The Best Lightweight Luggage, Tested by Travel Experts
An ultra-light bag lessens the load so you can travel with hardly any strain.
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If you're an overpacker like me, you probably know what it's like to leave something behind because it's pushing your bag over the allotted weight limit, or it's simply too heavy to lug around. Ashamedly, I regularly get the "heavy" sticker slapped on my bag, and it took me too long to realize how much my clunky checked bag was eating into my packing capacity. A piece of lightweight luggage can lighten the load to help you avoid the fees for exceeding an airline's weight limit, and it's much easier to hoist overhead and roll through a busy airport.
Our top picks:
✔️ Best overall: Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable Spinner
Consistently a top-tested suitcase that offers impressive quality for the price
✔️ Best value: Amazon Basics Expandable Hardside Carry-On Luggage
An affordable option with plenty of packing space and organization inside
✔️ Best checked: July Checked Luggage
A sturdy, ultra lightweight checked bag for long trips that's equipped with tracking capabilities
✔️ Best soft-sided: Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage
Thoughtfully designed, flexible suitcase that performed well in our durability tests
✔️ Most luxurious: Rimowa Essential Lite Cabin
The lightest suitcase we've tested, comes with a lifetime guarantee
In the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab, I frequently test the best luggage brands and pair bags with consumer testers so they can try them out on their own trips. In recent years, we've evaluated more than 100 different suitcases. I scoured through the data we collected and researched lightweight luggage from popular brands, combining the findings with my relative expertise. At just 6.5 pounds, the Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable Spinner combines impressive durability and value.
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Pros
- High maneuverability scores, easy to roll around
- Aced our packing test, fitting a standard load, and can be expanded an extra inch
- No dents in our drop tests
Cons
- Some testers said telescopic handle felt loose
Key takeaways
Samsonite luggage consistently stands out in our Textiles Lab evaluations, and the Freeform Spinner is one of our top-tested suitcases. Not only is the suitcase durable and easy to use, it also weighs in at just 6.5 lbs, making it one of the lightest suitcases we've tried.
The hard-sided polyester bag may be light but is still highly durable. It performed well in our drop tests, handling repeated drops without denting. Designed with a butterfly opening, the bag fully unzips and unfolds to expose two compartments for your belongings, including one fully zippered side and one with an adjustable compression strap.
The suitcase was able to fit our entire standard load of clothing, accessories and toiletries during our packing tests, and it can be expanded for an additional inch of packing space. For longer trips or family vacations, Samsonite also offers checked versions and a two-piece set.
What testers said
The suitcase earned top scores in maneuverability, with consumer testers sharing that the bag was easy to navigate around twists and turns in our luggage obstacle course. One tester who tried Samsonite luggage emphasized, "I enjoyed how smooth the wheels are and how easy it was to maneuver."
Some testers wished the telescopic handle were sturdier and stated that it felt loose. But when I evaluated it in the Lab, I thought the handle was comfortable and seemed stable overall.
| Dimensions | 21.25" x 15.25" x 10.0" |
| Weight | 6.5 lbs |
| Material | Hard polypropylene |
Pros
- Plenty of packing space for a short trip
- Smooth rolling wheels
- Performed well in drop tests without major damage
Cons
- Testers wished extending telescopic handle felt sturdier
Key takeaways
If you're shopping on a budget, it's hard to beat Amazon Basics' collection of hard-sided luggage. This carry-on bag is priced under $70 and is frequently on sale. We've been impressed by it during our Textiles Lab tests, rating it highly for packability and ease of use.
Made with ABS plastic, the suitcase isn't quite as durable as other picks and was more prone to scratching in our evaluations than other bags, but it held up well overall in our drop tests without prominent breakage or other damage.
What testers said
When consumer testers rolled it through our luggage obstacle course, they said the telescopic handle wasn't as sturdy as others they tried, but they were impressed with the wheel performance. One tester said the carry-on was "very easy to move."
The bag is one of the heavier picks but was able to hold our full packing load, thanks to its spacious interior complete with a zippered panel, compression strap, and mesh pockets.
RELATED: Best Luggage on Amazon
| Dimensions | 21.7" x 14.8" x 10" |
| Weight | 7.7 lbs |
| Material | Hard ABS plastic |
Pros
- External pockets to stash necessities
- Unique tapered expansion that prevents the bag from getting top-heavy
- Brand's luggage performs well in our tests
Cons
- Only two wheels, making it harder to maneuver
Key takeaways
Travelpro's luggage was developed by an airline pilot for other pilots and flight crews who were always on the go, which means it a great option for frequent flyers. While we especially love the brand's premium Platinum Elite collection, the Maxlite 5 luggage is impressively lightweight at only 5.4 pounds and is still built to last.
The carry-on is designed with thoughtful elements like a unique tapered expansion system that prevents the bag from getting top-heavy and tipping when full, as well as a comfortable contoured telescopic handle.
On the outside of the bag are two pockets, including one that's large enough to hold a laptop, and inside is one large packing space with an additional zippered pocket in the lid and a compression strap to secure everything in place.
What testers said
Unlike other picks and most bags sold today, this bag only has two wheels, meaning it has to be tilted and pulled forward and backward (it's unable to move side to side); this helps keep the weight low. When our consumer testers tried other pieces from this line, they said the wheels were smooth, and the bag has stands in the front to keep it upright at all times.
The brand's luggage has also performed well in our Lab tests for durability, resisting damage after being released at different angles from our drop tester. The material looked great after I placed it in our abrasion tester, which rubbed the material back and forth 15,000 times.
RELATED: Best Soft-sided Luggage
| Dimensions | 20" x 15" x 7.7" |
| Weight | 5.4 lbs |
| Material | Soft polyester |
Pros
- Incredibly smooth wheels
- Contoured telescopic handle locks into place at 20 positions
- Equipped with tracking abilities
Cons
- Some scuffs after traveling
Key takeaways
Most domestic airlines set a limit of around 50 pounds for checked bags, meaning the weight of your belongings and your suitcase combined can't exceed 50 pounds, or you'll be hit with a pesky fee. To avoid the extra charge, opt for a checked suitcase like this one from popular luggage brand July that's ultra-lightweight for its size. The interior includes an enclosed compartment, an adjustable Y-strap and compression panel, and zippered mesh pockets for storage.
At 8.3 pounds, the checked bag weighs less than many carry-ons we've evaluated, but just because it's lightweight doesn't mean it isn't durable. When one GH analyst took the bag on a trip abroad, she was impressed by how well it held up after making its way through several airports. She noted a few scuffs and marks but no dents or visible damage.
The checked bag is also equipped with tracking technology that pairs with Apple's FindMy app, meaning you don't have to worry about it getting lost once you drop it off at the check-in counter.
What testers said
The suitcase also has some of the best wheels we've encountered, with one GH analyst who shared, "I've never used a carry-on with wheels this smooth." I've personally traveled with luggage from the brand, and our consumer testers and I agree that the wheels are incredibly smooth, giving the bag high ratings for gliding easily over carpet, tile, and wood floor—even over bumpy concrete and blacktop.
Plus, the telescopic handle locks into place at 20 different positions to prevent it from falling, and it's contoured for comfort. A tester shared, "I like how EASY it was to adjust the handle. There are so many suitcases that I've had in the past where its only available for a certain height. This one feels like there are more options available and is perfect for me."
RELATED: Best Checked Luggage
| Dimensions | 26" x 18.75" x 11" |
| Weight | 8.3 lbs |
| Material | Hard polycarbonate |
Pros
- Chic metallic colors
- Proved durable in drop tests without dents
- Telescopic handle was a tester favorite
Cons
- Noticeable marks in scratch tests
Key takeaways
Calpak's luggage is equally as fashionable as it is functional, so you can travel in style without worrying about the safety of your belongings. This chic carry-on comes in a variety of metallic colors and limited edition shades—all with a monochromatic hard shell, telescopic handle, and wheel components.
The hard polycarbonate material doesn't just look great: It proved durable in our drop tests without denting. However, it was more prone to scratches than some other styles we evaluated.
What testers said
One of our consumer testers' favorite bags, it earned high scores for its easy-to-use, sturdy telescopic handle, and maneuverability. A tester shared, "It's really smooth to travel with. The wheels were amazing and gets you around an airport very easily."
There's plenty of packing space inside the bag, which has a butterfly-style opening with two main compartments and additional zippered pockets to store smaller items. A tester who tried a Calpak carry-on commented that it "had enough room to fit everything I needed." Another tester shared that she loved the organizational features inside. " I thought it was super easy to unpack at the end of the trip and find clothes without pulling apart my entire suitcase every morning."
READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Calpak Luggage
| Dimensions | 21.5" x 14" x 9" |
| Weight | 7.6 lbs |
| Material | Hard polycarbonate |
Pros
- Easy-access external pockets
- Removable toiletries pouch included
- Zippered lining is machine washable
Cons
- Wheels aren't as smooth as other picks
Key takeaways
A soft-sided carry-on is ideal for someone without much space for storage because it can be compressed down and stowed away more easily than a hard-sided bag. And because the material is flexible, you're also able to fill it to the brim with everything you need for your getaway.
This one from Delsey has a basic design but is still packed full of helpful features to keep everything you need for an international trip organized. At just 6.7 pounds, the suitcase is incredibly lightweight, so it won't detract much from your allotted carry-on weight for international airlines.
Two external zippered pockets allow for easy access to travel essentials. The bag unzips to one primary packing space with a compression strap, a removable toiletries bag, a zippered mesh pocket, and elastic storage in the lid. Plus, the inner lining can be unzipped and machine-washed for convenient cleaning.
What testers said
While the bag didn't have the smoothest wheels in our tests, I've personally toted multiple carry-ons from Delsey over the years and have been impressed by the level of quality for the more affordable price point. The bags rolled along with me instead of me having to drag them behind, and they were easy to move around crowded airports and city sidewalks.
The polyester material may not be as durable as nylon, but the brand's fabric has held up well during our tests for abrasion resistance, and users say the soft-sided suitcase looks great.
| Dimensions | 14.25" x 10" x 23.5" |
| Weight | 6.7 lbs |
| Material | Soft polyester |
Pros
- Durable polycarbonate shell
- Testers were impressed by the smooth wheels
- Plenty of packing space
Cons
- Prominent scuffs in our tests
Key takeaways
Sleek and sophisticated, Monos' luggage is perfect for the minimalist traveler who wants a high-performing yet simple style. The carry-on suitcase aced our packing tests, holding our entire standard load for a weekend trip, including clothing, accessories, and toiletries, with room to spare.
Made of durable polycarbonate material, the hardshell suitcase performed well in our drop tests and withstood major dents and breakage, but both our experts and testers noted some prominent scuffing with use. The brand does provide a cleaning sponge, which we found was helpful at getting rid of surface-level marks.
What testers said
Our consumer testers were equally impressed by the spacious interior and appreciated the adjustable compression panel and zippered mesh pockets inside of the bag. A tester shared, "One of my favorite features is the interior organization. The built-in compression system really helps me maximize space, and the compartments keep everything neatly in place."
Testers were impressed by how easy it was to maneuver, even in busy cities and airports. A tester commented, "I was surprised at how lightweight this bag was - it was super easy to lug up and down staircases in Europe and it was also super easy to roll around."
READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Monos Luggage
| Dimensions | 22" × 14" × 9" |
| Weight | 7.01 lbs |
| Material | Hardside polycarbonate |
Pros
- Made with polycarbonate, a durable material
- Lightest of all suitcase picks
- Testers said Rimowa's suitcases are smooth and easy to maneuver
Cons
- T-bar handle may not be as comfortable as others
Key takeaways
The lightest of our traditional suitcase picks, this carry-on from Rimowa showcases the brand's iconic grooved shell and is just 4.9 pounds. Made with polycarbonate, a material that has proven strong in our Lab tests, the hard-sided bag should be able to withstand regular use without dents and damage. Rimowa's luxury bags have repeatedly stood out in our evaluations for their durability and ease of use.
To keep the bag ultra-light, the telescopic handle features a slim T-bar design, which in our experience isn't quite as comfortable as a contoured handle, but it does still lock into place at three heights for better maneuverability. The bag's streamlined design features a butterfly-style opening that unfolds to two primary packing compartments. Each compartment is covered in a zippered mesh panel for breathable, secure storage, in addition to a zippered pocket to stash small items.
The brand's suitcases are pricey, but Rimowa offers a lifetime guarantee covering functional damages, not just manufacturers defects, making it worth the up-front investment.
What testers said
Our consumer testers are always comparing suitcases they test and own to luggage from Rimowa. It truly is the benchmark of quality and performance for hard-sided suitcases. Testers said the brand's luggage is easy to maneuver, highlighting that it rolled nicely in our obstacle course setting and in the real world, through crowded airport terminals.
| Dimensions | 21.7" x 15.8" x 9" |
| Weight | 4.9 lbs |
| Material | Hardside polycarbonate |
How we test luggage
At the Good Housekeeping Institute, we test luggage in our Textiles Lab using specialized equipment and standardized practices. In addition, we share luggage with our consumer testers who try it out for themselves before providing us with real-user feedback. In recent years, we've tested more than 100 pieces of luggage including duffels, carry-ons, checked suitcases, travel backpacks, and more.
Here's what we consider when we evaluate luggage:
✔️ Size and ease of use: First, we measure and weigh each piece of luggage to be sure that the brand's listed dimensions are accurate and that the bags meet the standard size restrictions set by most airlines. We also assess features, like zippers, handles, and locks, and give the bag an overall score for ease of use.
✔️ Packability: We fill each suitcase with a standard load of items (e.g. carry-ons are packed with enough items for a three-day trip) including clothing, accessories, and toiletries, and we rate the bags based on the amount of belongings they can hold.
✔️ Durability: To evaluate durability, we place each piece of luggage in our drop tester and release it repeatedly at different angles from a set 3-foot height. We then score the luggage based on how well it resists dents, breakage, or general damage.
When we evaluate soft-sided luggage, we place a piece of the material in our abrasion tester, which rubs the material back and forth 15,000 times to simulate long-term use and then visually assess and score the amount of wear.
For hard-sided suitcases, we perform a scratch test in which an analyst drags a piece of metal along the shell, making note of any scratches or marks.
Along with abrasion resistance and scratch resistance, we test for water resistance by placing water on a bag's zipper and measuring how much liquid seeps through to the inside of the bag.
✔️ Consumer testing: We set up a luggage obstacle course in the Lab for consumer testers, which involves navigating the luggage around twists and turns, raising and lowering the luggage, rolling it over different types of flooring (carpet, tile and wood), and more. Our testers score each piece of luggage they assess and also rate properties like the overall appearance, the sturdiness of the telescopic handle, and the maneuverability.
Outside of reviewing luggage in the Textiles Lab, we share luggage with testers who are able to take the bags on their own trips and vacations, and then share feedback about their real-world experiences with the luggage—for example, how well it fits into overhead bins, how it looked coming off of the luggage carousel, and whether or not they could fill it with everything they needed for their trip.
What to look for when shopping for the best lightweight luggage
✔️ Wheels: In our evaluations, bags with four 360-degree spinner wheels tend to earn higher marks for maneuverability than those with just two wheels. Suitcases with four wheels can be pushed and pulled forward, backward, and side to side, while those with two wheels must be tilted to roll and only move forward and backward.
✔️ Telescopic handle: A sturdy telescopic handle with a nice grip can make a big difference in the overall comfort of your suitcase. If you're able to shop in person, I recommend raising and lowering the handle a few times to ensure it's smooth and locks into place properly. And once you've purchased your suitcase, be careful when opening and closing the telescopic handle because jerking movements can damage it.
✔️ Carrying handles: Suitcases, duffels, and backpacks often feature carrying handles along the side of the bags for raising and lowering the bags, like when you're lifting your suitcase into the overhead bin or grabbing it from the trunk of your car. Grab the carrying handles to ensure they're roomy enough and feel comfortable to grip.
✔️ Compartments: Decide whether or not you prefer one large packing space for your belongings or if you'd rather have smaller, separate compartments to organize your things. And look into the total number of internal and external pockets, along with water bottle holders, laptop compartments, shoe compartments, and more.
✔️ Zippers: While you're shopping (if you're in person), pull on the zipper tab to open and close the suitcase several times to assess whether the zipper is easy to use or jams easily.
✔️ Charging capabilities: Some suitcases feature a built-in USB port so that you can add a battery to charge your phone and other small electronics while you're on the go. If you opt to purchase a charger and use the USB port, ensure your battery meets restrictions placed by the Federal Aviation Administration and the Transportation Security Administration.
✔️ Warranties and returns: Luggage brands tend to offer warranties that only cover manufacturing defects, rather than any damage, and these defects can be difficult to prove. Instead of focusing on the warranty, I recommend checking to see if the brand offers a trial period or an any-reason return policy. That way, you can try the bag out without worry before committing, especially if you're shopping online instead of in person.
Which is lighter: hard-sided luggage or soft?
In our years of testing, we've found that there are hard and soft-sided suitcases that are lightweight and hard and soft-sided suitcases that are heavyweight. In other words: No one type of luggage is lighter than the other. Instead, it boils down to details like the design, the material used and the overall construction.
If you prefer hard-sided suitcases, I recommend avoiding metals like aluminum and instead opting for a suitcase made of ABS plastic or polycarbonate. ABS plastic tends to be the lightest of the hard-sided materials but isn't quite as sturdy as polycarbonate, which is highly durable yet a little pricier.
For soft-sided suitcases, I suggest going with a polyester pick rather than nylon. Polyester typically weighs less but doesn't perform quite as well as nylon in our tests. However, it is still a durable option overall and is often more affordable than nylon.
Why trust Good Housekeeping?
Amanda Constantine joined the Good Housekeeping Institute in 2022 as a home and apparel reviews analyst. As part of the Textiles Lab, she has tested and researched luggage of all kinds including luggage sets, carry-ons, and luggage for international travel. Constantine is also a frequent flyer and combined her relative expertise and personal experience with our Lab's data to choose the best lightweight luggage picks.
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