Best Lightweight Suitcases in the UK

Lightweight suitcases are more popular than ever – and many brands proudly advertise their models as “ultra light”. But when you take a closer look, some of them turn out to be anything but. That’s why I’ve put together a clear and honest comparison of the lightest suitcases from the UK’s top luggage brands.

First, you’ll find a list of the 15 lightest models I came across. Then I’ll share five personal recommendations – depending on what matters most to you: from reliable all-rounders to great-value picks.

The 15 lightest suitcases – ranked by weight

This list features the 15 lightest suitcase models from the most popular luggage brands in the UK – a purely weight-based ranking to help you find truly lightweight suitcases. The order of the table depends on the selected suitcase size – simply click on your preferred size in the table header to adjust the sorting.

As a quick size guide: size S is ideal for short trips of up to three days, size M typically suits one-week holidays, size L is great for trips of around two weeks, and XL is designed for longer journeys of up to three weeks.

*Affiliate link: If you buy something through this link, I may earn a small commission – at no extra cost to you.

Note: This list is regularly updated. If you know of a lighter suitcase that’s missing, feel free to let me know via the comments or by email.

Samsonite Lite Shock – The world’s lightest suitcase

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 – not necessarily in every individual size, but when you look at all sizes combined. That’s mainly thanks to its high-tech CURV material, made from ultra-thin, woven polypropylene ribbons. This makes the case not only incredibly lightweight but also impressively flexible and durable.

To keep the weight down, Samsonite has made some clever design choices: the telescopic handle is a single-tube construction, and the wheels are small unicycle-style rollers. While this setup isn’t ideal for rough surfaces, I was surprised at how easy the Lite Shock is to manoeuvre.

There are a few compromises: the Lite Shock offers slightly less packing space than some other models, and the high-tech CURV material makes it one of the pricier options. Still, it really impressed me overall and takes 2nd place in my list of the best suitcases.

Preview	Product	Price
	Samsonite Lite Shock 55, available in 4 sizes	£258.00	Buy on Amazon

Last update on 2025-06-24 at 09:15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Partnernet

Samsonite Litebeam – Lightest softshell suitcase at a great price

Size S: 1.8 kg | Size M: 2.4 kg | Size L: 2.8 kg

The Samsonite Litebeam is one of the lightest softshell suitcases on the market – and also one of the most affordable in this weight class. Despite its low price, it comes with a surprisingly practical set of features: large, smooth-rolling double wheels, an easy-access front pocket, and convenient grab handles on the side and base for easier lifting. Its modern, slightly sporty look makes it perfect for holiday and leisure travel.

It also scores well when it comes to storage space. The interior capacity is impressive for a suitcase in this price range. The check-in sizes are expandable, making it a flexible option – for example, when returning with extra luggage. If you’re looking for a light, reliable and budget-friendly suitcase, the Litebeam is an excellent all-round choice.

Preview	Product	Price
	Samsonite Litebeam S, available in 3 sizes	£149.00 £94.50	Buy on Amazon

Last update on 2025-06-24 at 09:15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Partnernet

Samsonite Airea – Lightweight with generous space and elegant design

Size S: 1.8 kg | Size M: 2.7 kg | Size L: 2.8 kg

The Samsonite Airea is one of the lightest suitcases on the market and offers even more storage capacity than the Litebeam. With its sleek, elegant design, high-quality nylon fabric and subtle glossy details, it’s the perfect choice for business travellers and anyone who values style. It also features a front and side pocket for quick access to travel essentials like documents or a water bottle.

When it comes to functionality, the Airea leaves little to be desired: smooth double wheels, a sturdy telescopic handle and an integrated TSA lock ensure a comfortable travel experience. The check-in sizes are expandable, making the case especially versatile. If you’re after a lightweight, premium and long-lasting travel companion, the Airea is a top pick.

Preview	Product	Price
	Samsonite Airea S, available in 3 sizes	£195.00 £139.00	Buy on Amazon

Last update on 2025-06-24 at 09:15 / 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 stands out as the best overall suitcase in my test. It combines light weight, excellent durability and clever design like no other. Made from high-quality polycarbonate, it’s not only one of the lightest materials used in luggage, but also extremely shock-resistant thanks to its flexibility – making it ideal for both carry-on and checked baggage.

The Neopulse also impressed with its smooth-rolling rubberised double wheels, a sturdy telescopic handle, and what I found to be the most practical interior layout of all the models I tested.

There’s little to criticise – though the smooth surface can be prone to scratches over time. Still, in terms of build quality, features and performance, the Neopulse is a clear winner.

Preview	Product	Price
	Samsonite Neopulse Spinner 55, available in 4 sizes	£255.00 £196.35	Buy on Amazon

Last update on 2025-06-24 at 09:15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Partnernet

Eastpak Tranverz – Lightweight, durable and ideal for long distances

Size S: 2.5 kg | Size M: 3.2 kg | Size L: 3.6 kg

The Eastpak Tranverz combines the flexibility of a duffel bag with the practicality of a wheeled suitcase. It’s lightweight yet offers impressive capacity, and the adjustable side straps let you compress it or attach extra items.

Thanks to its large rubber wheels and sturdy telescopic handle, it’s especially well-suited for trips where you’ll be walking longer distances – from train stations to cobbled streets. Inside, the layout is smart and the front pocket offers quick access to essentials. With high build quality and a 30-year warranty, it’s built to last.

Drawbacks? With only two wheels, it needs to be tilted to roll and offers less protection than a hardshell – so better for clothing than fragile items. Still, for the price, it’s a brilliant all-rounder.

Preview	Product	Price
	Eastpak Tranverz L, available in 3 sizes	£128.50 £114.05	Buy on Amazon

Last update on 2025-06-24 at 09:15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Partnernet

Which lightweight suitcase is best?

The best lightweight suitcase is the Samsonite Lite Shock. Depending on the size, it weighs between 1.7 kg (S) and 2.8 kg (XL). This extremely low weight is made possible by CURV, a material currently used exclusively by Samsonite. It’s made from thin polypropylene fibres that are layered and fused together, making it both lightweight and highly durable.

What weight is considered light for a suitcase?

Whether a suitcase is considered light depends largely on its size. As a general guideline: a size S (hand luggage) suitcase is considered lightweight at around 2 kg, while a medium (M) suitcase should weigh no more than 3 kg. For size L, anything under 3.5 kg is considered light, and an XL suitcase is lightweight if it stays under 4 kg. These values provide useful reference points when comparing different models.

What material is a light suitcase made of?

The lightest suitcase material is CURV, a woven polypropylene that’s both lightweight and very strong. Softshell suitcases made from nylon or polyester also tend to be relatively light. Some hardshell suitcases, particularly those made from polycarbonate or polypropylene, can also be very light.

Keep in mind: the overall weight doesn’t just depend on the material – the construction and features also play a big role.

If you’d like to learn more about the different materials and their pros and cons, have a look at my detailed guide to suitcase materials.

Which luggage is lighter hard or soft?

You might assume that softshell suitcases are always lighter, but that’s not necessarily true. Thanks to modern materials like polycarbonate and polypropylene, many hardshell models are now just as light – and sometimes even lighter – than softshell alternatives.

If you’re unsure which type is best for your needs, take a look at my full comparison: Hard or Soft Suitcase: Which is Right for You?