Introduction
Getting ready for your next international trip? You must be excited but one thing may make you upset – carrying heavy jumbo luggage. Yes, we all hate it. It spoils the journey and also the neck/shoulder pain because of carrying it spoils the next few days. The only solution for you is to switch to the best lightweight carry-on luggage for international travel.
The lightweight luggage is made considering a traveler’s suffering. So they are easy to carry, durable, and comfortable for travelers. I have also brought the 10 best lightweight carry-on luggage for air travel and in this article, I will discuss the product in detail. So let’s find out.
The Rundown
Best Budget Carry-on Luggage for International Travel
Samsonite Freedom Hardside Luggage
“This is luggage at an affordable price. You will find all the modern designs in this luggage.”
Best Smart Look Luggage for Travel
DELSEY Paris Helium Aero Hardside Luggage
“Beauty with the brain, just like a smart look with outstanding features. This bag has versatile colors to choose from and excellent features to purchase.”
Best Luggage for Family Tour
Amazon Basics Hardside Sooner Suitcase Luggage
“The product contains 2 different size luggage – big and small. You can pack every necessary accessory in the bags and also there are organizer zip pockets available.”
The 10 Best Lightweight Carry-on Luggage for International Travel in 2023
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Amazon Basics Hardside Sooner Suitcase Luggage
First on today’s list is Amazon Basics Hardside Sooner Suitcase Luggage. If you are going on a family or couple trip, then this product is best for you. The product comes in 2 different sizes of luggage – one big and the other small.
The first thing you will love about the luggage is their weight. The big one weighs only 12.21 lbs and the small one weighs just 7.34 lbs. Surely, you won’t feel that lightweight luggage a burden while carrying.
The capacity of the luggage is also enough to carry a large number of accessories and garments. The small one has a capacity of 39 liters and the big one has 105 liters. Surely, you can pack full family accessories in 2 pieces of luggage sets.
Organizing is a fact and the creators kept that in mind. They have added 3 zippered pockets for storing small items conveniently.
Finally, we will show you how durable and protective the luggage is. They are made of quality 150D polyester that is highly durable and appropriate for long-term use. Not only this but also the extra thick hard shell is made of protective ABS. So for long-term use, the luggage is perfect. Besides, You can also check Amazonbasics soft side spinner luggage. Now get out the specifications and other facts at a glance.
Specifications
- Dimension: 21.6″ x 14.4″ x 9.2″ (Total dimension)
- Color: Navy Blue
- Weight: 12.21 lbs (Big), 7.34 lbs (Small)
What we like
- Perfect for trips of any duration.
- Being lightweight they are easy to carry.
- Attractive design.
What we don’t like
- You may not feel the handle so strong.
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DELSEY Paris Helium Aero Hardside Luggage
DELSEY Paros Helium Aero Hardside is one of the stunning-looking luggage on our list. This luggage has some outstanding features unlike other hard side luggage on the market. The luggage is made of Polycarbonate which’s why it is super lightweight. Even if it’s hardshell nature, this luggage is a bit flexible.
If you sit down on the luggage to chain up all the stuff inside your bag, then the lid will just bend down, not break. In this luggage, there are 2 huge compartments to keep all of your stuff organized. With the 2 inside compartments, there is also an external compartment with easy accessibility.
In this compartment, you can keep your toiletries, snacks, or other handy things. Plus, the TSA lock system in this luggage is a bonus. The 3-dial TSA-approved lock keeps your stuff secure. The double-spinner of this luggage gives zero pressure on your hand when you push it beside you.
The 2 huge compartments have an expandable capacity for holding your stuff. One compartment has a tie-down strap to keep your things in place and another one has a zipper to divide and secure all of your things. The telescope wheel handle of this luggage makes it easily portable and push easily. Moreover, the luggage has a side handle to lift it.
Specifications
- Dimension: 29 X 19.5 X 12.5= 61″
- Color: Titanium
- Material: Polycarbonate
- Weight: 8lbs
What we like
- 4-wheels with a smooth moving system.
- TSA lock system.
- Super lightweight.
- Scratch-resistance.
What we don’t like
- The exterior compartment can’t be locked.
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Samsonite Winfield Expandable Luggage
If you want smart-looking luggage to travel, then this one should be on your list. This is the lightest and stylish luggage in our picks. The luggage is made of 100% Polycarbonate which is scratchy resistant as well as keeps the bag lightweight.
The 360° double spinner wheels of this luggage help it to move easily in any direction. It’s like you just have to put your hand on the handle of luggage and the luggage will do the rest on its own. Now, speaking of handles, the telescoping handle can be set in different heights to set up.
The handle has a comfortable grip to hold and super sturdy. There is also a side handle to lift the bag if it’s necessary. Inside the luggage, to keep your items safe and organized there are a full-zipped divider and another cross-strap to tie down your clothing. But, if you need more space after this, don’t worry, this luggage can expand 1.5″ to give you space.
Just like the DELSEY Paris Helium Aero Hardside Luggage, even if this luggage is also hardshell, but it is super flexible. The much pressure you put on it, it will just bend and eventually come into the previous shape. The TSA-approved lock in this bag can be only checked and opened by TSA agents to prevent theft.
Specifications
- Material: Polycarbonate
- Weight: 9.3lbs
- Color: Charcoal
- Dimension: 24″ x 16.5″ x 11″
What we like
- TSA-approved lock.
- 1.5″ extra expandable.
- Multiple colors to choose from.
- Durable and highly-resistant polycarbonate shell
What we don’t like
- No lifetime warranty.
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DELSEY Paris Helium Aero Hardside Expandable Medium Luggage
DELSEY is forever a famous brand and this product is another popular product. Made of durable and lightweight polycarbonate the luggage is appropriate for regular use.
Another great feature of the luggage is the additional 2-inch expandable system. For getting extra packing space you can expand it. You will also love the handle of luggage that comes with 2 positions locking system. The grip of the handle is comfortable and the handle is made of industrial-grade aluminum.
No worries about security. Integration of dial TSA combination will keep everything secure. Carrying the handle will be easy with twin-spin multi-directional wheels.
In comparison with DELSEY Paris Helium Aero Hardside Expandable (Large) there are lots of similarities. But, this one comes with a metallic and glossy finish where the other one uses only a glossy finish. So, if you are in search of medium-size luggage then this one will be an ideal option.
Specifications
- Dimension: 25 X 17.5 X 11.5 inches.
- Weight: 12.5 lbs
- Materials: Durable polystyrene.
- Color: Blue cobalt
What we like
- Use of twin wheels will weigh off your arm.
- Expandable extra 2 inches allows packing more.
- Comfortable handle.
What we don’t like?
- Fortunately, the luggage has no negative issues.
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Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage
Samsonite is an iconic name in innovating reliable, stylish & lightweight durable luggage. This one is no different. It will catch your eyes on the very first look with its stunning color assortment. It has got micro-diamond texture which makes it scratch-resistant as well as visually impactful.
This one comes with aluminum-made retractable & side carry handles which provide an exceptionally comfortable grip. You can set the retractable handle high or medium level or simply store it inside when it is not in use. It features 360 spinner wheels which lend you effortless mobility.
Whether you are on a flight or checking into a hotel, you don’t have to worry about its security. This luggage has a TSA-recognized combination lock which makes sure that your belongings reach your destination safely. After opening, you will get to see a roomy space divided by cross straps and a mesh divider.
This sleek design on one side flattens the clothes, on the other side, organizes them well. There you will also find a long zipped pocket to store small things. Lastly, this stunning carry-on suitcase is backed by a 10-year limited warranty.
Specifications
- Weight: 6.81 lbs
- Dimension: 19″ X 14.5″ X 9.5″ (packing) , 22″ X 15″ X 9.5″ (overall)
- Material: polycarbonate
What we like
- Lightweight and no Airline Baggage Fees
- Easy to maneuver
- Affordable
- Durable luggage options
What we don’t like
- You can’t unzip one portion to get a particular thing instead you have unzipped the entire bag.
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Travelpro Maxlite 5-Softside Expandable Spinner Wheel Luggage
Do you want a roomy, sturdy suitcase to take tours like a pro? Thankfully, Travelpro brings one of the best lightweight carry on luggage for air travel. The makers first anticipate the need of travelers.
Then, they bring out the two most reliable models that let you focus on the trip without worrying about the pieces of luggage. This luggage is available in 9 different stunning colors for 2 piece luggage sets. The outer layer is crafted with Polyester fabric.
After that, the DuraGuard coating covers the layer to protect the luggage from water and stains.
It has aluminum-built telescoping handles that you can extend & lock firmly at different lengths. Opening the bag, you will get an ample-sized interior space, a full-length interior pocket & two holds-down straps. This stuff also comprises two convenient external pockets.
The best part is this luggage comes with expandable zippers that give you the flexibility of packaging with utmost comfort. It also contains 360 rotating spinners that help you to drag luggage through pavement, cobblestone, or dirt.
Specifications
For 21 inch
- Weight: 5.4 lbs
- Dimension: 23” x 14.5” x 9”
- Material: polyester
For 25 inch
- Weight: 7.3 pounds
- Dimension: 27×18.5×11.5 (Overall Dimensions)
- Material: polyester
What we like
- Compact
- Lightweight
- Easy to carry
- Comes with heavy-duty Zippers
What we don’t like
- It contains only two wheels which may get stuck sometimes.
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Travelpro Maxlite 5 Lightweight International Carry-on Expandable Softside Luggage Mocha
This one from travel pro could be your good companion if you often go for a short trips. The polyester fabric along with the dura guard coating makes the outer surface water & stain resistant. It features a high-tensile ergonomic zipper which you can also pull up & down easily.
This item comes with a power scope handle which you can adjust at two levels. The upper portion of the handle gets a rubber covering to give a more comfortable grip. This one comes with two exterior compartment
to carry out your essentials.
The most talkative part of this softside suitcase is its top, side and bottom carry handles. This sort of design makes it the most convenient Travelmate. Having a slant on the front side prevents the fall of the luggage when it becomes heavy. It comes with smooth & sturdy 360 degrees four-spinner wheels that provide decent maneuver.
Even, you can pull it on rougher, uneven terrain, or thin carpeting without any hassle. Typically, it contains a large interior compartment, a whole-length lid pocket & some accessory pockets. The company provides 1year coverage in case of airline or other damage.
Specifications
- Weight: 5. 3 pounds
- Dimensions: 21. 75×15. 75×7. 75 (overall)
- Material: Polyester
What we like
- Ultra-lightweight
- Compact size fit comfortably in airplane compartment
- Side carry handle makes handling great ease
- The expandable top portion provides extra space
What we don’t like
- Doesn’t have a TSA combination lock
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DELSEY Paris Titanium Hardside Luggage
Not everyone wants big-sized luggage to travel. So, if you need smaller-sized luggage to travel around, then this is the option for you. Again from the DELSEY Paris, this hard side luggage is almost similar to its brother in our list, but it has some extra excellent features. Like, it has an extra padded foam compartment at the front to keep secure a 15.6″ laptop.
The luggage has a 4-wheels spinner in 360° directions, so giving your hand zero pressure you can slide your luggage through the crowded airline or airplane aisle. This one is also made of 100% Polycarbonate with a matte silver finish. It looks so elegant and prevents scratches on the beautiful bag.
The features and design of this bag are internationally fit for carrying abroad or inside your country. The luggage has dual-locking handles. One is on the top and another is at the side. The one-button locking handle makes portability easier. The TSA-approved lock on this luggage is only accessible to TSA agents.
Only they can check through your luggage without breaking the lock. And one reminder is, there is no key provided for a TSA-approved locked bag, the keys are for the agents. The bag has two large compartments to keep your items and clothing organized. One has a tie-down strap and the other has a zipper line to divide and keep your stuff wrinkle-free.
Specifications
- Color: Silver
- Weight: 10 lbs
- Size: 19″ height
- Material: Polycarbonate
What we like
- Expandable into 2 inches.
- TSA-approved lock.
- Scratch-resistance.
- Super durable and it has awesome packing capacity.
What we don’t like
- Some may feel the luggage a bit heavier.
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Samsonite Freedom Hardside Luggage
Another gorgeous-looking travel luggage from the Samsonite. This brand is well known for the beautiful versatile colors and the sleek finishing of their luggage. This one is also similar. It is made of Polycarbonate which is injection-molded. So, the luggage can outstand with the heavyweight or rough journey.
The exterior texture of this bag is like a micro-diamond, so it is scratch-proof. The TSA-approved lock of this bag is also a plus point for safety and a peaceful journey. Only the agents can access your bag. Otherwise, your belongings will be safe.
It has 4-spinner wheels that can go to multi-direction. So, you don’t have to give any kind of pressure on your hand while you will push your bag. The wider and sturdy pull handle of this luggage has a comfortable grip to hold. It also has a side handle to lift the luggage.
The extremely sleek texture of this luggage makes it look shiny after a lot of usage. The design of this luggage meets all the standards of international and domestic travel. Moreover, the luggage is so lightweight to carry and maneuver.
Specifications
- Color: Sage Green
- Material: Polycarbonate
- Size: 21.25″ x 15.25″ x 10″
- Weight: 6.5 lbs
What we like
- Super durable.
- Inexpensive price.
- Double spinner.
- Flexible hardshell.
What we don’t like
- No front compartment.
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Swiss Gear Sion Softside Luggage
Our last pick but one of the famous luggage around the market is Swiss Gear Sion Softside Luggage. Unlike the previous products, this one has a softshell. But, it doesn’t mean that it has less durability or fewer features.
This one is made of durable Polyester fabric which is scuffs-resistance. This fabric won’t be worn out or torn even in rigorous travel on-road or air-way. It has a larger compartment than the other luggage on our list. It has an extra 2 external zipper pockets to keep your handy stuff there like books, magazines, or earbuds.
It has a tie-down strap to keep your items in place, wrinkle-free and organized. It also comes with an extra zipper bag on which you can keep your dirty or wet clothes. The telescopic handle of this luggage is super sturdy and durable. You can set the handle on different heights as you want.
As the front of the luggage is padded, you can easily store your laptop in the compartment. This one is very ideal for family or business travel. The 4-spinner wheel of this bag makes it super easy to move in multi-direction.
Specifications
- Weight: 8lbs
- Material: Polyester
- Dimension: 22.5″ x 14.5″ x 10″
- Color: Black
What we like
- Super flexible.
- Can be expandable.
- Good custom compression system
- Stylish and useful design.
- Comes with a wet bag.
What we don’t like
- Doesn’t have a TSA-approved lock.
Tips For Choosing The Right Lightweight Carry-On Luggage For International Travel
Now, there are some mandatory features that anyone should look into a backpack before purchasing. Here are the features you need to consider for getting the best lightweight checked luggage-
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Hard or Soft Shell
This is a tough decision to make whether you need hard luggage or a soft one. Hardshell luggage is way too sturdy and durable. They come in incredible designs and colors, but problem is, that hardshell luggage has less space and less flexibility. These bags are very ideal for air travel.
Softshell luggage is flexible and lightweight. These types of bags have huge space inside as they are flexible. But here the problem is, these bags are not sturdy like hardshell bags. These bags are very easy to move and carry.
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Material
The material quality of a product makes it durable and sturdy. In most cases, hardshell luggage is made of sturdy Makrolon polycarbonate, Aluminum, Polypropylene, and ABS. These are sturdy enough to protect if there is any fragile package in your luggage.
And their softshell luggage is made of mostly Ballistic Nylon, Polyester, or Cordura nylon. These fabrics are super sturdy, not like the regular fabric we wear! These fabrics are strong enough to prevent ripping out. The fabrics are also waterproof. So, don’t think softshell luggage is less strong than hard shells.
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Handles
In a complete suitcase, there must be two handles. If there aren’t two, one handle is mandatory. For two, one handle is for lifting the bag from the ground. You need to lift the bag in-cab, bed, or stairs, then you need this handle to lift.
The second handle is for pulling or pushing the luggage. This handle sits on the top of the luggage and is long extendable. All good brand makes their pulling handle with the best quality lightweight luggage material like Aluminum.
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Zips & Locks
If you are traveling on the airway, then you should have a TSA-approved lock or zipper in your bag. Now you can ask me what is this TSA thing. Those passengers who fly to or fly from the US must have a TSA-approved zip or lock in their bag for ultimate security.
TSA regulates all the bags before they get into the plane. If they notice your bag has another lock other than TSA, then they have the authority to break the lock and check stuff. This is for the utmost security. So, for happy, peaceful, and hassle-free travel, get a TSA-approved lock or zipper in your bag. If your luggage doesn’t have TSA locks, then buy a stand-alone TSA lock.
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Weight
Every airline has its weight limit of luggage before flying. In the airport, there can be seen that some people are unloading their packs to dump some of their stuff to weigh the luggage less. So, check the weight limit and your luggage weight before check-in.
The very common rule for most airlines is, that if your luggage weighs more than 50 lbs, they need to pay an extra charge. Some of the airlines even refuse to check-in the overweight luggage. So, be careful about lightweight luggage.
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Size
Most of the luggage on our list is lightweight and medium-sized. Carry-on luggage is ideal for traveling and very easy to handle. The most renowned brand makes their luggage in medium sizes so the user can easily move their bag and won’t create any problems in the airport. Just like weight, oversized big luggage also has some restrictions in the airport. So, check the size before buying your luggage.
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Wheels
There are 2 types of wheel options to choose from in luggage. 2 or 4 wheels. 2 wheels suitcases are easy to pull behind you. They roll smoothly on any kind of surface. These types of bags are the most common to see in users.
4-wheeled suitcases are smoother than 2-wheeled ones. They offer you the quickest and easiest rolling through the airplane aisle. However, one problem you may face in 4- wheels, that is the wheels may get stuck in bumpy roads or uneven surfaces.
Read: Best Travel Electric Toothbrush – Revealing the best of 2023
Top 10 Tips for Carry-on Lightweight Luggage
Here I will present 10 useful tips for packing luggage that will ease your journey for sure.
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Choose an appropriate bag
Small bags won’t let you overpack with unnecessary things, you will be quite conscious about fitting important things within the small space.
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Include the must-haves only
Just carry the essential things in the bag, don’t try to carry the nice-to-have things. By following this rule, you will not increase the number of bags as well.
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Pack a capsule wardrobe
It means carrying the clothes or accessories that can be worn by mixing and matching.
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Minimize the number of shoes
You can carry a maximum of three pairs of shoes including comfortable ones, beach buddies, and dressy shoes.
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Don’t carry shampoo & toiletries
Almost every hotel or guesthouse provides these things while you stay in them.
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Go for e-guidebooks
Rather than weighing your luggage with a guidebook, download the online version on your phone.
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Limit the number of technological stuff
If you are not going to work while traveling just carry your mobile and it will lighten your luggage much.
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Avoid bringing books
Though reading books is a great time pass while on any family vacation you can download the pdf versions to reduce the load.
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Keep everything organized in the bag
Follow a specific folding method for packing the clothes, this will save a lot of space.
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Keep some space free
Do not fill your bag to the top, keep some free space for the items you may buy while traveling.
FAQ
What is the best large lightweight carry-on luggage for air travel?
The best durable lightweight luggage is made of sturdy materials and comes with good wheels and a locking system. We suggest “Samsonite Winfield Expandable Luggage”
This luggage is made of polycarbonate and weighs only 9.3 lbs. Also, the 360° spinn wheels made it easy for transportation.
Which is better hard or soft luggage?
It depends on personal preferences. The hard luggage is more protective and durable. On the other hand, soft luggage is lightweight and comfortable. Moreover, they are expandable and comes with external pockets.
Is Ricardo’s luggage better than Samsonite’s?
According to the experts, Samsonite is the winner in the battle between Ricardo and Samsonite. Though both of them are highly reputed and durable, Samsonite offers more sales and promotions. Plus, in case of popularity, they are surely ahead.
How do I choose a luggage bag?
You just need to consider some normal facts for choosing a luggage bag.
Make sure the luggage is made of quality materials, for organizations look for pockets, and check out the handle’s condition, overall weight, capacity, and price. For more details, follow our buying guide.
What type of wheels is best for luggage?
There are different types, not wheels among them in-line skate wheels and spinner wheels are widely used. If you are going to make heavy use of your luggage, then I suggest spinner wheels as they are easy to maneuver. Again, if you use the luggage only for the occasion then in-line wheels will be okay for you. Considering overall use we suggest spinner wheels for luggage.
What size suitcase is considered oversized?
Different airlines have different size restrictions. But in most cases, 62 linear inches is considered the largest size. Over 62 inches, it is considered oversized.
Besides, You can get the best travel tips for an outstanding summer vacation. Just flow our tourisminsights.info blog.
Final Words
Now you have a better understanding of the best lightweight carry-on luggage for international travel. For a family trip we suggest “Amazon Basics Hardside Sooner Suitcase Luggage” and for the lightweight feel, “Samsonite Freedom Hardside Luggage” is the best option though they may be lacking the capacity for long-duration traveling.
However, a guide and some FAQs are also given for you to find the well-suited luggage for you. So, before getting the items to be stocked out make sure to place your order. Hopefully, you will be benefitted from these 10 best lightweight luggage for international travel reviews.
Before finishing I am leaving a suggestion, read our “Best Packable Duffel Bag, Electric Toothbrush for Travel″ article!