Whether a suitcase can be described as light depends on its size: A size S suitcase (hand luggage) is considered light if it weighs around 2 kg. A light suitcase in size M should not weigh more than 3 kg – in size L less than 3.5 kg.
Additionally, hard suitcases are often very lightweight and spacious, and are sometimes even lighter than soft suitcases! This is a big plus when trying to keep your baggage weight to a minimum, or when you're traveling carry on only and want to keep things as light as possible.
On average, an empty hardside large checked suitcase weighs 11.19 lbs (5.08 kg).
Weight. Soft-shell luggage tends to be a tad lighter than hard-sided, which lets you carry more contents without exceeding the airline weight limit.
Consider hard-shell luggage if you want durable, easy-to-maneuver luggage with a robust exterior to protect your valuables. Soft-shell luggage can be for you if you're seeking versatility, ease of packing, and a big interior.
The airlines don't choose sides when it comes to luggage. It is entirely your choice whether you'd like to carry hard-sided or soft-sided luggage for your journey. However, it is important to consider the size and weight restrictions as well as the durability of the bag when making your choice.
A suitcase of size M (50 – 80 liters) or L (80 – 100 liters) is suitable for 23 kg of luggage. Choosing the right suitcase size depends on whether you want to pack a lot of light items or a few heavy ones.
Most airlines also have a maximum acceptable weight for overweight luggage. This is usually 80-100 lbs. If your luggage is over the maximum weight, they simply won't accept it. You'll have to find a way to reduce the weight or ship your luggage.
Clothes such as sneakers, boots, jackets, hoodies and sweaters are some of the heaviest items and tend to take up a lot of room in your suitcase. By eliminating these items from your bag, it leaves you room for more of your favourite outfits. But don't pull a Joey from Friends and wear all your clothes…
The checked luggage weight limit for international flights is usually the same as for domestic flights: 50 lbs. Most airlines set 50 lbs as their weight limit to reduce the risk of injury to baggage handlers.
Weighing 5.3 pounds, the Delsey Paris Clavel was one of the lightest-weight suitcases we tried.
There are three sizes of suitcase: large, medium and cabin. A large case is often suited for a 2 week or longer trip, or a family wishing to pack more and a medium case is better suited for a week away.
Soft Versus Hard Shell
While you may think that hard shell luggage hits the most marks for durability, the truth is the hard shell selection has a drawback. Hard shell suitcases can crack, which causes them to fall apart more rapidly than soft luggage.
In 1993, American Tourister was acquired by Astrum International, which also owns Samsonite. Astrum was renamed as the Samsonite Corporation two years later. Their products include backpacks, suitcases and wallets. Today, the American Tourister brand is sold as a more affordable brand in the Samsonite portfolio.
Hard-shell suitcases are made from durable materials that will take the common knocks and bangs associated with air travel in stride. The most popular hard materials are polycarbonate, aluminum, ABS, and polypropylene. When it comes to soft-shell cases, don't let the fabric put you off.
Rolling your clothes won't make them weigh less, so they won't make your luggage lighter. However, it can save space, allowing you to pack much more in your suitcase, which means carrying fewer pieces of luggage and ultimately reducing your load.
Usually measuring 77 x 52.5 x 29cm or larger, you'll have enough space for everything: from countless outfit options to those all-important sun creams. A 20kg suitcase is usually considered large luggage.
Soft shell luggage tends to still be the lighter option, even with additional components such as handles and wheels, if you are looking for a more lightweight option a soft shell suitcase is the way to go.
If your checked luggage is overweight by just 1 kg, you may be able to get away with paying the excess baggage charge. This charge is usually INR 600 plus GST, which comes to a total of about INR 630. If your luggage is overweight by more than 1 kg, you may be charged more.
If your suitcase is over the limit set by your airline company, you'll need to pay an additional fee for your overweight suitcase. Another option you can do is to remove some things from your suitcase to reduce the weight. Most airlines won't accept suitcases over 100 lbs (45 kgs).