The lightest carry-on suitcase is often cited as the July Carry-On Light, weighing under 4 lbs (around 1.8 kg) and made from polycarbonate, but the Kathmandu Feather Flight and Antler Soft Stripe are also top contenders, with softside options offering very light alternatives for maximizing packing space within weight limits.
The lightest carry-on luggage typically weighs around 4 lbs (1.8 kg) and includes models like the July Carry-On Light, praised for its ultra-light weight and German polycarbonate shell, and the Kathmandu Feather Flight Carry-On, known for its huge 40L capacity at just 1.6 kg. Other contenders are the Heys Xero Elite 2.0 (around 4 lbs) and softside options like the Travelpro Maxlite 5, which focus on minimal weight through advanced fabrics like recycled PET or ripstop nylon.
Best Carry On Luggage for Travel
In my experience, hard-sided is much more durable. Soft-sided is prone to ripping and/or getting slashed. Hard-sided can get dented or cracked, but it takes a lot more time and use before it gets really beat-up.
Flight attendants often advise against hard-shell suitcases, especially for checked bags, because they crack under pressure, and soft-sided bags with expansion zippers for carry-ons, as the expansion can cause them to be gate-checked or not fit overhead bins; instead, choose soft-sided luggage with two wheels or a durable duffle bag for carry-ons, and consider bright colors for checked bags (but avoid plain black).
Airlines generally prefer soft-sided luggage. Their flexibility allows for better space optimization in cargo holds, leading to fuel savings and increased efficiency in baggage loading.
5 be respectful of other passengers. 6 High heels, flip flops, and slides. 7 avoid extremely flammable synthetic fibers like polyester and nylon. 8 Over-sized coats can make economy class feel claustrophobic.
er, roll into the list!
Airlines don't have a preference for hard or soft luggage; they only care about size and weight limits, but many travelers prefer hard-shell for checked bags (better protection) and soft-shell (more flexible/lighter) for carry-ons, with soft-sided often being lighter and offering expandable pockets for international travel convenience, while hard-shell protects delicate items but can be heavier and less forgiving in tight spaces, according to this source from a travel blog and Reddit discussions.
The Best Softside Luggage for Travel
For the lightest luggage, July is famous for its ultra-light Carry-On Light (around 3.9 lbs), while Samsonite (especially Proxis/C-Lite series) and Antler also consistently rank high for lightweight options, often using strong yet light materials like polycarbonate or innovative composites. Other strong contenders include Travelpro (Maxlite series) and specialized brands known for minimal bulk.
When buying luggage, avoid heavy, poorly constructed bags with flimsy handles, wobbly wheels, or weak zippers; prioritize lightweight yet durable materials like nylon or polycarbonate, check for strong stitching and good organization (compartments, compression straps), ensure it meets airline size/weight rules, and test features like wheels and handles before buying. Don't sacrifice functionality for style or buy from unverified sellers to avoid counterfeits and voided warranties.
Each passenger is allowed one piece of carry-on baggage with a maximum total dimension of 56cm x 36cm x 23cm (22in x 14in x 9in) and maximum weight of 7 kgs. (15 lbs).
For the best suitcases in Australia, top brands consistently recommended for reliability and quality include Samsonite, Away, July, and American Tourister, with specific models like the Samsonite C-Lite (durable) and July Carry-On Light (lightweight) standing out, alongside premium options like Rimowa and Australian-focused brands like Aidan and Nere for value. The ideal choice depends on your needs: hardshell for protection (Samsonite, Away), softshell for flexibility (Bellroy), or lightweight for air travel (July, Travelpro), with many offering great features for different budgets and travel styles.
Softside luggage is usually lighter than the hardshell bags.
In conclusion, hard shell suitcases have both pros and cons to consider. They are durable, water-resistant, and easy to clean, but they may be less flexible and have less storage space compared to soft-sided suitcases.
For short jaunts, opt for a carry-on suitcase, backpack, or duffel bag that's easy to carry. For long trips, look for large-capacity luggage that's lightweight or expandable. Our favorite checked suitcases are the Samsonite C-Lite Larger Spinner and the Samsonite Elevation Plus Large Softside Spinner.
Flight attendant of 16 years Emilie said travellers should never take a hardcover suitcase with them on a flight, if they are choosing to check in their luggage. She told retailer House of Fraser: “Passengers tend to think that hard-shell suitcases are more resistant than fabric ones, but it's actually the opposite.
You are allowed to bring a quart-sized bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes through the checkpoint. These are limited to 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item. This is also known as the 3-1-1 liquids rule.
For a one- to two-week holiday, a medium-sized suitcase could be ideal. However, if you are travelling for several weeks or even months, you will probably need a large or even extra-large suitcase.
Firearms, ammunition, and fireworks are prohibited, as are all knives and safety razors (including pocket knives and Swiss Army knives). Straight razors and replacement blades for straight razors are also not allowed. Most tools also cannot be packed in carry-on luggage, as they have the potential to cause harm.
10 Things Passengers Do That Annoy Flight Attendants the Most
The most confiscated items at airports are usually everyday items people forget about, primarily oversized liquids, aerosols, and gels (LAGs), along with knives, sharp objects (like scissors, multi-tools), and lighters, due to carry-on restrictions, with firearms also frequently found in checked bags despite strict rules. Batteries (especially lithium) are also common, needing to be in carry-ons, and even items like protein powder can be flagged for extra screening.
Avoiding Jeans and Synthetic Fabrics
Jeans and synthetic fabrics like polyester are commonly avoided by frequent flyers. Stiff denim limits mobility and can dig into the stomach or legs during extended flights, while synthetic materials trap heat and moisture, leading to discomfort.