Here’s the thing about ultralight luggage: It’s not always very light. In our opinion, the ultralight category should be reserved for suitcases six pounds and under. But such lightweight luggage can be hard to find.
The Lightest Carry-on Luggage
We’ve rounded up 10 carry-on spinner and roller bags that weigh in under the six-pound mark. They range in price from affordable to splurge-worthy and come with a variety of bells and whistles. From lightest to heaviest (based on manufacturers’ specs), here they are.
July Light Expandable Carry-On
The Numbers: The July Light Expandable Carry-On is 4.9 pounds.
Why We Like It: This 35L option can be expanded up to 40L, providing plenty of packing space. The lining is water- and stain-resistant and the exterior is made from a strong polycarbonate exterior, making this one of the most durable options on this list.
Osprey Ozone 4-Wheel Carry-On
The Numbers: The 22-inch Osprey Ozone 4-Wheel Carry-On weighs 5 pounds.
Why We Like It: Top and bottom handles and high-clearance wheels make the Osprey Ozone easy to carry and maneuver throughout the airport, while the included Travel Sentry ID means you don’t need to worry about lost luggage should you need to gate check your bag.
Luka Soft-Sided Mini Carry-On
The Numbers: The Luka Soft-Sided Mini Carry-On weighs 5.1 pounds.
Why We Like It: This extra tiny carry-on comes outfitted with a TSA-approved lock, compression straps, and a laptop compartment. Its small size is perfect for squeezing into frequently cramped overhead bins,
Flex Vega Carry-On Suitcase
The Numbers: Flex Vega Carry-On Suitcase also weighs in at just 5.1 pounds.
Why We Like It: Marketed as “the world’s first collapsible suitcase”, the Flex Vega Carry-On is lightweight and compact. This bag expands to 9″ thick with a volume of 42L, but folds down to just 2″ thick for easy storage.
Travelpro Walkabout Carry-On
The Numbers: The Travelpro Walkabout Carry-On comes in at just 5.2 pounds.
Why We Like It: Ball bearing wheels give this bag maximum maneuverability and the interior lid pocket as well as exterior organizational pockets keep necessary items close at hand.
Aerolite Carry-on MAX Lightweight
The Numbers: The 22-inch Aerolite Carry-On MAX Lightweight weighs 5.3 pounds.
Why We Like It: Aerolite’s lightweight carry-on has roomy pockets, an affordable price, and a five-year guarantee.
Travelpro Maxlite Expandable Spinner
The Numbers: The Travelpro Maxlite Expandable Spinner is 5.4 pounds.
Why We Like It: In many cases, lightweight comes at the expense of durability. Not so with this elegant, streamlined bag, which was built to be lightweight and tough.
Rockland Rio Carry-On
The Numbers: The Rockland Rio Carry-On is 5.5 pounds.
Why We Like It: The Rockland Rio is able to be wheeled with the retractable handle or carried by the ergonomic top or side handles. The best part: this suitcase comes with a matching tote bag, perfectly sized for use as a personal item.
Bric’s X-BAG 21″ Carry-on Spinner
The Numbers: The 21-inch Bric’s X-Bag Carry-on Spinner weighs 5.5 pounds.
Why We Like It: This dependable nylon carry-on can fit a ton, plus it’s stylish. It doesn’t skimp on features either, with four 360-degree spinner wheels, a telescoping handle, and leather detailing.
Lucas Ultra Lightweight 20″ Spinner
The Numbers: The Lucas Ultra Lightweight 20″ Spinner weighs 5.8 pounds.
Why We Like It: We love its roomy pockets and spinner wheels.
All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.
Editor’s note: Carol McPherson, Ashley Rossi, and Codey Albers contributed to this story. This story was originally published in 2015. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.
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We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.
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