travel light suitcases

The 8 Best Lightweight Luggage of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Bags that won't weigh you down

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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.

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

Multiple ways to carry

May become uncomfortable after extended wear

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]

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Table of Contents

Why buy lightweight luggage, things to consider with lightweight luggage, the 7 best lightweight suitcases, the 3 best lightweight backpacks, final thoughts.

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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.

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:

What Weight Is Considered “Lightweight?”

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.

Backpack vs. Suitcase — Which Is Best?

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.

Zips and Locks

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 or Soft Luggage

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.

Material and Durability

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.

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

1. An Ultra-lightweight Suitcase With Extra Storage Space

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

2. A Lightweight and Distinctive Carry-on With Wheels

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

3. Another Brilliant Buy From AmazonBasics

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

4. A Stylish Yet Practical Suitcase

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

5. One of the Lightest Suitcases Your Money Can Buy

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

6. A Lightweight Softside Case With Impressive Looks

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

7. Fun and Funky Carry-on for Travelers of All Ages

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

1. A World-class Top-selling Backpack by Osprey 

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

2. Perfect for the Really Well-organized Traveler

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

3. A Strong and Affordable Backpack With Plenty of Packing Space

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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9 Best Pieces of Lightweight Luggage, Tested & Reviewed

A great lightweight suitcase can make the whole "travel light" endeavor a little easier.

Here, we've rounded up some of the best tried-and-true luggage that is as lightweight as it gets. Not one of these bags is over 10 pounds, and the lightest is crazy light at 3.9 pounds. Obviously, the bigger the bag, the heavier it gets. So while most of these are carry-ons , their checked bag counterparts are also on board the lightweight luggage cause.

Best Investment Lightweight Luggage

Rimowa cabin.

Best Large Lightweight Luggage

Samsonite c-lite large spinner.

Best Softside Lightweight Luggage

Bric's x travel carry-on.

Whether you're prioritizing absolute weight, capacity, or smart design, one of these lightweight suitcases will improve your next trip immensely.

The love for Rimowa runs deep, and it's not just because of its status symbolism. Rimowa luggage is sleek, minimal, and virtually indestructible. Its aluminum frames are known for denting as part of the whole adventure, and part of the game that you're playing when it comes to airy aluminum luggage. But Rimowa also designed the classic Cabin bag in an even lighter polycarbonate (7 pounds, versus aluminum's 9) that's also a bit cheaper. For a lightweight suitcase that's a hefty investment, it's a Rimowa through and through.

Samsonite has been tinkering with its suitcase design for as long as it has been around, and this is a big suitcase with little weight to it. It's a nice 30.7"H x 21.5"W size but only 6.3 pounds, ensuring you can stuff it full of clothes and it won't feel any heavier than necessary. It's simple, clean, and reliable for years to come.

Bric's makes a reliable, lightweight, soft-sided carry-on for anyone who isn't into this hard-sided business. It's still water-resistant and durable, but it's naturally going to be more flexible than any hard-sided suitcase can be. It's a classic: The top unzips for access to the big inside pocket, rather than opening into two separate sides.

Briggs & Riley Global 21" 2-Wheel Carry-On Duffle

Briggs & Riley's carry-on is part duffle, part suitcase. The soft-sided top unzips to reveal a huge space for packing in the middle, and there are some smaller organizational pockets, too. Carry it by the strap on front for a duffle style, or pull it on its two wheels. For shorter trips where you spend a lot of time carrying or moving your luggage, this one makes the process smoother.

Calpak Ambeur Medium Luggage

For minimalist, medium-sized luggage, Calpak is a no-brainer. This suitcase is roomy on the inside and sturdy on the outside. It expands up to 2 inches, too, if you happen to acquire things in your travels. Nine pounds is fairly light for a medium-sized suitcase, but this one is also available in a carry-on (mini, pocket, and regular), large, and as part of a matching set.

July Carry On Light

Extraordinarily lightweight luggage is kind of travel brand July's whole schtick. And it is no joke: This carry-on weighs just 3.9 pounds (!). It has a polycarbonate shell, with a water-resistant and stain-proof nylon lining.

Tumi International Expandable 4 Wheeled Carry-On

If you're trying to get the most reliable, straightforward luggage once and call it a day for the next 10 or so years, get a Tumi. It doesn't feel quite as luxe as, say, a Rimowa, but it still feels damn good. This option is sleek, reliable, and, while pricey, won't ever break in your travels.

Quince Carry-On Hard Shell Suitcase

Now, if you're not ready for an investment suitcase and just want something that can get the job done, Quince's carry-on is a solid lightweight option. It's generally straightforward, no extra bells or whistles to speak of, and it transports your stuff as intended. Although the polycarbonate is indeed light, it (along with the zippers) can feel a bit cheap.

Monos Carry-On Plus

I've owned a lot of suitcases in my lifetime, and my Monos is my favorite. It makes me feel like I have my shit together, the way wearing a $200 outfit to the gym makes me feel like I have my shit together. Do I need to do this? No. But do I feel good with a pretty suitcase that has a few extra inches of precious shoe space? You bet.

Honorable Mentions

I know, shocking that this is an internet story on suitcases and there isn't an Away suitcase in here. It's nothing against Away—I still have a tiny carry-on I've been using for years—but it's just kind of tiring to see the same suitcase everywhere you go, and it's not noticeably lighter (or cheaper) than any of its peers.

What to Look For

For lightweight, hard-sided suitcases, polycarbonate reigns supreme on being the most effective combination of sturdy but light. It's also going to be cheaper than still lightweight (though not as light) aluminum. There are also some soft-sided suitcases made of ballistic nylon or other polyester blends that keep it light.

Of course, your smaller bags will, hopefully obviously, be lighter in weight. Make sure to look not just at the "size" (as in carry-on or medium) but the dimensions. Different brands have slightly different sizing. And if you're looking for lightness at all costs, the smaller sizes are great. But if you want a bigger size of these options, you'll be veering closer to 9, 10, and 11 pounds.

Why Trust Esquire

Our luggage knowledge spreads far and wide. Some of these bags we have been testing for years—and we do the work on them. I am, for one, am no light packer, no dainty suitcase user at all. We've worn in and worn out the best of them so you don't have to.

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Best Suitcases , Handbags , LUGGAGE

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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.

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:  

• Samsonite Cosmolite Hardside 3.7lb
• July Carryon Light Hardside 3.9lb
• IT New York Softside 4.07lb
• Antler Brixham Softside 4.19lb
• Antler Soft Stripe Softside 4.19lb
• Osprey Ozone Softside 4.48lb
• Samsonite Proxis Harside 4.6lb
• Lipault Original Softside 4.8lb
• July Carry On Light Expandable 4.9lb

IT Census Softside Luggage 5.29lb

• Osprey Farpoint Luggage 5.29lb
• Delsey Clavel Hardside 5.3lb
• Samsonite Ecodiver Softside 5.3lb
• Travelpro Maxlite Softside 5.4lb
• IT Duo-Tone Softside 5.4lb

Below you’ll find a full list of the best lightweight luggage for international travel (and domestic) with wheels, including details about each style and why they’re worth bringing on your next trip!

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?

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 !

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:

Samsonite Cosmolite Suitcase

Samsonite Lightweight Luggage 3.7lb

The Samsonite Cosmolite suitcase is all about ease of use, with an impressive 3.7 lb/1.7 kg weight, smooth wheels, and a mono-tube handle that’s comfortable to grip. Despite the elegant silhouette, this suitcase is designed to resist impact and hold up beautifully throughout years and years of travel. 

If you prefer a dual handle for ease of use with a personal item with a trolley sleev e, the Samsonite C-lite version features a dual handle plus 8 wheels and is still incredibly lightweight at 4.5lb. 

DETAILS: 3.7 lb | 21.7 x 15.7 x 7.9 in | Hardside | 4 Spinner Wheels | Limited Lifetime Warranty

Where to buy: Samsonite

July Carry On Light

July Ultra Lightweight Carry-On Luggage 3.9lb

July is quite possibly the best brand for lightweight hardside luggage! The Carry On Light 21” is made of vegan-friendly materials, has a strong German polycarbonate shell, and the 32L capacity allows you to maximize space so you don’t waste it on the suitcase.

The luggage features an ultra-light shell with  360° double spinner wheels, sturdy YKK zippers, and an integrated TSA lock. Its many features make it a reader favorite!  

DETAILS: 3.9 lb | 21.25 x 14.17 × 7.5 in | Hardside | 4 Spinner Wheels | Lifetime Warranty

Where to buy: July

it luggage New York

IT World’s Lightest New York  Softside Luggage 4.07lb

From the World’s Lightest collection, this IT 22” carryon lives up to the name with a lightweight fiberglass frame and abrasion-resistant fabric that is built to last. Users highlight its excellent maneuverability. Another feature is the unique wide handle that gives you total control. 

DETAILS: 4.07 lb | 22 x 14 x 9 in | Softside | 4 Double Spinner Wheels | 10 Year Warranty

Where to buy: Walmart | Amazon

Antler Brixham Carry-On Suitcase

Antler Carry On Luggage 4.19lb

Perfect for travelers who like to pack as much as possible, Antler Brixham 22” is designed to be spacious. The sleek, minimalist design features protective corner guards, zippered pockets, interior compression, smooth spinner wheels, TSA locks, and highly durable fabric. Fans of the brand also highlight the amazing lifetime warranty! 

Details: 4.19 lb | 21.65 x 13.78 x 7.87 in | Softside | 4 Spinner Wheels | Lifetime Warranty

Where to buy: Antler

Antler Soft Stripe Carry-On

Antler Soft Stripe Carry On Luggage 4.19lb

Designed for a smooth and hassle-free trip, this Antler Soft Stripe 22” Carryon satisfies international airline requirements and is effortless to roll around. Despite its compact dimensions, this bag’s deep packing compartments and spacious internal pockets allow you to pack a great amount inside. It also has a stylish and modern look! 

Details: 4.19 lb | 13.8 x 21.7 x 8.3 in | Softside | 4 Spinner Wheels | Lifetime Warranty

Osprey Ozone 2-Wheel Carry-On

Osprey Lightweight Carry On Luggage With Wheels 4.48lb

I’m a big fan of Osprey and have used their luggage for many years. Ever since I had to stop traveling with the Farpoint, which was backpacking perfection, the Ozone Wheeled 21.5” Carryon has become my new favorite. 

It opens like a suitcase, has several zippered compartments for organization, and has a 16” laptop sleeve. It’s also made from recycled, durable nylon. Their new design is the perfect travel buddy for any kind of adventure!

Details: 4.48lb | 22 x 15 x 9 in | Softside | 2 Oversized Wheels | Lifetime warranty

Where to buy: Amazon

Samsonite Proxis Global Carryon

Samsonite Proxis Lightweight Spinner Luggage 4.6lb

Modern in both look and design, this Samsonite Proxis Global Carryon offers lightweight strength and dual-spinner wheels to lessen your load. It’s full of practical features, including a USB charging port, interior dividers and pockets, and an ergonomic handle. Users rave about the multi-layered exterior that easily survives rough handling. 

Details: 4.6 lb | 22 x 14 x 9 in | Hardside | Expandable | 4 spinner wheels | Limited 10 Year Warranty

Lipault Plume Cabin Suitcase

Lipault Lightweight Carry-On Luggage 4.8lb

Sometimes you want simple, lightweight travel luggage without any fancy bells or whistles, and that’s when I recommend Lipault . This spinner suitcase is basic but in a good way. Despite being 21”, it offers amazing capacity, so you can easily fit a week’s worth of outfits. The top carry handle allows you to lift the suitcase, making it easy to travel even in the most crowded of airports and train stations.

Details: 4.8 lb | 21.6 x 13.8 x 8.3 in | Softside | 4 wheels | 3 Year Warranty

Where to buy: Selfridges

July Carry On Light Expandable

July Carry On Light Expandable Luggage 4.9lb

The July Carry On Expandable Light Luggage has the same awesome features as the Carry On Light listed above, from the Aerospace-grade polycarbonate shell to the smooth spinner wheels to the sleek look. But this version gives you the option of more packing room, with expansion zippers that add 5L of space to the interior. While this version is slightly heavier, safely storing your precious souvenirs on the journey home will be worth it! 

Details: 4.9 lb | 21.25 x 14.17 x 8.66 in | Hardside | Expandable | 4 Spinner Wheels | Lifetime Warranty

it luggage Census Carry-On

The IT Census Suitcase combines good looks with practical construction. The outer material is flexible and resilient, embossed with an attractive ribbed design that adds a protective element. The double-spinner wheels and compact dimensions make it a joy to zip around with, too! 

The Census carry-on can be used as hand luggage on most major airlines* and is also ideal for business trips or quick weekend getaways. 

Details: 5.29 lb | 21.7 x 14 x 8.5 in | Softside | 4 Double Spinner Wheels | 10 Year Warranty

Osprey Farpoint 36L Wheeled Luggage

 Osprey Farpoint Softside Luggage 5.29lb

For certain trips where you don’t need as much capacity, the Osprey Farpoint 36L wheeled bag can still offer some amazing features including 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 well-constructed. 

They also have duffle or backpack versions that are smaller and would work for most budget airlines, but always check your airline’s baggage allowance policy before flying.

Details: 5.29 lb | 22 x 14 x 9 in | Softside | 2 Oversized Wheels | Lifetime Warranty 

Delsey Clavel 19″ Hand Luggage

Delsey Lightweight Luggage 5.3lb

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. They definitely offer the most value, and this new suitcase proves it.

By far, the most lightweight hard shell luggage from Delsey is the  Clavel Hardside Spinner . 

Details: 5.3 lb | 13.75 x 9.75 x 21.75 in | Hardside | 4 Spinner Wheels | Limited 5 Year Warranty

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

Samsonite Ecodiver Carry On

Samsonite Ecodiver Softside Luggage 5.3lb

Calling all adventure travelers! The Samsonite Ecodiver Carry On is ruggedly built yet has a sleek and sporty design. It’s made of sustainable, water-resistant coated fabrics, so anything from rain to accidental spills to dusty roads doesn’t faze this bag! 

The interior features a laptop compartment and compression straps for efficient packing, while the exterior has TSA locks and reflective details for added safety. 

Details: 5.3 lb | 21.6 x 13.8 x 9.1 in | Softside | 2 Wheels | Limited 5 Year Warranty

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Carry On Luggage

Travelpro Lightweight Luggage 5.4lb

Travelpro is a reader favorite because its suitcases are durable, easy to maneuver, and affordable. The Maxlite 5 Carryon is one of the best lightweight luggage options for anyone who wants a soft-side case. With smooth 4-wheel spinners, a stain-resistant and water-repellant Duraguard coating, and great organizational compartments, this is great for domestic flights. It’s also available in 19″ Carry on , perfect for Europe. 

Details: 5.4 lb | 21 x 14  x 9 in | Softside | Expandable | 4 Spinner Wheels | Limited Lifetime Warranty

IT Luggage Duo-Tone Carry On Spinner

IT Duo-Tone Softside Luggage 5.4lb

For a simple, budget-friendly suitcase, this IT Luggage Duo-Tone 22” has awesome organization, with two front pockets, a large interior mesh pocket, and compression straps. Users say the sturdy, balanced design and oversized spinner wheels make for an effortless ride. The two-tone design adds a fun element, too! 

Details: 5.4 lb | 21.7 x 14.2 x 8.7 in | Softside | 4 Double Spinner Wheels | 10 Year Warranty

Where to buy: Amazon  

The key to traveling light is to create an interchangeable capsule wardrobe !

Compass Rose Compression Packing Cubes: Slim Size Cubes | Medium Size Cubes

How to Organize Your Travel Clothing

Many of our readers use Compass Rose Packing Cubes to organize and compress their clothing and other items they plan to bring. These packing cubes are the only ones on the market with a number and color-coded system, so you know where you packed everything. 

And now the Compass Rose Packing Cubes are offered in two sizes: slim and medium. The slim size cubes measure 13 x 5 x 2.8, and the medium size cubes measure 2.8 x 13 x 8.5. Both fit an international carry-on suitcase. Users say the medium size is great for bulkier items!

 If you want to learn how to use packing cubes, watch the video below. 

Learn our hacks with packing cubes in this  video !

They’re truly the best packing cubes. Our readers rave about them! Buy them here!

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

Compass Rose Digital Luggage Scale

Not many people are familiar with luggage scales, but they’re incredibly helpful when you’re a frequent traveler.  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.

They’re also great to bring along so you can reweigh if you plan on packing shopping or souvenirs in your baggage before returning home.    

With a compact luggage scale in hand, you’ll never have to worry about excess baggage fees !

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

For more suitcase recommendations, please read:

• How to Choose the Right Travel Luggage
• Best Luggage Brands For Travel
• Best Lightweight Checked Luggage
• Best International Carry On Luggage
• Best Carry-on Suitcases for Traveling Europe
• Best Softside Luggage
• Best Hardside Luggage
• Best Under Seat Luggage

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

147 comments.

Thank goodness some non-spinner options here. Between watching people lose control of them in terminals and the difficulty of puting them in some overhead bins, I’m team two-wheels for life!

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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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 a former associate commerce editor at NBC Select.

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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.

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9 lightweight suitcases you'll want to take on every adventure

• 12 Jun 2024

Ready to embark on your next adventure, but the thought of hurling around a heavy suitcase makes you want to scream? You might want to consider upgrading to a  lightweight suitcase .

Whether you're a jet-setter exploring far-off destinations or a weekend getaway lover , choosing the right suitcase or luggage set can significantly impact your travels. Lightweight luggage has become a game-changer for savvy travellers, offering a blend of convenience, style and functionality.

But choosing one shouldn't just be based on weight alone — the right one needs to be durable, easy to maneuver, spacious with plenty of compartments, aesthetically pleasing and come with essential features like TSA-approved locks, interior organisers and compression panels. 

So, to help you narrow down your options, we've done the research for you and rounded up the best lightweight luggages on the market that tick all the boxes, plus some. Happy travels! 

9 best lightweight suitcases and luggage to shop in Australia 2024

These top-rated suitcases are your ticket to stress-free, stylish travel.

Checked light luggage

$325 at July

Carry more without compromising the things you need in a quality suitcase: double wheel glides, proper handles, an aerospace-grade German polycarbonate shell and water-resistant and stain-proof nylon lining. For an extra charge of $65, you have the option to personalise the luggage with up to 10 characters - in a variety of fonts and colours - to make it uniquely yours. Available in nine beautiful colours, there's a July checked light luggage to suit everyone.

Key features:

• Weighs 3.2kg
• Capacity: 75L
• Personalisation is available for an extra $65
• Available in nine colours
• Twin bar 3-stop telescopic handle
• German polycarbonate shell
• SilentMove Series 2 360° double spinner wheels
• Lifetime warranty
• 100-day returns and free shipping across Australia

Brixham large suitcase

$ 379 at Antler

Don't let the name fool you because Brixham is Antler's lightest suitcase range yet. The size clocks in at a super light 2.7kg but has a packing capacity of 122 litres, plus, plenty of internal pockets let you pack more in. Beyond its minimalist, modern aesthetic complemented by contrasting piping, are an abundance of features that'll make your travels a breeze. For starters, it has four 360-degree double spinner wheels, cushioned handles on the top and side, protective corner guards, compression straps and an expander zip offering 5cm of extra depth.

• Weighs 2.7kg
• Four 360-degree double-spinner wheels
• Expander zip offering 5cm extra depth
• Cushioned handles on top and side
• Lightweight grab handle on the bottom
• Protective corner guards on two top corners
• Two internal zipped pockets
• Available in three colours — navy, grey and green

Samsonite C-Lite Spinner suitcase

$711.75 (normally $949) at THE ICONIC

If you're looking for one of the highest quality pieces of luggage that'll stand the test of time, you can't look past a European-made Samsonite. The C-Lite Spinner model weighs an impressive 2.5kg — a huge feat for a checked bag. But despite being lightweight thanks to patented Curv woven technology that's exclusive to Samsonite in the luggage industry, it's extremely sturdy and has a striking design from its wheels to its zippers. 

• Weighs 2.5kg
• Volume: 68L 
• Made with cutting-edge Curv material
• Divider pad for easy and organised packing
• Recyclex Material Technology lining
• Provides ultimate comfort with double wheels and a double tube handle
• Made in Europe
• Three-digit TSA combination lock
• Available in two colours —  Black and Midnight Blue

Coolife carry-on luggage

$139.99 at Amazon

With over 7k five-star ratings and a 4.6-star average rating, this carry-on from Coolife is one of Amazon's best-selling lightweight luggage. 

One satisfied customer commented on its 2.9kg weight, writing: "They are super sturdy, the wheels are strong and roll freely and each individual case is light enough that it doesn't cut into what you can pack."

Another five-star customer said, "These babies can hold A LOT of items! They roll SOOO smooth, they just glide next to you." 

Packed with all the bells and whistles of more premium-priced luggages on the market, you'll want to add this affordable pick to your cart, stat.

• Weighs 2.9kg
• TSA-p=apprived combination lock
• Lightweight yet extremely durable ABS material
• Multi-directional double spinner wheels
• Sturdy, ergonomic aluminium telescoping handle
• Interior mesh zip pocket
• Free delivery
• Available in a range of colours

Light Max large

$240 (was $335) at American Tourister

This Light Max luggage is designed to give you the biggest packing space at an incredibly low weight of 4kg. It's made with ultralight polypropylene technology and premium components, tested under the industry's most stringent standards. It comes with internal organisation, an expandable mid-section and smooth durable wheels so you can enjoy stress-free travel.

• Capacity/volume: 138/144L
• Expandable midsection and interior organisation
• Smooth double wheels
• Available in seven colours
• 10-year global warranty

Nere Edit 69cm suitcase

$240 at Strandbags

Designed at the check-in luggage size of 69cm, this suitcase weighing a mere 2.5kg, will easily keep your essentials safe without the extra load. Notable features of this soft-case silhouette include its eight quiet smooth gliding spinner wheels, TSA-approved lock, ergonomic trolley handle, multi-pocket internal packing system and easy-glide zipper. 

• Capacity: 70/80L
• Soft construction
• Eight spinner wheels
• Expander inside
• Built-in TSA combination lock
• Available in two colour combinations —  Charcoal/Aqua and Black/Orange
• 10-year warranty

Essential check-in medium suitcase

$1540 at Rimowa

When you think of luxury and durable pieces of luggage, there isn't a brand that stands out more than Rimowa. This model from the high-end luggage brand is the ultimate example of luggage innovation with its strong, durable, aesthetically pleasing and lightweight design. Weighing 4.1kg, this purchase is more than just its looks — it comes with TSA-approved locks, a pioneered multiwheel system, a patented dual-organisation compression interior and a telescopic handle for maximum comfort and smooth manoeuvrability. Yes, it comes at a premium price but know that when you invest in a Rimowa, you invest in the most premium travel item that will accompany you on a lifetime of journeys. 

• Weighs 4.1kg
• Capacity: 60L
• TSA-approved locks
• Patented compression system
• Pioneered multiwheel system
• Telescopic handle
• Lifetime guarantee
• Various colours and finishes available

Jett Black sage paragon carry-on small suitcase

$199 at THE ICONIC

Navigate your way around whenever and wherever with this nifty little suitcase. The perfect size for overnight stays to week-long getaways, this will quickly become one of your most loved and used travel pieces. It's fitted with quality spinner wheels for easy manoeuvrability, an internal zip divider to separate clean and dirty clothes, an integrated TSA lock and a scratch-resistant hard shell to keep all your belongings safe. Looking for a matching set? THE ICONIC stocks the same luggage in two larger sizes - a medium ($229) and large ($279) - so all your travel requirements are sorted.

• ABS hard-shell material
• Scratch-resistant texture
• Top and side carry handles
• Integrated TSA lock
• Internal zip divider to separate clean and dirty clothes
• Also available in larger sizes for the perfect matching pair

High Sierra composite 4 55cm expandable wheel bag

$275 at Strandbags

Is it a duffle for weekends away? A rolling suitcase you can wheel through airports? A backpack for long treks? Well, it's all three, thanks to the incredibly versatile design. The telescopic trolley handles hideaway, as do the padded shoulder straps in a zippered compartment, allowing you to use this bag in whatever way works best for you and your travels. It weighs only 2.3kg and comes with multiple compartments and external loops to stash and attach all your essentials. Plus, it features front and top comfort-grip handles, lockable zips and corner guards to keep everything safe and secure. 

• Weight: 2.3kg
• Capacity: 39L
• External loops and multiple compartments
• Versatile design can be worn as a holdall, luggage or backpack
• Five-year warranty

How do you choose the best lightweight luggage?

Yes, your suitcase can make or break your holiday (depending on the extent of your travels). Here's a step-by-step guide to help you make the most informed choice.

Determine your travel needs:  Consider the type and frequency of your trips. Are you a frequent flyer, a weekend traveller or someone who takes extended vacations? Your travel needs will dictate the size and features of your suitcase.

Check weight limits:  If you want to avoid baggage fees, pay attention to the weight restrictions of airlines for carry-on and checked luggage. Make sure your lightweight suitcase falls within these limits.

Consider durability:  Look for suitcases made from durable materials like polycarbonate or ABS. These materials are not only lightweight but also sturdy enough to withstand the rigours of travel.

Size and capacity:  Decide whether you need a carry-on suitcase or checked luggage. Carry-ons are more compact and suitable for short trips, while checked luggage provides more space for longer journeys. Ensure the size meets airline regulations for your intended use.

Wheels and handles:  Opt for lightweight suitcases with multi-directional spinner wheels for easy manoeuvrability, especially in crowded airports. Telescoping handles should be sturdy and comfortable to grip.

Organisation:  Look for interior compartments, pockets and straps that help keep your belongings organised and prevent items from shifting during travel.

Weight of the suitcase:  While lightweight is the goal, don't compromise on essential features or durability for the sake of shaving off a few kilos. Aim for a balance between low weight and functionality.

Style and aesthetics:  Your suitcase is a reflection of your personal style. Choose a design and colour that you find visually appealing and easy to identify among other luggage. It's even better if you have the option to personalise your luggage, as July offers .

Read reviews:  Research and read reviews from other travellers who have purchased the same suitcase. Real-world experiences can provide valuable insights into a product's pros and cons.

Consider the warranty:  Check if the manufacturer offers a warranty or satisfaction guarantee. This can provide peace of mind in case of any issues.

Budget:  Set a budget that aligns with your requirements and stick to it. There are lightweight suitcases available in various price ranges, so you're likely to find one that suits your needs.

What is considered a lightweight luggage?

A lightweight carry-on luggage can range anywhere between 2.5kg to 4kg. If you're after some even lighter, opt for an alternative option like a duffel or backpack, which can weigh as little as a kilo when empty.

For checked baggage, a lightweight luggage can weigh closer to 8kg. 

Is lightweight luggage durable?

Just because it's lightweight, doesn't mean durability should be compromised. In fact, any of the pieces of luggage in our roundup are made from quality tough materials that have been tested to stand the test of time.

While hard luggage made from polycarbonate, ABS and polypropylene will undoubtedly protect your items, soft side luggage can be just as protective (plus, many are designed with padded fronts to further protect your goods). It really comes down to your personal preference. 

Looking to save money on your next holiday? Check out our coupon codes for Luxury Escapes , Booking.com , Europcar and more.

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11 Best Luggage Pieces for International Travel, Tested by Experts

These are the top-tested soft and hardside carry-ons, checked bags, duffels and more to take on your next adventure abroad.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Best Overall

Samsonite freeform hardside expandable spinner.

Amazon Basics 20-Inch Hardside Spinner

Best Carry-On

Away the carry-on.

As you start planning your next trip abroad, looking into hotels, flights and tourist attractions, don't forget that the key to a smooth travel experience is a great piece of luggage. When you're traveling internationally, it's especially important to bring a suitcase that complies with airline restrictions, is comfortable to carry or roll throughout your journey and has plenty of room for all of your belongings and your souvenirs for the trip home.

This top-performing suitcase from our best overall luggage brand Samsonite has repeatedly stood out in the Textiles Lab's and our consumers' tests and is priced under $200 — an incredible value. The hardside carry-on is made of polypropylene and weighs in at just 6.5 pounds, which is one of the lightest bags we've tested, so it won't eat too much into the lower weight restrictions set by many international airlines.

I was impressed by how easy it was to lift and roll the bag around, even when filled with our standard packing load. Despite the lightweight design, this carry-on is spacious with a butterfly-opening, unfolding into two primary compartments for easy packing, and there's an additional one inch of expandable storage with the pull of a zipper.

During our Lab evaluations, we liked how easy it was to pull the bag through our luggage obstacle course. While some testers said the telescopic handle felt a bit loose, the suitcase earned high scores for maneuverability, with testers sharing feedback including "very smooth rolling" and "the wheels moved really well." The material was more prone to scratching than some others we evaluated, but the suitcase proved to be durable overall in our drop tests, resisting major damage.

Listed dimensions: 21.25" x 15.25" x 10" | Weight: 6.5 lbs | Material: Hardside polypropylene | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

With more than 34,000 five-star ratings, t his best-selling suitcase from Amazon Basics is loved by both real users and our consumer testers who say it's worth every penny. Made of lightweight ABS plastic, the hardside suitcase isn't quite as durable as those made of polycarbonate, but the material helps to keep the cost low — under $100 — so I recommend it for someone shopping on a budget.

During our Textiles Lab evaluations for durability, there were some noticeable markings in our scratch tests, but we were impressed by how well the bag maintained its shape after being released repeatedly from our drop tester. Amazon reviewers who regularly use the suitcases say they hold up over time, as well.

When our consumer testers rolled the suitcase through our obstacle course, they were wowed by how smooth the wheels were, with one describing the bag as "very easy to move." We gave the carry-on high scores for packability, as we were able to pack our standard load of belongings (clothing, accessories and toiletries) for a short trip inside with room to spare. Plus, there are interior zippered mesh pockets for easy organization, and the bag expands up to one extra inch for additional packing space.

Listed dimensions: 22" x 14.9" x 10" | Weight: 7.3 lbs | Material: Hardside ABS plastic | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

One of the most popular suitcases on the market, Away's standard carry-on is definitely worth the hype . The bag is available in 11 colors, including on-trend options like green and red, along with neutral hues like gray and black.

Not only is the suitcase simple and stylish from the outside, it's also full of functional features inside to make packing for your next international trip a breeze. The bag unfolds into two separate primary compartments to fit all of your things: one fully zippered side and one with adjustable compression straps, and there are mesh pockets to stash smaller items.

Consumer testers and GH analysts alike love to travel with the Away carry-on, including one who shared, "It fit all of the clothes I needed for a long weekend. It rolled really easily and was light enough to pop in and out of the overhead bin." Testers said the telescopic handle felt flimsier than others they tried, but they were impressed with the bag overall, saying that it was easy to maneuver and roll over different types of flooring, including wood, carpet and tile. And it looked great after our drop and scratch tests, showing no major signs of damage or dents.

Listed dimensions: 9" x 13.7" x 21.7" | Weight: 8.1 lbs | Material: Hardside polycarbonate | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 100 days, unused

Briggs & Riley 31-inch Baseline Extra Large Expandable Spinner

The innovative design details of this softside checked bag from Briggs & Riley help to simplify packing for extended trips abroad. The bag features a unique push-button expansion system unlike any other we've evaluated , which allows you to easily expand the bag, fill it with everything you'll need and then compress it back down to its standard size.

One tester who was impressed with the amount of space in the carry-on version of the bag shared, "It fit clothing and accessories for two people for a seven-day summer vacation." And this checked bag offers more than double the packing capacity. Other innovative features include a built-in trifold garment folder for formal attire and reinforced corners for added protection.

At 15.6 pounds, the suitcase does weigh more than other models we've evaluated, but it is made with a nylon material that resisted wear and tear when I tested it in our abrasion machine. It also earned top marks in our latest round of drop testing. Along with performing well for durability, the suitcase received high scores for maneuverability, with smooth wheels and a sturdy telescopic handle.

Listed dimensions: 31" x 22" x 13.8" | Weight: 15.6 lbs | Material: Softside nylon | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

July Checked Luggage

Rolling a bag through the airport has never been easier than it is with July's classic luggage , including this spacious checked suitcase and its popular carry-on bags . One GH analyst who took the checked bag on a vacation abroad said, "I've never used a suitcase with wheels this smooth." I've personally traveled with luggage from the brand and was blown away by how effortless it was to roll the suitcases, even over carpet and concrete sidewalks.

The telescopic handle technically locks at 20 different heights to prevent it from falling down on its own, and most testers appreciated the slanted grip on the handle, sharing that it was comfortable to hold and easy to maneuver with.

Made with a polycarbonate shell, the suitcase is lightweight and durable, and the corners are reinforced with aluminum bumpers for an added level of protection. The bag held up well after being released repeatedly from our drop tester, but testers noted marks and scuffs on the surface after taking the bag on just one trip.

It boasts 80 liters of packing space and features one fully zippered compartment and one open compartment with a compression panel and Y-strap for security. Even more, it weighs just 8.3 pounds, which is similar to many of the carry-on sized bags we evaluate.

Listed dimensions: 26" x 18.75" x 11" | Weight: 8.3 lbs | Material: Hardside polycarbonate with aluminum corners | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 100 days, unused

Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside Expandable Checked Luggage

Travelpro luggage was created by a pilot who wanted to make bags specifically for other pilots and airline crewmembers who were always on the go. The result is a collection of highly durable, quality suitcases including the popular Platinum Elite medium checked suitcase.

Built to last, the luggage is made of heavyweight nylon material that performed well when I tested it for abrasion resistance. When I released the bag repeatedly from our drop tester, it showed no signs of damage or dents. Our testers also gave the suitcase high scores for ease of use and appreciated the sturdy feel of the telescopic handle. The suitcase does have a more traditional look, though, which some testers described as "old-fashioned," sharing that they wished it were sleeker.

Full of thoughtful and functional features, the suitcase makes packing and traveling a breeze. The bag can be unzipped to reveal one large packing compartment with compression panels that secure your belongings in place, a removable wet bag for toiletries, a large mesh zippered pocket in the lid for breathable storage and a built-in suiter to help keep more formal clothes in tip-top shape. To prevent the suitcase from tipping over when it's full, it's also designed with a unique tapered expansion system, so the bag is narrower at the top and broader at the bottom.

Listed dimensions: 25" x 18" x 11.25" | Weight: 9.8 lbs | Material: Softside nylon | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Delsey Paris Helium DLX Softside Expandable Luggage

While some softside luggage is bulky and pricey, this Helium DLX carry-on from Delsey is lightweight, as the name implies, and it's available for a great value. The polyester material isn't quite as durable or substantial as nylon styles we've tested, but the brand's polyester fabric has performed well overall in our abrasion tests without major wear.

Two external zippered pockets allow for easy access to travel essentials like your phone and ID, so you won't have to hold up the TSA line while scouring through your bag. While the bag unzips to expose only one main compartment for packing, it's equipped with a removable bi-fold organizer and expands by two inches for additional room. One tester said, "I love the pockets." Plus, the inner lining can be fully unzipped and removed for easy cleaning.

I personally carry luggage from Delsey and love the smooth wheels and sturdy telescopic handle, and our testers who tried Delsey's luggage found the handle to be comfortable to grip and use. However, they said the bags were more difficult to maneuver through our obstacle course than others they tested.

Listed dimensions: 12" x 17.75" x 28" | Weight: 8.4 lbs | Material: Softside polyester | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

L.L.Bean Adventure Rolling Duffle Bag, 135L

A rolling duffel like this one from L.L.Bean is ideal for longer adventures abroad or for overpackers like me. The duffel isn't as structured as standard suitcases, meaning you can compress it and slide it under your bed or in a closet if you're pressed for storage space — and on the other hand, you can really fill it to the brim when you're packing. Just be careful that you're not stuffing it too much because it can be easy to exceed an airline's weight restrictions.

One GH analyst who loves to travel with this bag said that it's one of her go-to picks for family vacations. With just two wheels, our analyst said it's a little more cumbersome to maneuver than a spinner suitcase, but you also have the option to carry the bag with the padded strap.

The bag has a wide opening for easy access to everything you need inside, and outer compression straps keep everything in place. Made of durable polyester material with a reinforced base, the duffel lasts for years and years without signs of wear, according to our analyst. Plus, it's water-resistant inside and out — perfect for inevitable leaks or wet weather. If you're looking for something smaller, the brand carries a variety of sizes to meet your travel needs.

Listed dimensions: 14" x 17.25" x 32.5" | Weight: 8.8 lbs | Material: Softside polyester | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 1 year

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack

When we evaluated this bag in the Textiles Lab, we were amazed by just how much we could fit inside during our packing tests. Not only did it beat out other travel backpacks we tested, it also outperformed some of our carry-ons because of its spacious interior .

The backpack has a suitcase-style opening and fully unzips to expose a highly organized interior jam-packed with zippered mesh pockets for all of your belongings. It also features a padded laptop sleeve that fits up to a 17-inch computer.

Made of recycled nylon and polyester, the bag is durable and water-resistant. When I tested it for abrasion resistance in the Lab, there were no visible signs of wear. Details like a sternum strap, waist belt and padded mesh provide comfort and support. With backpack straps that tuck neatly inside the back of the bag and carrying straps on all sides, you can easily grab it to lift into an overhead bin.

Some online reviewers wished it was equipped with a water bottle holder and said the zippers can be finicky, but we didn't have issues with them in the Lab.

Listed dimensions: 22" x 12" x 10" | Weight: 3.5 lbs | Material: Softside polyester and nylon | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Calpak Luka Duffel

Able to hold everything you need for a weekend getaway, this weekender from Calpak was the top performer in our Textiles Lab tests. Not only is the bag totally on-trend, thanks to the puffy padded design and fashionable color options, it's also full of functional features . One tester who used it as her personal item on a long trip said, "This bag fits everything I need and more!"

A GH analyst who used the bag added, "I appreciate the well-organized interior," which includes several zippered pockets and elastic storage. Outside, there's a separate shoe compartment, additional zippered pockets and a water bottle holder. Altogether, there are nine pockets, and the spacious bag aced our packing tests.

If you're pairing it with Calpak's popular luggage , this bag has a trolley sleeve that slides right over the telescopic handle of your suitcase. One tester noted that the stitching that secured the sleeve in place started unraveling a bit after just one use. The bag is made of a smooth polyester material that's comfortable to carry and water-resistant. A tester said, "It poured while I was traveling and everything inside this bag stayed perfectly dry."

Listed dimensions: 12" x 16" x 7" | Weight: 2 lbs | Material: Softside polyester | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler 40L Duffel Bag

This convertible duffel from Eagle Creek is the perfect adventure travel companion. The bag is durable, combining polyester and nylon for a water-resistant material that also held up well when tested for abrasion resistance . One GH analyst who travels with this duffel said that it still looks great after years of regular rough and tough use.

It's structured and maintains its shape for easy packing, but the duffel can be compressed to bring inside of your suitcase as an extra bag or for compact storage at home. According to our testers and GH analyst, the zippers have large pull tabs that are easy to use, and, according to the brand, they're covered in water-resistant strips for the ultimate protection in wet weather.

The duffel features a reinforced top handle and grab handles along the sides for carrying, and there are adjustable backpack straps for hands-free use that can be connected for an additional carrying strap or tucked inside the bag. Some online reviewers said the backpack straps are on the thinner side and weren't as comfortable as other traditional travel backpacks, but they appreciated the convenient option.

Listed dimensions: 11.5" x 23.25" x 11" | Weight: 2.5 lbs | Material: Softside polyester and nylon | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Amanda (she/her) researches and reports on products in the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab, ranging from clothing and accessories to home furnishings. She holds undergraduate degrees in apparel merchandising and product development and advertising and marketing communications, as well as a master of science degree in consumer sciences from The Ohio State University. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2022, Amanda was a lecturer for the fashion and retail studies program at Ohio State, where she taught fashion and textiles courses.

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The Best Carry-on Luggage of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

For frequent fliers or light-packing vacationers, these are the best carry-on bags.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Other Carry-ons We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure/Joy Kim

Every frequent flier needs a good carry-on. And even if you travel only occasionally, you'll be glad to have one on hand. But besides allowing you to bypass checked baggage , what makes a high-quality carry-on? If you ask us, it's about capacity, maneuverability, durability, and design.

With this in mind, we tested 436 carry-on bags, including suitcases, duffels, weekenders, backpacks, and underseat bags to see which models check all the boxes. We packed them up, spun them around, hoisted them overhead, rolled them over various surfaces, and whacked them with a baseball bat to see how they'd hold up in a real-life setting. We also built an airplane set in our New York City lab to hoist them into overhead bins before our editors bring each bag on real trips to see how they fare long-term. The results of these tests were considered — along with price, weight, dimensions, materials, and smart features — to narrow down the best carry-ons currently on the market.

Best Overall

Samsonite freeform carry-on spinner.

Earning perfect scores in all tests, this all-star carry-on has a spacious capacity, a super-durable thermoplastic shell, and smooth-rolling wheels.

There's no designated zippered section for dirty clothes.

We tried lots of excellent suitcases, but the Samsonite Freeform Hardside Spinner was a clear winner. Exceeding expectations in all our tests, it's easy to maneuver on two or four wheels and rolls smoothly on various surfaces, including carpet and hard flooring. We also like that the aluminum telescoping handle extends and locks with the push of a button. This all-star suitcase has various pockets within the main compartment, and it expands a couple of inches when you need extra space. We were able to pack enough clothes for a four-day trip, including two pairs of shoes, multiple jackets, and two toiletry bags — no expansion needed. We wish this carry-on had a zippered section or removable bag for dirty laundry, but it does have a separator to keep your shoes away from your clean clothes.

We loved the sleek, minimalist-modern design of the Freeform, which comes in 12 hues ranging from white to mint to merlot. After hitting it with a baseball bat, the polycarbonate (high-strength thermoplastic) shell remained scuff-free and showed virtually no signs of damage. Even after six months of regularly traveling with this bag, it shows no signs of wear and tear, and we were able to easily buff out any minor scuffs it had accumulated. Considering the reasonable price, durable construction, and spacious capacity, we think it's a great choice for frequent fliers and anyone in need of a high-quality carry-on.

The Details: Hardside | 21 x 15 x 10 inches | 5.6 pounds | Expandable | 4 spinner wheels | 10-year limited warranty

Travel + Leisure / Tamara Staples

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Best Overall, Runner-up

Tumi alpha international dual access carry-on.

This bag has two access points and a removable garment bag for a suit or dress.

When the front-access section is fully packed, it will eat into the space in the main compartment.

The Tumi International Dual Access carry-on was a close runner-up to the Samsonite Freeform. It moves like a dream on various types of flooring, thanks to the four smooth-gliding dual spinner wheels and comfortable telescoping handle. Even after using the bag for three months, the wheels never got caught on any surfaces, making it easy to run through the airport or navigate a new city. Made of the brand's signature ballistic nylon, it also passed our baseball bat test with flying colors.

We were able to pack everything into the bag’s various compartments and loved the flexibility of a removable suiter for trips with dressier attire. The clamshell design also features several interior pockets and compression straps on one half to easily hold our four-day-trip packing list. The front-access portion can easily fit a sweater or light layer when the main suitcase isn’t stuffed full, or you can use it for tech items or a small makeup bag instead. There are also two pockets on the exterior for smaller items like an umbrella , as well as a built-in USB port you can connect to a power bank (sold separately). Though the price is higher than many other carry-ons, this is an investment in an undoubtedly high-quality carrier that will last for years to come.

The Details: Softside | 22 x 14 x 9 inches | 10.7 pounds | 35-liter capacity | Expandable | 4 dual spinner wheels | 5-year warranty

Best Expandability

Away the carry-on flex.

This carry-on is pretty spacious to begin with, but you can unzip the expander for 2.25 inches of extra space.

It might not meet all carry-on sizing requirements when you fully expand it.

This durable carry-on manages to be compact and portable while still offering a ton of space inside thanks to two large interior compartments and a helpful compression system. You can zip your items in on one side and buckle them in on the other, using the mesh pockets to store smaller items for organization. As all overpackers know, sometimes you just need a few extra inches of space — and The Carry-on Flex features a zipper expander that adds an additional 2.25 inches if you happen to buy one souvenir too many on a trip and need to fit it all in on the way home. However, be wary of your airline’s overhead bin allowances because using the expander may make your carry-on one inch too large, and you may be forced to check it (the expanded dimensions of the bag are 22.7 x 14.7 x 9.6 inches).

Other highlights we loved during testing included the smooth wheels that can roll in any direction; the different height options of the handle; and the notch on the underside of the bag that makes it so much easier to lift out of a car trunk, into an overhead bin, or off of a luggage carousel. The bag also felt very sturdy and tough with no dents and barely a scratch after we threw it off counters and hit it repeatedly with a baseball bat during testing.  

The Details: Hardside | 21.7 x 13.7 x 9 inches | 8.15 pounds | 39.8-liter capacity (unexpanded), 46.7-liter capacity (expanded) | Expandable | 4 spinner wheels | Limited lifetime warranty

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

July Carry On Trunk

We love this trunk for how sleek and stylish it looks while still having useful features like an ejectable power bank and a customizable handle height.

You have to be more intentional about what you pack since the trunk has no expandability.

This stylish carry-on trunk features a clamshell design that opens right down the middle rather than the 30/70 design that many trunks typically have . It feels like a luxury bag thanks to the zipperless clasp closures, ejectable power bank, and multi-stop rubber handle (you can customize the handle to sit at any height you want). We found the trunk super easy to maneuver over different surfaces like carpet and concrete pavers during testing, and it rolled effortlessly on four wheels. When we rolled it on two wheels, it did slow down slightly, but it was still easy to move, and the weight felt evenly distributed through the bag and handle.

The trunk had no scuffs after we pushed it off a counter three times, though it did collect black marks during our real-world travels, but we were able to easily wipe them away without permanent damage. We did manage to give it a few very small dents after hitting the trunk with a baseball bat, but they were barely noticeable. One thing to note is that this trunk has no give because of its hard shell and clasp closures, so you cannot overstuff it, and you have to be more picky with your packing list.

The Details: Hardside | 21.5 x 14.75 x 8.75 inches | 8.4 pounds | 42-liter capacity | 4 spinner wheels | Limited lifetime warranty

Travel + Leisure/Joy Kim

• Travel + Leisure/Jhett Thompson

Best Lightweight

Delsey paris hardside expandable luggage with spinner wheels.

At just over five pounds, this hardside suitcase is lightweight and compact while still fitting an impressive amount of clothes.

It sustained minor denting during testing, and the handle is somewhat short and felt a little loose.

The carry-ons we tested ranged in weight from about 13 pounds down to 4.36 pounds. Weighing just over five pounds, the Delsey Clavel was the best lightweight options we tried . This hardside spinner has a polypropylene (thermoplastic) shell that held up pretty well during our tests, though a particularly hard bat swing did dent it slightly. After traveling with the bag for six months, it only has minor scuffs — even after it was checked. While it looks small, it holds a surprising amount of clothes, even without the expander, and should fit into an overhead bin without any issues.

This carry-on maneuvers well over cracks and bumps. However, the handle is somewhat short and feels slightly loose. Still, we think the price is fair and would recommend it to anyone in the market for lightweight, fuss-free baggage for shorter trips.

The Details: Hardside | 22 x 14 x 10 inches | 5.3 pounds | 43-liter capacity | Expandable | 4 spinner wheels | 5-year limited warranty

Best Budget

Amazon basics hardside spinner.

This wallet-friendly carry-on has a scratch-resistant shell and a surprisingly spacious capacity.

It only comes in four colors and doesn't have any smart features or a combination lock.

For something more affordable , look no further than Amazon. We found that this budget-friendly hardside suitcase maneuvers really smoothly, even on carpet and over bumps, and handles turn like a champ. Not only that, but the scratch-resistant shell held up surprisingly well through our bat and drop tests. We were able to fit four days worth of clothing, shoes, and toiletries without having to expand the bag, though we're comforted by the fact that there's room to spare. After six months of regularly using the bag, we found it to be the perfect size for weekend trips. The Amazon Basics Hardside Spinner exceeded our expectations in more ways than one. And while it only comes in four colors, we're big fans of the simple, sleek design.

The Details: Hardside | 22 x 15 x 10 inches | 6.3 pounds | Expandable | 4 spinner wheels

Travel + Leisure / Vicky Wasik

Best With Laptop Compartment

Samsonite just right carry-on spinner.

It’s packed with organization features, including a padded laptop sleeve, a wireless charging pocket, and removable packing cubes.

There was some peeling and scratching on the outer material and wheels of the bag after our durability tests.

If you tend to travel with a laptop and other devices, the Samsonite Just Right Carry-on Spinner is especially handy with a tech organizational panel that you can unzip and unfold at the front of the bag to easily store and access your valuables. This panel features a 15-inch laptop sleeve, a padded tablet sleeve, a document sleeve, a wireless charging pocket, a USB charging port, and plenty of zippered storage pockets. There are locks for both the main compartment and the laptop compartment, and the bag also comes with removable packing cubes for additional organization.

Though the suitcase felt a bit heavy after we packed it, it was very easy to maneuver, gliding through turns and different terrains beautifully. It suffered some minor marks after we threw it off counters and hit it with a baseball bat, including some peeling and scratching on the exterior and the wheels. One of the top corners was ever so slightly dented as well, but chances are you’ll stick this carry-on in the overhead bin rather than checking it so it won’t get banged around as much, especially if you have your laptop inside. All of the built-in tech compartments, elastic compression straps, and bonus packing cubes are an excellent way to keep all of your valuables in place. 

The Details: Hardside | 22 x 14 x 9.3 inches | 7.9 pounds | Expandable | 4 dual spinner wheels | Limited 10-year warranty

Best Softside

L.l.bean medium carryall pullman.

This rugged softside bag has plenty of pockets for organization, including one for shoes.

The main handle only has one height setting, and the additional grab handle is located on the left side of the suitcase, which is more convenient for lefties.

The L.L.Bean Carryall Spinner Pullman is a redesign from L.L.Bean’s luggage collection, made with a new fabric and style that we love for a softside carry-on. The rugged, abrasion-resistant material on the outside of the suitcase feels like it can stand up to rough handling, and the shell of the bag has some rigidity that makes it feel extra sturdy for a softside bag. We also loved this carry-on for its unique outer pockets that you just can’t find on a hardside bag, like a shoe pocket that keeps your dirty boots or sneakers separate from the clean clothing inside. We packed socks and underwear in the zipper compartment on the lid of the suitcase, which saved interior space for the rest of our clothing. While the carry-on rolled smoothly on the concrete and linoleum floor of our obstacle course, it was a little harder to maneuver over carpet. It also caught our attention that the side handle is located on the left side of the bag, which made it a little awkward for our righties to hoist the carry-on into the overhead bins on our airplane set — although this would be a plus for left-handed travelers.

The Details: Softside | 22 x 14 x 9 inches | 7.9 pounds | 40.7-liter capacity | 4 spinner wheels | 1-year return policy

People / Joy Kim

Most Spacious

Travelpro x travel + leisure carry-on spinner.

This 45-liter carry-on has plenty of room, a two-inch expander, and tons of interior organization.

It may not fit in some overhead bins if you use the expander.

Spaciousness is key when it comes to a carry-on, especially if you’re using it as your main suitcase. This 45-liter Travelpro carry-on had an impressive amount of space for our packing list during testing, and it also has a generous two-inch expander if you need more room. While some hardside bags are very rigid, we noticed that this one has a bit of give if you do need to pack it extra full. Despite being slightly flexible, it proved to be rock-solid when it comes to durability, surviving our drop and bat tests without a single scratch. We think this makes an excellent investment for frequent flyers with top-notch organization inside, including two split-case compartments with two separate zippered divider panels, multiple accessory pockets, and a removable pouch. We were also impressed with the quality of the compression straps, which were adjustable and stylish without sacrificing durability. 

The Details: Hardside | 23 x 14.5 x 9.5 inches | 8.6 pounds | 45-liter capacity | Expandable | 4 spinner wheels | Limited lifetime warranty

Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

Best Aluminum

Tumi 19 degree aluminum international carry-on.

This sleek aluminum bag is just as durable as it is beautiful.

Weighing more than 11 pounds, this is heavy for a carry-on.

This stunning Tumi carry-on will make a statement in any airport, with four metallic colors to choose from and a durable aluminum shell to protect your belongings. As the priciest option on this list, you are paying for the Tumi label, but we can confirm that this is a high-quality piece that is worth the investment. This 31-liter bag is on the smaller size for a carry-on — and like most aluminum bags, it feels quite heavy (weighing more than 11 pounds) — but we were impressed by the built-in organization that makes it easy to pack. Both halves of the suitcase have fully zippered closures and compression straps — an ideal combination because you can use the compression straps to get the contents as tightly packed as possible and put less strain on the zippers when you ultimately zip each side closed. There are two smaller zippered flaps on each half of this suitcase so you can fit smaller items in there, as well as an internal card pocket and a hanger bracket to hang garments. We thought the wheels were very sturdy (both when rolling the bag and when hitting the wheels directly with a baseball bat), and the leather-wrapped handles are comfortable to pull. The latches feature two TSA-approved combination locks with push buttons to open them, and you can also monogram the bag with custom initials.

The Details: Hardside | 22 x 14 x 9 inches | 11.2 pounds | 31-liter capacity | 4 dual spinner wheels | 5-year warranty

Most Durable

Briggs & riley sympatico domestic carry-on expandable spinner 22-inch.

The shock-absorbing Makrolon polycarbonate stands up to dents and scratches, and the wheels glide with ease over bumps and around corners.

The expander is located on the inside, which is a little counterintuitive.

Fans of Briggs & Riley luggage won't be surprised that the Sympatico Domestic Spinner was the most durable carry-on we tested. This compact suitcase is a little expensive, but hear us out. The exceedingly robust, shock-absorbing Makrolon polycarbonate shell sustained exactly zero dents or scratches during our bat and drop tests and still looks brand new after six months of frequent travel.

Durability aside, this carry-on was easy to maneuver on hard floors and carpet, around tight corners, and even over bumps. It also has a good amount of packing space with plenty of organizational features. We like how thoughtfully designed its features are, with elements like pockets, dividers, and expanding sides that really help you maximize the space in this smaller carry-on bag. One thing to note is that the expander is on the inside, which isn't the most intuitive. Other than that, we loved the look of the glossy exterior and think it definitely reflects the premium price tag.

The Details: Hardside | 22 x 14 x 9 inches | 8.8 pounds | Expandable | USB port | 4 spinner wheels

Most Stylish

Delsey chatelet air 2.0 21-inch spinner.

The Chatelet Air 2.0 has a gorgeous vintage appeal, and despite the elevated aesthetics, it doesn't sacrifice functionality or durability.

It's not expandable, so the compact design is best for short trips.

If luggage aesthetic is a top priority, Delsey's Chatelet Air 2.0 might be your best bet. Inspired by traditional Parisian architecture with unique lines, contrast stitching, and a vintage appeal, this suitcase is a sight for sore eyes. Sleek design aside, it's exceptionally functional. There's a fully zippered compartment on one side and compression straps on the other, plus pockets throughout and even a handy USB port.

What's more, the zippers open and close smoothly, and it glides effortlessly with the four spinner wheels on carpet, hard floors, and even stone pavers. It's durable, too, sustaining no visible damage after three months of use including two international flights in which the bag was checked. This bag is a standard carry-on size, and we were able to fit everything on our packing list . However, it’s probably best for short trips as there wasn't really any room to spare when we finished.

The Details: Hardside | 22 x 15 x 10 inches | 8 pounds | 44-liter capacity | USB port | 4 dual spinner wheels | 10-year limited warranty

• Leticia Almeida

Travel + Leisure / Leticia Almeida

Best Compression

Paravel aviator carry-on plus.

A compression board makes it easy to fit everything into the zippered compartments, and there's a removable laundry bag for dirty clothes.

This suitcase isn't expandable, but it's one of the larger carry-ons we tested.

For highly organized travelers that want to fit a lot in a carry-on, we recommend the Paravel Aviator. After regularly traveling with the bag for six months, we really love the exceptional capacity and organizational features. Even though it's not expandable, the built-in compression board makes it easy to fit everything into the zippered compartments. It also comes with a removable laundry bag for dirty clothes.

Inspired by retro luggage with a modern twist, this classy carry-on is gorgeous. Not only that, but the durable polycarbonate exterior feels sturdy and sustained just a few minor scuffs during our tests. It's super easy to maneuver, too. Although the Paravel Aviator is somewhat steep in price, we think it's a worthwhile investment for those in the market for a high-quality suitcase. While updating your luggage collection, lovers of vintage-inspired design and organization should also consider a train case .

The Details: Hardside | 23 x 15 x 9.5 inches | 8.5 pounds | 46.6-liter capacity | 4 spinner wheels | USB port | 10-year limited warranty

Best Underseat

Calpak hue mini carry-on luggage.

It's conveniently compact, but still spacious enough to hold multiple outfits.

There's no outer zipper pocket, and it's definitely not as spacious as some others.

Looking for something you can stash underneath the seat in front of you? This 29-liter underseater from Calpak might be just the thing. Measuring 16 x 14 x 8 inches, it's conveniently compact but still spacious enough to fit a couple days' worth of outfits. There's also a laptop sleeve, making it a top choice for short business trips. Despite the mini design, the sophisticated color options and modish silhouette will leave no confusion over whether it's for an adult or a child. The four spinner wheels offer excellent maneuverability, too, and there's even a TSA-approved lock if you ever decide to check it. If we could change one thing, we'd add an outer pocket for easy access in-flight. But other than that, we think the price is more than fair for the quality, features, and durability.

The Details: Hardside | 16 x 14 x 8 inches | 6 pounds | 29-liter capacity | 4 spinner wheels | 2-year limited warranty

Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph

Other Carry-on Bags We Liked

While we tested plenty of high-scoring carry-on bags, there were many items that almost made our list but didn’t quite make the cut due to several weaknesses with maneuverability, capacity, design, durability, and/or overall value revealed during testing. 

Delsey Paris Cruise 3.0 Carry-on : We appreciated the large capacity and expandability of this bag, allowing us to easily fit everything on our packing list. But the wheels are somewhat large, which makes it hard to fit into an overhead bin.

Arlo Skye The Zipper Carry-on Max With Front Pocket : Even though it doesn't expand, this suitcase fit everything on our packing list, did well rolling over bumps, and showed no signs of damage from our bat swings. Plus, like some of the other Arlo Skye luggage pieces , it comes with a removable power bank. While we have few complaints. we were concerned about this bag fitting in the overhead bins.

Samsonite Tru-Frame Carry-on Spinner : We loved this carry-on for its futuristic, zipperless design and durability, though it felt a bit more compact than some of the more spacious carry-ons on this list.

July Carry On Pro : We found this suitcase to be aesthetically pleasing, plenty spacious, and easy to maneuver. While the feature-rich design is enticing, it was pretty similar to the Away Carry-on, which compressed a little better.

Calpak Ambeur Front Pocket Carry-on Luggage : This is a stylish option that comes in a handful of metallic colors for under $300. We love that it has a laptop compartment on the front of the suitcase, though it seems to poke out from the suitcase the more we packed it, and we found the zipper of the compartment to be stiff.

Zero Halliburton Classic Aluminum 3.0 International Carry-on : This is one of the most durable suitcases we've ever tested, though it felt a little small for a carry-on. Ultimately we preferred the Tumi option on our main list as our favorite aluminum carry-on.

The Travel + Leisure team performed various luggage tests in our New York City lab to evaluate the capacity, maneuverability, durability, and design of each carry-on. We filled each carry-on bag with enough clothing and essentials for a four-day trip, including six shirts, three pairs of pants, five pairs of socks, five pairs of underwear, two jackets, and two pairs of shoes, plus one small and one large toiletry bag. We then analyzed how well the bags handled the cargo.

After packing them up, we rolled the bags around on different surfaces (when possible) to see how well they maneuvered over pavement and carpet, and we maneuvered them through human obstacle courses to see how they can handle sharp turns in tight spaces. We also recreated an airplane set in our lab to lift the bags into real overhead bins and push them underneath seats. We whacked the fully packed bags with a metal baseball bat and pushed them off a table to see how well they held up to wear and tear.

After testing these bags in the lab, we sent them home with our T+L editors to travel with the bag for a period of six months to continue evaluating the luggage in the real world. Keeping price, size, adjustability, features, and standout quirks in mind, the carry-ons with the highest scores in all testing categories were ultimately chosen for this roundup, and we will continue to update it as we test more carry-ons.

Tips for Buying Carry-on Luggage

Consider hardside vs. softside luggage.

When buying carry-on luggage , you'll see a range of hardside and softside options. Suitcases with hard shells can be better for protecting things from crushing and are generally easy to wipe clean. However, depending on the color and material, they can be prone to scuffing.

Softside luggage, on the other hand, is typically a lighter weight, more flexible if you tend to be an overpacker, and often just as durable as its hardside counterpart. While a textile shell can be trickier to clean, it may not show as much dirt or scuffs either, and it likely won't dent like a hardside bag can. See our rundown of how to choose between hardside and softside bags for more information.

Look for lightweight construction

Lightweight luggage is crucial when choosing a carry-on. Be sure to note the empty weight of the suitcase or bag before buying it, as heftier designs will make a jam-packed carrier all the more cumbersome. Weight affects not only maneuverability, but also your ability to hoist it into the airplane's overhead bin. The wheeled carry-on suitcases we tested ranged in weight from 4.36 to 12.9 pounds. Anything heavier than that is going to be too heavy for many people.

Decide if you want extra organizational features

Some carry-on luggage is relatively basic, with a main compartment and a pocket or two. However, many suitcases, weekenders, and duffel bags have additional organizational features that make packing and accessing your stuff much easier. This may include a laptop sleeve, a shoe separator, a laundry bag, various zippered sections, exterior pockets, and even charging capabilities .

Choose between handheld, spinner, or two-wheeled luggage

When it comes to choosing the best carry-on bag for you, first consider your traveling style and packing needs. Spinner luggage, which features four wheels that can spin 360 degrees, is easy to maneuver whether you're running to your airport gate or making your way through a new city. Bags with spinner wheels are generally quite easy to roll over various surfaces, making them a great option if you plan to walk for long periods of time with your luggage. They allow you to maneuver well-stuffed expandable luggage more easily. Two-wheeled bags, however, may be less sturdy, but they'll give you a few more inches of extra space when packing. Bags with only two wheels also tend to be slightly lighter than their four-wheeled counterparts. Lastly, opting for a weekender or carry-on backpack means you can dash around as needed, and your bag will be more compact, but you will have to manage all the weight on your back or shoulders instead of rolling it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Rules vary among airlines , but most allow carry-on luggage no larger than 24 inches tall, 16 inches wide, and 10 inches deep. Some are slightly stricter, setting the limit at 22 x 14 x 9 inches. Keep this in mind when using your suitcase's expander, as the additional couple of inches could put you over the size limit. When in doubt, check the airline's website.

Some airlines have a carry-on weight limit of roughly 35 pounds. However, this is often not strictly enforced, and many domestic airlines don't have a limit at all. Bear in mind some international flights may restrict carry-ons over 22 pounds. Either way, make sure you are able to lift your bag on your own, otherwise, it's probably too heavy.

All liquids, including makeup, lotion, and other cosmetics, must be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces in carry-on luggage. (For checked baggage, you can bring pretty much any size.) Powdered makeup, bar soap, and solid deodorant are usually allowed in larger containers. Lighted makeup mirrors are also permitted in carry-ons. You'll also want to put all liquid beauty and personal hygiene products in a clear plastic bag before going through airport security. You can review the TSA's official liquids rules here .

AirTags are allowed in both carry-on and checked luggage. These trackers use such low energy Bluetooth that they're safe and TSA-compliant. For other GPS trackers, you should check with your individual airlines to make sure that your device is allowed, especially if they use a higher level of power.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this article, commerce writer Theresa Holland pored over in-house testing insights for dozens of bags, then cross-checked product descriptions and manuals to compile a comprehensive list of the best carry-on luggage currently on the market. Of the above brands, she owns carriers and on-the-go accessories from Away, Tumi, Paravel, Amazon Basics, Monos, and July.

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The Best Carry-On Luggage 2024, Tested and Reviewed by Travel Editors

Caroline Morse Teel

Caroline Morse Teel is the Managing Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline .

Caroline joined Boston-based SmarterTravel in 2011 after living in Ireland, London, and Manhattan. She's traveled to all seven continents, jumped out of planes, and bungeed off bridges in the pursuit of a good story. She loves exploring off-the-beaten path destinations, anything outdoorsy, and all things adventure.

Her stories have also appeared online at USA Today, Business Insider, Huffington Post, Yahoo, Boston.com, TripAdvisor, Buzzfeed, Jetsetter, Oyster, Airfarewatchdog, and others.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "Earplugs. A good pair has saved my sleep and sanity many times!"

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro.

Travel Motto : "Don't be boring."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Aisle (when the first class private suite isn't available)."

E-mail her at [email protected] .

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Packing for a trip can be stressful, especially if you’re trying to fit everything you need into a carry-on bag. With increasingly strict airline baggage allowances and common occurrences of lost/mishandled checked bags, finding the right carry-on suitcase is key to avoiding expensive checked baggage fees and ensuring your stuff makes it to your destination. 

No one understands this struggle more than the SmarterTravel team. As travel editors, we travel a lot (and are firm carry-on only flyers.) We tested and reviewed the top carry-on luggage over hundreds of trips to help you find one perfectly suited for all your travels.

The carry-on bags we reviewed underwent rigorous testing to see how they held up to the realities of travel. We evaluated important factors like size and weight, wheeled performance, ease of packing, durability, and special features. Our testing process included packing each bag to capacity, carrying it through airports, stowing it in overhead bins, and taking it on planes, trains, and automobiles during real-world trips.

Ranging in price from affordable to splurge-worthy, the best carry-on suitcases earned top marks across all our tests for their optimal size, seamless maneuverability, handy organization, stylish looks, and resilience.

From a lightweight hard-sided spinner that fits easily in tiny overheads to a large carry-on that expands for over-packers, these are our travel editors’ picks for the best carry-on suitcases of 2024. 

Best Carry-On Suitcase Overall: Samsonite Outline Pro Carry-On Suitcase

The Samsonite Outline Pro Carry-On Suitcase was our favorite of all the carry-on suitcases we tested. This smart and sleek suitcase is made from a durable polypropylene shell that helps contribute to its light weight of 6.4 lbs. Smooth spinner wheels and an adjustable handle make this bag easy to wheel even when fully packed.

The interior is just as nice, lined with a fabric made from 100 percent plastic bottles. There’s also a multi-functional panel divider that can compress clothes to create more space while providing pockets for organization. One of the pockets is water-resistant, so you can use it to separate swimsuits or wet clothing on the journey home.

Our favorite feature of the Samsonite Outline Pro is the antimicrobial handle technology used on the trolley grip and side handles, which helps keep us healthy while traveling. 

Dimensions: 15” x 10” x 23”

Weight: 6.4 lbs

Best Large Carry-On Suitcase: Roam Large Carry-On Suitcase

If you want to test the limits of an airline’s carry-on policy, we recommend the Roam Large Carry-On Suitcase as the best large carry-on suitcase. We’ve taken this suitcase on hundreds of flights and have only ever had to check it on very small puddle-jumper planes. This roomy carry-on can hold up to 42 liters, making it a great suitcase for chronic overpackers. 

This suitcase comes with two compression boards, which can be used to divide the two halves of the suitcase and help you fit even more in. The boards have large pockets perfect for packing cords and other small items. 

We also love that all Roam luggage can be customized to suit your style—you can choose the color of every part of this suitcase, right down to the wheels, to create a unique bag that definitely won’t get mixed up at baggage claim.

Dimensions:  9” x 16.25” x 22”

Weight: 7.7 lbs

Best Expandable Carry-On Suitcase: Delsey Rempart Carry-On Suitcase

An expandable suitcase is like having two bags in one—keep it small and compact for a short trip or open it up for a longer journey (or for the return trip when you buy lots of souvenirs to bring home). Delsey’s Rempart Carry-On Suitcase is our favorite expandable bag due to its patented Securitech Zipper that’s three times more resistant than a standard zipper (so you don’t have to worry about it ripping open, even when it’s expanded to its maximum capacity).

Other thoughtful features include an integrated TSA-combination lock, two packing compartments with compression straps, zippered pockets, and a lined divider. We also love that the interior lining can be removed and washed—an innovation you’ll appreciate if you’ve ever come home with a sandy suitcase after a beach trip.

Three carrying handles allow this bag to be carried in various ways. If you have other Delsey suitcases, the Rempart’s modular design allows it to stack on top for easy carrying and storage. 

Dimensions: 13.75” x 10.25” x 21.75”

Weight: 6.7 lbs

Best Soft-Sided Carry-On Suitcase: Travelpro Maxlite 5

The best soft-sided carry-on suitcase is also one of the lightest weight options on our list. The Travelpro Maxlite 5 lives up to its name, weighing just 5.4 lbs. This model is the brand’s latest and is a full half-pound lighter than the previous iteration, the Travelpro Maxlite 5. 

The suitcase has a unique tapered design that helps prevent it from tipping over when upright (a common problem with soft-sided suitcases). It also has a solid bottom tray design that helps increase the bag’s durability. The Travelpro Maxlite 5 can expand to 2 inches to provide extra space when needed. The interior is lined with a waterproof protectant that helps keep the bag dry. 

This suitcase comes with Travelpro’s limited lifetime warranty, which will cover the cost of repairs if it’s damaged for one year after purchase. 

Dimensions: 23” x 14.5” x 9” 

Weight: 5.4 lbs

Best Luggage Trackers

Best Small Carry-On Suitcase: Eagle Creek Gear Warrior XE 4-Wheel Carry-On Luggage

We love the Eagle Creek Gear Warrior XE 4-Wheel Carry-On because it’s deceptively spacious for its small size and light weight. It even expands slightly to give you a little bit of extra space when you need it. We’ve packed for week-long trips with just this bag and had no issues fitting everything in. Despite the diminutive size, this suitcase is packed with organizational features, like an exterior laptop sleeve and interior zippered pockets. 

Made from 100 percent recycled, water-resistant fabric, this carry-on-sized spinner bag is easy to wipe clean and great for rainy destinations. 

The Warrior is equipped with heavy-duty wheels that allow you to roll this bag over rough terrain—a perfect pick for navigating the cobblestone streets of Europe.

Dimensions: 21.65” x 14” x 10”

Weight: 8 lbs 12 oz

The Best Hardsided Carry-On Suitcase: Away The Carry-On

Away’s The Carry-On Suitcase has won many awards and is beloved by travelers, and for good reason—it’s smartly designed. The Carry-On is Away’s smallest suitcase and will fit in most overhead compartments and pass all but the strictest baggage sizers at the gate.

This durable carry-on suitcase is crafted from 100 percent polycarbonate for maximum impact resistance. It glides smoothly on premium 360-degree spinner wheels and features a telescoping trolley handle with two height settings for ergonomic maneuvering. The water-resistant shell safeguards your belongings, while convenient features like the TSA-approved lock, laundry bag, and color-matched luggage tag help streamline your packing routine. 

Thoughtfully designed, the suitcase maximizes storage with a double-buckle compression pad and extensive interior organization like three mesh pockets and a handy hanging pocket. Reverse coil zippers grant easy access to the wide opening, and an underside grab handle aids lifting. 

As a bonus, Away’s carry-on suitcase comes in a variety of beautiful colors, including glossy and matte options. 

Dimensions: 21.7″ x 14.4″ x 9″

Weight: 7.5 lbs

The Best Luxury Carry-On Suitcase: Tumi Continental Dual Access 4-Wheeled Carry-On

The Tumi Continental Dual Access 4-Wheeled Carry-On is an organized packer’s dream. The design of this suitcase keeps suits, shoes, clothes, and toiletries neatly separated and wrinkle-free. Convenient amenities like the built-in USB port and built-in TSA lock maximize functionality. 

This is a great suitcase choice for business travelers, as the interior features a removable garment sleeve and fiberglass rod that allows you to hang a suit or dress inside the case without getting crushed or wrinkled. 

The Continental Dual Access features Tumi’s signature smooth-rolling wheels and a 3-stage telescoping handle for easy maneuverability. Protective features like molded bumpers and side panels guard against impacts, while built-in tracers and TSA-approved locks keep valuables secured. With options for top, side, or bottom access via well-designed zippers, this suitcase optimizes packing efficiency for several days of travel. 

Dimensions: 22.0″ X 16.0″ X 9.0″

Weight: 11.1 lbs

The Best Carry-On Backpack: L.L. Bean Approach Travel Pack

A carry-on doesn’t have to be limited to a suitcase. For the ultimate in mobility, opt for a backpack as your carry-on. You won’t have to worry about climbing stairs or pulling a bag over rough sidewalks, and a backpack can fit under your seat on a full plane when necessary, avoiding the dreaded gate-check. 

Our favorite carry-on backpack is the L.L. Bean Approach Travel Pack . Use it on its own for a short trip, or combine it with a checked bag (put all the essentials in the backpack and carry it on the plane) for longer journeys.  

The Approach Travel Pack opens flat and can be packed like a suitcase, unlike a traditional backpack where you’ll have to shove everything in through the top and dig through the entire bag to find something buried at the bottom.

Dimensions: 20” x 12.5” x 10”

Weight: 3.3 lbs

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How We Tested These Carry-Ons

These are the carry-on suitcases that the SmarterTravel team uses on their own trips. We’ve taken them on countless flights, train trips, road trips, and cruises to find out the pros and cons of each bag. 

When testing a carry-on, we consider the following factors:

• Size and weight
• Ease of transportation
• Organizational features

We’ve tested out numerous suitcases that didn’t make the cut, which helped us narrow the list to the best carry-ons worth investing in. 

What Size is a Carry-On Suitcase

The dimensions for a carry-on suitcase vary by airline and generally change depending on if it’s an international or domestic flight. For flights within the United States, the most common size limit for a carry-on suitcase is 22 inches long, 14 inches wide, and 9 inches high. 

The international carry-on suitcase size limit is usually 21.7 inches by 15.7 inches wide by 9 inches high, but this will vary by airline.

Note that airline carry-on size limits include all aspects of the suitcase, including the handles and the wheels, so be sure to check the total dimensions of your bag and not just the interior measurements. If your suitcase meets the size limit but the wheels don’t, it will not pass the carry-on sizer test.

Always check with your airline for the correct carry-on size for your trip, as it can change by destination. 

Is There a Weight Limit for Carry-Ons?

There usually isn’t a weight limit for carry-ons on domestic flights within the United States (unless you’re flying on a very small plane). However, you must be able to lift the suitcase into the overhead bin without assistance.

International flights are generally stricter with weight limits and will weigh your carry-on bag when you check-in. These weight restrictions vary quite a bit by airline but generally range from 15 to 35 lbs. 

What Can’t You Pack in a Carry-On Suitcase?

Remember, carry-on suitcases are subject to stricter security restrictions than checked bags. You can’t pack these items in carry-on suitcases, but you can pack them in your checked luggage:

• Liquids or gels bigger than 3.4 ounces
• Sharp objects (including knives, hiking poles, and large scissors) 
• Certain sporting goods (such as baseball bats and hockey sticks)
• Self-defense items (including pepper spray and brass knuckles)
• Weapons (including firearms) 

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We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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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. However, airlines may flag the Monos as oversize.

Use promo code LONGWEEKEND

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. Also, at least one traveler we know was dinged with an oversize fee for their Hybrid Trunk.

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.

• We’ve heard from one traveler we know that Delta charged them an oversize fee when they checked their Monos Hybrid Trunk. Other airlines have, in our experience, been more lenient. If your chosen airline has a reputation (as Delta does) for being persnickety, maybe skip this bag.
• Another 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

Wirecutter’s 100 Most Popular Picks in September 2022

by Wirecutter Staff

These 100 useful things were the most-purchased Wirecutter picks in September 2022.

We’ve Loved Luggage From Travelpro’s Platinum Elite Line for a Decade. Here’s Why.

by Kit Dillon

Travelpro Platinum Elite is our most loyal travel companion.

Wirecutter’s 100 Most Popular Picks of January 2024

Here are the 100 things our readers loved most in January, from carry-ons to humidifiers and more.

Are Away Carry-Ons Worth the Hype?

Although we still prefer the better durability of soft-sided luggage, if you want the look and feel of a hard-sided case, we recommend the Away Carry-On .

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn commission. Read our full commerce guidelines  here .

Best hand luggage 2024: These carry-on suitcases & bags make holiday travel so much easier

Hand luggage must-haves we've found the best suitcases, duffle bags and more for your travels….

Okay, so summer is here and I know you're as ready as I am to head off on holiday!

So you've booked your tickets and marked your calendars and now the next step is to get packing. Whether you're jetting to the coast for a sun-soaked vacation or embarking on a city break with loved ones, it's always good to pack light.

• Best expandable carry-on: Samsonite Upscape Expandable Cabin Case
• Best Amazon carry-on: LEVEL8 Carry-on Suitcase With Front Pocket
• Best affordable soft-side carry-on: IT Luggage World’s Lightest 2 Wheel Cabin Suitcase
• Celebrity favourite carry-on: AWAY The Carry-On Flex
• Hailey Bieber-approved carry-on: Beis The Carry-On Roller

I've travelled everywhere from Glasgow to Thailand this year, and there's one thing every trip has had in common: a great carry on suitcase to bring on the plane as hand luggage. Even for longer trips, I don't like to risk losing what I'll need for the first few days in case of lost luggage – we're already seeing those much-repeated scenes of summer airport chaos and missing cases in the news! 

So, I can advise that, if you're wanting a stress-free holiday, a carry-on suitcase could be the best option. So we've rounded up the best hand luggage for your travels, so you can make the process as easy and as stress-free as possible. 

What to consider when choosing a carry-on suitcase

As a former military kid and current transatlantic frequent flier, I’ve taken a lot of flights in my lifetime! Here’s what you should look for in a carry on suitcase:

• Size : This is the most important factor, because the most important detail about a carry on is that you’re allowed to carry it on the plane! Check your go-to airline’s size restrictions, but generally they should measure around 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm).
• Hard-shell or soft? Soft-shell suitcases are much lighter and easier to fit in small spaces and in the overhead bins. They don’t, however, protect your belongings as well as a durable hard shell. Hard shell cases also are handy in case you ever have to check your carry on. Whichever you choose, make sure the zipper is sturdy and secure.
• Compartments : Internal compartments will help keep you organised, and a carry-on bag with external pockets for your tablet or laptop will give you easy access, making going through security much smoother.

Step out with the most stylish carry-on luggage from Amazon, John Lewis, ASOS and more.

How I picked the best carry on suitcases

• Tried and tested: If a member of the HELLO! team owns and loves a certain carry on suitcase, you'll find it on this list with our honest opinion.
• Verified ratings and reviews: Where we haven't personally tested out the bag, I've scoured verified opinions from real shoppers to find the most popular and most-loved pieces to shop now.
• Trusted brands and retailers: I've only selected carry on suitcases from HELLO! Shopping Team go-tos and brands and retailers that have a proven track record of success with our readers.
• Style:  There's no sense in ruining your well-planned airport outfit with a dowdy bag, so I've picked the most aesthetically pleasing carry-ons by respected brands, from classics Samsonite and Antler to celebrity faves like Beis and Away.
• Price point:  I'll leave it up to you whether you want to splurge on a luxury bag or save with an Amazon pick! But I've included an option for every budget. 

Best carry on suitcases

Samsonite upscape 4-wheel 55cm expandable cabin case.

The Details

• Size: H55 x W40 x D20/23cm
• Weight: 2.3kg
• Capacity: 39/45L
• Warranty: 5 year guarantee 
• Four spinner wheels
• TSA approved
• Combination lock

Editor's note:

“It’s hard to think of a more popular and reputed brand than Samsonite, and that’s probably why this cabin suitcase is a best seller. It has a sleek design - a Samsonite signature - and shoppers say it’s light and spacious and manoeuvres easily. And there’s a solid warranty if it doesn’t hold up to your standards.”

LEVEL8 Carry on Suitcase

• Size:55 x 37 x 25CM 
• Weight: 5kg
• Capacity: 36 L (42L when expanded)

“If you’re someone who loves a hardshell carry-on, but also wants to easily access your tablet, laptop or other must-haves easily without opening your luggage entirely, I strongly recommend a suitcase with a front pocket, like this top rated Amazon case. It has all the necessary features of a regular carry-on – it’s expandable, has a telescoping handle and spinner wheels – but with the added convenience of a roomy and easily accessible front pocket. A real game changer!”

AWAY The Carry-On Flex

$325 / £265 at Away

• Size: 21.7"(H) x 13.7"(W) x 9"(D)
• Weight: 8.15 lbs
• Capacity: 39.8 L (When expanded: 46.7 L)
• Warranty: Free returns on unused items for the first 100 days
• Durable polycarbonate hard shell
• Leather details, including a black leather luggage tag
• TSA-approved combination lock 
• 360° spinner wheels 
• Underside grab handle
• Interior compression system 
• Hidden laundry bag

"AWAY is one of the most popular luggage brands with the celebrity set, from Kylie Jenner to Margot Robbie. Barbie star Margot’s AWAY Carry-On Flex is my pick because it is built to last, with a durable polycarbonate hard shell that can withstand any journey. Perfect for longer trips, it is sized to fit in the overhead bin of most major airlines, and still lightweight to pop easily onto a train or into a car. It comes in 11 colours, too!"

IT Luggage World’s Lightest 2 Wheel Cabin Suitcase

• Size:55cm(H) x 39.5cm(W) x 19cm (D)
• Weight: 1.58kg
• Capacity: 35L
• Warranty: 10 years
• Two in-line wheels
• Retractable handle
• Two internal pockets + One external pocket

“This affordable It Luggage suitcase has earned rave reviews at Argos, where it has a 4.7-star rating and is recommended by 95% of customers. I can definitely see the appeal - it’s lightweight, inexpensive, made from durable fabric and has a fun, sporty design. It also comes in medium and large sizes if you’d like a matching set! The downside is that it doesn’t have spinner wheels, so you may want to consider another option if that’s a dealbreaker.”

Beis The Carry-On Roller

$285 / £244 at Beis

• Size: W 40cm H 58cm D 25cm
• Weight: 8.36lbs/3.79KG
• Capacity: 49 - 61 L
• Warranty: BÉIS Limited Lifetime Luggage Warranty 

“Like Away, celebrity approved option is by an influencer’s favourite, Shay Mitchell’s Beis. This stylish hand luggage is Hailey Bieber approved! If you’re wanting to travel in style, this suitcase comes in 10 matte colours and three glossy hues, and it has some great details like a cushioned silicone trolley handle. It’s expandable, too, and there’s a lifetime Beis guarantee making it a solid investment. It has definitely earned its thousands of five-star reviews.”

NERE Caype Cabin Suitcase

£99 at Nere

• Size:  55(H) x 37.5(W) x 20(D) cm
• Weight: 3.2 kg
• Capacity: 36/44 Litres
• Warranty: 10-year
• 8 Spinner Wheels
• Built-in TSA combination lock

"I'm a sucker for pretty luggage and I've become quite smitten with NERE - it's a new Australian brand and it's really affordable. But the best thing about the products? The cute colours! The Nere Caype is available in 'blush gloss' and it's the prettiest colour I've ever seen. In the carry-on luggage size of 55cm, the Caype is the perfect travel piece to have by your side for that next flight or car ride. The hard case is made from quality ABS material and it's finished with rose gold accents - chic with a capital C."

- Leanne Bayley , Director of Lifestyle & Commerce

Antler Icon Stripe Cabin with Expander

£175 at John Lewis

• Size:36 x 55 x 23 cm
• Weight: 2.8 kg
• Capacity: Up to 46L when expanded
• Warranty: Lifetime

​ "I love using Antler - their best-selling suitcases are known for their style and durability. It's definitely one for a travel enthusiast. I was eager to try out this brand's hard-case suitcase on my latest holiday. Having used a cabin suitcase without a top handle before, this one was a lifesaver! It not only looks sleek and stylish but also sustained minimal damage during my journey. The wheels are impressively robust, handling continuous lugging up and down stairs and fitting into luggage racks with ease. I also loved the comfort grip handle. Additionally, the expandable case comes with a dust bag for safe storage at home."

- Sharnaz Shahid, HELLO! Deputy Online Editor

American Tourister Stratum XLT Expandable Hardside Luggage

• Size: 35.56 x 22.86 x 55.88 cm
• Weight: 6lb
• Spinner wheels
• Interior mesh pocket and cross straps
• Adjustable handle

"I confess I bought this carry on basically for the style - but as it turns out it has been my super-durable go-to for years! It’s very lightweight, although it doesn’t have a lot of swishy extras. But it is so reliable, does the job and is cute and affordable, too."

Best carry-on totes, bags & backpacks

Kipling art m multi-use tote with trolley sleeve.

• Soft - Outer material 100% Recycled Polyester
• Size: 58cm(W) x 32m(H) x 20cm(D)
• Weight: 0.50 kgs
• Capacity: 26 Litre
• Warranty: Repairs under warranty available; Returns within 30 days.
• One zipped main compartment
• One inside pocket (zipped)
• Two front pockets (1 open + 1 zipped)
• Robot monkey
• Shoulder strap
• Trolley sleeve

"This roomy Kipling tote bag has proved to be my best friend for weekend trips away. It's comfy to carry even when at full capacity and has plenty of room for everything. There are also plenty of pockets to keep everything organised. I love that it has a luggage strap so you can slot it over your suitcase handle and that it has expander zips which you can open to make it even more roomy. I have the Freida Kahlo version but it comes in a rainbow of different colours and styles to suit all tastes."

- Katherine Robinson , HELLO! Online Senior Lifestyle Editor

Everlane The ReNew Transit Messenger

$29 / £27 at Everlane

• Dimensions: 16.5" L X 12" H X 6" D
• Capacity: 21L
• Main compartment with a zipper closure
• Adjustable padded shoulders straps, a top handle and luggage pass thru webbing
• Pockets: 1 internal zippered; 1 padded laptop slip pocket; 2 mesh side pockets; 2 slip pockets
• Materials: 100% recycled polyester from recycled plastic bottles

"When I'm checking my suitcase and don't feel like toting my hard-side carry-on through the airport, I use my Everlane messenger bag. It's roomy and is easy to carry - there's a padded shoulder strap and luggage strap in case you want to attach it to your suitcase - and has so many compartments, including room for a laptop and my iPad. Not to mention it's super stylish! It's also the perfect unisex design - my husband uses it, too."

WONHOX Large Travel Backpack

• Size: 43cm x 30cm x 20cm / 16.93 "x 11.8 " x 7.9 "
• Weight: 1kg / 2.2Lb  
• Padded shoulder straps
• Anti-theft zipper pocket
• Laptop and tablet compartments
• Water resistant
• USB charging port
• Luggage attachment strap

“You'll be glad you invested in Amazon's carry-on backpack - it has over 10,000 five-star ratings! Between the laptop compartment, separate shoe compartment and built-in charging port, it might just be the ultimate travelling sidekick.”

The North Face Base Camp Duffel

• Size: 33 cm x 53cm x 33cm
• Volume: 50L
• Weight: 1195g
•  Removable, adjustable, alpine-cut shoulder straps and two padded side handles
• D-zip opening with a weather-resistant, zipped flap
• Main compartment with secure-zip mesh pocket; end-cap mesh sleeve pocket
• Water resistant; Water-resistant ID window

"North Face is famous for its durable gear, and has a wide selection of duffel bags ready to shop. When it comes to the ones that are cabin-approved though, our favourite is the Base Camp Duffel, which can be carried as a bag or worn as a backpack. It's eco-friendly (made from recycled materials), water repellent and comes in more than a dozen colours!"

You may also like

How to get the most out of your carry-on luggage this summer.

Experts on the team at Dr. Martens have rounded up some fabulous advice about how to get the most of your carry-on luggage this summer. We're taking notes...

• Plan your outfits day by day to save yourself space and get-ready time. I am old school so just lay my clothes out on the bed and try them on with shoes and accessories - although I have friends who take photos to know what they'll look like! According to Dr Martens, that's a great idea. “This way you’ll only take what you need. It might also be useful to think of items that you can wear more than once and in multiple ways."
• Use packing cubes.  I am a huge fan of packing cubes  - I swear by the leak-proof toiletry bag set by Mumi , and Amazon's space-saving compression packing cubes , so I absolutely concur with this advice! "Pack your underwear and socks in one, and tops and trousers in another, to keep things neat and compact...They’re particularly helpful for staying organised on multi-stop trips too, and for keeping your hotel room tidy.”
• Bring two pairs of shoes, wearing your heaviest during travel. I do try to adhere to this advice, wearing trainers or boots on the flight and then bringing an alternate daytime pair. The exception is if I'm expecting to dress up, in which case I'll bring a third pair, an evening shoe.
• Purchase toiletries at your destination. This is one my mother always told me as a key travel tip! For me the exception is hair products, which I can't always find at my destination so I put them into smaller containers. “Toiletries can take up a lot of space, so we’d recommend purchasing the basics once you arrive at your destination. Higher priced toiletries, or personal skin care products, could be decanted into smaller travel sized pots. These will allow you to only take what you need.”
• Utilise your ‘personal item’ allowance as an extension of your carry on: When travelling with just a carry-on, I make sure to bring an additional tote designed to carry my laptop and my tablet, too, plus extra room for other must-haves that I want to keep handy, like medication, snacks and makeup for a pre-landing touch-up. "Before you travel, check your airline's policies on this to see how large a bag you can take. If you have additional clothes that don't fit in your case, try rolling instead of folding them and placing them at the bottom of your personal item bag to save space here too.”

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Travel in style with peace of mind when you use lightweight suitcases designed for both shorter trips and long haul flights. Whether you’re jetting off on vacation or going on a business trip, these suitcases hold your essentials securely and effortlessly. Durable Suitcases for Avid Travelers Are you a frequent flyer, or do you prefer road trips? Either way, you'll need to invest in a suitcase made with strong and sturdy materials. It should be able to withstand hot and cold temperatures, while also protecting your clothes , shoes, accessories and other essentials. Look for suitcases made with foam lining for extra protection and interior pockets to hold smaller items in place. The shock-resistant materials and lightweight construction of these bags make them a versatile addition to your travel collection. Stylish Suitcases for Every Traveler Choose from a variety of bold colors and metallic designs from brands including Samsonite , Delsey, High Sierra and Calvin Klein. Bold hues are easy to spot in the baggage claim area, and metallic luggage makes a fashion statement. Stick with neutral colors for a subdued, yet timeless look, or complement your personal sense of style with a patterned design. Shop a variety of lightweight suitcases from popular brands at Macy’s today.

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Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Checked Luggage with 4 Spinner Wheels, Lightweight Suitcase, Men and Women, Black, Checked Large 29-Inch

2-Piece Set (21/25)

2-Piece Set (21/29)

3-Piece Set (21/25/29)

Carry-on 19-Inch

Compact Carry-on 20-Inch

20-Inch Compact Spinner and Tote

Carry-on 21-Inch

21-Inch Spinner and Tote

Checked-Medium 25-Inch

Checked-Large 29-Inch

Purchase options and add-ons

• This large suitcase is a half pound lighter than Maxlite 4, this lightweight 29 inch luggage with spinner wheels maximizes your packing power and is the ideal checked bag for longer trips.
• Check in luggage has 4 wheel spinners that rotate 360 degree for a smooth roll. Lightweight, sturdy PowerScope handle stops at 38 inch and 42.5 inch features a patented contour grip with rubberized touch points for easy maneuvering. Unique bottom tray design increases durability.
• This travel suitcase with wheels expands up to 2 inch to maximize packing capacity. Softside luggage features low profile top, side and bottom carry handles, two exterior compartments, full length interior lid pocket, side accessory pocket and adjustable hold down straps for packing convenience.
• 65 linear inches. This bag is designed for all types of travel including airline, car, cruise, etc. Although it is slightly over 62 linear inches, it can still be checked on most airlines. This large suitcase with spinner wheels has a honeycomb frame system that provides lightweight durability.
• Large luggage with spinner wheels has 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. Case Dimensions: 29 in x 20.5 in x 8.5 in, Overall Dimensions (includes wheels & carry handles): 31 in x 21 in x 13 in, Weight: 8.5 lbs ; Volume : 142L.

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Product information

Product description.

Finally, big doesn’t have to mean heavy. The Maxlite 5 29 inch Expandable Spinner is the lightweight, super durable, full-size checked bag you’ve been looking for. Ideal for longer trips, this large spinner suitcase keeps everything organized with a convenient exterior front compartment, full-length interior lid pocket, side accessory pocket and roomy interior with adjustable hold-down straps. The patented Contour Grip and 2-position adjustable PowerScope Lite handle maneuvers with ease as four 360 degree rotating spinner wheels glide effortlessly through airports, train stations and city streets. Backed by a new and expanded Trusted Traveler Promise—for worry-free warranty coverage from Travelpro.

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Features & Benefits

Videos for this product.

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WATCH BEFORE YOU BUY! Travel Pro Maxlite 5 Review

✅ Sweet Savanna

Review of travel luggage

Watch before buying the Travelpro Maxlite 5!

Packing For A Week With Room To Spare?

Adam's Picks

Honest Review of Travelpro Maxlite 5

What to know before you buy, a tip!!

Kendall's Picks

IN-DEPTH REVIEW: Quality, Durability, Size, Pockets, etc.

Scott Morrison

Honest Review of TravelPro Maxlite 5 19-inch carry-on

Gigi Valdez

Why I chose this Travelpro Maxlite suitcase - My Thoughts!

🤿 RJ’s Reviews ✅

FULL COMPARISON: TravelPro MaxLite 5 VS. Swiss Gear Scion

🎯Katalytic Picks

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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 value, maneuverability, pockets and color of the suitcase. For example, they mention it's worth the price, easy to maneuver and has great compartments. Some appreciate the quality, and weight. That said, opinions are mixed on size and handle.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers like the quality of the suitcase. For example, they mention it's well-made, solid, and has sturdy wheels. Some say it'll perform well and is fully functional.

"...and he appreciates the quality--lots of zippered compartments, sturdy construction , easy to maneuver and schlep for his weekly work-related trips He..." Read more

"...Zippers are heavy duty and work very well . Rollers are nice and roll easily." Read more

"...One zipper tab was broken while checked last year, but it's still fully functional ." Read more

"...The handles work very well and the suitcase is light even when packed, so I can lift it myself...." Read more

Customers find the weight of the suitcase to be really light. They also say the size is deceiving, and it's easy to pack.

"... Love the weight , manueverability, and especially all the zippered compartments. Wipes clean with damp cloth. Great purchase, recommended." Read more

"Nice and light , moves great, can pack a lot, and love the color!" Read more

"...Bought this one because it met our size requirements, lightweight , and pricing.Zippers are heavy duty and work very well...." Read more

"...It's lightweight , maneuverable, easy to check or carry on, and holds what I need...." Read more

Customers find the suitcase easy to maneuver. They say it's lightweight, glides smoothly, and is easy to move about. Customers also mention that the wheels are very maneuverable, don't squeak or stick, and are easy to turn. Overall, customers are satisfied with the maneuverability of the suitcase.

"...--lots of zippered compartments, sturdy construction, easy to maneuver and schlep for his weekly work-related trips He's also pleased with the dark..." Read more

"Nice and light, moves great , can pack a lot, and love the color!" Read more

"...Zippers are heavy duty and work very well. Rollers are nice and roll easily ." Read more

"...It's lightweight, maneuverable , easy to check or carry on, and holds what I need...." Read more

Customers like the pockets in the suitcase. They say it has lots of room to pack everything needed for a multi-day trip. Some say it holds two pairs of shoes, five outfits, and has plenty of room left for cables, toiletries, a change of clothes, and two full size sets of fins. They appreciate the quality and zippered compartments.

"...for a couple of months and he appreciates the quality-- lots of zippered compartments , sturdy construction, easy to maneuver and schlep for his..." Read more

"Nice and light, moves great, can pack a lot , and love the color!" Read more

"...It's lightweight, maneuverable, easy to check or carry on, and holds what I need ...." Read more

"... Lots of pockets for little extras . I carry my toiletries in a personal bag under the seat...." Read more

Customers like the color of the suitcase. They say it has a beautiful color and the bright color options are an added bonus for spotting it quickly.

"...and schlep for his weekly work-related trips He's also pleased with the dark burgundy color . So far, so good...." Read more

"Nice and light, moves great, can pack a lot, and love the color !" Read more

"...The bright color options are an added bonus for spotting it quickly on the baggage carousel...." Read more

"...Travelpro pieces light but sturdy; strong zippers; amazing design with no space wasted and lots of pockets/packing options...." Read more

Customers like the value of the suitcase. They say it's a well-priced quality bag with excellent design.

"...Wipes clean with damp cloth. Great purchase , recommended." Read more

"...Bought this one because it met our size requirements, lightweight, and pricing .Zippers are heavy duty and work very well...." Read more

"...-The quality is amazing for the price ...." Read more

"...Overall, the case is ok. It’s not perfect , and I think it’s overpriced...." Read more

Customers have mixed opinions about the size of the suitcase. Some say it's the perfect size for a carry on, while others say it’s too small for 5-7 day trips.

"...Bought this one because it met our size requirements , lightweight, and pricing.Zippers are heavy duty and work very well...." Read more

"This is the biggest size carry on I could find, and I usually travel light so carry on only is my preference...." Read more

"...The wheels are bit small and they can be troublesome on cobble streets and airport carpets. Great size if you need more than a carryon." Read more

"...pieces light but sturdy; strong zippers; amazing design with no space wasted and lots of pockets/packing options...." Read more

Customers are mixed about the handle of the suitcase. Some mention that it has carrying handles in all the right places, and is easy to lift. The three telescopic handles give several options for comfortable handling by both average and tall folks. However, some customers report that the handle would not go back into its closed position, and the pull out handle stopped working after one trip.

"...it up airplane steps (no jetway in St. Thomas) it was impossible to use that handle ...." Read more

"Having said that, the airline did damage my bag to where the handle would not work ...." Read more

"...The bag rolls easily, is fairly lightweight, and has a couple of handles on the side , so is easy to lift...." Read more

"...I'm very happy with it! My only complaint is that the handle would not stay in the half-extended position, it kept going up to full extension...." Read more

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This Lightweight Bag Made Me a Travel Tote Convert

There’s a reason why it’s everywhere.

Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

For years, I was a proponent of the travel backpack . After all, who doesn’t like the ease of being hands-free?! Eventually, though, I found myself getting fatigued with the constant on-and-off motion it requires to access anything in it. With that in mind, I opted for a travel tote bag instead. And boy, did I find the holy grail of travel totes: the MZ Wallace Large Metro Tote Deluxe , to be specific.

MZ Wallace Large Metro Tote Deluxe

Chances are you’ve seen an MZ Wallace bag or backpack on your commute, at the airport, or on the road—for good reason. You couldn’t miss that plush quilting even if you tried! And more often than not, I’d find myself gazing upon one of the brand’s most popular styles: the MZ Wallace Metro Tote. It wasn’t long before I had seen enough—I needed to know why these bags, particularly this tote bag, were such a presence in my life. And now, after carrying one to work and on a week-long trip, I finally do.

To my pleasant surprise, there’s a lot to love about this bag. I opted for the large size , because I have become one with oversized bags—well, that, and I typically bring a lot of things on my flights (you never know what you might need). To start, it fits just about everything. I was a bit wary about its puffy, unstructured design, but that worked to its advantage. At its most stuffed, I could fit a wallet, a passport, a laptop, an iPad, over-ear headphones, three books, a knitting project, pens, a denim jacket , and a bag of snacks, with plenty of room for more.

And while you might be worried about all those things swimming at the bottom of this bag, I’d like to also point out that there are so many easy-to-access pockets and zipper compartments that my things ended up being way more organized than I could have ever imagined. I’m talking three exterior slip pockets (one of which converts into a luggage sleeve), two zipped pockets outside of the opening, six interior pockets, and three detachable pouches —and I’m grateful for every single one of them. I even used the key ring leash, which helped me easily find my keys as soon as I got home.

MZ Wallace Medium Metro Tote Deluxe

There are few things I would change about this bag, because, admittedly, it’s damn near perfect. That said, there are some things that take getting used to, like the fact that there is no designated laptop sleeve. And while I love having an attachment to slide the tote on and off my carry-on luggage, I found the magnetic snap at the top to be a little finicky. I’ll also add that the large size might be too big for some, so if you’re looking for something a touch smaller (without compromising on function), the medium option is just as chic and practical.

Bottom line? I love this bag even more than I anticipated. It’s a bit pricey, but given all that it offers, I will say this is hands down worth it. Wherever you’re heading this summer, be sure to add this to your packing list. You will not regret it.

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Elektrostal, visit elektrostal, check elektrostal hotel availability, popular places to visit.

• Electrostal History and Art Museum

You can spend time exploring the galleries in Electrostal History and Art Museum in Elektrostal. Take in the museums while you're in the area.

• Cities near Elektrostal

• Places of interest
• Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center
• Central Museum of the Air Forces at Monino
• Peter the Great Military Academy
• Bykovo Manor
• Balashikha Arena
• Ramenskii History and Art Museum
• Malenky Puppet Theater
• Balashikha Museum of History and Local Lore
• Pekhorka Park
• Orekhovo Zuevsky City Exhibition Hall
• Saturn Stadium
• Noginsk Museum and Exhibition Center