light travel bag

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—and reviewed the results to choose winners for each category below.

Final Verdict

How we tested.

• What to Look For

Why Trust TripSavvy

Best overall, samsonite freeform carry-on spinner.

Durable exterior

Handles well and converts smoothly

Modern style available in multiple hues

Limited interior organization

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

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

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

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

Best Budget

Amazon basics hardside spinner.

Minimal yet effective

Plenty of internal organization

Glides efficiently over uneven terrain

Few color choices

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

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

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

Best Budget Backpack

Asenlin 40l travel backpack.

Integrated tech pouch

Spacious and well-designed

Easy to lift and load

Unremarkable aesthetic

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

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

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

TripSavvy / Jhett Thompson

Best Checked

July checked bag.

Beautiful, unique design

Space-saving elements

Comfortable and adjustable handle

Light colors show scuffs

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

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

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

TripSavvy / Vicky Wasik

Best Backpack

Cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.

Sturdy yet chic aesthetic

Well-organized interior

Various carry options

Relatively expensive for a backpack

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

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

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

Best Underseat

Travelpro carry-on travel tote bag.

Durable, protective treatment

Impressive capacity

Compatible with other luggage

May be too large for some seats

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

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

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

TripSavvy / Conor Ralph

Best for Adventure Travel

Patagonia black hole 40l duffel bag.

Long-lasting, weatherproof material

Convertible

Packs away into an interior pocket

Limited choice of colors

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

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

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

TripSavvy / Nick Kova

Best for Business Travel

Nomatic travel bag.

Rugged construction protects your belongings

Thoughtful storage solutions

Use as a duffel or a backpack

Would like to see improved shoulder straps

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

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

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

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

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

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

What to Look For in Lightweight Luggage

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

Portability

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Why Buy Lightweight Luggage?

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

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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.

Things To Consider With Lightweight Luggage

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

The short answer is there is no standard definition.

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

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

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

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

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

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

2 Wheels or 4 Wheels?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The 7 Best Lightweight Suitcases

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

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Lightweight Rollaboard Luggage

Overall Dimensions: 23 x 14.5 x 9 inches

Weight: 5.4 pounds

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

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

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

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

What We Like:

• Water-resistant with a Duraguard coating

What We Don’t Like:

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

it luggage Duo-Tone 22″ Softside Carry-On 

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

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

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

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

• Light and sturdy aluminium structure
• No integrated TSA lock

AmazonBasics Softside Carry-On Spinner Luggage Suitcase

Overall Dimensions: 14.9 x 8.2 x 20.4 inches

Weight: 6.35 pounds

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

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

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

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

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

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

Overall Dimensions: 22.8 x 14 x 9 inches

Weight: 5.8 pounds

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

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

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

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

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

Aerolite Maximum Allowance Airline Approved Carry-On

Weight: 5.3 pounds

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

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

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

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

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

Maximum Allowance Airline Approved Delta United Southwest Carryon Suitcase

Overall Dimensions : 22 x 14 x 9 inches

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

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

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

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

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

Rockland Luggage Rolling 22 Inch Duffle Bag

Overall Dimensions: 22 x 12 x 11 inches

Weight: 4.3 pounds

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

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

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

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

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

The 3 Best Lightweight Backpacks

Osprey Packs Farpoint 40 Travel Backpack

Overall Dimensions: ‎14 x 9 x 21 inches

Weight: 3.4 pounds

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Overall Dimensions: 20.1 x 13.4 x 9.8 inches

Weight: 2.53 pounds

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

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

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

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

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

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

Asenlin 40 Liter Travel Backpack for Women or Men

Overall Dimensions: ‎ 9.45 x 12.2 x 18.5 inches

Weight: 2.7 pounds

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is considered lightweight luggage.

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

What is the lightest travel luggage?

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

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

What is the lightest hardshell suitcase?

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

What is the best lightweight luggage for international travel?

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

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About Amar Hussain

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

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