Lightweight suitcases are very popular. That’s why many manufacturers advertise with the property “ultra light”. When making a precise comparison, it usually turns out that the case is actually quite a heavyweight. Reason enough for a thorough check and an honest list of the best.
About the author
My name is Sebastian and I write about luggage since 2017. I am always on the hunt for the best suitcases.
Lightweight Suitcases – Top 10 Leaderboard
The order of the leaderboard depends on the suitcase size. Simply click on your desired size in the table header to adjust the sorting.
Size S is suitable for short trips of up to 5 days. Size M is usually used for trips of approx. 1 week, size L for approx. 2 weeks and size XL for approx. 3 weeks.
*Affiliate link: If you purchase something through this link, I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Note: This list is constantly updated. If a lighter case is missing from this list, I would be happy to hear from you via comment or email.
Lightweight suitcases in review
My recommendations
Samsonite Lite Shock – The lightest suitcase in the world
Size S: 1,7 kg | Size M: 2,3 kg | Size L: 2,5 kg | Size XL: 2,8 kg
According to my research, the Samsonite Lite Shock is the lightest suitcase in the world (overall ranking). This is mainly due to the CURV material used. This consists of finely woven polypropylene ribbons. This makes the case not only ultra-light, but also extremely flexible.
When it comes to equipment, too, great attention was paid to the weight: the telescopic rod consists of only one strand and the wheels are relatively small unicycle wheels. This is not optimal for the rolling behavior, but the Lite Shock is surprisingly easy to move.
However, you have to accept a few small compromises, e.g. in terms of capacity and interior design. Nevertheless, this suitcase has convinced me extremely and it takes 2nd place in the list of the best suitcases.
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Samsonite Lite Shock 55, available in 4 sizes | £259.99 | Buy on Amazon |
Last update on 2024-12-09 at 11:15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Partnernet
Samsonite Neopulse – The overall test winner
Size S: 2,2 kg | Size M: 2,9 kg | Size L: 3,4 kg | Size XL: 3,9 kg
The Samsonite Neopulse is something like the “jack of all trades” among suitcases. It is not only very light, but also offers a lot of capacity and comfortable equipment. With this convincing overall concept, the Neopulse was able to win 1st place among the best suitcases.
If you want to find a downside, it’s the susceptibility to scratches. The Neopulse is made of high-quality polycarbonate, which makes the case light and flexible. The material also tends to scratch more quickly, which is particularly noticeable in checked baggage. A suitcase cover can easily remedy this.
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Samsonite Neopulse Spinner 55, available in 4 sizes | £255.00 | Buy on Amazon |
Last update on 2024-12-09 at 11:15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Partnernet
Samsonite Base Boost –Â Price-Performance Winner with Soft Shell
Size S: 2,0 kg | Size M: 2,7 kg |Â Size L: 3,1 kg
Compared to the previous models, the Samsonite Base Boost is relatively cheap. It is a classic soft-shell suitcase with a practical front pocket. Another advantage is the comparatively high capacity, which is one of the best in this list.
A disadvantage are the relatively small unicycle wheels. In hand luggage size S (55), however, the Base Boost is also available as an upright version with 2 large wheels.
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Samsonite Base Boost Spinner 55, 3 sizes available | £89.95 | Buy on Amazon |
Last update on 2024-12-09 at 11:15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Partnernet
Samsonite Spark – #1 in Capacity
Size S: 2,5 kg | Size M: 3,2 kg | Size L: 3,7 kg | Size XL: 4,1 kg
The Samsonite Spark just missed making it into the top 10 list, but this suitcase is still quite light and recommendable. It is the best suitcase with soft shell in my test. Overall, he can occupy 4th place. In addition to its light weight, it scores particularly well with its maximum capacity. The large double wheels and the two lockable front pockets are also extremely practical.
I didn’t notice any real disadvantages with this suitcase. Only the telescopic rod was a bit wobbly compared to the top models.
| Preview | Product | Price | |
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Samsonite Spark SNG 55, available in 4 sizes | £155.00 £149.95 | Buy on Amazon |
Last update on 2024-12-09 at 11:15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Partnernet
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which lightweight suitcase is best?
The best lightweight suitcase is the Samsonite Lite Shock. Depending on the size, it weighs only 1.7 kg (S) to 2.8 kg (XL). This low weight is made possible by the CURV material, which is currently only used by Samsonite for suitcases. It consists of thin polypropylene ribbons that are fused together.
What weight is the lightest suitcase?
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. XL size lightweight suitcases weigh less than 4kg.
What material is a light suitcase made of?
The lightest suitcase material is CURV. It consists of a fabric of thin polypropylene ribbons. Soft-shell cases made of nylon or polyester are usually comparatively light. Hard cases made from polycarbonate or polypropylene can also be relatively light.
The following applies to all suitcases: The weight not only depends on the material, but is also largely determined by the construction and equipment.
Which luggage is lighter hard or soft?
One might assume that soft-shell suitcases are a little lighter, but that’s not necessarily the case. Thanks to modern plastics such as polycarbonate and polypropylene, hard cases have become thinner and lighter.
