From carry-on to checked-in, take the fuss out of flying with the best lightweight suitcases of 2025.
If there’s one thing that kills the pre-travel buzz, it’s overweight luggage. Cue exasperated sigh. And while packing light is always wise, it needn’t entail the dreaded cull. With a lighter suitcase in tow, you’ll have extra wiggle room for your wardrobe favourites, toiletry essentials and a few extra pairs of shoes (options are needed, obviously).
Not only is the best lightweight luggage easy on the scales, but it also provides optimal manoeuvrability, storage space and style. Whether you’re flying with a carry-on or checked-in suitcase, for business or for leisure, these are the best soft and hard-shell lightweight suitcases on the market, ranked from lightest to heaviest.
The best lightweight carry-on suitcases: soft side
Kathmandu Feather Flight Carry-On
It’s a feather? A cloud? Nope. It’s just Kathmandu Feather Flight – the lightest full-sized, two-wheeled carry-on luggage on the market. Scaling in at 1.6 kilograms, the award winning piece dons a sturdy exLIGHT exoskeleton and soft, ripstop nylon body with a 15” laptop sleeve. Tumble, jerk, rolling road and stair-tested, the lightweight bag withstands the most turbulent of journeys. It’s also 93% recycled (big win).
Weight: 1.6 kg
Dimensions: 52cm x 35cm x 23cm
Volume: 40 L
Type: cabin
Antler Soft Stripe Lightest Carry-On
Small but mighty, the 1.9-kilogram Antler Lightest Carry-On answers all hassle-free travel dreams. The deftly designed cabin piece is crafted from fully recycled polyester and features roomy compartments for added versatility. While lightweight suitcases tend to limit packing capacity, there’s no compromise here with up to 44 litres of space.
Weight: 1.9 kg
Dimensions: 55cm x 35cm x 23cm with expander
Volume: 44 L
Type: cabin
Samsonite 73H 55cm
Sky-high storage comes standard when traveling with Samsonite 73H carry-on. An updated model of the previous 72H DLX series, the piece blends functionality with timeless style. Think copious pockets, cross ribbons, smart sleeves and antimicrobial lining – all within a compact design that minimises weight and maximises space. Just de(light)ful.
Weight: 1.9 kg
Dimensions: 55cm x 36cm x 24cm
Volume: 38 L
Type: cabin
Delsey Maringa Carry On 55cm
Live on the lighter side of travel with Delsey Maringa Carry On. This four-wheeled gem is one of the best lightweight suitcases on the market, and the cherry on the cake is that it won’t break the bank. The tough denier polyester material and expandable design provides durability without sacrificing the airy construction, while the dual caster wheels easily navigate any surface.
Weight: 2.2 kg
Dimensions: 55cm x 35cm x 24-27cm
Volume: 40.15 L
Type: cabin
The best lightweight carry-on suitcases: hard shell
July Carry On Light
As light as they come but as tough as a nail, July Carry On Light has serious bragging rights with a weight of just 1.8 kilograms. This suitcase promises ample room for all your travel necessities and turbulence-proof protection with its aerospace-grade German polycarbonate shell. A sleek, matte finish available in a variety of muted colours makes this vegan suitcase extra suave. And if you find yourself in need of an extra five litres of packing space, you can always opt for the expandable version.
Weight: 1.8 kg
Dimensions: 54cm x 36cm x 19cm
Volume: 32 L
Type: cabin
RIMOWA Essential Lite Cabin U
Dream travel companions are found in the form of Essential Lite Cabin U, the lightest suitcase across all RIMOWA collections. Keep your belongings organised with a mesh divider and zipped interior pocket, and look the part with the stylish ribbed exterior. Thanks to the multiwheel system and T-Bar telescopic handle, this bag is also a breeze to manoeuvre over a range of surfaces. The best part? Its dimensions are compatible with virtually every major airline’s hand luggage restrictions, making it one of the best lightweight suitcases on the market.
Weight: 2 kg
Dimensions: 50cm x 35cm x 20 cm
Volume: 28 L
Type: cabin
Samsonite Upscape Spinner 55cm
Shock-absorbing suspension wheels, a humble load of 2.3 kilograms and recycled rPET lining. Talk about treading lightly. There’s a lot to love about the Samsonite Upscape Spinner Carry-on suitcase, but its exceptional functionality tops the list. The spacious interior features a removable and washable lining, while the USB A & C ports provide added convenience. For those concerned about security, rest assured that your precious belongings can be tucked safely away with a TSA-approved lock and two-way zipper.
Weight: 2.3 kg
Dimensions: 55cm x 40cm x 20 cm
Volume: 45 L
Type: cabin
Antler Icon Stripe Biggest Cabin
Every trip goes smoothly when travelling with Antler – thanks to their four Silent Glide 360 spinner wheels that are crafted with Japanese engineering. Superb spinnability aside, heritage brand Antler knows how to do lightweight suitcases well. The Antler Icon Stripe Biggest Cabin is not only uber airy, but also boasts a comfort grip handle and fully recycled polyester interior lining, along with a water-resistant exterior for ultimate durability. It’s also now available in two new sophisticated colours, Mist and Indigo.
Weight: 2.8 kg
Dimensions: 29.5cm x 58cm x 24cm
Volume: 48.2 L
Type: cabin
Delsey Paris Chatelet air 2.0 Carry-On S
You’re bound to feel weightless when travelling with the Delsey Chatelet Air 2.0 Carry-On S suitcase. The chic French design features a neoprene battery pocket, easy-access USB port, power bank cable and zippered divider, along with a handy laundry and shoe bag. Even better, there’s no chance of bacteria growth from stinky socks with the recycled internal lining’s antimicrobial technology. Available in cream, brown or navy with chestnut detailing, the lightweight luggage celebrates Delsey’s signature style with added anti-scratch finishing and soft-touch handles for smooth carrying.
Weight: 2.9 kg
Dimensions: 55cm x 35cm x 25cm
Volume: 38 L
Type: cabin
The best lightweight checked suitcases: soft side
Antler Soft Stripe Lightest Large
A large suitcase weighing just 2.7 kilograms is an impressive feat (most wheeled carry-ons weigh more). Anter Soft Stripe Lightest Large suitcase does just that thanks to its fully recycled polyester construction. Enthusiastic packers will love the external zip pocket, interior compartments, compression strap and 5cm expander for easy organisation.
Weight: 2.7 kg
Dimensions: 83cm x 46.5cm x 31cm
Volume: 120 L
Type: large-sized check in
Samsonite City Rhythm Soft Side Spinner Suitcase 71cm
Upgrade your travel game with Samsonite City Rhythm, one of the best lightweight suitcases for business and leisure. The simple yet elegant design is crafted with rPET Recyclex Lining and allows you to charge electronics on the go with a handy USB port. An integrated TSA Cable Lock means all your belongings will be safely stored.
Weight: 2.9 kg
Dimensions: 71cm x 44cm x 28cm
Volume: 77 L
Type: medium-sized check in
Samsonite 73H 78cm
Like its smaller carry-on counterpart, Samonsite 73H 78cm makes it easy to stay within airline baggage limits. Available in classic dark colours, the suitcase is made from 100% nylon and features an anti-theft zipper for security. With a 35-centimetre expander and a volume of 126 litres, space is no issue.
Weight: 2.9 kg
Dimensions: 78cm x 49cm x 31cm
Volume: 126 L
Type: large-sized check in
Monsac Pro Flex Soft Side 70cm
Whether you’re off to a far-flung destination or on a spontaneous weekend trip, Monsac Pro Flex Soft Side has got your back. One of the most versatile lightweight suitcases on the market, the piece puts practicality front of mind. Eight 360 degree spinner wheels ensure an effortless glide while TSA locks and plenty of internal and external pockets do the trick for convenient organisation.
Weight: 2.9 kg
Dimensions: 70cm x 41cm x 29cm
Type: medium-sized check in
The best lightweight checked suitcases: hard shell
American Tourister Airconic Spinner 77cm
When it comes to lightweight suitcases, durability is just as important as a light load. Luckily, the American Tourister Airconic Spinner has polypropylene material, strong double wheels and a streamlined hard shell design – there’s nothing flimsy about that. With a generous 101 litres of packing space and internal cross strap organiser, the suitcase makes room for all your prized possessions.
Weight: 3.2 kg
Dimensions: 77cm x 49cm x 31cm
Volume: 101 L
Type: large-sized check in
Samsonite Lite-Cube DLX Spinner 82 cm
Don’t settle for less. Settle for less (weight, that is). The Samsonite Lite-Cube DLX Spinner is ultra light and super strong thanks to its Curv® material, which is five times stronger than traditional polypropylene. Turn heads with the gorgeous aluminium casing, finished with refined leather stitching, and safeguard with scratch-resistance technology and a TSA combination lock. A divider, set of cross ribbons, removable wet pocket and hanging loop make the interior of this lightweight luggage legend just as impressive as its exterior.
Weight: 3.6 kg
Dimensions: 82.0cm x 54.5cm x 34.5cm
Volume: 122 L
Type: large-sized check in
RIMOWA Essential Lite Check-in L
Weighing 30 per cent less than RIMOWA Essential suitcases, the Essential Lite Check-In L is one of the largest lightweight suitcases out there. Whether you’re whizzing away for the weekend or off on a multi-week work trip, this lightweight suitcase fulfils every traveller’s needs. The ribbed polycarbonate exterior guarantees extra sturdiness, while the clever multiwheel system and telescopic handle ensure effortless movement through the airport and beyond.
Weight: 3.7 kg
Dimensions: 78cm x 51cm x 26.5cm
Volume: 81 L
Type: large-sized check in
July Checked Luggage
Ideal for trips between one to two weeks, the July Checked suitcase is both roomy and reliable. Protect fragile belongings and souvenirs against hard drops with the aerospace-grade polycarbonate casing and custom anodised aluminium bumpers. An internal heavy-duty compression strap helps to create even more packing space while the hidden laundry bag is perfect for separating used items.
Weight: 3.8 kg
Dimensions: 66cm x 47cm x 29cm
Volume: 80 L
Type: medium-sized check in
Samsonite NUON Spinner 81cm
The 81cm Samsonite NUON Spinner suitcase answers the calls of every sophisticated traveller. Expect premium materials both inside and out, including Recyclex lining made from 100% repurposed plastic bottles and a polycarbonate shell. With shock-absorbing wheels, an anti-theft security zipper and a removable internal divider, this is one of the best lightweight suitcases for practicality.
Weight: 3.9 kg
Dimensions: 81cm x 53cm x 31cm
Volume: 129 L
Type: large-sized check in
Lightweight luggages FAQs
Which type of luggage is lightest?
Both hard and soft-shell luggage can be extremely lightweight, but the most lightweight suitcases tend to be made using soft fabric rather than a hard casing. The advantage of a hard shell is that it usually provides superior protection.
What is the weight of a lightest carry-on bag?
With an airy weight of just 1.6 kilograms, the Feather Flight Carry On trolley from Kathmandu is the lightest carry-on suitcase on the market and offers 40 litres of packing space. If you are looking for a suitcase with a hard shell, the lightest carry-on luggage is Carry On Light by July, weighing just 1.8 kilograms.
What brand of suitcase is the lightest?
While many brands offer lightweight luggage, July, Samsonite and Antler are well known for their lightweight suitcases.
What is better, hard or soft suitcase?
Hard suitcases with protective shells are the best choice for those travelling with precious items they want to avoid damaging. Soft suitcases are not able to withstand poor weather or water as well as hard-shell suitcases. Soft luggage may be a preferable alternative for those wanting to travel light with a lighter load.
Which is lighter, hard or soft luggage?
If made from an airy material, soft luggage is often lighter than hard-shell suitcases. That being said, there are many extra lightweight hard-shell suitcases on the market, some of which are lighter than particular soft luggage pieces.
What weighs less, hard or soft luggage?
In general, soft luggage often weighs less than hard suitcases. However, some hard-shell lightweight suitcases are lighter than similarly sized soft pieces.
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