The 10 Best Lightest Carry On Luggage, Tested And Researched

Katie Finn By, Katie Finn
Updated
Best Lightest Carry On Luggage
Best Lightest Carry On Luggage

Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall: Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage

The Samsonite Omni PC is ideal for the frequent traveler who wants a light weight, compact carry-on that offers 20" Spinner Luggage maximizes your packing power and meets most carry-on size restrictions for those traveling domestically. The Omni PC Hardside Expandable has been designed with a fashion-forward design. Read Review

2. Best Bang For The Buck: Kenneth Cole Reaction Out Of Bounds Luggage

The Kenneth Cole Out of Bounds luggage collection is an affordable option that maximizes your style and function at a great price. With its durable construction, the 20" carry-on bag is made to meet most U.S based & international airline carry-on size requirements and designed to fit into most overhead bins. Read Review

3. Best Reliable: Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage

The Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage is the perfect size and style for everyday use. With its 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 efficiency, this durable luggage is a go-to item when you're on the go. Read Review

4. Best Style: Kenneth Cole Reaction Renegade Carry-On Luggage

The Kenneth Cole Reaction Renegade Luggage and is sleek and stylish with corner guard reinforcements help protect your bag from damage. The main compartment interior features several zippered organization pockets, elastic shoe pockets and a garment restraint panel. The ergonomically designed retractable trolley handle makes any trip more comfortable. Read Review

If you ever find yourself on an airplane, train, bus, or other form of public transport for more than a few minutes, you’ll definitely understand the importance of a good piece of luggage. On an airplane, every second counts. And if your luggage gets lost or delayed or just ends up being a pain in the neck during that time, it can be the difference between relaxing and stressing out.

Therefore, you need something that’s not only lightweight but also compact enough to fit into most overhead compartments without being restrictive. Fortunately, there are some great options when it comes to lightest carry-on luggage. So if you’re looking for something suitable for your next vacation trip, family trip across several cities or even just as a supplemental piece of luggage for short weekend getaways, check out these lightweight carry-on suitcases here.

We think the best lightest carry on luggage of 2024 is Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage. However, in order to provide the reader with a wider variety of alternatives, we recommend adding Kenneth Cole Reaction Out Of Bounds Luggage if you are interested in purchasing another appealing one.

Here are the buying guides that we specially made for you guys. Follow all the words below for successful shopping!

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage
Our Score:
9.8
Samsonite

PACKING Dimensions: 19" x 14.5" x 9.5", Overall Dimensions: 22" x 15" x 9.5", Weight: 6.81 lbs.

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

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.

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

BOOK OPENING CASE with mesh divider and cross straps in main compartment with a zipped modesty pocket

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

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

MICRO-DIAMOND POLYCARBONATE texture is extremely scratch-resistant, keeping cases beautiful trip after trip

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

TOP Choice #2 Kenneth Cole Reaction Out Of Bounds Luggage
Our Score:
9.7
Kenneth Cole REACTION

Backed by a manufacturer 10-year limited guarantee against craftsmanship and manufacturer defects. The perfect lightweight and dependable 20” carry-on suitcase for travelers whom value both style and function in their luggage.

20" carry-on suitcase designed to meet most U.S based & international airline carry-on size requirements and designed to fit into most overhead bins.

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

[Packing Dimensions] 20" H x 13.5" W x 7.5" D.

Equipped with a sturdy and user-friendly push-button retractable trolley handle that extends to be 41 inches.

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.

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.

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.

[Overall Dimensions] - 21.75” H x 14.5” W x 8.5” D. ★ (Includes Handle + Wheels)

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

TOP Choice #3 Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage
Our Score:
9.5
Travelpro

Limited Lifetime Coverage plus trusted companion promise, which covers the cost of repair for damage from airline or other common carrier for 1 year. H20 Guard protects the interior lining from moisture

Weight: 5.4 lbs,Volume: 46 L

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

A half pound lighter than maxlite 4, this ultra lightweight 21 inch spinner meets carry on size restrictions for most domestic airlines

Interior dimension: 21 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches Exterior dimension: 23 inches x 14.5 inches x 9 inches

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

4 Kenneth Cole Reaction Renegade Carry-On Luggage
Our Score:
9.3
Kenneth Cole REACTION

Expands an additional 2 inches

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

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

Ergonomically designed retractable trolley handle

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

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

Weight - 7.35 lbs.

8-wheel multi-directional spinners for effortless handling

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

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

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

Ultra-lightweight, ultra-durable 19" 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

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

100% POLYCARBONATE that’s tough and scratch resistant

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

7 American Tourister Zoom Turbo Softside Expandable Luggage
Our Score:
8.9
AMERICAN TOURISTER

10 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY: American Tourister 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.

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

BOOK OPENING CASE with mesh divider and cross straps in main compartment with a zipped modesty pocket

FOUR, MULTI-DIRECTIONAL DUAL SPINNER WHEELS for effortless mobility, re-engineered lightweight.PUSH-BUTTON locking handles provides easy maneuverability when extended out from the suitcase, and stores neatly inside when not in use

PACKING DIMENSIONS: 19" x 13.75" x 7.2", OVERALL DIMENSIONS: 22” x 14”x 10”, Weight: 7.05 lbs.

Sizer bin carry on luggage with spinner wheels tested to fit in the overhead bins of most major domestic airlines while allowing for more packing capacity. Hard shell luggage with 8 Spinner wheels that rotate 360°, providing superior maneuverability and a smooth glide in every direction

This hard shell carry on luggage has interior zippered divider panels and accessory pocket to keep contents organized, separated, and secure while the interior lining with H20 guard is made of 100% post-consumer recycled plastic bottles to help reduce environmental waste

This lightweight luggage has 100% Polycarbonate hardshell engineered for impact-absorbing flexibility with a stylish outer finish that helps reduce visible scratches and scuffs. Built-in lock allows TSA authorities to safely unlock and relock this carry on suitcase for inspection when needed (default code set at 0-0-0)

This carry-on luggage has low profile top and side carry handles along with bottom grip provide multiple carrying options. Roomy main compartment expands 2” to maximize packing capacity when needed for this hard luggage

Overall Dimensions: H: 23 in. W: 14.5 in. D: 9.5 in.; Case Dimensions: H: 19.75 in. W: 13.75 in. D: 9.5 in.; Weight: 6.3 lbs. Durable hard case luggage backed by Travelpro built for a Lifetime Limited Warranty with our Trusted Companion Promise which includes the cost of repair for damage caused by an airline or other common carrier for the first year after registration

✈️ MULTIPURPOSE; Your good companion for traveling, could be served as a gym/ sports/ overnight/ weekend/ backpack/airplane carry on/ luggage. It also can be used hospital bags for labor and delivery

✈️ LIGHTWEIGHT AND EXPANDABLE; The expandable luggage provide lots of packing area for your personal belongings; Helps you adhere to airline weight restrictions and avoid unneeded airport fees which make it best suitcase for domestic and international travel

✈️ SATISFACTION GUARANTEED; Limited 5 year manufacturer warranty plus trusted companion promise, which covers the cost of repair for damage for any manufacturer defect or replace the defective baggage carry on; CASE DIMENSIONS (with wheels and handles): 22.8 X 14 X 9 inch - (without wheels and handle) : 20 X 14 X 8 inch; BAG WEIGHT 5.8 lbs

✈️ HI-STABILITY: Wide wheel positioning provides better balance and resistance from falling forward/ unique base structure - specially developed case platform provides additional strength and stability

✈️ BUILT FOR COMFORT AND CONVENIENCE; You can easily drag along the airport with its ergonomic handle providing easy maneuverability and relieve any pressure from your arms while on the move; The 8-spinner wheels system allow smooth, 360° degree movement over any rough terrain for complete mobility free-weight rolling

Tough fiberglass structure - Exceptionally lightweight frame is deceptively strong and built to last

Wide comfort handle - Easy grip non locking handle offers superior comfort

High-tensile fabric - Durable, lightweight material resists abrasion and prolongs use

Overall Dimensions: 21.8 x 14.2 x 7.3", Case Dimensions: 19.1 x 13.4 x 7.3", 3.75lbs

Flat packing interior - 'No pipes' means more space and keeps clothing crease-free

What to Look For in a best lightest carry on luggage?

We're sure you've purchased something and afterward regretted it. We are all concerned about the items we purchase. The easiest method to prevent these concerns is to conduct a thorough study before purchasing the best lightest carry on luggage.

That is also why we decided to introduce this post in order to provide you with advice on how to avoid buying errors when selecting the best lightest carry on luggage.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

FAQs

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Conclusion

Finally, the best lightest carry on luggage may be readily used and offers a range of options to meet your needs. When looking for another kind of best lightest carry on luggage, which we recommend  it luggage Duo-Tone Softside Luggage, all of these characteristics are significant. 

We've combed through all of this data in order to assist you in making the best decision possible. Let us know if there's anything else we can do to help you discover the best lightest carry on luggage in the comments section below!


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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