Why bring a heavy, unwieldy suitcase on your next vacation when you can upgrade to something that won't weigh you down? Our picks for the best lightweight luggage include suitcases and carry-on bags as light as four pounds while still offering plenty of packing space.
But which lighter-than-air bag is best? We've taken an ultra-close look at each item on this list to show you the full picture—including the pros and cons—so you can make an educated decision. Start scrolling to peruse our seven favorites, then start planning your next getaway. Bon Voyage!
Advertised with the bold claim of being "The World's Lightest Carry On," this Hammacher Schlemmer piece of luggage weighs under five pounds! This means it weighs 66% less than comparable-sized travel bags. The lack of weight means you can lift it more easily into the overhead storage bin of a plane. Hammacher Schlemmer states the luggage underwent six separate durability tests, and the strong polyester material is resistant to tearing and fraying.
What We Like
▪ Under 5 pounds
▪ Four spinner wheels
▪ Padded grip handles
What We Don’t
▪ Higher price point
An Amazon's Choice product, the Travelpro Maxlite 5-Softside luggage features four spinner wheels that rotate 360° to ensure a smooth roll. The low-profile luggage is expandable up to two inches and contains two exterior compartments. A full-length pocket on the interior lid gives you added storage. Side pockets provide more storage capabilities, and the Limited Lifetime Coverage provides free damage repairs for up to one year.
What We Like
▪ Four spinner wheels
▪ Wide range of color options
▪ Lining made from recycled plastic
What We Don’t
▪ Higher price point
The Lipault Original Plume 20" Spinner Carry-On is made of reinforced nylon with a PVC laminated backing for waterproofing and high moisture resistance. This luggage is designed to take sharp fast turn and even speed bumps with four spinner wheels that turn 360°.
What We Like
▪ Recycled nylon fabric
▪ Four spinner wheels
▪ Includes matching packing cube
What We Don’t
▪ Higher price point
An Amazon's Choice product, Kenneth Cole Reaction Out of Bounds 20" hardshell luggage is lightweight and features reinforced molded corner guards. The interior is fully lined and tear-resistant. It also features 360° movement of 4-wheel spinners, double-sided packing, and a secure zipper pocket.
What We Like
▪ Lower price point
▪ Unique color options
▪ Four spinner wheels
▪ Tear-resistant interior fabric
What We Don’t
▪ Handle can be hard to adjust
An Amazon's Choice product, this Samsonite Omni PC Hardside 20" Expandable Luggage features spinner wheels. The texture of micro diamond polycarbonate makes this luggage extremely scratch-resistant. A mesh divider allows packing on both sides with a zipper pocket. It also offers a 10-year limited warranty, so you don't have to worry about baggage handlers being less-than-gentle.
What We Like
▪ Mid-range price point
▪ Four spinner wheels
▪ Side-mounted TSA locks
What We Don’t
▪ Wheels can lock up when you walk too fast
With a scratch-resistant shell, telescoping handle, four spinner wheels, and a fully lined polyester interior, this Amazon Basics Hardside Spinner delivers high-end features at an affordable price. The expandable design, three zippered pockets, and an interior organizer allow you to pack as efficiently as possible.
What We Like
▪ Lower price point
▪ Expandable interior
▪ Scratch-resistant hardside exterior
What We Don’t
▪ Not as durable as the more expensive options
This endlessly Instagrammable carry-on from July weighs just 3.9 pounds while still managing to hold a surprising amount of stuff. It features four spinner wheels, an adjustable telescopic handle, an ultra-durable aerospace-grade German polycarbonate shell, an integrated TSA lock, a lifetime warranty, and 100-day returns.
What We Like
▪ Ultra-durable hardside exterior
▪ Four spinner wheels
▪ Trendy color options
▪ Water-resistant/stain-proof lining
What We Don’t
▪ Higher price point
