The Best Lightweight Luggage

At under four pounds, this backpack adds very little weight but lots of organizational goodness. There are multiple compartments and a convenient stash pocket for last-minute items, like a sleep mask and Chapstick for the plane. Extra padding on the shoulder straps and extendable hip belt boost the bag’s comfort factor.

For those weekend getaways where you still need to weave in some laptop time, this briefcase/backpack/cross-body bag is a great choice. Its smart design allows it to open flat so you can breeze through security without removing your computer. (Genius!) Another cool feature is the bottom “garage” compartment, which safely guards things like your power supply, extra hard drives, and glasses from getting crushed.

The Travelpro Maxlite Rollaboard has more capacity than some other heavier bags. Its outside is treated to repel rain and withstand scrapes, and its interior features separate zippered compartments. And if you accidentally buy too many local handicrafts and delicacies on your trip, the whole thing expands to accommodate the extra load.

When you read product points like “heavy-duty wheel housing” and “central lock point,” you probably assume you’re looking at a hefty piece of luggage. But this Eagle Creek bag comes with both features, and it’s compact and a cinch to roll, lift, and carry. A modest weight isn’t all it has going for it: Its fabric thwarts smudges (or worse), and the multiple handles make it easy to grab and go when wheeling’s not an option. Extra-credit points for the fact that its dimensions are cabin-compliant on nearly every airline.

It’s such a bummer when a big chunk of your checked weight allowance is the suitcase itself. This one is under 10 pounds, so you’re looking at a good 30, 40, or even 60 pounds of packed items before extra fees kick in. The case is made from 100-percent polycarbonate, so it’s tough enough to bear rough handling, and the four spinner wheels can switch directions on a dime. Inside, you can separate everything with divided compartments and a separate zippered pocket for toiletries.

If you prefer a soft-sided bag to a hard one, take a look at this lightweight pick. It ticks all the essential boxes: spinner wheels, a retractable handle, and an expandable body—there are even built-in shoe pockets. 

Herschel’s durable duffel has grab handles on either end and on top, plus a removable shoulder strap and hidden straps that convert it into a backpack. Because options, people. Options! Other thoughtful features include a shoe compartment, a laundry bag, and outside pockets for stashing your boarding pass, iPhone, and snack bars. 

If you’ve bought a ticket on an ultra-low-cost carrier like Allegiant, Spirit, or Frontier, then you can carry on a personal item for free. This classic weekender fits the bill. It’s made of a thick, strong canvas, yet clocks at just under two pounds, and its size is big enough for weekend getaways.