Best Lightweight Carry-On Luggage of 2026

Mary Hopper Avatar
Mary Hopper
Last Updated: Jan 22, 2026

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Lightweight carry-on luggage is the perfect solution for travelers looking to avoid the hassle and expense of checking bags. These bags are designed to meet airline size requirements and feature durable materials and ample storage space. Some popular brands include Samsonite, Travelpro, and American Tourister. Many styles also come equipped with features such as spinner wheels, telescoping handles, and TSA-approved locks. Whether you're a frequent flyer or just looking to streamline your travel experience, lightweight carry-on luggage is a great investment.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Samsonite Freeform Hardside Spinner Carry-On 21-Inch Cover #TOP 1
Samsonite Freeform Hardside Spinner Carry-On 21-Inch
ftb score rating icon 9.9
U.S. Traveler 20" Green Carry-On Cover #TOP 2
U.S. Traveler 20" Green Carry-On
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Sweetcrispy 20-Inch Hard Shell Carry-On Luggage Cover #TOP 3
Sweetcrispy 20-Inch Hard Shell Carry-On Luggage
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Lightweight Carry-On Luggage

#TOP 1

Samsonite Freeform Hardside Spinner Carry-On 21-Inch

78255-1596
Navy
Carry-on Spinner
Samsonite Freeform Hardside Spinner Carry-On 21-Inch Cover
Samsonite Freeform Hardside Carry-On Luggage with Spinner Wheels - Hardshell Suitcase - TSA, Airline-Approved - Expandable Hard Shell, Smooth Rolling Wheels for Lightweight Travel - Navy

The Samsonite Freeform Hardside Spinner Carry-On 21-Inch is perfect for domestic travelers. It is ultra-light and comes with four multi-directional double spinner wheels that allow 360 degree upright rolling. It has a recessed TSA combination lock and a 10-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. The cases expand for added packing capacity and the cross ribbon and divider make packing easy.

What We Like
Ultra-light and ultra strong
Recessed TSA combination lock
10-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship
Four multi-directional double spinner wheels
Cross ribbon and divider for easy packing

U.S. Traveler 20" Green Carry-On

US5600E20
Green
U.S. Traveler 20" Green Carry-On Cover
U.S. Traveler Rio Lightweight Softside Rolling Carry-on Suitcase, 2-Wheel Single, Green

The U.S. Traveler Carry-On is designed for travelers who appreciate both style and functionality. With its high-quality polyester construction, this suitcase looks elegant while being durable. You will love the retractable push-button handle, which makes navigating through the airport effortless. The piggy-bag strap is a convenient feature that allows you to carry your tote bag hands-free, simplifying your travel experience. Inside, the fully lined compartment includes tie-down straps and a mesh zipper pocket, providing organized storage for your belongings. This suitcase combines luxury with practicality, making it an excellent choice for your next journey.

What We Like
Durable fabric and zippers
Lightweight design
Fits airline carry-on standards
Variety of color options
Expandable packing capacity

Sweetcrispy 20-Inch Hard Shell Carry-On Luggage

SWZZT-2LG-20BK
Bronze Black
20 Inch
Sweetcrispy 20-Inch Hard Shell Carry-On Luggage Cover
Sweetcrispy Carry on Luggage, Hard Shell ABS Suitcase with Double Spinner Wheels, Lightweight Expandable Rolling Suit Case with TSA Lock, 20 Inch Bronze Black

The Sweetcrispy Carry-On Luggage is designed to make your travels easier and more secure. Its dual-wheel system lets you glide smoothly through busy airports or city streets, reducing effort and stress. Inside, you'll find plenty of space with organized compartments that keep your belongings neat and easy to find. The lightweight ABS shell offers strong protection without weighing you down, making it simple to handle. Plus, the built-in TSA-approved lock gives you peace of mind by keeping your valuables safe during your trips, whether domestic or international.

What We Like
Lightweight design
Smooth spinner wheels
Spacious interior
Expandable capacity
Affordable price
#TOP 4

LOVEVOOK 22" Softside Carry-On Luggage

Black
22 inch_Carry on
LOVEVOOK 22" Softside Carry-On Luggage Cover
LOVEVOOK Carry On Luggage 22x14x9 Airline Approved, 22 Inch Softside Suitcases with Spinner Wheels, Lightweight Carry-on Suitcase with TSA Lock for Women Men, Large Luggage for Travel Business Trip

The LOVEVOOK Carry-On Luggage is designed to make your travel smooth and hassle-free. Its compact size fits most airline overhead bins, so you won’t have to worry about checked baggage. The durable, water- and scratch-resistant fabric keeps your belongings safe, while the 360-degree spinner wheels let you glide through airports quietly and with ease. Inside, you’ll find plenty of space and smart compartments, including a waterproof pocket for wet items and multiple sections to keep everything organized. Plus, the front laptop compartment offers quick access and protection for your 15.6-inch laptop, making it perfect for business trips or working on the go.

What We Like
Spacious main compartment
Smooth, durable wheels
Lightweight and easy to roll
Good pocket organization
Maximized carry-on size
#TOP 5

BAGSMART 20 Inch Expandable Carry-On Luggage

BM0105006AN
Royalblue
20 inch
BAGSMART 20 Inch Expandable Carry-On Luggage Cover
BAGSMART Carry On Luggage 22x14x9 Airline Approved with Spinner Wheels,Lightweight 20 Inch Luggage with TSA Lock,Expandable Hard Shell Carry On Suitcases for Men Women,Royal Blue

The BAGSMART 20" Carry-On is designed to fit most airline overhead compartments, making it perfect for short trips and various travel modes like air, train, or bus. Its expandable design gives you extra space when you need it, helping you pack more without feeling cramped. The hard shell is made from durable materials that resist scratches and protect your belongings, while the smooth 360° spinner wheels and adjustable handle make navigating busy airports and streets easy and comfortable. With soft handles on top and sides, lifting this lightweight suitcase is simple and convenient for any traveler.

What We Like
Airline-approved size
Expandable capacity
Durable hard shell
360° spinner wheels
Adjustable aluminum handle
#TOP 6

Travelers Club Richmond 20-Inch Luggage

TC-7920-900
Bone
13.4 inches
Travelers Club Richmond 20-Inch Luggage Cover
Travelers Club 22" Richmond Spinner Carry-On Luggage, Bone

The Travelers Club Carry-On offers a well-designed travel experience with its fully-lined interior and accessory pocket, perfect for organizing your essentials. The push-button recessed locking handle system provides ease of use, allowing you to maneuver the luggage effortlessly. With four spinner wheels, you can enjoy smooth, 360-degree mobility, making it easier to navigate through crowded airports. Plus, it comes in various modern colors, allowing you to express your personal style while traveling.

What We Like
Spacious interior design
Durable and sturdy exterior
Smooth-rolling 360 wheels
Lightweight and easy to handle
Stylish color options
#TOP 7

LUGGEX UX-Core Underseat Carry On Luggage

Black
Underseat 16-Inch
LUGGEX UX-Core Underseat Carry On Luggage Cover
LUGGEX Underseat Carry On Luggage with Wheels, UDK Stylish Lightweight Under Seat Luggage, Soft Sided Personal Item Suitcase for Short Trip (UX-Core, Black, 16 Inch)

The LUGGEX UX-Core Carry On is designed to make your travel easy and hassle-free. Its compact size fits under most airline seats or overhead bins, helping you avoid checked baggage fees and saving time at the airport. The front compartments let you quickly reach essentials like tickets and chargers, while the padded laptop section keeps your device safe. With a spacious main area, you can pack clothes and toiletries for short trips without trouble. Plus, the sturdy aluminum handle and smooth wheels make it comfortable to pull through busy terminals, giving you smooth and effortless mobility wherever you go.

What We Like
Airline-approved size
Front organizer pockets
Padded laptop compartment
Lightweight with smooth wheels
Durable aluminum handle
#TOP 8

Wrangler Hardside Carry-On Spinner Luggage

WR-87720-001
Black
22-Inch
Wrangler Hardside Carry-On Spinner Luggage Cover
Wrangler 22" Hardside Spinner Carry-On Luggage, Black

The Wrangler Hardside Carry-On Spinner Luggage is designed for modern travelers' needs with its 360-degree spinner wheel system, fully-lined inner lining with dividing zipper and compression straps for packing, top carry handle for easy lifting, and hard shell ABS material that is lightweight. It meets most airline carry-on standards and regulations, including Spirit Airlines.

What We Like
360-degree spinner wheel system for smooth mobility and easy on the wrist
Complete fully-lined inner lining with dividing zipper and compression straps for a full journey's packing
Hard shell ABS material and lightweight to meet modern travelers' needs
#TOP 9

LOVEVOOK 22-Inch Carry-On Luggage with Wrinkle-Free Garment Holder

Black-beige-brown
LOVEVOOK 22-Inch Carry-On Luggage with Wrinkle-Free Garment Holder Cover
LOVEVOOK Carry on Luggage 22x14x9 Airline Approved, 22 Inch Large Rolling Suitcase, Spinner Wheels & TSA Lock, 49L Softside Lightweight Underseat Carryon Luggage for Women Men Travel

The LOVEVOOK 22" Carry-On is designed to make your travel hassle-free. It features a built-in garment holder that keeps your suits and dresses wrinkle-free, perfect for business trips or special events. You’ll appreciate the well-organized interior with padded laptop compartments and multiple pockets that keep your essentials like electronics, documents, and toiletries within easy reach. The suitcase glides smoothly on 360° spinner wheels, making airport navigation effortless. Plus, its TSA-approved lock provides security while complying with airport regulations. This carry-on meets airline size limits, so you can avoid checked bag fees and easily fit it in overhead bins or under the seat.

What We Like
Spacious interior capacity
Multiple compartments
Smooth rolling wheels
Wrinkle-free garment section
Sleek and stylish design
#TOP 10

Samsonite UpLIFT Carry-On Hardside Luggage

152029-5963
Silver Shimmer
Carry-On Spinner
Samsonite UpLIFT Carry-On Hardside Luggage Cover
Samsonite UpLIFT Carry-On Hardside Luggage with Spinner Wheels - Airline-Approved, TSA Lock, Adjustable Handle System - Polycarbonate Hard Suitcase for Ultra Lightweight Travel - Silver Shimmy

The Samsonite UpLIFT Carry-On is designed to make your travels easier and more comfortable. Its lightweight polycarbonate shell keeps the suitcase durable yet easy to lift, perfect for overhead compartments. The telescoping handle adjusts to multiple heights, giving you a comfortable grip tailored just for you. Moving through busy airports or uneven streets is simple thanks to the advanced 360° suspension wheels that glide smoothly and reduce strain. Plus, the TSA-approved lock offers added security, allowing official inspections without damage. This carry-on combines convenience, durability, and security for stress-free travel.

What We Like
Lightweight durable shell
Adjustable ergonomic handle
360° smooth suspension wheels
TSA-approved security lock
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is considered lightweight for carry-on luggage?

For our purposes, we consider carry-on luggage lightweight if it weighs less than 5 or 6 pounds. You should investigate the true weight of any bag, backpack, or suitcase before you buy it.

2. Which is lighter hard or soft luggage?

Softside luggage is lighter, easy to carry, and may have several pockets for your different packing needs. They are also more common than hardside luggage because they are more affordable and come in different shapes, sizes, materials, designs, and more.

3. What size luggage is best for carry-on?

A good rule of thumb for domestic U.S. flights is to adhere to suitcases sized 22 by 14 by 9 inches. If you're often flying internationally, you may want to opt for a bag that stands at 21 inches instead, just to be sure you won't run into any issues when boarding.

Editor's Notes

During our lightweight carry-on luggage research, we found 48 lightweight carry-on luggage products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 271,886 customer reviews through our big data system to write the lightweight carry-on luggage list. We found that most customers choose lightweight carry-on luggage with an average price of $59.01.

The lightweight carry-on luggage are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of lightweight carry-on luggage, including Samsonite, U.S. Traveler, Sweetcrispy, LOVEVOOK, BAGSMART. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Mary Hopper Avatar

Mary Hopper is an Italian fashion designer with 10 years of extensive working experience in the fashion industry. She can design clothing and fashion accessories, such as handbags, backpacks, shoes, and jewelry. She is also a professionally trained content writer specializing in managing various fashion and beauty blogs.