Complete Guide to the Lightest Weight Luggage in 2025

Our overall winner is the Samsonite Freeform, a hard side yet lightweight case that’s ideal for most longer trips.

Why buy the Samsonite Freeform 28 inch

This was a tough one: it was hard to pick between the American Tourister 28-inch Stratum XLT and Samsonite Freeform. The Freeform just inched ahead even though it’s slightly heavier because the Samsonite quality is second to none. Plus it comes in a range of sizes, has great features, and doesn’t have the supply issues that the Tourister sometimes has.

That being said, the American TouristerStratum XLT is also a great option. It’s hard to go wrong with either of these choices.

And for sets, the Coolife 3-piece set is my top pick.

If you’re wondering what is the lightest 28 inch suitcase, here’s your answer. Usually soft-sided luggage is lighter, but this hard-sided piece comes in at only 7.3 pounds. Even better, it’s expandable, so you increase capacity by 15% without adding any additional weight.

It has 360-degree spinner wheels, a built-in TSA lock, and a zippered pocket to help keep items separate. There are 7 color options and it is also available in 20-inch and 24-inch sizes and a 3-set combo.

In fact, this is the lightest hardside checked luggage we found.

If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line 28 inch lightweight suitcase, this is a great option. At 8.7 pounds, this is just a little heaver than the Coolife and is the lightest American Tourister luggage (28 inch) there is.

It has a stylish design and comes in 5 colors. It’s not all style – it has substance too. There is a cross strap and zippered pockets (a modesty pocket and a zippered mesh divider) to help organize your belongings. It’s expandable and has spinner wheels.

It also comes in 25 inches, 21 inches, and a 3-piece set.

The main downside to this suitcase is that is can be hard to find, as it often sells out, even on Amazon.

The Samsonite Freeform weighs just 9.5 pounds despite the fact that it is hardsided. If you’re looking at 28-inch spinner luggage lightweight options, then this is hard to beat. The four 360-degree spinner wheels means you can roll it upright without putting any strain on your shoulders and arms.

It comes with a TSA approved combination lock, a built-in ID tag and multiple pockets to help keep your gear organized.

This is arguably the best lightweight suitcase on wheels you’ll find.

If you possibly can, opting for a checked bag that is smaller will mean carrying less weight. 25 inches is a medium-sized bag that may be all the size you need.

At 7.3 pounds, this medium-sized version from Travelpro is one of the lightest rolling luggage options out there.  It has soft sides, multi-directional spinner wheels and comes in nine colors.

A checked design inside ensures a smart look, while a large front pocket and 2-inch expansion capacity provide plenty of room for everything.

One of the lightest roller bag options is the Samsonite Solyte DLX.

This 25-inch case also weighs 8.9 lbs and easily holds enough for trips lasting longer than a few days.

There are some clever features inside to help you pack efficiently too, including smart buckles to keep straps tucked away plus mesh and wet pockets.  This Samsonite spinner luggage has multi-directional wheels and is backed by a 10-year limited guarantee.

Weighing in a 8.4 pounds, this is a great medium-sized option. It has two front pockets that provide an additional 2 inches expansion, plus a removable bifold organizer and straps inside.

The model also has double spinner wheels and a recessed combination lock.

It weighs 10.76 lbs, so is a little heavier than most luggage in this guide, but it is hard-sided AND you get a whopping 30.1 inches with a 97-liter capacity. Even better, it’s expandable, so you get even more capacity without gaining any extra weight (in the suitcase).

It has 360-degree spinner wheels and several compartments inside with zippers to help keep your belongings organized.

You don’t have to lose out on load capacity when buying the lightest wheeled luggage – if you invest in this Travelpro Maxlite 5 large case.

Weighing just 8.5 pounds, this soft-sided checked luggage is ideal for longer trips.  Maneuverability is assured by 360-degree spinner wheels, while a stain and water-resistant coating protect the soft sides.  

Various pockets, compartments and straps maximize packing capacity and ensure you stay organized. It comes in nine colors, too.

At 10.5 pounds, the Samsonite Solyte DLX 29-inch case is lighter yet larger than most.

The tough polyester finish is available in 3 colors, while all-direction spinner wheels ensure great maneuverability.  There is a 10-year limited Samsonite warranty and protection for your arms and shoulders thanks to the 360-degree rolling system.

This case is also expandable for when you need to pack in some extra baggage.

This hard-sided case is the lightest Samsonite carry on option. In fact, because of it’s size, it’s the lightest weight Samsonite luggage piece. It weighs just 6.5 pounds, which is really light for hard-sided luggage.  

If you need to work while traveling, this one might be just right for you.  It has four multi-directional spinner wheels, a TSA approved combination lock, a built in ID tag, elastic cross straps and a divider panel.

Another great option for those seeking the lightest carry on luggage with wheels comes from Travelpro’s lightest ever range.

The Travelpro Maxlite 5 weighs just 5.3 lbs. and fits into the carry on size criteria for the majority of international airlines.  The robust soft side outer has water and stain repelling properties and comes in nine colors.

Spinner wheels make it easy to move around, and it can expand by up to 2 inches so you can squeeze more in.

If you’re looking for the lightest cabin luggage, yet require as large a capacity as possible, this American Tourister 4 Kix may be right for you.

This light suitcase, weighing just 7.1 pounds, is ideal for domestic travel as it fits within the carry on restriction of most US airlines.  It’s also large enough to be used as checked luggage, especially if you take advantage of the fact that it is expandable.

There is a choice of four colors and it has those all-important 360-degree spinning wheels, too.

This 3-piece (20 inches, 24 inches and 28 inches) set is made from ABS+PC material, which is lighter than most hard shell materials. Another thing I love about this set is that , the 28-inch suitcase can be expanded to add 15% extra space. It also has a TSA lock.

The pieces weigh 6 + 6 + 7.3 pounds.

Of all their impressive products, this set comprises two of the Samsonite lightest suitcase options you’ll find.

There is a 21 inch carry on bag weighing just 6.5 pounds and a spacious 9.5-pound 28-inch check in case in the set, so you’ll have highly rated options to use either together or separately – depending on the length of your trip.

Despite being ultra lightweight, the luggage is very durable and backed by Samsonite’s 10-year limited warranty.  The four multi-directional spinner wheels even ensure it rolls upright, avoiding shoulder or arm strain.

Among the lightest luggage available as a set, the Steve Madden range comprises hard side cases that are super lightweight.

In a modern, fashion-forward diamond design, this 3-piece set should satisfy every travel need.  Whether you travel solo or as a couple or family, and for business or pleasure, you get luggage for every trip.

A 20-inch carry on bag weighs just 7.1 pounds, the 24-inch mid-sized checked piece weighs 8.1 pounds, and the larger 28-inch suitcase weighs 9.1 pounds.

Each piece has eight spinner wheels and adjustable handle heights, which provides maximum ease over different terrains.

Admittedly this is not the cheapest luggage set you’ll find – but it is has the lightest suitcases.  

It consists of a 21-inch carry on weighing 5.3 pounds, a 25-inch check in case that weighs just 7.3 pounds, and a 29-inch suitcase weighing 8.5 pounds.

Tough polyester fabric resists abrasions and staining, while expansion zippers allow you to pack in a little more when necessary.  This top-rated luggage set has multi-directional spinner wheels and the handles are also height adjustable for extra smooth rolling. They come in nine different color options

Weighing in at 9.5 pounds, the Samsonite Freeform is a sizeable check in case, and among the lightest hard shell suitcase options around.

Testament to the popularity of this range is the fact that it comes in 12 colors, meaning there’s bound to be a shade you’ll love.

For security there is a recessed TSA combination lock, while spinner wheels ensure easy maneuvering.  Multiple pockets, an ID tag and 10-year limited warranty are other practical features that recommend this hard side luggage from Samsonite.

It also comes in 21 inches, 24 inches and a 21/ 24-inch set.

Another winner from American Tourister comes in the form of the Belle Voyage 28-inch case.

This is one stylish piece of luggage, but it’s about practicality as much as looks.  Attracting rave reviews and consistent high ratings, the visual impact of this case is stunning.

For the ultimate in usability is has wheels that spin 360 degrees, a comfortable push-button handle and all-round expansion.  If you want great looks and great value, this is surely the one.

It also comes in 21 and 25 inches.

Yes, indeed we liked it so much we had to list it again.  You’re onto a winner with this, the lightest Samsonite carry on luggage with a hard shell.

Once more there’s that 10-year guarantee back-up, 12 colors, spinner wheels, expansion capacity and secure combination lock. It weighs 6.5 pounds.

As well as that tough, shiny shell that looks great – while protecting your kit from even the harshest handling.

No matter how light your luggage is, it can be very helpful to know exactly how much your packed luggage weighs before you head to the airport (before you leave home and before you go back home with all your souvenirs).

Pick up a handy portable luggage scale so you will know before you get to the check in counter!