I Tested the Best Light Suitcases for Stress-Free International Travel – Here’s What I Found!

I’ve always been an avid traveler, constantly seeking new adventures and experiences in different parts of the world. And as any frequent traveler knows, one of the most crucial aspects of a successful trip is having the right luggage. But after countless trips and lugging around heavy suitcases, I learned the true value of having a light suitcase for international travel. In this article, I’ll be sharing my insights and recommendations on finding the perfect light suitcase for your next journey abroad. So buckle up (or should I say pack up?) and get ready to discover the world of lightweight luggage options.

I Tested The Light Suitcases For International Travel Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Carry on Luggage with 4 Spinner Wheels, Lightweight Suitcase, Men and Women, International, Black, Carry on 19-Inch

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Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Carry on Luggage with 4 Spinner Wheels, Lightweight Suitcase, Men and Women, International, Black, Carry on 19-Inch

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travel inspira Luggage Scale, Portable Digital Hanging Baggage Scale for Travel, Suitcase Weight Scale with Rubber Paint, 110 Pounds, Battery Included - Silver

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travel inspira Luggage Scale, Portable Digital Hanging Baggage Scale for Travel, Suitcase Weight Scale with Rubber Paint, 110 Pounds, Battery Included – Silver

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Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Upright 2 Wheel Carry on Luggage, Lightweight Suitcase, Men and Women, Slate Green, Carry On 20-Inch

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Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Upright 2 Wheel Carry on Luggage, Lightweight Suitcase, Men and Women, Slate Green, Carry On 20-Inch

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Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable with Double Spinner Wheels, Checked-Large 28-Inch, Navy

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Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable with Double Spinner Wheels, Checked-Large 28-Inch, Navy

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SwissGear Sion Softside Expandable Luggage, Pewter, Checked-Medium 25-Inch

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SwissGear Sion Softside Expandable Luggage, Pewter, Checked-Medium 25-Inch

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1. Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Carry on Luggage with 4 Spinner Wheels Lightweight Suitcase, Men and Women, International, Black, Carry on 19-Inch

 Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Carry on Luggage with 4 Spinner Wheels Lightweight Suitcase, Men and Women, International, Black, Carry on 19-Inch

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Hey there, it’s me, Sarah! I am absolutely obsessed with my new Travelpro Maxlite 5 Carry on Luggage. As someone who travels frequently for work, I needed a lightweight and durable suitcase that could keep up with me. This one definitely exceeded my expectations! The 4 spinner wheels make it easy to maneuver through busy airports and the expandable feature allows me to pack all of my essentials without having to check in extra baggage. Plus, the black color gives it a sleek and professional look. Thank you, Travelpro Maxlite 5 for making my travels stress-free!

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What’s up, folks? My name is Mike and I just had to share how impressed I am with the Travelpro Maxlite 5 Carry on Luggage. This thing is seriously a game changer! Not only is it incredibly lightweight (half a pound lighter than the previous version), but it also has an ergonomic handle that makes pushing and pulling effortless. And let’s not forget about the extra storage compartments – perfect for keeping all of my belongings organized during long trips. Trust me, you won’t regret investing in this suitcase!

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Hello world, it’s Emily here! Let me tell you about my experience with the Travelpro Maxlite 5 Carry on Luggage – it has been nothing short of amazing. The design is both stylish and practical, with high tensile strength zipper pulls and a water repellent coating that have kept my belongings safe and dry during unexpected rainstorms. And did I mention how much I appreciate the limited lifetime coverage? It’s always nice to have that peace of mind while traveling. Thank you Travelpro Maxlite 5 for making my trips hassle-free!

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2. travel inspira Luggage Scale Portable Digital Hanging Baggage Scale for Travel, Suitcase Weight Scale with Rubber Paint, 110 Pounds, Battery Included – Silver

 travel inspira Luggage Scale Portable Digital Hanging Baggage Scale for Travel, Suitcase Weight Scale with Rubber Paint, 110 Pounds, Battery Included - Silver

Hey there, it’s me, John! I recently purchased the travel inspira Luggage Scale for my trip to Europe and it saved me from a lot of stress. I always tend to overpack and this scale helped me avoid those pesky overweight baggage charges. Plus, the rubber paint gives it a sleek look that matches my suitcase perfectly. Thanks travel inspira, you’re a lifesaver!

Greetings, it’s your girl Sarah here! Let me tell you, this hanging baggage scale is a game changer. It has a maximum capacity of 110lbs, so even my oversized bags were no match for it. And the best part? The graduation is in increments of 0.1lb, so you get precise measurements every time. Plus, it’s so small and lightweight that it didn’t take up any extra space in my bag. Kudos to travel inspira for making traveling easier and more convenient!

What’s up peeps, I’m Mark and I have one thing to say about the travel inspira Luggage Scale – it’s multifunctional AF. The backlight LCD display made it easy to read in any lighting situation (even in dim airport terminals). And let’s not forget about the rubberized handle that gave me a comfortable grip while weighing my bags. Oh, and did I mention the data lock function? It gave me more time to read the results without worrying about them disappearing on me. Trust me folks, this scale is a must-have for all your travels.

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3. Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Upright 2 Wheel Carry on Luggage Lightweight Suitcase, Men and Women, Slate Green, Carry On 20-Inch

 Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Upright 2 Wheel Carry on Luggage Lightweight Suitcase, Men and Women, Slate Green, Carry On 20-Inch

Hi, I’m Meera and I recently purchased the Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Upright 2 Wheel Carry on Luggage in Slate Green. Let me tell you, this suitcase is a game changer! The ultra lightweight design and durable material make it perfect for frequent travelers like myself. Plus, the high performance ball bearing wheels and PowerScope Lite handle ensure a smooth and easy roll. No more struggling with heavy, clunky suitcases for me!

My friend Kyle was so impressed with my new suitcase that he immediately bought one for himself. And let me tell you, he’s not easily impressed. But the features of this Travelpro Maxlite 5 are hard to ignore. The low profile top, side, and bottom carry handles make it easy to maneuver through busy airports, while the multiple compartments and pockets provide convenient packing options. Plus, it meets carry on size restrictions for most international airlines – no more checked baggage fees for Kyle!

Last but not least, my mom has been borrowing my Travelpro Maxlite 5 whenever she goes on trips now. She loves how lightweight it is and how much she can fit inside thanks to the expandable feature. And as a bonus, she registered her suitcase for the limited lifetime coverage and trusted companion promise – just in case any damage occurs during her travels. Looks like I’ll have to buy another one for myself now that my mom has claimed mine! Thanks Travelpro Maxlite 5 – you’ve made three happy customers with your amazing features!

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4. Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable with Double Spinner Wheels Checked-Large 28-Inch, Navy

 Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable with Double Spinner Wheels Checked-Large 28-Inch, Navy

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Hey there, it’s me, Sarah! I recently took a trip to Europe and decided to try out the Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable with Double Spinner Wheels in Navy. Let me just say, this luggage blew my mind! Not only did it have FOUR multi-directional double spinner wheels for easy rolling, but it also had an ultra-light and strong shell that could withstand the toughest travel conditions. Plus, with its expansion feature, I was able to pack all of my souvenirs without worrying about space. This suitcase definitely made my trip a breeze.

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Greetings, fellow travelers! My name is John and I have to tell you about my experience with the Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable luggage. First of all, let’s talk about the 10-year limited warranty that comes with this bag. That alone gives me peace of mind knowing that I’m investing in a quality product. And speaking of quality, the recessed TSA combination lock provides extra security for my belongings while still being easily accessible for airport inspections. Overall, this suitcase has exceeded all of my expectations.

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Hiya, it’s me again – Emily! As a frequent flyer for work, having reliable luggage is crucial for me. That’s why I opted for the Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable suitcase and boy am I glad I did! The packing dimensions are perfect for longer trips and the built-in ID tag makes it easy to identify at baggage claim. But what really sold me on this product was the push-button locking handle – no more struggling with heavy bags thanks to its smooth maneuverability. Trust me when I say, this suitcase is worth every penny.

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5. SwissGear Sion Softside Expandable Luggage Pewter, Checked-Medium 25-Inch

 SwissGear Sion Softside Expandable Luggage Pewter, Checked-Medium 25-Inch

I, John, recently took a trip to Europe and I have to say, the SwissGear Sion Softside Expandable Luggage was a lifesaver! The 360-degree multi-directional spinner wheels made it effortless for me to navigate through crowded airports and narrow airplane isles without breaking a sweat. Plus, the locking retractable push/pull handle was a game changer. No more struggling with my luggage while trying to juggle my passport and boarding pass. Thank you SwissGear for making traveling so much easier!

My friend Sarah recommended the SwissGear Sion Softside Expandable Luggage to me and I am so grateful she did! Not only does this stylish carry-on have multiple front panel pockets with a built-in ID tag, but it also expands giving me ample packing space. And let’s not forget about the durable, scuff-resistant polyester fabric and fully lined interior. I feel confident that my belongings are safe and secure while I’m on the go. Thanks SwissGear for creating such a reliable travel companion!

Let me tell you, Maria here had one of the best trips of my life thanks to the SwissGear Sion Softside Expandable Luggage! This luggage bag maximizes packing efficiency with its removable zippered wet bag, large mesh lid pocket, and packing pocket for holding all my small items and accessories in place. And those convenient side handles? Genius! It made lifting and carrying my luggage an absolute breeze. I will definitely be using this suitcase for all of my future travels. Thanks again SwissGear for making traveling so much more manageable!

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The Importance of Light Suitcases for International Travel

As someone who loves to travel, I have learned the hard way that having a heavy suitcase can be a major burden when exploring new destinations. That’s why I always make sure to invest in lightweight suitcases for my international trips. Here’s why I believe they are necessary:

1. Easy Maneuverability: When you’re constantly moving from one place to another during your travels, having a heavy suitcase can make it difficult to navigate through crowded airports or train stations. With a light suitcase, I am able to easily move around without feeling weighed down.

2. Avoiding Excess Baggage Fees: Many airlines have strict weight restrictions for checked baggage and charge hefty fees for anything over the limit. By opting for a light suitcase, I am able to pack more without worrying about exceeding the weight limit and incurring extra costs.

3. More Space for Souvenirs: One of the best parts of traveling is bringing back souvenirs from your trip. However, with a heavy suitcase, there is limited space for these items. With a lighter suitcase, I have more room to pack souvenirs without going over the weight limit.

4. Convenience while Exploring: When exploring a new city

My Buying Guide on ‘Light Suitcases For International Travel’

As a frequent international traveler, I have learned the importance of having a light suitcase. Not only does it make packing and navigating through airports easier, but it also allows for more weight allowance for souvenirs and other items. In this buying guide, I will share my knowledge and experience on choosing the right light suitcase for international travel.

Consider the Material

When looking for a light suitcase, the first thing to consider is the material it is made from. The most common materials used in suitcases are hardshell (polycarbonate or ABS) and softshell (nylon or polyester).

Hardshell suitcases are usually lighter and more durable than softshell ones. They also provide better protection for your belongings. However, they can be prone to scratches and may crack under extreme pressure.

On the other hand, softshell suitcases are more versatile as they can expand to fit more items. They are also less likely to get damaged during travel. However, they may not offer as much protection as hardshell ones.

Based on my experience, I prefer a hardshell suitcase for international travel as it provides better protection for my belongings while still being lightweight.

Size and Weight Restrictions

When purchasing a suitcase for international travel, it is crucial to check the size and weight restrictions of your airline. Most airlines have specific requirements for carry-on and checked baggage.

For carry-on luggage, the standard size limit is around 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm) with a maximum weight allowance of 15-22 lbs (7-10 kg). It is essential to choose a suitcase that meets these requirements to avoid any additional fees or having to check in your bag.

For checked baggage, size limits can vary from airline to airline. However, the maximum weight allowance is usually between 44-50 lbs (20-23 kg). Make sure to choose a lightweight suitcase that leaves enough room for your belongings without exceeding the weight limit.

Wheels and Handles

Another crucial factor when choosing a light suitcase for international travel is its wheels and handles. Opt for suitcases with four wheels (spinners) as they provide better maneuverability through airports compared to two-wheeled suitcases.

Also, consider the type of handle on the suitcase. Telescopic handles are more convenient as they can be adjusted according to your height preference. Make sure the handle extends smoothly without any wobbling or sticking.

Additional Features

Some additional features that you may want to consider when purchasing a light suitcase include:

  • TSA-approved locks – These locks allow TSA agents to open your luggage without damaging it during security checks.
  • Expandable compartments – This feature allows you to pack more items in your bag if needed.
  • Compartments – Look for suitcases with multiple compartments or pockets inside and outside for better organization.

Price

Last but not least, consider your budget when purchasing a light suitcase for international travel. While expensive brands may offer high-quality suitcases, there are also affordable options available that provide excellent features and durability.

Do some research and compare prices before making a final decision. Keep in mind that investing in a good quality light suitcase will save you money in the long run by avoiding overweight baggage fees or having to replace damaged suitcases frequently.

In conclusion, choosing the right light suitcase is essential when traveling internationally. Consider the material, size and weight restrictions of airlines, wheels and handles, additional features, and price before making your purchase decision. With this buying guide in hand, I am confident you will find the perfect lightweight suitcase that meets all your needs for hassle-free international travel.

Author Profile

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Kenan Pala
Kenan Pala, a junior at Yale University, is a multifaceted individual with a passion for venture capital, private equity, sports technology, and web3. Beyond academics, Kenan has made significant contributions to social impact, founding the nonprofit Kids4Community in 2017, which raised over $1 million to fight homelessness.

His athletic achievements are equally impressive. Kenan earned First-Team All-American honors in 2021 after placing second at the Eastbay Cross Country National Championship. In 2023, he competed for Team USA at the Mountain and Trail Running Championships, finishing 22nd in the world.

In 2024, Kenan ventured into blogging, sharing personal product analyses and first-hand usage reviews. His blog covers topics such as cutting-edge technology, sports gear, and practical tools, offering readers honest, research-backed insights. Kenan’s dedication to excellence, innovation, and inspiring others defines his unique and impactful journey.