select hard or soft lightweight luggage is a personal preference. Hard luggage may offer more protection, particularly if you’re packing valuable items, but soft luggage can be easier to store, and oftentimes folds up in the case of a duffel bag or backpack.

The information presented here is created independently from the TIME editorial staff. To learn more, see our About page.

10 Best Lightweight Luggage: For All Budgets

It’s not always easy to find lightweight luggage that lasts. This is why we decided to help and compile a detailed list of the lightest luggage you can buy!

This detailed review features ten amazing lightweight suitcases, all of which weigh less than 10 lbs (carry-on sizes). And some of them even weigh less than 5 lbs, which is pretty stunning for a case.

At A Glance: Top Lightweight Suitcases

• Best Lightweight Overall Delsey Helium Aero Jump To Review
• Best Lightweight Hardside Samsonite S’Cure Hardside Luggage Jump To Review
• Lightest Suitcase Travelpro Maxlite 5 Luggage Jump To Review
• Luxury Lightweight Rimowa Essential Lite Jump To Review
• Best Lightweight Softside IT Luggage Los Angeles 2 Jump To Review
• Lightest Checked Luggage IT Luggage Bossa Nova Jump To Review

So, what are you waiting for? Scroll down to see our top picks for the best lightweight luggage you can buy!

Top Product Overview

Best lightweight luggage choices, delsey helium aero.

Delsey Helium Aero is  one of my favorite carry-on suitcases of all time . It is made from  Polycarbonate , a lightweight but remarkably durable material. It is also a very flexible material, which will bend upon impact. So, say you step on the shell of your suitcase – it would bend inwards, and not break.

The Helium Aero is an amazing option for people who like to  keep their stuff organized and safe . It features  an external compartment , which is very rare on hardside suitcases. This allows you to keep certain items easily accessible, or just separate from your stuff in the main compartments.

And it does have  two spacious main compartments , with  expandable capacity . One compartment features tie-down straps, while the other has a full-panel zippered divider with a pocket. So, when I packed the Helium, I tried to put larger things under the tie downs as they secure more easily.

This lightweight luggage also has  four double spinner wheels that glide smoothly and quietly, even on some of the airport floors I have visited. The telescopic wheel handle also makes it easy to maneuver your suitcase and lets you glide through the airport crowds effortlessly. Ok, I know moving any luggage, featherlight or otherwise through the airport is never fun, but at least it does not feel like a drag.

In addition to that, the Helium Aero also features top and side grab handles, as well as a  TSA-friendly lock  that keeps all your belongings safe. And it is available in five colors, so there’s plenty of variety to choose from.

So, what’s the downside? Well, it’s the weight. At some 8 lbs, this is actually one of the heaviest suitcases featured in this review. I found it was quite heavy to lift, but overall still ok for shorter journeys.

Another thing I found challenging was to stuff this 19” carry-on with so many items that it exceeded an airline’s weight restrictions. Sure, I would say it’s bigger than most carry-ons, but unless you put bricks in it, I had no trouble lifting it.

RELATED POST:  DELSEY HELIUM AERO VS. TITANIUM

• External front compartment
• TSA friendly lock
• Expandable capacity
• Not as lightweight as we would like
• You can’t lock the external compartment

Product Information

• Overall Dimensions: 21 x 14 x 10 inches
• Weight: 8 lbs
• Materials: Polycarbonate

Samsonite S’Cure Hardside Luggage

If you’re concerned with the safety of your belongings, you will want to get  a zipperless case . And the lightest luggage option available in Samsonite S’Cure – the carry-on size of this suitcase weighs a mere 6.4 lbs, which is absolutely amazing for a zipperless hardside. Mind you, I found several suitcases with zipper closures that weigh more than this one.

It’s a mystery how Samsonite managed to make this super lightweight luggage so – top of the class. It is partly due to the materials; this luggage is made from scratch-resistant polypropylene , which is one of the lightest and most durable materials for suitcases. I also find it does not tend to mark easily, which is a bonus.

Samsonite also reduced the weight of the S’Cure by removing the lining, which is not my favorite thing in the world, but makes for a lightweight Samsonite case for sure.

I noticed that there’s nothing inside the main compartment to protect your clothes and keep them clean. But there is a divider , so there’s at least some protection for your items. And the lack of lining means that you get more packing space, so it’s not all bad. After one trip I did not notice my clothes getting dirty, but I can image a lack of lining might be an issue over time.

This is zipperless luggage, so  you can’t expand its capacity . It has three latches, one of which has a TSA-friendly combination lock – very easy to set up and use. This does mean that it’s not always going to be easy to close your suitcase – you can’t just sit on it and force the zipper to close.

Instead, you will need to pay attention to how much stuff you’re packing and try to not go overboard.

The S’Cure also comes with  four double spinner wheels  that roll silently and smoothly. It has  a retractable wheel handle  for easy maneuvering, It has  a grab handle on the side and an indent that you can grab at the bottom, so it should be easy to pick up and place in the overhead compartment.

RELATED POST:  SAMSONITE S’CURE SPINNER REVIEW

• Spinner wheels
• Not an expandable spinner
• Overall Dimensions: 19.5 x 14.5 x 7.8 inches
• Weight: 6.4 lbs
• Materials: Flowlite Polypropylene

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Luggage

The Maxlite 5 is the lightest luggage in this review. So, if that is what you are after, then go no further!

Travelpro is one of those amazing lightweight luggage brands that will rarely disappoint you. If you’re not looking for anything specific, but just a lightweight and  durable suitcase , you might as well go with one of theirs. I will cover the Maxlite 5 here, but be sure to also check out  their Crew 11 range .

The Travelpro Maxlite 5 carry-on is a  lightweight spinner suitcase . It is made from polyester, which is a very durable material. It doesn’t have the best water resistance, so I’m thrilled to see that this particular bag is  coated with DuraGuard. This increases its water resistance by miles, and it also helps with stain resistance.

Sure, I did not test it by throwing it in a river, but so far it has not gotten my gear soaked and I can imagine even light rain while the airport staff are loading it will be fine.

The Maxlite 5  collection is about half a pound lighter than the Travelpro Maxlite 4, which was already remarkably lightweight. That puts this particular carry-on luggage at 5.4 lbs, making it one of the lightest suitcases featured in this review.

This luggage is equipped with  single spinner wheels,  for easy maneuvering of your luggage. And the thing I love about it is that it features a  multi-stage telescoping handle . It means you can lock the handle in several positions, and adjust it to a height you feel comfortable with.

In addition to that, this carry-on luggage comes with  three grab handles – top, side, and bottom.  This allows you to easily grab the top and bottom handles to pick up your suitcase, and store it in the overhead compartment.

There is  a single packing compartment  in this lightweight luggage, and it is fully lined. It has  tie-down straps and a zippered pocket  in the main compartment, as well as a large zippered pocket (compatible with a suiter section) on the top cover.

And there’s also an  external compartmen t on the front of the suitcase, which is great for any items you like to have easily accessible.

You can also  expand the capacity  of the Maxlite 5 carry-on and get two extra inches of packing space. Which is great considering it is primarily lightweight luggage.

RELATED POST: TRAVELPRO MAXLITE 5 (ENTIRE COLLECTION) REVIEW

• Lightweight and durable
• Telescoping handle is height adjustable
• Only one external compartment
• Overall Dimensions: 21 x 14 x 9 inches
• Weight: 5.4 lbs
• Materials: Polyester with DuraGuard coating

Rimowa Essential Lite

Having had the pleasure to travel with the Rimowa Essential Lite , I can personally tell you that this suitcase is the lightest hardside luggage around ! In fact, I would go as far as to classify it as ultra lightweight luggage!

And on top of that, it looks as stylish as anything I have seen in dozens of airports around the world. Even at first glance, it captures attention with its high-end polycarbonate shell, which gives the suitcase not only a sleek, modern look but also unmatched durability.

Of course, the grooved design, a signature of Rimowa and a nod to classic airplane aesthetics is renowned throughout the luggage world. But Rimowa suitcases cost a pretty penny for a reason – quality, durability, top materials and attention to detail.

Traveling with the Essential Lite is a breeze. Despite its seemingly robust construction, the suitcase is exceptionally lightweight – the lightest in Rimowa’s repertoire, in fact. This allows you to pack everything you need while effortlessly maneuvering this stunning luggage through busy airports or crowded city streets.

The fun with a Rimowa suitcase does not stop there, there is also the sublime handling. The Essential Lite is equipped with Rimowa’s high-quality Multiwheel® system, a game changer in my travel experience. Each suitcase wheel is ball-bearing mounted, ensuring smooth, seamless movement even when the suitcase is at its full capacity. It’s as if your suitcase glides alongside you rather than being dragged behind. Unless you are on the cobbled streets of Paris that is!

For those who value security in their travels as I do, the Essential Lite offers peace of mind with its TSA-approved lock (which also means the TSA don’t have to break your lock to check your case).

Rimowa’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction extends to a generous 5-year guarantee, promising repair or replacement in case of any manufacturing defects. Of course, if you did not know, Rimowa is a German company, so what else would you expect from the land of BMWs and Mercedes?

If you’re a traveler seeking convenience, style, and durability all in one package, the Rimowa Essential Lite might just be your perfect travel companion. If you only want a light carry-on, then it’s one of the lightest on the market. And if you want ultra lightweight checked luggage then the Large Check In is also very light indeed!

Luxury luggage might not be for everyone, but if you ask my parents, this is the best lightweight luggage for seniors by a country mile!

• One of the lightest
• Luxury on wheels
• 5-year guarantee
• Carry On: 21.7 x 15.8 x 9.1 inches, 4.9 Lbs
• Large Check In: 30.8 x 20.5 x 10.7 inches, 8.2 lbs

American Tourister Stratum XLT

American Tourister is another company that makes great luggage. Their parent company is Samsonite, so you’re pretty much getting the same level of quality. You’re just paying less because it won’t say Samsonite on your suitcase. It still makes one of the best lightweight luggage for international travel or something at home too.

American Tourister Stratum XLT suitcase is  made from ABS plastic , which is not as durable as Polycarbonate. But it does have better scratch resistance, and I found these cases look new for longer. In addition to that, ABS plastic is very light – the carry-on Stratum XLT weighs just 6.3 lbs, while the largest case in the collection weighs 8.7 lbs.

This means when I lifted it, it was not like carrying a dead weight around, even before it was packed. Of course, once I had fully loaded it, it was still heavy enough, but why not start with a featherlight suitcase I say!

The American Tourister luggage has  two packing compartments . One compartment has elastic cross-straps and a zippered pocket, while the other features a full panel zippered divider. And the capacity is expandable, which is awesome.

You get  four single spinner wheels on the Stratum XLT, and I found they don’t glide very smoothly, which is not so surprising as they are not dual spinners.

The one important thing this case lacks is a lock. When I take my cases to be checked in I like to lock them. And having to bring your own makes life harder. So, I was not so happy leaving this one with the airport staff.

RELATED POST:  SAMSONITE VS. AMERICAN TOURISTER

• Multi-stage wheel handle
• Expandable spinner
• Exterior made from ABS
• So-so spinner wheels
• Overall Dimensions: 19.5 x 13.4 x 8.6 in
• Weight: 6.3 lbs
• Materials: ABS plastic

IT Luggage Los Angeles 2

This ultra-lightweight luggage has to be featured in our review of the best lightweight suitcases on wheels! This IT lightweight suitcase is an affordable option, which makes sense because they make the world’s lightest suitcase .

The Los Angeles 2 is a carry-on suitcase that weighs a mere 3.81 lbs , making it the lightest checked luggage featured in this review!

And that’s not the only reason why you will love this very lightweight luggage. Its main compartment is very spacious  and can fit more clothes than your average carry-on luggage. That is because this suitcase has  a very wide wheel handle, which does not protrude into the packing space at all.

The wheel handle extends a little, but not as much as traditional double-barrel wheel handles do. However, if you like that it’s wide, that it doesn’t take away from the capacity of the packing space, and that it has a soft grip, then definitely get this suitcase. The design of the handle is proprietary to IT luggage, and you won’t find it in any other luggage.

The Los Angeles 2 suitcase has a fiberglass frame, but its main body is made from two-tone fabric. Its main compartment is fully lined with polyester, and it features two tie-down straps and four slip pockets for easy organization.

Additionally, this bag also has  two external pockets . They’re great for any items you want to have handy while traveling – the top zippered pocket is the perfect size to hold your wallet, passport, and boarding pass.

Everything about this affordable lightweight luggage is amazing, except for the wheels. It features two in-line skate wheels that are smooth and silent , which means that you have to tilt the case to get them rolling. And since you can’t extend the wheel handle as much, it’s not going to be the easiest bag to maneuver.

RELATED POST:  IT LUGGAGE REVIEWS 

• Spacious main compartment
• Extremely lightweight
• Unique wheel handle design
• No spinner wheels
• Wheel handle doesn’t lock into position
• Overall Dimensions: 21.8 x 14.2 x 7.3 in
• Weight: 3.81 lbs
• Materials: Two-tone fabric and fiberglass

AmazonBasics Hardside Spinner Luggage

The AmazonBasics lightweight luggage is a great option for people who can’t afford to spend a lot of money on luggage. It’s under $50 and is probably the most affordable suitcase in this entire review. If you’re on a tight budget, definitely consider getting it.

This bag is  made from thick ABS plastic , which has great scratch resistance. However, ABS doesn’t have the best impact resistance, and the shell will break under too much pressure.

The carry-on features double spinner wheels and a telescopic wheel handle , for the effortless maneuvering of your suitcase. And there are both top and side grab handles, which allow you to easily pick up your suitcase and store it in the overhead compartment.

The  interior of this carry-on is fully lined and divided into two packing compartments . One features a full panel zippered divider, and the other one has elastic cross straps. There are  three zippered pockets total inside the suitcase, which is great for keeping smaller items safe.

Plus, you can expand the capacity of this bag by an extra 15%and get enough space for all those souvenirs you purchased on your trip.

Unfortunately, the AmazonBasics suitcase does have some downsides. It doesn’t have a lock, so if you’re ever forced to check it, there’s no guarantee your items will stay safe. The wheel handle is somewhat flimsy, and it moves around when fully extended. Plus, you can only lock it into position when fully extended, which is not going to be a comfortable height for everyone.

All things considered, I’d say that this is a very average suitcase. But, it is also the absolute best suitcase you can get for some $50!

RELATED POST:  AMAZONBASICS LUGGAGE REVIEW

• Very affordable 
• Expandable capacity 
• Smooth and silent spinner wheels
• Flimsy wheel handle
• No bottom grab handle
• Overall Dimensions: 22 x 15 x 10 in
• Weight: 7.2 lbs

Samsonite SoLyte DLX Expandable Softside

Samsonite has a lot of lightweight suitcases, but the SoLyte DLX is easily a favorite of mine for those that like to travel. It is  made from rugged polyester and has a very durable exterior.   The lightweight luggage comes with  double spinner wheels and a retractable wheel handle for effortless maneuvering.

It is available in three sizes, and not all have the same features. The two checked cases have more internal pockets but lack the luggage strap and the USB port that you get on the carry-on.

All three suitcases feature a spacious main compartment with expandable capacity.  And all of them have two zippered mesh pockets and  a Wetpak – a waterproof pocket designed to hold any wet items or toiletries. The two checked bags have two additional slip pockets.

One thing I absolutely love about this kind of luggage is that it has  Smart Fix Buckles. Their sole purpose is to keep the tie-down straps out of the way while you’re packing- a simple, but extremely helpful solution.

You also get  two external compartments. The upper one is perfect for items you want to have handy at the airport, like your passport, boarding pass, wallet, etc. And the lower compartment is pretty big (especially on the checked bags), and can easily hold any items you remember to pack last-minute.

The  smallest carry-on suitcase weighs just a little over 7 lbs , which is really lightweight. Of course, if we compare that to the weight of IT Luggage suitcases, the SoLyte appears to be heavy.

But, keep in mind that this is Samsonite – you’re getting quite a lot of features that the cheaper suitcases lack, and really top-of-the-line quality. However, you won’t get any kind of lock, which is a shame.

Check out our detailed review of Samsonite Solyte DLX here.

• Plenty of zippered pockets
• Carry on has a USB port
• Wheel handle not height adjustable
• Overall Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9.5 in
• Weight: 7.1 lbs
• Materials: Polyester

Victorinox Werks Traveler 6.0 Frequent Flyer

If you are not too concerned with suitcase prices, I highly recommend you consider getting the Victorinox Werks Traveler . Especially if you usually travel for business – it has some excellent features that will really make your life easier.

One of those is  a suiter section , which will ensure that your suits stay wrinkle-free in the suitcase. And another cool feature is the padded, 15” laptop sleeve . It also has a tablet pocket, so all your electronics can stay safe in the suitcase.

The exterior of the Frequent Flyer is made from 600D Ballistic Nylon . The material has great water resistance, and is entirely abrasion-proof, guaranteeing the safety of your belongings. And the suitcase comes with a TSA-friendly combination lock , for extra peace of mind.

This carry-on has a unique feature that the larger suitcases from this collection don’t – a USB charging port . I love tech-friendly luggage, and so far this particular lightweight luggage is looking great!

It has a spacious main compartment, with cross straps and an internal zippered pocket. The divider/suiter section features zippered pockets on each side, for easy organization of your belongings. You can also expand the capacity of the main compartment, and get a maximum of an extra 5.5”.

And, of course, this lightweight luggage comes with double spinner wheels and a telescopic wheel handle .

The handle is made from Swiss-grade aluminum, so it is very lightweight and sturdy. Plus, there are  two external compartments , perfect for any items you like to have handy during your travels.

I’d say that the only downside of this lightweight luggage is the price – it is rather expensive, but you are getting a lot of bang for your buck.

• Suiter section
• Carry on has USB port
• Weighs more than 7 lbs
• Very expensive
• Overall Dimensions: 21.7 x 14.6 x 9.8 in
• Weight: 7.19 lbs
• Materials: 600D Ballistic Nylon

IT Luggage Bossa Nova

Here’s another suitcase from the World’s Lightest collection by IT Luggage. The Bossa Nova is a27.6” suitcase that weighs a mere 4.51 lbs . And that is absolutely impressive – most carry-on luggage featured here weigh almost twice as much, and they are still considered lightweight luggage.

This lightweight checked luggage comes with four double spinner wheels , that are smooth, silent, and sturdy. There’s also  a wide wheel handle , just like on the other IT Luggage bag I showed you.

It does not protrude into the main compartment, and it feels very sturdy in your hand. The luggage also features  top and side grab handles with contoured grips.

In the interior, you get extra space since you don’t have to pack around the wheel and handle tubes. The interior of the bag features  one large zippered pocket, as well as two tie-down straps to keep your clothes in place.

The 27.6” Bossa Nova suitcase has only  one external compartment. It is rather big, and can easily fit any last-minute items you think of. The smallest suitcase in this range actually has two zippered pockets, and it would be a great carry-on – not only is it insanely light, but it also allows for easy organization.

However, the second pocket is reserved only for the carry-on; the other two larger suitcases do not have this feature. It depends on how you travel, but it should not be an issue for most people.

Other downsides of the Bossa Nova suitcase include lack of a lock and non-expandable capacity. So, if you really want one of the lightest suitcases around, you will need to compromise on these features.

• Spacious interior
• Very affordable
• Non-expandable capacity
• Very little pockets
• Overall Dimensions: 27.6 x 16.1 x 10.2 in
• Weight: 4.51 lbs
• Materials: High-tensile fabric, fiberglass frame

Lightweight Luggage Comparison Table

What to look for, hardshell or softshell.

Do you want a hardshell or a softshell case? If you’re not sure which is a better fit for you, allow me to help.

Softshell luggage is generally the lightest option , and they are great for people who like to travel organized. They feature multiple internal and external pockets and really allow for a level of organization that hard shells simply don’t.

But, they are not as sturdy or as durable. And if you’re forced to check your softshell bag eventually, there’s a good chance it might turn up on the luggage carousel looking like a pancake.

This is why  I normally recommend hardsides for air travel . If you’re ever forced to check your carry-on, you can avoid any nasty surprises.  All the hard side cases featured in this review are made from premium materials and are very durable options . They are designed for air travel and are able to withstand the tough love of baggage handlers.

If you’re not looking for luggage for air travel, then the choice is not as obvious. You should  figure out which features you’re not willing to compromise on  – spinner wheels, expandable capacity, dividers, pockets, etc . And then choose a suitcase that actually fulfills your entire checklist.

Luggage Size

Are you looking for a small carry-on or a large checked bag?  Regardless of your answer, you will find options in this review.

Every suitcase that I’ve mentioned here comes in several different sizes.  I’ve mostly talked about the carry-ons because they are the lightest options. That’s why I only listed their weights and dimensions.

But, if you want a bigger suitcase, all you have to do is click on the link below the mini-reviews. It will take you to the Amazon listing for the suitcase mentioned, where you will find all the other sizes that it comes in.

In cases where each suitcase size has its own listing, I’ve made sure to include links to all the available sizes of that luggage.

Just  pay attention to the images; not all the features of a carry-on are found on its larger counterparts.  Delsey’s Helium Aero is a great example of this – only the smallest suitcase has an external compartment. The larger options lack this feature.

Materials And Durability

The material a case is made from tells you all you need to know about its quality and durability.  Polycarbonate and nylon are the top two materials for hardshells and softshells, respectively.

This doesn’t mean that polyester suitcases are horrible – the ones I’ve shown you are actually really good and feature some additional treatment that improves the overall quality of their exterior.

In addition to that , the price is going to tell you a lot about the quality of the suitcase.  Sturdy and durable bag is usually not cheap, and cheap luggage is usually not that durable. So, try to pick the best option for your budget. If you can’t afford to spend more than $100, see what the best possible suitcase is in that price range.

I made sure to only feature suitcases that have very high ratings, so pretty much any one of these ten is going to be a safe bet. But, it’s a given that the pricey Samsonite will last you longer than that cheap brand you’ve never even heard of.

Our Top Choices

Not sure which suitcase is exactly right for you? Go with one of our top three options, and you will be pleased with your purchase!

The best lightweight luggage in the hardside category is the Samsonite S’Cure spinner – carry-on or checked .  It is a durable and sturdy suitcase, with a latch closure  that promises to keep your belongings safe at all times. Its exterior is made from  polypropylene – a lightweight but tough material.

The luggage has spinner wheels, a retractable wheel handle, multiple grab handles, and two spacious packing compartments. And it comes in six different colors, so there’s something for everyone’s taste!

If you want a softside suitcase, I have to recommend the Los Angeles collection by IT Luggage .  These are easily the absolute  lightest suitcases I managed to find, with the carry-on weighing a mere 3.81 lbs.

They feature  a wide wheel handle  that feels very sturdy in your hands, as well as  multiple external compartments . The interior of the Los Angeles suitcases is spacious, with multiple pockets for easy organization.

• Exterior Dimensions: 21.8 x 14.2 x 7.3 inches, interior Dimensions: 19.1 x 13.4 x 7.3 inches
• Features a wide soft grip non-locking handle

My overall favorite suitcase is definitely the Delsey Helium Aero .  The lightweight hardside carry-on has  an external compartment with a laptop sleeve , which is a rather unique feature. This allows you to have certain items easily accessible, which is not something you generally expect from hardsides.

It also has spinner wheels, multiple internal pockets, a TSA-friendly lock, and expendable capacity . And it is made from  polycarbonate  – the best and most durable material for luggage.

• Large easy access front compartment with an integrated padded sleeve for up to a 15.6 inch laptop and 2 zippered mesh pockets for computer accessories, toiletries, or any last minute items such as tickets, passport or books. The overall dimensions are 21 x 14 x 10 inches
• Superior Maneuverability: The double spinner wheels assure exceptional maneuverability and keep ZERO weight on your arm.

Those are the top three suitcases I recommend. But, keep in mind that every single piece of luggage featured in this review has a superb rating. Whichever suitcase you decide to get in the end, I am sure you will not be disappointed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is lighter hard or soft luggage.

Soft side luggage tends to be a tad lighter than hard side luggage. However, it depends on the specific brand and model that you buy in the end.

What is the lightest suitcase material?

Polypropolene is the lightest suitcase material currently available. Rivaling heavier materials, i is a very strong plastic polymer without the weight, making it ideal for suitcases.

What is the lightest brand suitcase?

Some of the lightest brand suitcases come from the likes of Travelpro, Samsonite, Lipault and IT Luggage. The exact model depends on your price range and need, so there is a lot of choice.

RELATED POSTS: BEST CARRY ON LUGGAGE FOR BUSINESS TRAVEL BEST CARRY ON LUGGAGE

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The Best Suitcases for Checking

By Kit Dillon

Kit Dillon is a writer focused on bags and travel gear. He has worked for Wirecutter for a decade and lost count of the number of bags he has tested.

For many travelers, the frequently discussed dream is to never check a bag. But life doesn’t always cooperate—sometimes you need a bigger suitcase.

After researching 30 pieces of checked luggage and testing eight finalists over many years, we can still say that the Travelpro Platinum Elite 25″ Expandable Spinner is the best suitcase for most travelers who plan to check a bag. The bag easily holds two weeks’ worth of clothes, and it looks and feels fantastic. And it comes with a limited lifetime warranty against airline damage.

Everything we recommend

Travelpro Platinum Elite 25″ Expandable Spinner

The best checked bag for most travelers.

This bag provides a luxury feel at a reasonable price, with a capacity, warranty, and reliability that should suit most travelers. The 25-inch model should offer plenty of room for most travelers, without going over airline weight limits.

Buying Options

Travelpro Platinum Elite 29″ Expandable Spinner

Same suitcase, but bigger.

If you need a checked bag that gives you the maximum allowable space, and you don’t mind paying an overweight-bag fee, the 29-inch model is the way to go.

Away The Medium

The best hard-sided checked suitcase.

This great-looking, relatively resilient piece of hard-sided luggage matches our hard-sided carry-on pic. It has the same top-of-the-line components—including wheels that roll as smoothly as any we’ve tested.

Away The Large

The best large hard-sided checked suitcase.

If you need to maximize your allowed space, and you aren’t worried about weight limits, this bag is, as the name implies, the largest one Away makes. Apart from its extra capacity, it’s identical to The Medium.

Upgrade pick

Briggs & Riley Baseline Medium Expandable 26″ Spinner

Hefty luggage for a heftier price.

This bag provides the most satisfying packing experience money can buy. It can fit an additional week’s worth of clothing, when compressed, in the same amount of space as the Travelpro Platinum Elite bag offers.

Briggs & Riley Baseline Extra Large Expandable 31″ Spinner

The same durable bag, but bigger.

This bag is for anyone who needs a somewhat ludicrous amount of space. Fully expanded, this bag is the biggest we’ve found. Fair warning: If you fill it full of clothes, you’re all but guaranteed to exceed airline weight limits.

Monos Hybrid Trunk

This type of luggage brings back the classic silhouette of upright steamer trunks. Due to their design, trunks are considered by some to be easier to pack and to maneuver.

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Testing takeaways

We’ve found that the stated dimensions and weights of checked suitcases tend to be more accurate than those of their carry-on counterparts.

Wheel quality can affect how well carry-ons roll, but this is less true for checked bags—their weight smooths out the ride.

Handle shape and size often dictate a carry-on’s usable space. In roomier, checked bags, however, they’re less of a factor.

We considered how well a suitcase handles when it’s fully packed, how durable its materials are, and whether it’s comfortable to use.

The Travelpro Platinum Elite 25″ Expandable Spinner is the larger, checked-luggage version of our Travelpro carry-on top pick , and everything we like about its diminutive sibling applies again here.

It’s made of a hard-wearing nylon that’s both sleek and durable. And it looks and feels like a bag that costs a lot more than it actually does.

For a checked bag, it’s also surprisingly nimble. That’s thanks to the height-adjustable handle and the magnetically locking MagnaTrac wheels, which make the bag noticeably easier to maneuver—especially when it’s loaded with 50 pounds of stuff. And this suitcase is protected by a lifetime warranty, with stated protections against airline damages.

Internally, the Platinum Elite is well organized, and it includes a built-in garment folder for formalwear, with a removable folding board (similar to the one in our upgrade pick ). If you need a little more space, consider the Travelpro Platinum Elite 29″ Expandable Spinner .

Note that with luggage this capacious, it’s easy to overpack and exceed the 50-pound (22-kilogram) weight limit imposed by most airlines. But if you’re willing to pay the fee, the Platinum Elite can easily withstand the extra weight.

For anyone who enjoys the look and simplicity of hard-sided luggage—as well as the comfort of knowing that this one is virtually impossible to overpack— The Medium suitcase from Away is an excellent choice with an excellent warranty.

Soft-sided luggage typically has a longer lifespan than hard-sided bags, typically made of ABS plastic or polycarbonate. And soft-sided luggage typically has features like exterior pockets, making organization easier. However, the differences in durability and utility between hard- and soft-sided luggage are increasingly marginal, and plenty of people prefer the aesthetic and additional color options of polycarbonate suitcases.

Away builds its luggage with high-quality components. We tested the Away bag for three years before first recommending it. This suitcase has been our pick for over six years now, and we are confident in its long-term durability and the reputation of Away’s limited lifetime warranty . Away also makes a bigger checked-luggage model, The Large . We’ve found, however, that it’s very easy to overpack suitcases of this size, even ones that are hard-sided.

If you identify as a frequent flier or a serious overpacker, or if you have a large family and are willing to invest in higher-quality luggage for traveling, we recommend the Briggs & Riley Baseline Medium Expandable 25″ Spinner .

Although the Travelpro Platinum Elite is great for the price, the Briggs & Riley Baseline bag is great, period. Every detail is made to the highest standards of any luggage maker—from the zippers to the wheels to a unique compression system (which lets you fit an additional week’s worth of clothing into the same volume as offered by the Travelpro bag).

You won’t get the unique styling that other luxury brands specialize in, but Briggs & Riley’s reputation for reliability and durability is unmatched. The bag also includes a garment folder, as the Travelpro bag does.

If things go awry, user-replaceable parts and a network of repair centers located around the world make quick fixes easy, and the reliable lifetime warranty covers repairs for any kind of damage. We’ve traveled with this durable bag for six years now on multiple national and international trips. And it’s still in great shape and a dream to pack. Also, its expanding capability has rescued us more than once when we wanted to bring something extra home.

Trunk luggage, including the Monos Hybrid Trunk , replaces the 50/50 split of a clamshell design with a deeper central compartment. It’s a small change, and it makes packing this type of case very pleasant.

However, this luggage seems best for destination travel, when you pack up once and unpack once. Living out of a trunk requires more layers of packing and unpacking. So using trunk luggage across multiple stops could seem potentially onerous, compared with using a bag that has a typical clamshell design.

Monos continues to impress us with its luggage lines and construction. But the Hybrid Trunk stands out for its reinforced aluminum frame and denser-feeling polycarbonate, and it has a lifetime warranty for any damage that renders the luggage unusable.

The research

Why you should trust us, how we picked and tested, the best checked luggage: travelpro platinum elite 25" expandable spinner, our pick for the best hard-sided luggage: away the medium suitcase, upgrade pick: briggs & riley baseline expandable spinner, the best trunk pick: monos hybrid trunk, other good suitcases for checking, the competition, what to look forward to.

I’ve been covering luggage and travel-bag design for Wirecutter for nearly a decade, and I have personally researched, tested, and compared hundreds of bags in that time. Over the years, we’ve also spoken with plenty of experts : flight attendants for major airlines; product designers and creative directors for luggage and gear companies; and travel writers. My conversations with these people have helped shape our coverage, and we owe much to their collective knowledge.

We’ve spent more than 160 hours researching luggage, continually testing to understand what makes good luggage. In the nearly eight years we’ve covered this category, the products have evolved—and so has our thinking about what kind of luggage is best for most people. Based on what’s available and what different travelers prefer, we think the following travel bags are the best checked luggage you can currently find.

There may be thousands of different types of checked luggage available for sale. Even after we excluded models that didn’t meet our basic criteria—a reliable warranty, reputable luggage reviews, and quality materials—we found hundreds of bags worth testing. And we went on to evaluate the choices between nylon and polyester, the difference in wheel-bearing designs, why alloys in telescoping handles matter, and more.

Besides the suggestions from our experts, we researched editorial and user reviews of luggage, making sure to include popular brands, such as Samsonite and Tumi, as well as more-esoteric names, like Hideo Wakamatsu. In addition to our interviews with experts, we’ve spoken with assorted salespeople, brand engineers, and media-relations folks, to make sure we found the best models from each company.

If you want a general rundown of our testing process, check out the corresponding sections from our best carry-on luggage review , since our testing of the larger bags mirrored that process. But we did uncover some differences—mostly having to do with the larger size of checked luggage—that led us to modify our analysis.

The smaller the luggage, the more intricate the design must become to accommodate travelers’ needs. While testing carry-on luggage in the past, we found that company claims of luggage weight and measurements weren’t exactly precise, with capacities exaggerated and weights minimized. Oddly, for checked bags, we didn’t find so much fudging of the numbers. Our best guess is that with the looser size and weight restrictions for checked luggage, manufacturers aren’t as motivated to manipulate their figures when advertising their larger bags.

When we tested carry-ons, we noticed the varied and individual way that each bag handled rough surfaces, depending on their wheels and build quality. With checked bags, this wasn’t a problem. When any checked bag was fully packed, the weight carried it over the roughest of surfaces, without a strong discernable difference between models.

With bags this large, the subtler points of comparison aren’t as pronounced. For instance, the handle’s size and shape can significantly change a carry-on bag’s usable space and your overall packing experience. But when space limits aren’t an issue, this doesn’t really matter. As a result, we focused on the obvious design comparisons, including how these bags handled when full, how durable their materials were, and whether the bags were comfortable to use.

For the majority of families who fly less than 25,000 miles a year together, the Travelpro Platinum Elite 25″ Expandable Spinner is the best choice for checked luggage.

It’s the bag to compare others against. The Platinum Elite suitcase is a durable, attractively styled, well-organized bag for a reasonable price. It holds a full seven days’ worth of clothes for two people, and it’s protected by a warranty that covers carrier damage, as long as you register the bag within 120 days of purchase. (The registration is a very simple process, and it can be done in 5 minutes with a smartphone: Simply take a picture of the registration code, which comes with the luggage; send that picture to a number Travelpro provides; and fill out the form in the response link .)

During a trip to New Zealand, our tester was able to pack two weeks’ worth of clothes—without a laundry stop—and several pieces of camera equipment into the Platinum Magna (the previous, largely identical model of the Platinum Elite) without issue. Like every large piece of checked luggage we tested, the Platinum Elite comes only in a four-wheel (or “spinner”) configuration. More wheels mean more bits with the potential to break (as well as some reduction of interior space), but that’s a necessary compromise for bags this size, if you want any hope of managing them in a busy airport.

It shrugs off wear and tear. The Platinum Elite’s exterior is made of ballistic nylon, which can take more overall abuse than polycarbonate and will show less wear in the long run. As we’ve said with regard to carry-ons , we don’t think polycarbonate hard-shell bags are as versatile or durable as soft-sided nylon bags. (Travelpro tests its bags by filling them with 70-pound loads and passing each handle through 7,500 automated lift tests.)

Hard-shell bags usually weigh about 4 pounds less than soft-sided equivalents. However, their increased failure rate and affinity for displaying scratches and wear aren’t worth it, unless the bag’s contents really need the extra protection from sharp jabs.

The soft fabric design allows for extra flexibility and the inclusion of exterior pockets, for quick access to small items. The Platinum Elite has two pockets: a flat one (suitable for documents and boarding passes) and an accordion-style one (which provides extra storage for miscellaneous small items; this can be a lifesaver if you’re traveling with kids and need quick access to extra-small toys, coloring books, clothes, or other supplies).

Organization makes the dream work. During her three-week trip in New Zealand, photographer Caleigh Waldman said of the earlier, nearly identical model in the Platinum line, “On this trip I never stayed in the same location for more than three days and was forced to constantly unpack, repack, and maneuver [the bag]. Usually living out of any suitcase makes me crazy, but the many zip compartments [of this bag], both inside and out, make it easy to compartmentalize your things. The pockets, zippers, and interior liner seemed sturdy, and the large pull-back cover allowed me to access everything I had in the bag with ease.”(Full disclosure: Years later we married, but I don’t think that influenced her review.)

Similar to its smaller Travelpro sibling, the Carry-On Rollaboard , this suitcase has a built-in garment folder (or “suiter”). Additionally, a 2-inch-wide expansion zipper runs along three sides of the Platinum Elite, allowing the bag to accordion-open a touch, if you need the extra space (though we found this more useful as a way to compress what you’ve already packed than as an additional-space-providing feature).

It moves through the world with ease. The Platinum Elite handles beautifully for its size. Its aluminum handle extends to three different heights (38 inches, 40 inches, and 42½ inches). Although every bag we tested for this guide had similar levels of maneuverability, the Premium Elite’s MagnaTrac wheels, which align in the same direction, rolled past the rest of the competition with ease. On smooth surfaces, like those found in airports, it felt as if the bag were almost directing itself across the floor.

During her trip, Caleigh appreciated this suitcase’s smooth rolling, even when the bag was overpacked, saying, “It was not always easy to maneuver on rough or gravelly surfaces. Overall, though, given the limitations of traveling with this much stuff, I thought [this bag] did a great job moving through a variety of environments.” And it has sealed wheel bearings; these extend the wheels’ life by preventing dirt and grime from entering and breaking down the components as quickly. That’s a feature not usually found on cheaper bags. And chances are good that if a bag isn’t clearly advertising sealed bearings, you should assume it doesn’t have them. If, for whatever reason, the wheels do break, you can easily swap them out yourself with Travelpro’s readily available replacements .

It’s light yet cavernous. The Platinum Elite weighs 9 pounds 8 ounces when empty, which is average to heavy among checked bags. That’s a workable weight, though, for the bag’s spacious, 6,982-cubic-inch interior—twice what its carry-on sibling can hold! But when you’re selecting luggage this large, weight shouldn’t be your primary concern because all of the bags we tested felt about equally heavy once fully packed. The important thing is that, in our testing, the Platinum Elite swallowed up a week’s worth of clothes for two people with no problem, with a good deal of room to spare.

Travelpro also sells a Platinum Elite model that’s 29 inches tall . It’s important to emphasize just how absurdly large this suitcase is for most people. Given its capacity of 7,710.6 cubic inches (143 liters), the challenge here is to pack without breaking airline weight limits. I suppose if you were on a (very) long cruise, a bag this size might make sense.

How the Platinum Elite has held up

After my wife’s world travels, a neighbor borrowed this bag for their children’s college travels (Hawaii to New York), making several trips over the past few years. The Platinum Elite is still going strong.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

We should note that bags of this size can hold almost too much. The Platinum Elite bag already weighs over 9 pounds. So when you pack it to its limits, it may be hard to keep it below the 50-pound weight limit of most airlines—and that means extra fees. But this is true of all checked luggage.

During her New Zealand trip, Caleigh Waldman packed the Platinum Magna 2 (29-inch model) for two weeks, with enough clothes, toiletries, and different types of shoes and activewear for the terrain. Though she didn’t fill the bag completely, she still found that her luggage came in over the 50-pound limit. “Every flight I took, I had to cough up the overweight-baggage fee, and it was a monster to carry up stairs and toss into car trunks,” she said.

We still think most travelers would be better off with one of our soft-sided picks than with a hard-sided carry-on. That’s because soft-sided luggage shows less wear and typically lasts longer than hard-sided luggage. But if you prefer the look of hard-sided luggage, or you want the security of knowing you can’t overpack your suitcase, Away’s The Medium is the one we recommend.

From wheels to warranty, it’s the best polycarbonate option. Its wheels and zipper are as well made as those of our soft-sided picks, and its polycarbonate showed fewer scratches than its hard-sided competitors. And it’s backed by a limited lifetime warranty.

It provides more than enough space. The Medium weighs 9.9 pounds and measures 26 by 18.5 by 11 inches—a fairly standard weight and size for checked luggage this size. (By comparison, the Travelpro Platinum Elite 25-inch bag weighs 9.8 pounds and measures 28 by 18.5 by 11.75 inches.) If you need extra room,  Away’s The Large offers the maximum allowed space in a piece of checked luggage. The Large weighs 11.6 pounds and measures 29 by 20.5 by 12.5 inches. But with bags this big, it’s easier to overpack and exceed airline weight limits, which is why we recommend the Away Medium for most people.

Don’t sweat the flex. The Away bag’s modern and minimalist look comes at a cost: Its polycarbonate shell is ultimately—according to every luggage designer we’ve ever interviewed—more likely to break than the nylon fabric of our other picks is to tear. Still, the shell feels similar to those of higher-end (and significantly more expensive) suitcases, such as the $1,000-plus Rimowa Essential Check-In M ; it’s strong and flexible, and the Away bag itself feels good in your hands.

Away builds its luggage with impressive components. The wheels are noticeably better than those on any of the hard-sided competitors we’ve tested. We’ve rolled these wheels across every conceivable surface, from cobblestone streets to the smoothest airport surfaces, and they were always a pleasure to use. When we first started testing The Away bag, in 2016, we found that flexibility to be a liability, especially on airport carpets. The first version of this bag that I tested tended to flex into itself and jam up its own wheels when I pushed it in front of me. But I haven’t had that issue with any of this suitcase’s latest models.

Its interior matches its minimal exterior. The Away bag’s interior is almost as bare-bones as its exterior. Unlike our other picks, this bag has no included suiter or suit folder, but you can buy one for $85 . The interior is split in half: One side closes with a zippered flap, and the other side has a built-in compression panel and straps, which work decently well.

It’s better to stick with the basics. We tested Away luggage for three years before making our recommendation. We traveled with it ourselves across the country, and we lent models of the bag to several testers and frequent travelers to see how they enjoyed using them. Away makes two similar models of checked suitcases with an expandable zipper: The Medium Flex and The Large Flex . For all intents and purposes, these are the same overall bags as the standard Medium and Large, except for the expanding center zipper and the price (they each cost $50 more). Personally, I’m not a fan of expanding zippers. They feel like potentially just one more thing to break. Also, they can increase the likelihood of exceeding the airline’s weight limit. But some people may prefer having the extra flexibility.

Like our other picks, the Away pairs with its matching carry-on : The models are virtually identical, except for their sizes. Matching your luggage sets is visually appealing. But the real value in matching your carry-on to your checked luggage is that the smaller suitcase can, when you’re back home, nest within the larger one. (This holds true for every set of luggage we’ve ever tested. Here’s why: Nesting luggage is the most economical way for luggage manufacturers to ship their wares from their factories overseas.)

The lack of a suit panel for important items, like dresses and suits, may limit this suitcase’s appeal for some travelers. With a bag that has this much space, though, there are other ways to pack fancy clothes (video) without wrinkling them.

If you fly more than 25,000 miles per year, it’s worth investing in luggage that goes beyond the minimums and somehow improves your travel experience. The Briggs & Riley Baseline Medium Expandable 25″ Spinner is that kind of bag. It costs more than twice as much as our top soft-sided pick, but after using all of these bags side by side, I’m sure there’s more than twice as much value hidden within this luggage: This is one of the best checked luggage systems we’ve found for international travel.

It has the best compression system. This suitcase’s most impressive feature is its compression system. Briggs & Riley’s proprietary compression system is superior to anything else we’ve seen—it allows you to fit an additional week’s worth of clothing into a bag with the same external dimensions as those of the Travelpro Platinum Elite suitcase. To manage it, you pull upward on two plastic handles inside the bag; this extends its depth by a full 2½ inches. Load the bag as full as you need to, and zip it closed without putting stress on the zippers. Then you simply push on the bag to compress it back down again, and a latch mechanism keeps it securely in place. Unlike cheaper zippered expansion systems, which are either fully open or closed (like the Delsey bag’s ), this one can lock in at variable degrees of expansion or compression. This suitcase is unique and satisfying to use. (If you prefer a polycarbonate shell, Briggs & Riley has designed a similar compression system around a hard-shell case, for its Sympatico Spinner line. Still, we prefer the pliability of a soft-sided shell for any compression system.)

Measuring the extra capacity of the Baseline isn’t exact. The bag’s base (that is, where the wheels are) measures an inch deeper than the top of the bag (where the handle is); this design is, I believe, to make the base of the bag heavier when fully packed. At the base, the exterior of the Baseline Medium measures 25 by 18.5 by 10 inches; expanded, it measures 25 by 18.5 by 12 inches.

It takes hits like a brick. The Baseline Medium’s exterior is wrapped in 1,680-denier ballistic nylon, which is durable and puncture resistant. (Denier is a measure of the fiber thickness in a fabric.) But even more impressive is what’s underneath the nylon. The Baseline Medium’s frame is the strongest we’ve seen among any of the soft-sided luggage we tested. This bag can take considerable pressure from any angle. Like the Travelpro Platinum Elite, the Baseline Medium has two external pockets: a small one for tickets and passports and a larger one for small items or light outerwear. Briggs & Riley also makes a 31-inch Extra Large version of this bag, with nearly 10,000 cubic inches of interior space. It’s a good bag, but we can’t see the point of something this large. As it is, you can easily exceed most airlines’ weight limits packing the Medium to capacity.

Similar to its carry-on version, the Baseline Medium’s handrail tubes are on the outside of the bag; this makes the inside back wall almost completely flat, so packing is easier because there are no crevices to work around. We liked this feature for lighter carry-on luggage, since exterior plastic handrail tubes can protect the bag when it’s going over an edge, without risking too much damage. However, that all changes when you’re bouncing a 50-pound bag over a curb; in that case, an exposed handrail system seems like an unnecessary risk, especially since there’s so much room for an internal rail system.

Trunks are a welcome new addition (reimagined from a somewhat older tradition) to checked-luggage lines. Longer than they are wide, modern travel trunks—including our pick, the Monos Hybrid Trunk —stand out against the more-common squat, square luggage of the last few decades.

It has a pleasant shape, and it’s easy to maneuver. The Monos Hybrid measures 30 by 15.7 by 14.3 inches, with a capacity of 6,735.3 cubic inches, and it weighs 13.2 pounds. Imagine something like a small steamer trunk, except without the team of stevedores to move it.

In our early testing, we’ve found that the Monos Hybrid, with its taller, narrower shape, is easier to wheel around than other checked luggage. There’s something about the four wheels’ relative proximity to one another that gives the trunk a remarkable agility across most surfaces. Its wheels make it handle more like a carry-on bag than the other checked luggage we tested.

It’s a pleasure to pack. This element is harder to explain. Packing the trunk somehow just feels more pleasant than packing other types of luggage. Maybe it’s the main compartment’s higher walls, which give a comforting feeling of placing your clothes deep within the confines of a box. Or perhaps it’s the shape’s somewhat vintage appeal, bringing up nostalgia for a type of travel you’ve never experienced except in movies. Packing clothes into the Hybrid Trunk for a long journey is like stepping back in time just for a moment.

That said, unlike the steamer trunks of yore, the modern Monos Hybrid doesn’t have a ton of extra organization. One side has a fabric cover that completely zips in the contents; the other side has a compression panel with two zippered pockets. That said, for most modern travelers using (I hope) a good set of packing cubes , these simple dividers should be plenty to keep everything in the right place.

The Hybrid Trunk does away with the standard zipper closure, opting instead for an aluminum frame that runs along the seam of the luggage, where a zipper might have been. The case has two TSA locks, which close with a satisfying latch. We’ve reviewed a few bags with latches like this, and they’re great. Our only concern is that these locks have lots of small moving components, which could be a weak point over time.

It’s made for long, tough journeys. The only trunk models we’ve seen so far are made of polycarbonate. The Monos Hybrid immediately stands out with three details: an aluminum frame around the center seam that reinforces the body of the luggage, aluminum corner guards, and a reassuringly robust polycarbonate.

The Monos Hybrid Trunk, like our other picks, is protected by a lifetime warranty.

• The one potential flaw we’ve found so far (we’ve tested trunks for only a few months) is that a trunk design may require more packing and unpacking to find what you need if you’re making lots of stops while traveling. A suitcase with a clamshell design, on the other hand, has both sides more or less open to you for easier access.
• Like the Away, the Monos Hybrid Trunk doesn’t have a dedicated suit folder or suit compartment for dresses or formal wear. Again though with this much space to pack in, there are a number of ways to protect clothes like this.

If the Monos Hybrid Trunk is unavailable: Consider Away’s The Trunk , which has a similar design (apart from having a zipper, instead of latches) for a similar price. However, though we’re generally fans of Away’s luggage, The Trunk isn’t as satisfying to use as the Monos Hybrid . The Away Trunk’s shell is flexible and its body is light, so it lacks the robust feel of the Monos Hybrid.

The Delsey Helium Aero , our previous hard-sided pick, comes in a 25-inch and a 29-inch version, so you can choose how much capacity you need. Like the Away suitcase, this bag is made of 100% polycarbonate, so it should last longer than cheaper, less-durable ABS plastic suitcases. However, Delsey’s 10-year limited warranty doesn’t match Away’s limited lifetime warranty.

Briggs & Riley makes excellent luggage, but we don’t think you need to spend this much on a hard-sided case without any extra frills, like the Briggs & Riley Torq Medium Spinner .

The Delsey Peugeot Large Trunk Spinner has a similar zipperless design as the Monos Hybrid, but the Peugeot bag lacks the corner guards and, more importantly, the lifetime warranty. Instead, the Peugeot is backed by a 10-year warranty.

Rimowa defined hard-sided luggage in the 1940s and redefined it in 2000, when it introduced polycarbonate luggage. But paying just over $1,000 for “virgin German polycarbonate” is silly. These bags, including the Rimowa Essential Check-In M , are smart-looking, though.

If you’ve ever wondered how much people pay for those handsome aluminum pieces of luggage, we’ll tell you: at least four figures. The Rimowa Classic Check-In M is twice as expensive as a ticket to Europe, yet it’s little more than a status symbol.

We also tested and dismissed Pelican and Samsonite suitcases that have since been discontinued.

We’re taking a look at the Level8 Voyageur Check-In . Its standout feature is the unusually wide handle, which seems to help its handling. The Level8 bag is less expensive than other luggage of its size and apparent quality. It’s also backed by a lifetime warranty. To make a decision, however, we do need to study the handle and the build quality a bit longer.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Meet your guide

Kit Dillon is a senior staff writer at Wirecutter. He was previously an app developer, oil derrick inspector, public-radio archivist, and sandwich shop owner. He has written for Popular Science, The Awl, and the New York Observer, among others. When called on, he can still make a mean sandwich.

Further reading

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Here are the top 100 picks that our readers loved in March, from luggage to hiking boots.

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The 11 Best Lightweight Luggage for 2024

F or those who travel regularly and want a great option to make their travels easier, the best lightweight luggage of 2024 is for you. There’s plenty of carry-on luggage out there that is lightweight, but some are not made of quality material or offer convenient features. We have a list of the top 11 best lightweight luggage that will add ease and enjoyment to your travels for 2024.

Amazon Basics 20-Inch Hardside Spinner

This reliable luggage is perfect as a carry-on for short work trips or weekend journeys. The interior has a larger area for clothing and the other side has a zippered divider that also has two zippered pockets for items you want to keep separate.

We love that this luggage can expand by 15% just in case we want to travel back with souvenirs. It also has a hard external shell made of ABS hard shell. This exterior is scratch-resistant and is also light, making this luggage easy to maneuver in the airport and easy to lift into the overhead compartment.

In terms of maneuverability, that is enhanced by the four multidirectional wheels on the bottom and telescopic handle, so you can easily walk through the airport and also grab public transportation at your destination to get to your hotel with ease.

We also like that you can get this particular type of hardside luggage in 24-inch and 28-inch as well.

Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable With Double Spinner Wheels

The Samsonite Freeform Hardside comes in three lightweight sizes: a 21” that weighs 6.5 lbs, a 24” that weighs 8.5 lbs, and a 28” that weighs 9.5 lbs. All three are lightweight and durable thanks to the strong external shell.

The case has side and top handles to make it easy to travel with no matter where you are, and the 360-degree wheels on the bottom in combination with the locking adjustable handle on the top make it easy to travel through the airport.

The inside of this luggage has cross straps to hold items in place while the other side has a zippered divider. In the middle of the interior is also a privacy pocket where you can keep smaller items that must stay separate from the rest of your luggage.

We like that this luggage comes with a TSA-approved zipper combination lock. This ensures your items are safe from theft while also making your journey through TSA easy.

Thule Subterra Backpack

For those who like to have their luggage on their back, the Thule Subterra Backpack is a great choice. This backpack is perfect for those who like to be on the move and like to travel light.

We love the packing options for this bag since it has a main compartment that opens from the top and is secured by a magnetic roll-top opening that snaps in place. Within that opening is a laptop sleeve designed to hold a 15.6” PC or 15” MacBook Pro. That laptop sleeve is padded to protect your laptop, has a closing flap, and can be accessed from the top or side.

The front pocket is perfect for other electronics and miscellaneous items like an iPad, Smartphone, external hard drive, notebook, and pens. This area also allows you to keep your cords organized. A side access pocket allows you to keep items you need quick access to while there is a small zippered side pocket for a water bottle.

We love traveling with this bag since it has a pass-through panel that you can slip onto a rolling luggage handle, and shoulder straps that don’t tug and are breathable. It also comes with a packing cube making it easy to organize your contents.

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Lightweight Carry-On Travel Tote

A different option other than a backpack or a rolling suitcase, this Travelpro Maxlite 5 Carry-On Tote only weighs 1.6lbs and comes with a shoulder strap, dual top handles, and a rear strap that attaches to your luggage so you have multiple options for travel.

We love that this is made of a stain-resistant and water-repellent durable polyester fabric so it can travel with you for hundreds of trips while maintaining its integrity.

The interior it simple but well thought out with a top entry flap for the main compartment, a long interior pocket to keep some items separate, as well as a side and front pocket on the exterior for items you want to quickly reach.

We also like Travelpro’s whole line of Maxlite products if you are looking for easy-to-carry luggage, such as the Maxlite 5 Laptop Bag , Carry-on Rolling Duffel , and the Maxlite 5 22” Rollaboard .

COOLIFE Luggage Suitcase Carry-On Spinner Trolley

For the size and weight, this carry-on suitcase from COOLIFE is impressive. The exterior is a lightweight and durable ABS+PC material that protects against scratches thanks to a textured finish. It is easily maneuverable with dual spinner wheels at the base and a durable telescopic handle.

The interior of the case features two zippered pockets on one side and cross straps on the other side to keep items separated, and the interior is expandable. For added protection, this luggage has side bumper feet to minimize shock to items and a TSA-approved zipper lock for security.

Our favorite aspect of this piece of luggage is the front pocket, which still has a hard exterior shell but opens up to reveal space for a laptop and tablet. There is also a mesh pocket and zipper pocket as well as pockets for tickets, cards, notebooks, and other accessories. All of these items are still protected by the exterior shell and are easily accessed.

Gonex Canvas Duffel Overnight Weekender Bag

This duffel bag is durable thanks to a high-density cotton canvas that gives the classic look of an army duffel bag, and since it is made of fabric it is also light and stylish. This bag is perfect for carry-on luggage since it will fit in the overhead compartment, and it has both a shoulder strap and dual handles on top.

We love the amount of compartments this bag has since it gives you multiple options for packing, and makes them easy to access. The main compartment is accessed from the top and has a zipper pocket and 2 wall pockets that you can place your phone, passport, or wallet inside to ensure they are easy to access but also protected.

There are also two large side compartments for an extra pair of shoes or easily accessed clothing, two front pockets for smaller items you may need to access on the go, as well as a back zipper pocket.

This makes for a great emergency bag or gym bag and four plastic cushions on the bottom elevate the bag to keep it from sitting on the dirty ground.

Osprey Farpoint 40L Travel Backpack

Osprey is a popular brand among backpackers and nomads, and for good reason. Their products are made to be easy to carry while also great for organizing and carrying your luggage.

This particular bag is a 40L bag, but it also comes in 55L and 70L if you plan on traveling with more. The main zippered compartment is easily accessed and has zippered mesh pockets on both the opening flap for larger items and along the side of the interior. The interior also has two webbing straps to hold clothing and gear in place while traveling.

The main compartment access also has two webbing straps where you can attach a daypack, which allows for expandable storage. A front “shove-it” pocket allows for quick access to smaller, more necessary, items.

We love that this backpack has an adjustable waist harness as well as shoulder straps that can be easily stowed away in a zippered back panel. Side handles make it so you can carry this lightweight luggage by hand as well.

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage

Another Travelpro Maxlite piece, this softside expandable luggage is made of a fabric that is finished with a Duraguard coating which makes this luggage resistant to water and stains. The interior is also lined with material that prevents moisture leaks and is made of 100% recycled material.

It’s only 5.4 lbs, which makes it easy to carry. You can travel with this luggage piece by using the four wheels on the base, which rotate 360 degrees, and using the retractable handle which is adjustable for multiple heights. You can also use the low-profile carry handles on the side or the top of the piece.

We like the expandable quality of this bag, which allows for an extra 2” of space, and the shape is tapered so that it will not tip over from the weight. The interior is a simple design with a zippered mesh pocket on the opening flap and two adjustable straps to keep in clothing articles. The front also has plenty of zippered compartments for accessible outer storage.

TUMI - Alpha 3 International Dual Access Carry-On Luggage

For a fancier luggage piece that is lightweight, stylish, and well organized you’ll want the Tumi Alpha 3 Carry-On Luggage. This piece is a durable and lightweight piece made of FXT Ballistic Nylon. We love that this fabric is abrasion-proof, which gives us confidence in the safety of our luggage no matter where we go, even if the bag has to be checked.

Dual-entry access makes it possible to get into the main compartment two different ways while there is also a suiter section, allowing you to neatly attach or remove your suit inside the luggage.

The zipper extension allows extra space when needed, but keeps it compact when you don’t need the extra storage. We also enjoy the TSA-approved lock as well as the TUMI Tracer, a number that is connected to your luggage and goes into a database so that you can get your luggage back if it is lost or stolen.

What stands out to us is the built-in USB port so that you can charge your electronics. At 13.54 lbs it is heavier than some of the other luggage pieces listed, but has so many interesting features and capacities that we had to put it on the list.

Travelpro Platinum Elite Hardside Expandable Spinner Wheel Luggage

This Hardside expandable luggage comes in a 22” and a 23” as well as this 21”, all of which are lightweight and durable thanks to the 100% polycarbonate hard shell.

This luggage is simple but has some cool features like the USB A & B ports to fast charge your electronics while on the go, and a TSA-approved zipper lock that can be unlocked with a combination or small key.

We like that the luggage has magnatrac self-aligning wheels so that it’s easy to take through the airport without it going off track. The comfort of the top retractable handle is contoured for an easy grip without the need for excessive pressure.

The interior is impressive because it has water resistant pockets so that you can place a water bottle, makeup, body wash, etc in the bag without worrying about any kind of breaks and leaks. It also has organization pockets that are perfect for paperwork, files, or important documents built into the divider panels. These panels unzipper to reveal another section to keep items separate and organized.

Delsey Paris Clavel Hardside

At only 5.3 lbs this luggage is easy to travel with, and its simple design makes it great for those that aren’t looking for something with frills. The small size of this luggage piece makes it perfect for carry-on since it can be placed in the overhead compartment with ease.

We like that the Delsey Paris Clavel Hardside won the 2020 Red Dot Design Award, meaning it’s a piece that is easy to travel with but is also stylish. There is added security with a TSA-approved combination lock that locks the zippers.

The interior is simple and spacious with a cross strap system that secures your clothing in place and a zippered mesh divider that allows you to store other items on the other side. We like that the mess divider is clear so that you can see what items are on that side.

Patrick DeMoss is a copywriter specializing in the travel & shopping niche. He has over 8 years of experience in content creation across a wide variety of niches. He can be reached at [email protected] . McClatchy’s newsrooms were not involved in the creation of this content. We may earn a commission if you make a purchase through one of our links.

©2023 Lexington Herald-Leader. Visit kentucky.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

This article may contain affiliate links that Microsoft and/or the publisher may receive a commission from if you buy a product or service through those links.

The 24 Best Travel Tote Bags for Your Next Big Trip

Whether it's your only bag or a carry-on supplement, a travel tote will take your packing game to the next level.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

T&C Tried and True

Medium metro tote deluxe.

Separate Compartment for Organization

Lo & sons catalina deluxe tote.

Luxurious Essential

Cuyana easy travel tote.

Folds Small for Easy Packing

Lululemon packable tote bag.

Classic Tote

Longchamp large le pliage tote.

Everyday to Travel Tote

Etronik travel duffel bag with usb charging port.

Minimalist and Functional

The renew transit weekender.

Bargain Bag

Bluboon travel tote bag.

Madewell The Shopper Tote

Heavy Lifter

Boat and tote.

Whatever your travel needs for the season ahead, odds are that a good tote can make your packing life more organized, and less stressful—honestly, what more could you hope for? With that in mind, we've scoured the internet for the more durable, functional travel totes for every type of traveler, from the serial overpacker to the organization fiend. Here, our favorite finds for all of your journeys.

Perpetually trying to find space in your carry-on for one last thing? Meet what one T&C editor calls, "the personal item of every overpacker's dream." Featuring five exterior pockets, plus six on the interior and an detachably pouch, it will keep all of your travel essentials organized while it's sturdy-yet-lightweight construction makes it easy to tuck in "just in case" items to your hearts desire without overwhelming your arms.

The cushy, reinforced straps are easy on the shoulders, but it also has a detachable crossbody strap and a built-in sleeve to slip over the handle of your luggage if you don't feel like toting. It also comes in four sizes (we're fond of the medium for it's ability to hold oodles of stuff while still slipping neatly beneath the seat in front of you on a plane) and a seasonally-refreshed roster of more than a dozen shades, making it as stylish as it is functional.

Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe Tote

For the "a place for everything and everything in its place" traveler, this tote has you covered with a zippered bottom pocket that's perfect for separating out toiletries or dirty shoes from the rest of your haul (an interior panel also allows you to open the bottom compartment fully, if you're craving a deeper bag.)

Available in recycled poly or sturdy canvas, at 15" x 14" x 7", it qualifies as a personal item for most airlines and has a handy luggage sleeve to pair with your suitcase. For those looking for larger options, it comes in four additional sizes as well.

Cuyana bags are a favorite of T&C editors and royals alike ( Meghan Markle is a big fan ) for their timelessly stylish silhouettes, buttery soft leather, and effortless functionality. This, their latest launch, is made specifically with travel in mind.

Crafted with lightweight, durable pebbled leather (currently available in four colorways) it offers ample interior space (a 37L volume, to be precise) plus two large pockets, a phone slip, and a key clip, as well as snaps for Cuyana devotees who want to mix in their System Flap Bag or System Zipper Pouch .

If you're more of a "shop when you get there" traveler, this bag brings the souvenir space without taking up lots of room in your primary bag. Water-repellant and roomy (it holds 32L by volume) it features rugged shoulder straps, plus an extra strap that lets it slip over the handle of roller luggage, and can fold into its own exterior pouch when not in use to make a tidy, handheld bundle.

Some things are classic for a reason. Case in point: this timeless Longchamp tote; just ask T&C 's associate shopping editor, Sophie Dweck, who's been carrying hers for over a decade . Made from sleek, easy-to-clean nylon that comes in a cornucopia of colors, it features a simple, spacious interior and strong leather straps that ensure it can stand up to anything your travels throw at it, and look good doing it.

Looking for a tote that's as useful in your day-to-day as it is when you're far away? This multi-use tote has racked up thousands of five-star reviews on Amazon for its versatility. A separate, vented shoe compartment makes it as friendly to gym sessions as beach trips, while its multiple pockets keep essentials organized. It also includes a luggage strap and a USB charging port so you can plug in your tech without rummaging through your bag for your battery pack, and comes in two sizes and almost 30 shades so it will match your travel style.

One reviewer writes: "I must say, it exceeded my expectations in every way! This bag is the perfect blend of style and functionality, making it a must-have for any woman on the go."

Type-A packers, take note: this 100% recycled polyester is all about options. Its four colorways can be worn crossbody, carried in hand, or over the shoulder, and include a zippered exterior pocket, a luggage sleeve, two water bottle holders, and a padded laptop sleeve—all with Everlane's signature modern minimalist vibe.

Available in 20 colorways and textures, this canvas tote features a luggage sleeve that also doubles as a tech pouch so your gadgets will always be at the ready. The sturdy construction and bargain price tag have made it a hit with reviewers, who site its roomy 16.5" x 9" x 14" size and comfort.

One reviewer writes: "I am so happy with this purchase! Reasonable price, large main compartment, and a few zip compartments to organize smaller items. Bag fits perfectly under airline seat, even when stuffed FULL. It stayed in place when I had it on top of my roller bag, and I noticed the shape of it kept it from making everything tip forward (which happened with my previous bag)."

For a travel bag that you can use as a purse all trip, this simple Madewell leather tote brings a perfect mix of style and space (12.75" x 12.75" x 7.5".) It even comes with an interior strap that allows you to change the shape, and doubles as a keyring.

True L.L. Bean lovers know that the brand's classic Boat and Tote bag is hard to beat—after all, it's been one of their signature styles since 1944. Crafted from rugged cotton canvas, it's tested to hold up to 500 pounds, so no matter how much you manage to overpack, this bag is guaranteed to take it on. And with four sizes and two interior lengths to choose from, as well as a dozen colors, there's a perfect one for all your needs.

Caraa Studio Tote

Whether you prefer a classic tote style or a backpack, this Italian leather bag gives you the best of both worlds. Along with the usual amenities (a slew of pockets, adjustable straps) it also has a collapsible waterproof shoe pocket for those days your travel plans call for a quick change.

More: The 18 Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks for Easy, Breezy Packing

Béis The Convertible Weekend Bag

This tote brings two-for-one power with a removable bottom compartment that can be used as is, or as a separate packing cube. Easy to clean polyester and polyurethane make it a cinch to keep looking like new, with a built-in luggage sleeve and removable laptop sleeve give it plenty of function for that rush through TSA.

Tumi Voyageur Just in Case Packable Nylon Tote

Some people pack an extra suitcase when traveling abroad. We propose this packable Tumi tote instead. It folds out to an impressive 8" x 14" x 8 size when fully opened and weighs less than a pound, so you can shop to your heart's content while getting those passport stamps.

More: The 13 Best Luggage Brands for Every Type of Traveler

Carhartt Legacy Tote East/West

Built to work hard, this water-repelling polyester Carhartt bag is tough enough to handle all of your travel adventures. It includes two exterior pockets as well as an interior divider and pockets, so it's and functional on the inside as it is on the outside.

One reviewer writes: "Even better than expected! I used it as my personal item for a trip to Mexico…placed my purse, tablet, magazines, etc inside…lots of pockets! Hides dirt, wipes off easily, very well made."

Revive Nylon Large Tote

Available in five-shades, this nylon tote (made with fabric crafted from 27 recycled water bottles with recycled leather trim) has jumbo exterior slip pockets (plus three interior pockets and a keyring) and a built-in padded laptop sleeve to match its roomy interior with organization.

One reviewer writes: "Great color, roomy, lots of pockets to keep things organized and easy to locate. Perfect for work and travel. Very happy with it."

Dagne Dover Jemi Tote

Want a travel tote that makes a style statement? Bring your puffer coat style to your bag with this versatile, vegan tote made from recycled plastic water bottles. At less than a pound and half (it holds 16.2 L volume), it's super lightweight, and has two sets of comfy handles—one for hand-held use and one for shoulder use—plus a luggage sleeve, so it's great no matter your travel style.

Naghedi Jet Setter Small Tote

Fully lined, basket-woven neoprene brings beautiful texture to this travel tote, making it ideal for those situations when you have to go straight from the plane to an event. It also has a zip closure and zippered interior pocket to ensure that your stuff stays in place even on the wildest travel days.

Scout Travel Bag Large

You want all of the weight in your travel bag to be from your must-haves, not from the bag itself. This colorful version from Scout (it comes in half a dozen colors and patterns) is a featherlight 1 pound, yet can hold up to 65 pounds of your gear, and can fold flat when not in use. It also comes with a zipper pocket and reinforced bottom so everything you pack stays comfortable where you want it.

Barbour Medium Travel Explorer Leather Tote Bag

The biggest name in waxed cotton jackets brings their British heritage sensibility to travel with this luxe 100% leather tote. Measuring 17.72'' x 14.96'', it comes with sturdy top handles and an adjustable shoulder strap for comfortable carrying.

More: The 13 Best Luxury Luggage for Traveling in Style

WONHOX Large Travel Tote Bag

This waterproof travel tote features a luggage sleeve, three interior pockets, including a special compartment to separate wet and dry items (looking at you, still-damp swimsuit) and four external pockets, as well as a zip-open expansion on the bottom so your bag can be as big, or small, as you need.

One reviewer writes : "Schlepped this bag all over Europe and it holds a surprising amount of stuff! The little expander area on the bottom really helped me squeeze in a few extra souvenirs. The trolley sleeve is a MUST from now on. It hooks on to your roller suitcase so easily and is sturdy! I was throwing my baggage up on the train, in and out of taxis and through many airports easy peasy."

Lauren Hubbard is a freelance writer and Town & Country contributor who covers beauty, shopping, entertainment, travel, home decor, wine, and cocktails.

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The Best Carry-On Backpacks for Every Traveler

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Watch CBS News

The best carry-on luggage in 2024

By Leah Groth , Kaylyn McKenna

Updated on: May 1, 2024 / 1:04 PM EDT / Essentials

CBS Essentials is created independently of the CBS News editorial staff. We may receive commissions from some links to products on this page. Promotions are subject to availability and retailer terms.

Whether you travel for work or play, a great carry-on bag can be a game changer. We found the best and top-rated carry-on luggage you can buy in 2024 -- some of which are even on sale now.

Why invest in a new piece of carry-on luggage? For one, a carry-on bag may help save you money since many airlines now charge fees for checked bags. And unlike checked luggage , carry-on bags also stay with you for the whole trip. They're a good place to stow medicine, a change of clothing and other travel essentials. For shorter trips, carry-on luggage is a time-saver too -- no checked luggage means no wait at baggage claim and no lost luggage.

Some people prefer spinners over duffle bags, while others prefer hard-shell polycarbonate or aluminum suitcases to softer luggage made of fabric. More carry-on features include telescopic handles, TSA-compliant locks and padded areas for electronics. 

Keep reading to check out the CBS Essentials luggage experts' top picks for the best carry-on luggage in 2024.

The main thing to keep in mind when shopping for luggage? Size. While carry-on luggage may vary in dimensions and shape, make sure to select a bag that is no larger than 22 inches by 14 inches by 9 inches, including the handle and wheels. That's the standard carry-on size for most domestic airlines.

We selected 7 great carry-on bags that fit in the overhead bin or under your seat. All of our top picks are functional, aesthetically pleasing and complete with great features.

• Best polycarbonate carry-on : Monos Carry-On
• Best aluminum carry-on : Rimowa original Cabin carry-on

Best carry-on with a built-in charger: Away 'The Carry-On'

• Best carbon-neutral carry-on : Paravel Aviator carry-on
• Best soft-sided carry-on : Travelpro Platinum Elite
• Best budget carry-on : Samsonite Omni 
• Best compact 19-inch carry-on : Delsey Paris Chatelet

If you're looking for more options, check out our roundup of the best luggage of 2024 for all of your travel needs.

Best polycarbonate carry-on: Monos Carry-On 

The Monos Carry-On is available in a bunch of great colors and has features like an effortless, telescopic handle and lots of zippered pockets and compartments. It also has an easy-to-use lock. Monos boasts a 100-day trial period and lifetime warranty. 

Reviewers praise the suitcase for its ease of use. "This case rolls so smoothly over many surfaces. The wheels are placed perfectly to keep balance, no annoying tipping over when packed. The handle raises and lowers with little effort. Even when in the full extended position it feels sturdy, unlike some other cases I've tried."

Check out our Monos Carry-On review to see why CBS Essentials Staff Writer Kaylyn McKenna loves this carry-on.

Why we like the Monos Carry-On:

• Monos carry-ons are made with aerospace-grade, water-resistant polycarbonate hard shells for enhanced durability.
• The carry-on fits in the overhead bin on most airlines.
• The 360-degree spinner wheels provide a smooth glide.
• It's available in 12 colors. 

Best aluminum carry-on: Rimowa original Cabin carry-on

Want to travel like James Bond? Then you'll need his luggage. The sleek aluminum Rimowa Cabin carry-on suitcase features include 360-degree multiwheel spinners, TSA-approved locks and a telescopic handle that easily glides up and down.

Aside from its quality materials and construction, one of the greatest benefits of buying a piece of Rimowa luggage is peace of mind. The brand includes a lifetime guarantee on all new suitcases, covering all functional aspects (but excluding wear and tear). Rimowa also offers in-store repairs and even in-hotel repairs at participating international locations.   

Why we like the Rimowa Original Cabin carry-on:

• Its aluminum construction protects your belongings much better than soft-sided or polycarbonate luggage.
• This suitcase comes with a lifetime warranty,
• Its sleek metallic material gives this carry-on a trendy, high-end look.
• Available in four colors.

The Carry-On from Away is a lightweight polycarbonate bag that features 360-degree spinner wheels, water-resistant garment bags and two interior compartments -- one designed for shoes and toiletries and the other for clothes. If you don't like it, return it within 100 days for a full refund.

CBS Essentials' own Fox Van Allen owns a piece of  Away luggage . "This single piece of luggage has been such a travel game changer," he says. "No matter how much I stuff into this carry-on, it always rolls around the airport as if it was light as a feather. It's almost magical how easy it is to move Away luggage."

Why we love Away 'The Carry-On":

• The compression panel helps you get more clothes into this suitcase when packing.
• It comes with a lifetime warranty.

Best carbon-neutral carry-on: Paravel Aviator carry-on

Carbon-neutral, sustainable luggage brand Paravel offers some stylish luggage options. The Paravel Aviator is geared with frictionless, carbon-steel-bearing wheels with 360-degree movement and a telescopic handle for walking (or running) through the airport. Each bag is made from recycled materials and comes with vegan leather-wrapped side handles and trim.

Paravel states that this carry-on holds two to four days' worth of clothes and one to two pairs of shoes, making it ideal for long weekend trips.

"This bag fits far more inside of it than the equivalent Delsey that I replaced with the Aviator Carry-On, and I love the compression panel and the quality of the zippers." shared one reviewer.

Why we like the Paravel Aviator:

• The carry-on is carbon neutral and made with recycled materials.
• Reviewers state that it is easy to maneuver.
• It features a scuff-hiding textured finish.

Best soft-sided carry-on: Travelpro Platinum Elite

Travelpro is a leading luggage brand loved by travelers and airline crews worldwide. The brand creates ultra-durable, lightweight luggage with its patented PrecisionGlide technology for seamless mobility. The Travelpro Platinum Elite carry-on, constructed from stain-resistant fabric with stylish leather accents, offers a great value. Features include an easy expansion zipper option that provides up to 2 inches of extra packing space, an internal tie-down system and a removable, TSA-compliant wet pocket for toiletries. 

"The bag materials are thick, the sewing is on-point with no stitching problems, and of course, the magnetic wheels spin effortlessly and track straight when rolling (huge benefit over other luggage without wheel tracking)," wrote one Amazon reviewer .

"This carry-on comes with a handle at the bottom of the bag which is an extremely underrated feature that allows you to lift this bag without just wrenching it by one handle only," says a second  verified buyer on Amazon .

Why we like the Travelpro Platinum Elite:

• Travelpro offers a lifetime warranty.
• The TSA-approved lock keeps your belongings secure.
• Reviewers praise the bag's durability.

Best budget carry-on: Samsonite Omni

A popular option on Amazon, the 20-inch polycarbonate Samsonite Omni carry-on offers a ton of value. Features include TSA-approved side-mounted locks, multidirectional spinner wheels, and an interior mesh divider with cross straps.

"I've had this suitcase for 5+ years and it still feels new. The suitcase is very durable and lightweight," says  one Amazon reviewer . "I've taken it all across the world and have had no problems. The zippers and wheels are very smooth. I highly recommend this suitcase to everyone."

The bag comes with a 10-year limited warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship.

Why we like the Samsonite Omni:

• This is one of the best-selling and well-reviewed suitcases on Amazon.
• It's a premium luggage option available for just over $100.
• The Samsonite Omni comes in a wide range of color options to fit your tastes.

Best compact 19-inch carry-on: Delsey Paris Chatelet

With faux leather accents and rounded edges, the Delsey Paris Chatelet, a lightweight polycarbonate carry-on, offers plenty of space for your belongings. Enjoy multidirectional double spinner wheels, an ergonomic handle, a USB port for charging electronics and a TSA-approved recessed lock. The suitcase also comes equipped with laundry and shoe bags, plus mesh-zippered pockets.

"I can't begin to tell you how wonderful this luggage is! It glides with such ease! It's well balanced, durable, and looks incredible," says one Amazon customer.

Reviewers have also praised the Delsey Paris Chatelet's sleek design and spacious interior. Several reviewers noted that the zippered pockets made it easy to keep all of their belongings secure and well-organized while traveling. It's on the smaller side at 19 inches, but it can hold a lot according to reviewers.

Why we like the Delsey Paris Chatelet:

• The carry-on's polycarbonate shell is lightweight and resistant to cracking.
• An odor-resistant lining helps keep the suitcase from absorbing smells when traveling home with dirty clothes.
• Reviewers praise the carry-on's smooth wheels and easy maneuverability. 

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Elektrostal

Elektrostal Localisation : Country Russia , Oblast Moscow Oblast . Available Information : Geographical coordinates , Population, Area, Altitude, Weather and Hotel . Nearby cities and villages : Noginsk , Pavlovsky Posad and Staraya Kupavna .

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Elektrostal Demography

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Moscow Vnukovo Airport Transfers

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The driver was most professional and took us straight to where we wanted to go.

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You’re in Moscow to take in the sights and sounds of Russia’s capital city, but instead, you’re in the arrivals terminal struggling to organise a safe and affordable transfer to your accommodation. This would not happen with Shuttle Direct. Our reputation is built on reliability, affordability, and world-class service. Our team are here to help you start your visit on the right foot. That means a safe, comfortable, and direct transfer from the airport to your destination of choice. We have shared rides, private rides, shuttle buses, and even limited care hire options. Find the right fit for you and experience airport transfers that make travel easy. Get a quote.

Low-Cost Transfers from Moscow Airport

Are you tired of expensive and unreliable taxis? Select one of our transfer packages, and you’ll never pay more than you have to again. Our services are ultra-competitive so that you have more spending power on your trip.

Getting a quote from us is easy. Simply use our website to pick your dates, and you will be offered a wide selection of transportation services. Choose the best fit for your particular needs (and budget) and secure your booking. You could travel in comfort with our chauffeur-driven private transfer or take a shared taxi. We also provide limited vehicle hire for those who want to go it alone, as well as shuttle buses that travel along predefined routes for those who wish to save as much money to spend in Moscow as possible. Whatever transportation you choose, know that our reliability, service and affordability are never compromised. We are here to do everything we can to make your Moscow visit as smooth and hassle-free as possible. This is the Shuttle Direct difference. Book today.

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Avoid the typical headaches and hassle when you land by choosing Shuttle Direct. We’ll arrange everything so that your arrival is smooth and hassle-free. You’ll be enjoying Moscow in no time at all.

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Travel suggestions from Moscow - Vnukovo Airport (VKO)

Explore russia’s capital city.

Moscow is a vibrant mix of old and new: Mother Russia meets Modern Russia. Visitors can enjoy cultural artefacts like the treasures found in the Armoury or the varied delights of the Kremlin Museums. High-brow, low-brow, any-brow will be raised in amazement at one of the performances at the world-renowned Bolshoi Theatre. The six-tier auditorium is the perfect place to take in an evening of dance and music. To really get in touch with the modern Russia, there is a thriving nightlife that has something for everyone. On a warm summer day a trip to the city’s green lung, Gorky Park, is truly essential.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long will my driver wait for me to clear customs? Your driver will wait for you for 60 minutes after you land. If you are held up for whatever reason, your driver won’t just leave you behind. They will contact immigration, customs and the airline to find out where you could possibly be. Your driver will only leave if, after these attempts, there is no sign of your whereabouts. If your arrival is delayed, please contact your supplier on the numbers provided on your voucher. This way we can inform your driver to ensure they are there to pick you up when you finally arrive.

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ShuttleDirect Moscow - Vnukovo Airport (VKO) Reviews

Shuttle Direct booking service

étant dans une zone sans connexiion => je n'étais pas atteignable, et ne recevais pas de messagerie. Shuttle s'est aperçu du retard de l'avion, le chauffeur était présent, comme convenu. j'ai reçu un sms,, mais n'ai étè connectée que juste a la sortie de l'aèroport,.. précisions donnes sur le sms, contrôle phonique fait par la centrale avec le chauffeur (qui parlait anglais) voiture impeccable, et conduite délicate et confortable dans le traffic , donc,

Transport company service

the booking form is not clear, resulting in having to give flight details that do not exist

prompt and professional service

The driver was waiting right at the door and took us straight tot he car

Puntuación del servicio : muy facil acceso Producto : muy puntuales muy buen coche

Service-Bewertung : DANKE! Produkt : hat alles bestens geklappt - vielen Dank dafür!!!

Service-Bewertung : Ich konnte, da mein Flug ausgefallen war, ohne Umstände den Shuttle Service auf den nächsten Tag verlegen! Ich bin sehr zufrieden!! Produkt : Der Fahrer hat am Flughafen mit einem Schild mit meinem Namen auf mich gewartet. Den vorher gebuchten Kindersitz hatte er auch dabei. Bin skr zufrieden und würde hier sofort wieder buchen.

Easy website to use

Very good and pleasant driver

dificult because the round trip was nt from to the same airport.

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Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Upright 2 Wheel Carry on Luggage, Lightweight Suitcase, Men and Women, Black, Carry On 22-Inch

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Carry-on 20-Inch

Carry-on 22-Inch

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About this item.

• A half pound lighter than the Maxlite 4 version, this ultra lightweight, ultra durable 22" expandable Rollaboard suitcase maximizes your packing power and meets carry on size restrictions for most domestic airlines. Polyester fabric with stain resistant, water repellant duraguard coating and ergonomic, high tensile strength zipper pulls provide lasting durability.
• High performance ball bearing wheels and lightweight yet sturdy power scope Lite handle with stops at 38 inches and 42.5 inches reduce wobble and ensure a smooth, easy roll.
• Expands upto 2 inches to maximize packing capacity with tapered shape to prevent tipping; Features low profile top, side and bottom carry handles, 2 exterior compartments, full length interior lid pocket, side accessory pocket and adjustable hold down straps for packing convenience and flexibility.
• Case Dimensions: 21 in x 14 in x 9 in, Overall Dimensions ( includes wheels & carry handles): 23 in x 14.5 in x 9 in, Weight: 5.4 pounds
• Limited Lifetime Coverage plus trusted companion promise, which covers the cost of repair for damage from airline or other common carrier for 1 year. Applicable when purchased as new and after registration.

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This item has been tested to certify it can ship safely in its original box or bag to avoid unnecessary packaging. Since 2015, we have reduced the weight of outbound packaging per shipment by 41% on average, that’s over 2 million tons of packaging material.

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• Terms & Details: More information about this protection plan is available within the “Product guides and documents” section. Simply click “User Guide” for more info. Terms & Conditions will be available in Your Orders on Amazon. Asurion will also email your plan confirmation with Terms & Conditions to the address associated with your Amazon account within 24 hours of purchase.

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• Past and future purchases covered. 30 days after you are enrolled, all eligible past purchases (up to 1 year prior to enrollment) and future eligible purchases made on Amazon will be covered by your plan as long as you are enrolled.
• Fast, easy claims. Frustration-free claims, with most filed in minutes. We will fix it, replace it, or reimburse you with an Amazon e-gift card for the purchase price of your product (excluding tax). File at Asurion.com/amazon.
• No hidden fees. For just $16.99 a month + tax you’re covered for up to $5,000 in claims per 12-month period. *THIS PROGRAM IS MONTH-TO-MONTH AND WILL CONTINUE UNTIL CANCELED* Coverage for all products ends 30 days after the plan is canceled. Cancel any time.

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Roll onboard with lighter luggage that doesn't sacrifice durability for performance; The Maxlite 5 22" Expandable Rollaboard gives you domestic carry-on convenience in a roomy all-in-one suitcase. Packing is easy and organized with two quick-access, exterior front pockets, full-length interior lid pocket, side accessory pocket and adjustable hold-down straps. Maximize your packing power with a high-tensile-strength expandable zipper that adds up to 2" more capacity, while the 2-position adjustable PowerScope Lite handle and high-performance ball bearing wheels ensure a turbulent-free glide. This Fit to Fly carry-on rollaboard has been sizer been tested to accommodate overhead bin space on most major US airlines. Fully expanded Carry-On may not meet airline restrictions. Backed by Travelpro's Limited Lifetime Coverage plus a new and expanded "Trusted Companion Promise", which covers the cost of repair for damage from airline or other common carrier for 1 year. Also, with our new Trusted Companion Promise, we will even reimburse shipping costs when you send your bag to us for warranty repair or replacement during that 1st year.

From the manufacturer

Product details

• Is Discontinued By Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ No
• Product Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 9 x 14.5 x 23 inches; 5.4 Pounds
• Item model number ‏ : ‎ 401172201
• Department ‏ : ‎ unisex-adult
• Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ Travelpro International Inc.
• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B07BLCB6DS
• Country of Origin ‏ : ‎ China
• #39 in Carry-On Luggage

Top Brand: Travelpro

Compare with similar items, customer reviews.

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers like the size, space, and color of the suitcase. For example, they mention it fits easily in the overhead compartment, has tons of room, and has practical compartments. Some appreciate the weight, quality, and maneuverability. That said, opinions are mixed on the zipper and wheels.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers like the quality of the suitcase. For example, they mention it has a sturdy construction, is dependable, and of high quality. The stands are great for keeping the bag sturdy and stable. Some say it's good for longer trips as checked baggage and that it meets the requirements for air line travel.

"...The wheels are perfectly round and feel durable . I pulled my bag across airports, roads, crosswalks and the uneven sidewalks in NYC...." Read more

"... Tough and sturdy construction. I absolutely love this eggplant colored purple. Safe travels!" Read more

"...I prefer to pull my bag behind me, so I wanted the two wheels. It is sturdy , moves easily, the wheels and zipper work very well...." Read more

"...However, it is clearly made of flimsy materials and I won't be surprised if it doesn't last as long as the previous one, which became unusable when..." Read more

Customers like the weight of the suitcase. They say it's very lightweight, sturdy, and well made for its light weight. Customers also mention that it'll make great use of space with its expansion and is perfect for packing clothes using a packing cube.

"...Being super light unpacked , this bag really makes great use of space all without making the bag heavy when packed...." Read more

"...interior mesh on the same side as the expansion; this is perfect for packing my clothes using a packing cube (Eagle Creek) to fold dress shirts,..." Read more

"...The bag is very lightweight , 5 lbs, and easy to store overhead. I prefer to pull my bag behind me, so I wanted the two wheels...." Read more

"...Fortunately the case itself is not too heavy , so carrying it by hand through the plane was a very minor sacrifice...." Read more

Customers like the space in the suitcase. They mention that it has tons of room for a 4 or 5 day trip, has 2 nice size pockets on the outside, and the compartments are practical. The main compartment is expandable and the outside pocket holds 2 pairs of shoes. The soft exterior makes it easy to stuff some souvenirs inside.

"...Being super light unpacked, this bag really makes great use of space all without making the bag heavy when packed...." Read more

"...And it has a large interior mesh on the same side as the expansion; this is perfect for packing my clothes using a packing cube (Eagle Creek) to..." Read more

"...Thankful again for the soft exterior because it easy to stuff some souvenirs inside !" Read more

"...It has 2 nice size pockets on the outside . In the picture it looks like there is just one pocket, but there are two and both are a good size...." Read more

Customers like the size of the suitcase. For example, they mention it fits easily in the overhead compartment, is compatible with the carry-on requirements of most U.S. carriers when the 2" expansion is not used, and is small enough to be a carry- on but big enough that their hiking boots fit in the outside pocket. Some say the wheels are set into the frame so they're unlikely to catch on.

"...The matching bag fits stably over the handle , which is adjustable to a long height. I have traveled with it several times and it is a breeze...." Read more

"...Update: just used this for a weekend trip to Cancun and this case fit perfectly fine in the Spirit overhead bin...." Read more

"...it looks like there is just one pocket, but there are two and both are a good size . It seems to maneuver very easily...." Read more

"...Yes this bag is slightly larger in overall dimensions (from top of bag to bottom of wheels, it's about 23" tall) that US Domestic restrictions..." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the color of the carry-on. They mention it's well-designed, and the color is nice. Some appreciate the light-colored plaid fabric on the interior. Overall, most are happy with the quality and durability of the product.

"...STURDY WHEELS.A HANDLE THAT DOESN’T QUIT.CLEAN, PROFESSIONAL APPEARANCE ...." Read more

"Just what I needed. Looks great and light weight." Read more

" Love the green color . Hopefully will last as long as the blue one I have. Absolutely no complaints. Would highly recommend!" Read more

"...Glad I did. Love the blue color ." Read more

Customers like the maneuverability of the suitcase. They say the wheels glide smoothly, making it easy to roll around. Some customers also mention that the case is sturdy and holds up well to abuse.

"...It is sturdy, moves easily , the wheels and zipper work very well. The matching bag fits stably over the handle, which is adjustable to a long height...." Read more

"...The two wheels are very smooth , make it easy to roll..." Read more

"...for more maneuverability; the grab handle on the bottom makes it easier to move when loading into an overhead compartment; it's stable and not tippy..." Read more

"...It seems to maneuver very easily . I tried it on both a hard floor and on carpet and it moved easily...." Read more

Customers are mixed about the zipper. Some mention that it has durable stitching, good zippers, and strong handle. They also like that there is a meshed, zipped compartment on the inside lid. However, others say that it had a bad zipper after less than a year, backward zippers with the pull nowhere to be seen, and the zippers are already starting to wear after just a few trips.

"...No issues. It’s a beast.My only complaint is the lack of YYK zippers ...." Read more

"...The main compartment zippers have connecting loops so you can put a lock on your bag if you are forced to gate check...." Read more

"...The build quality of the bag from the wheels and zippers was not good and is only marginally better than the entry level box store items which are..." Read more

"...It is sturdy, moves easily, the wheels and zipper work very well . The matching bag fits stably over the handle, which is adjustable to a long height...." Read more

Customers are mixed about the wheels of the suitcase. Some mention that the wheels are great, fabulous, and big. However, others say that it only has 2 wheels and those 2 wheels are not spinner wheels.

"...very nice suitcase with good lockable zippered compartments, good rolling wheels , good handle, and light weight...very comfortable to use and..." Read more

"...This carry on has smooth wheels. It is NOT a spinner so when I put my backpack on the suitcase, it was more weight than just putting over a spinner..." Read more

"...This carry-on delivers in spades. It has the unique distinction of having only two wheels --this is what my wife wanted...." Read more

"...A bit unwieldy since the wheels are not spinners , but the spinner one of a similar size by Travelpro had some poor reviews for wheel breakage after..." Read more

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