The Best Lightweight Suitcase For International Travel In 2024

Katie Finn By, Katie Finn
Updated
Best Lightweight Suitcase For International Travel
Best Lightweight Suitcase For International Travel

Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall: Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Expandable Luggage

Turn your airport into a runway with the help of the Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Expandable Luggage. With it's 4, multi-directional spinner wheels for effortless mobility, re-engineered lightweight and 1.5" expansion to allow you to pack more items, this is our go-to luggage for traveling. Read Review

2. Best Bang For The Buck: KENNETH COLE REACTION Out Of Bounds Luggage

Kenneth Cole Reaction Out Of Bounds Luggage features an extremely lightweight and durable hard ABS exterior with reinforced protective molded corner guards. The interior is fully lined with a tear-resistant lining and features double-sided packing, a zippered organization pocket, and garment restraint straps to hold your clothes in place. Read Review

3. Best Quality: Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage

This Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage is a half pound lighter than the maxlite 4, making it ultra lightweight at just 21 inches. H20 Guard protects the interior lining from moisture, and 4 wheel spinners rotate 360 degrees for a smooth roll. The unique bottom tray design increases durability. Read Review

4. Best Flexible: Kenneth Cole Reaction Renegade 20” Carry-On Luggage Lightweight

Travel light and stay organized with the Kenneth Cole Reaction Renegade 20” carry-On Luggage. It’s a lightweight and durable travel bag that offers lots of storage space, including a large main compartment with an interior zippered pocket. The retractable trolley handle makes it easy to maneuver through airports while the sleek and stylish exterior helps to protect your luggage from damage. Read Review

The suitcase is one of the most important items you’ll take with you on your trip. After all, it’s the only thing that can fit in your car or other small space. The more lightweight it is, the better. That’s why you need to be extra careful when selecting a suitcase for your travels. You want something that not only offers adequate storage space for your clothes and accessories but also doesn’t weigh you down as much as possible.

With this in mind, we have compiled this list of the 10 best lightweight suitcase options available on the market today. These will help you pack light without sacrificing storage capacity or durability while traveling internationally. Read on to learn more about each option and whether they are right for you!

Our team had to focus on researching for 14 hours to get such results for readers. This type of study uses customer star ratings and customer interviews on their product experiences. As result, We think the best lightweight suitcase for international travel is Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Expandable Luggage. We also show the other fantastic alternatives with a complete guide which is worth your consideration below.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Expandable Luggage
Our Score:
9.8
Samsonite

Unified brushed pattern custom design on front and back shells hide any potential scratches or scuffs from your journey

Handsome slider in squared full-capacity design featuring oversized Number-10 zipper and interior divider with organization pockets

10 year limited warranty: Samsonite products are rigorously tested to ensure our products meet stringent standards. This bag comes with a 10-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.

1.5" Expansion to allow you to pack more items and compression keeps clothing neatly pressed

4, multi-directional spinner wheels for effortless mobility, re-engineered lightweight

Packing dimensions: 28.0" X 19.75" X 12.5", overall dimensions: 31.0" X 20.0" X 12.75", weight: 11.5 pounds

Lightweight locking telescopic handle

Side mounted TSA locks act to deter theft, ensuring that only you or a TSA agent have easy access to your belongings when traveling

28" Spinner luggage maximizes your packing power and is the ideal checked bag for longer trips

TOP Choice #2 KENNETH COLE REACTION Out Of Bounds Luggage
Our Score:
9.6
Kenneth Cole REACTION

[Product Weight] 9.6 lbs.

[Packing Dimensions] 28” H x 19.5” W x 9.5” D.

[Overall Dimensions] - 29.5” H x 20.5” W x 11.75” D. ★ (Includes Handle + Wheels)

Interior main compartment is fully lined with a tear-resistant lining and features double-sided packing, a zippered organization pocket, and garment restraint straps to hold your clothes in place.

Exterior features a top and side grab handle for easy maneuvering and four molded side feet that allow luggage to stand upright on its side.

Luggage is made of a durable, lightweight hard ABS exterior with reinforced protective molded corner guards that absorb shock for maximum impact resistance and durability.

Equipped with a sturdy and user-friendly push-button retractable trolley handle system.

Features a lightweight construction that helps you adhere to airline weight restrictions to avoid unneeded airport fees.

Backed by a manufacturer 10-year limited guarantee against craftsmanship and manufacturer defects. The perfect lightweight and dependable 28” large check-size suitcase for travelers whom value both style and function in their luggage.

Fitted with premium 4-wheel multi-directional spinners that allow for smooth effortless 360°-degree free-weight maneuvering.

TOP Choice #3 Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage
Our Score:
9.4
Travelpro

A half pound lighter than maxlite 4, this ultra lightweight 21 inch spinner meets carry on size restrictions for most domestic airlines. H20 Guard protects the interior lining from moisture

4 wheel spinners rotate 360 degree for a smooth roll. Lightweight, sturdy PowerScope handle stops at 38 inch and 42.5 inch features a patented contour grip with rubberized touch points for easy maneuvering. Unique bottom tray design increases durability

Interior dimension: 21 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches Exterior dimension: 23 inches x 14.5 inches x 9 inches; Volume : 46 liter

Weight: 5.4 lbs.

Limited Lifetime Coverage plus trusted companion promise, which covers the cost of repair for damage from airline or other common carrier for 1 year

Expands up to 2 inch to maximize packing capacity. Features low profile top, side and bottom carry handles, two exterior compartments, full length interior lid pocket, side accessory pocket and adjustable hold down straps for packing convenience

Expands an additional 2 inches

Ergonomically designed retractable trolley handle

8-wheel multi-directional spinners for effortless handling

Meets most U. S based & international airline carry-on size requirements and fits into most overhead bins.

Packing Dimensions - 20" H x 13.5" L x 8.5-10.5" D.

Overall Dimensions - 22" H x 14" L x 9-11" D.

Sleek and stylish exterior with corner guard reinforcements helps protect your bag from damage

Weight - 7.35 lbs.

Main compartment interior features several zippered organization pockets elastic shoe pockets and a garment restraint panel

High performance inline skate wheels and lightweight yet sturdy PowerScope Lite handle with stops at 38 inches and 42.5 inches reduce wobble and ensure a smooth, easy roll; Expands up to 2 inches to maximize packing capacity with tapered shape to prevent tipping

Limited Lifetime Coverage plus new trusted companion promise, which covers the cost of repair for damage from airline or other common carrier for 1 year

Features low profile top, side and bottom carry handles, two exterior compartments, full length interior lid pocket, side accessory pocket and adjustable hold down straps for packing convenience and flexibility

Case Dimensions: 20x 15x7.7, Overall Dimensions: 21.75x15.75x7.75, Weight: 5.4 pounds ; Volume : 45 L

Ultra lightweight, ultra durable 19 inches expandable Rollaboard suitcase maximizes your packing power and meets carry on size restrictions for most international airlines; Polyester fabric with stain resistant, water repellant duraguard coating and ergonomic, high tensile strength zipper pulls provide lasting durability

Backed by our built for a lifetime limited worry free warranty that covers the cost of repair for damage from airline or other common carrier for the life of the bag after registration under the trusted companion promise.

Expandable carry-on spinner suitcase with external USB port and dedicated powerbank pocket meets FAA regulations for carry-on and checked baggage. Powerbank not included.

Deluxe interior tie down system includes built-in accessory pockets for quick access to essentials. Removable quart-sized wet pocket is TSA compliant and perfect for storing toiletries. Premium leather top and side carry handles plus bottom handle cup provide comfortable carrying options.

Case Dimensions: 19x15x7.75, Overall Dimensions: 21.75x15.75x7.75 Weight: 7.7 lbs

The Precision Glide System has magnatrac self-aligning 360-degree dual spinner wheels and an adjustable PowerScope extension handle with Contour grip, that delivers effortless roll and comfortable maneuverability.

20" SPINNER LUGGAGE maximizes your packing power and meets most carry-on size restrictions for those traveling domestically and looking to stay light

100% POLYCARBONATE that’s tough and scratch resistant

FOUR, MULTI-DIRECTIONAL OVERSIZED SPINNER WHEELS for effortless mobility, re-engineered lightweight

SELF RETRACTING carry handles that maintain a low profile when not in use

1.5" EXPANSION to allow you to pack more items and compression keeps clothing neatly pressed

Easy-to-use large pull handle with a rubber-enclosed protected push button.

NEW FOUR POCKET REVERSIBLE panel that maximizes organization without extra bulk or weight

PACKING Dimensions: 20.0" x 14.25" x 9.5", OVERALL Dimensions: 22.5" x 14.5" x 9.5", Weight: 6.97 lbs.

SIDE-MOUNTED TSA LOCKs act to deter theft, ensuring that only you or a TSA agent have easy access to your belongings when traveling

10 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY: Samsonite products are rigorously tested to ensure our products meet stringent standards. This bag comes with a 10-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.

PrecisionGlide System for precise control and roll includes a Patented Contour Grip, a Patented PowerScope Extension Handle that adjusts to multiple heights while minimizing wobble and self-aligning magnetic wheels that roll straight in any direction

Supra zipper heads are engineered to resist damage from daily use. Cushioned, low-profile top and side carry handles along provide comfortable carrying option. Backed by our built for a lifetime limited warranty with our trusted companion promise

Maximizes carry-on sizer bin restrictions. May need to check if over packe. Includes a zip-in garment organizer and additional coordinating zip-in organizers available for purchase separately: laundry organizer, suiter organizer

Expansion increases up 2". High-density ballistic nylon with DuraGuard coating resists stains. Built-in protection includes corner armor, skid guards and durable wheel housings. Removable, TSA-compliant toiletries bag included

Case Dimensions: 21x14.75x10; Overall Dimensions:23x15.5x10

9 Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable
Our Score:
8.1
Samsonite

Recessed TSA combination lock provides security when checked belongings, cases expand for added packing capacity

Push-Button locking handles provides easy maneuverability when extended out from the suitcase, and stores neatly inside when not in use

21" Spinner Luggage maximizes your packing power and meets most carry-on size restrictions for those traveling domestically and looking to stay light

Ultra-Light, ultra strong shells withstand the rigors of modern travel

Four Multi-Directional double spinner wheels allow 360 degree upright rolling so there is no weight on your arm or shoulder

Packing Dimensions: 19.5" x 14.5" x 10.0", Overall Dimensions: 21.25" x 15.25" x 10.0", 6.5 lbs.

Expansion to allow you to pack more items and compression keeps clothing neatly pressed

10 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY: Samsonite products are rigorously tested to ensure our products meet stringent standards. This bag comes with a 10-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.

Cross Ribbon and Divider for easy packing, multiple pockets to keep belongings organized and built-in ID tag

Backed by our built for a lifetime limited worry free warranty that covers the cost of repair for damage from airline or other common carrier for the life of the bag after registration under the trusted companion promise

Case Dimensions: 16x13.5x7 , Overall Dimensions: 18x14x7, Weight: 6.8 lbs

High-performance sealed ball bearing wheels ensure a smooth roll and lasting durability, while the patented PowerScope airline-grade aluminum extension handle minimizes wobble and has multiple stops to accommodate users of different heights

Deluxe interior tie down system includes built-in accessory pockets for quick access to essentials. Removable quart-sized wet pocket is TSA compliant and perfect for storing toiletries. Premium leather top and side carry handles plus bottom handle cup provide comfortable carrying options

Compact, lightweight regional carry-on Rollaboard suitcase is designed for shorter trips and regional airlines. External USB port and dedicated power bank pocket meet faa regulations for carry-on and checked baggage. Power bank not included

What Are the Key Factors for Customers to Follow to Pick best lightweight suitcase for international travel?

A range of influences contributes to the best lightweight suitcase for international travel. Depending on the product, there are several ways to study it. As a result, we've come to lend a hand, offer advice, and offer answers to these issues.

A thorough search of trustworthy websites should be conducted using as many resources as feasible. Our experts use high-tech tools and a well-tuned product listing system to provide a sort of service.

It'd also be fascinating to go more into the development and analysis of these aspects. Consider the following tips in mind:

Storage

There are many internal pockets that you can find in both hard-shell and soft-sided luggages. These include small pockets with integrated zippers and large pouched pockets that will hold a laptop. You can also have removable laundry bags or garment sections to keep your suit jackets from tearing. Soft-sided suitcases are often equipped with external pockets that can be used to store easy-access items.

Weight

Checked luggage: Full-size bags are allowed, but the weight limits vary by airline (see below). Excess baggage fees can be very high so make sure your bag isn't too heavy. Regular flyers might find it useful to purchase luggage scales. Keep in mind, however that you will need to pack more outfits if your suitcase is empty. We found that the best suitcases were as light as 2.3kg empty. Bulkier options weighed in at around 6.2kg.
Hand luggage: Some airlines may have restrictions on the weight of cabin cases. You don't have to give up books, souvenirs and gifts if you choose a lighter cabin bag or fly with an airline that is more flexible.

Handles

Practicality is enhanced by suitcases that have handles at the top and sides. This extra handle along with the towing handle makes it much simpler to lift your suitcase onto and off luggage racks, check-in scales, and baggage carousels.
Top handles can extend into several positions to provide maximum comfort. When not in use, they can be retracted for easy pushing down.

Size

Cases up to full-size: How easy will your suitcase fit into the car's boot if you plan to drive to the airport? It will it be possible to carry the bag around in crowds? There's also the baggage rack at the airport bus. You could hoist it onto the top. You might consider a lighter option if your travels are less than two weeks. A piece of luggage should be durable enough to endure rough transit conditions, yet not cause you pain.
Hand luggage is allowed on most airlines. Some allow for a second hand bag, such as a backpack, or sling bag. A suitcase that is "cabin-size" does not necessarily mean that it can fit into a cabin. Although there are restrictions on size, many airlines will accept suitcases up to 56x45x25 cm.

Expandability

A lot of suitcases have an expandable panel that can be removed to give you at least 10% more packing space. If you're looking for last-minute souvenirs and gifts, some of our top-scoring full-size and cabin suitcases can be expanded.

Security

Traveling with your padlock is important. However, it is recommended that you have one with Transport Security Administration (TSA).
The locks are branded with the TSA red logo and include a universal masterkey.
The TSA is the only one that has this copy. This key allows American airlines security personnel to access your luggage and inspect its contents, without risk.
They can open the lock if they are unable to do so.

Wheels

Four-wheelers are the most common type of suitcase. Sometimes called spinners. This means that you don’t need to tip your bag before you tow it. It can also be wheeled along with you. Two-wheeled suitcases tend to be slightly larger and are easier to lift over kerbs. However, spinners offer more versatility.

FAQs

What Is The Most Durable Luggage?

Polycarbonate and ABS are the most reliable luggage materials on the market. While the former is more sturdy, it's usually lighter. Both durable and lightweight luggage can be constructed from both.

What Is The Importance Of Luggage?

Because you need to travel a lot, you can also take the bag with you. A well-designed luggage bag will make an impression on other people. Bags are more than just bags. They can also be a fashion statement.

Is Hard Or Soft Luggage Better?

Because it is lighter than heavy luggage, soft luggage is more popular. Because of the use of lighter materials in hard luggage, this has been changed. It really depends on personal choice as to which option is better. Many soft luggage has expandable and external pockets. Hard luggage, on the other hand offers greater protection and durability.

What Size Suitcase Is Considered Oversized?

While baggage size regulations vary from one airline to the next, most airlines allow luggage to be checked up to 62 inches in length. These airlines would consider bags exceeding these limits to be excessive.

Is The Rolling Handle Double Barred?

You may prefer to carry a rolling bag, but the main part of a suitcase is its handle. Some brands still make luggage that has a single pull handle. Single bar bags are less sturdy than double-bar rolling bags. This feature can fail to work when you're rushing through an airport. You will be in the middle of an arm workout while carrying your bag. This can be avoided by purchasing a bag that has a double-bar handle.

Are The Inside Pockets Useful?

Your clothing and personal belongings should be contained in your luggage. Bags with too many pockets end up being useless. Think about what you prefer to pack before you go ahead and click the buy button. You may not want a large zippered lid, so make sure you have a bag that has a great design. Look for suitcases with shoe compartments. Your bag should maximize its space. If your features aren't clear, it won't work.

How Much Does It Weigh?

You should look beyond the features and attributes of the bag's pockets when you search for a travel suitcase. Check out the weight of the bag without any contents. This is a mistake I've made more times than once. A bag too heavy to carry around is a temptation that I make love to. You will need to ensure that your bag is light, especially for travelers who want to save baggage fees. Look for bags that claim to be lightweight, or give you an accurate weight. It will not be possible to carry a heavy bag on an airplane from Hawaii, or at train stations across Europe.

We decide facts since we are product consulting professionals with extensive expertise. Even so, we maintain and update the list of best lightweight suitcase for international travel so the information is correct and up to date.

After reading this article, you should discover that selecting a best lightweight suitcase for international travel that is both handy and economical to you is not difficult. Please don't hesitate to contact us if you require assistance.


0 ratings

About Katie Finn

Katie Finn

Katie Finn is a freelance writer who loves to explore the world and go camping. She's also an editor for CampfireHQ, where she enjoys writing about wildlife and camping tips. She also has a passion for reading and learning new things, which she often incorporates into her writing.

Read Katie's full bio