In this blog post, I’m embarked on a quest to find the best lightweight luggage for international travel – luggage that strikes the perfect balance between weight, durability, capacity, maneuverability, and security.
Top Picks for the Best Lightweight Luggage for International Travel
- Best Overall Luggage: Samsonite Omni 2 Hardside (20-Inch 7.5 lbs.~$84)
- Best Softside Carry-On Luggage: SwissGear Sion Softside (21-Inch 5 lbs.~$104)
- Best Affordable Carry-On Luggage: Rockland Melbourne Hardside (20-Inch 7.5 lbs.~$45)
- Best Hardside Luggage: Samsonite Omni PC Hardside (24-Inch 6 lbs., 56 inches ~$129)
- Best Luggage Softside: Travelpro Maxlite 5 (25-Inch, 7.3 lbs. 57 inches ~$173)
- Best Stylish Hardside Luggage: Delsey Luggage Helium Aero (25-Inch, 8.1 lbs. 54 inches ~$114)
Carry-On Luggage for International Travel
Standard Size:
- Dimensions: Most international airlines have a carry-on size limit of approximately 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches (height x width x depth). However, these dimensions can vary among airlines.
- Linear Inches: Some airlines might state a total linear inch limit, which is the sum of the height, width, and depth of the bag. A typical limit is 45 linear inches.
Standard Weight:
- Weight Limit: Generally, the weight limit for international carry-on luggage ranges between 15 to 22 pounds (7 to 10 kg), but this can vary based on the airline and class of service.
Notable Exceptions:
- Some Asian carriers, like AirAsia or Cebu Pacific, might have stricter weight limits, sometimes as low as 7 kg (15.4 lbs) for carry-on luggage.
- Premium classes (like Business or First Class) might have higher weight allowances.
TOP-3 Best Carry-On Luggage for International Travel
Checked Luggage for International Travel:
Standard Size:
- Dimensions: The total combined linear dimensions (height + width + depth) of a checked bag typically should not exceed 62 inches (157 cm). However, this figure can vary among airlines.
- Exceptions: Some airlines might allow larger sizes, especially for first or business-class tickets, but extra charges are likely if your luggage exceeds the airline’s standard limit.
Standard Weight:
- Weight Limit:
- Economy Class: Most airlines set a weight limit of 50 pounds (23 kg) for each checked bag for passengers traveling in economy class.
- Business/First Class: Passengers traveling in business or first class might be allowed checked baggage that weighs up to 70 pounds (32 kg).
Notable Exceptions:
- Airlines based in the U.S. and Canada typically operate on the “Piece Concept” for international flights, often allowing passengers 2 pieces of checked luggage, each with a weight limit depending on the ticket class.
- Most other international airlines operate on the “Weight Concept,” wherein passengers are given a total weight allowance (like 20 kg, 30 kg, or 40 kg) and can divide this among as many pieces of luggage as they desire.
Top-3 Best Checked Luggage for International Travel up to 62 Linear
Fees and Overweight Luggage:
- Overweight or oversized luggage can incur significant fees. It’s often cheaper to check an additional bag rather than pay an overweight fee.
- Some airlines offer pre-travel discounts if you know you’ll be over the weight limit and pay in advance.
Tips and Considerations:
- Check Airline Restrictions: Always check the baggage policy of the specific airline you’re flying with. This information is usually available on the airline’s official website.
- Durable Luggage: Opt for durable luggage that can withstand the wear and tear of international travel. Ensure locks are TSA-approved.
- Luggage Scale: Invest in a luggage scale to weigh your bags before heading to the airport. This will help you avoid unexpected overweight baggage fees.
- Valuables: Always keep valuables, essential documents, and medications in your carry-on. Checked luggage can sometimes get lost or delayed.
- Bag Tags: Ensure your luggage has a clear, durable luggage tag with your contact information.
- Insurance: Consider travel insurance that covers lost or damaged luggage, especially if traveling with valuable items in your checked baggage.
Bottom Line:
The size and weight allowances for checked luggage on international flights can vary widely depending on the airline, the destination, and the class of service. To avoid any issues or unexpected fees, travelers should always check the specific baggage policies of the airlines they’re flying with before departure.
Here are the most important factors to consider when choosing the best lightweight luggage for international travel:
Weight:
The weight of the luggage is perhaps the most important factor to consider when looking for lightweight luggage. Ideally, the suitcase should weigh no more than 5-6 pounds. Products such as the Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Luggage and the Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Spinner Luggage are designed with lightweight materials, making them easy to carry and maneuver.
Durability:
Luggage needs to withstand the wear and tear of travel, especially during international journeys. Therefore, durability is another key factor to consider when choosing lightweight luggage. Products such as the AmazonBasics Hardside Spinner Luggage and the Delsey Luggage Helium Aero Expandable Spinner Trolley are designed with durable materials and are scratch-resistant, making them ideal for frequent travelers.
Capacity:
While lightweight luggage is designed to be compact and easy to carry, it should still have enough capacity to carry all of your essential items. The size and capacity of the suitcase should be tailored to the length of your trip and your travel needs. Products such as the IT Luggage World’s Lightest Los Angeles Softside Spinner and the American Tourister Elite Max Softside Spinner 25 are designed with ample capacity and compartments to help you pack efficiently.
Maneuverability:
Lightweight luggage should be easy to maneuver, especially during airport transfers and other travel arrangements. The suitcase should have smooth-rolling wheels, telescoping handles, and ergonomic grips that allow you to pull or push the suitcase with ease. Products such as the Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside Expandable Spinner Luggage and the Victorinox Werks Traveler 6.0 Softside Spinner Luggage are designed with easy-to-use wheels and handles that make travel a breeze.
Security:
Finally, security is a key factor to consider when choosing lightweight luggage. The suitcase should have a sturdy lock or combination system to keep your belongings safe and secure. Products such as the Samsonite S’Cure Hardside Luggage and the Briggs & Riley Baseline Domestic Expandable Spinner are designed with TSA-approved locks and other security features to keep your belongings safe and secure during travel.
So whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a long-term adventure, read on to discover the best lightweight luggage options that will make your travels a breeze. Say goodbye to sore arms and hello to hassle-free journeys!
Best Lightweight Luggage for International Travel Comparison Chart
The Best Lightweight Hardside Luggage for International Travel
Best Versatile and Lightweight Luggage for International Travel
The Best Lightweight Softside Luggage
The Best Stylish and Lightweight Luggage (Checked-Large 29 Inch)
Best Lightweight Luggage for International Travel and Quick Getaways
Based on my experience and research, here are three manufacturers that I recommend for high-quality lightweight luggage, along with my personal opinions about their products:
- IT Luggage – https://www.itluggage.com IT Luggage is a brand that specializes in lightweight luggage options, and their World’s Lightest collection is truly impressive. I’ve found their bags to be durable, easy to maneuver, and surprisingly spacious, given the light weight. The IT Luggage website offers detailed product information, images, and customer reviews, making it easy to find the perfect lightweight luggage for your needs.
- American Tourister – https://www.americantourister.com American Tourister is a well-known brand that offers a variety of lightweight luggage options. Their Moonlight Hardside Spinner series is a personal favorite of mine, as it combines a stylish design with lightweight construction and smooth-rolling spinner wheels. The American Tourister website provides comprehensive product descriptions, dimensions, and user reviews, helping you make an informed decision when choosing your lightweight luggage.
- Travelpro – https://travelpro.com Travelpro is a reputable brand that focuses on luggage designed for frequent travelers. Their Maxlite series stands out as an excellent lightweight option, offering durable materials, practical features, and a design that is both stylish and functional. The Travelpro website offers detailed product specifications, images, and customer reviews, making it simple to find the right lightweight luggage for your needs.
These are my top three recommendations for manufacturers of lightweight luggage. I hope my personal experiences and opinions will help guide you in making the right choice for a practical and stylish accessory for your travels. Enjoy your new lightweight luggage!
A table of equipment that would be useful to have when traveling with the best lightweight luggage for international travel and seamless journeys:
| Equipment | Description |
|---|---|
| Travel Packing Cubes | These are small, lightweight bags that help organize your luggage and keep your clothes and accessories in order. They come in different sizes and colors and make packing and unpacking easy and hassle-free. They are great for keeping clothes wrinkle-free and make it easy to find what you need quickly. |
| Luggage Scale | A luggage scale is a handy tool to have when traveling with lightweight luggage, as it helps you weigh your bags before you get to the airport to avoid excess baggage fees. It’s small and lightweight, so it won’t take up much space in your luggage. |
| Compression Bags | Compression bags are another way to save space in your luggage. They help compress clothes, towels, and other soft items to take up less space. This allows you to pack more efficiently and travel lighter. |
| Portable Charger | A portable charger is an essential item to have when traveling, especially if you’re going to be using your phone or other electronic devices a lot. It will keep your devices charged and ready to use, even when you don’t have access to an electrical outlet. |
| Travel Adapter | If you’re traveling internationally, a travel adapter is a must-have item. It will allow you to plug in your electronic devices and charge them, no matter where you are in the world. It’s lightweight and small, so it won’t take up much space in your luggage. |
These items are all lightweight and compact, making them perfect for travel. They will help you organize your luggage, save space, and keep your devices charged and ready to use.
FAQs for the Best Lightweight Luggage for International Travel and Seamless Journeys:
What is the maximum weight for carry-on luggage on international flights?
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Last update on 2023-10-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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