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While traveling carryon-only can be great, checking a bag offers a host of amazing benefits, too! If you’re taking a longer trip, traveling with others, or just like having options, check out the best checked bags for your next trip!
Best Lightweight Checked Luggage
Table Of Contents
Whether you’re a minimalist packer who needs some extra room every once in a while or a flexible packer who loves to have options, a checked bag can be the way to go! The choice to check a suitcase really depends on the kind of trip you have planned, if you’re going with travel companions or not (as you might share luggage), and what your itinerary is.
If you’re wondering about checked luggage sizes, it’s quite simple! The majority of airlines have a single dimension as their size limit: 62 linear inches. This means as long as the sum total of your checked bag dimensions (length, width, and height) add up to anything under 62 inches, you’re good to go!
Airports can definitely do some damage to luggage, so you’ll want to be sure your bag is sturdy and protective. And because 50 pounds is the usual weight limit, you won’t want to spend those precious pounds on your bag.
If you’re looking for resources on how to choose the best luggage for you, these articles might be helpful:
- Suitcase 101: How to Choose the Right Travel Luggage
- Suitcase Recommendations: Travel Experts Reveal Top Luggage Brands
- Best Carry-on Suitcases for Traveling Europe
- Best Lightweight Luggage Under 5lb: Avoid Overweight Baggage Fees
- Hardside vs. Softside Luggage: Pros and Cons
Now, take a look at these reader favorites that check all the boxes for the best checked bag luggage!
Best Checked Bag for Hardside Suitcases
Shop: Samsonite
Editor’s Pick: Samsonite Omni PC 24” Checked Suitcase
This 24” Samsonite checked luggage is a fantastic hardside option weighing in at 8.34 lbs. The shell is rugged and scratch resistant, so it’ll stay looking nice even when knocked around, and the high quality handle and spinner wheels will make the ride smooth and easy.
Inside, you’ll find plenty of packing room, a mesh divider, a zipped pocket, and compression straps, and on the outside, the TSA locks will keep all of your belongings secure. This is my favorite checked bag because it’s not too big yet fits ALL of Jade’s and my things – there’s more than enough space especially if expanded! But if you do want something bigger, they have a 28 inch checked luggage option, too.
A traveler shares, “Easy maneuverability over different terrains, and the telescoping handle worked great. When I went to baggage claim to get my bag, it came through unscathed! Love this bag for longer trips. Definitely a good investment!”
Shop: Travelpro
Travelpro Maxlite 5 25” Check In Bag Suitcase
Voted as the best lightweight checked luggage, Travelpro is always on the lips of TFG readers. The Maxlite 5 25” hardside checked luggage is ultra-lightweight (8.5 lbs) and extremely durable. Not to mention it looks incredibly sleek, with a Polycarbonate shell that hides scratches and scuffs.
The spacious interior of this check in luggage expands up to 2” and features divider panels, an accessory pocket, and water-resistant lining for easy care, and stays secure with a TSA lock. This bag will glide through the airport ever so smoothly with 360° spinner wheels and a sturdy handle.
One reader raves, “I have a Travelpro 25” and it’s amazing. Had it for a few years of nonstop hard traveling and it still looks new. Very sturdy and truly light!”
We’ve rounded up the best anti theft travel bags for women, and our readers have voted for their favorite styles.
Shop: Away
Away The Medium 26” Large Checked Luggage
Readers adore Away bags for their packability, great features, and stylish appeal. The Medium 26” hardshell checked luggage is super sturdy while staying quite light at 9.9 lbs, and the interior compression system will help you efficiently pack all you need! Plus, the high quality wheels and handle make it so easy to maneuver, even when you hit the 50 lb mark!
More features include a TSA combination lock, a water-resistant laundry bag, and a lifetime warranty!
A reader says, “The Medium is my go-to bag. I have taken it everywhere from weekend trips to weeks in Italy. It holds everything I need and has room for things to come home. I also have the Large.”
Shop: Kenneth Cole
Kenneth Cole Reaction Out of Bounds 24” Check In Suitcase
Readers say this cute Kenneth Cole 24” suitcase holds up incredibly well over time! The hard shell is strong, flexible, and lightweight, with reinforced corner guards to keep everything inside safe and sound. The size and interior organization will offer plenty of room for longer trips without you having to worry about going over the airline weight limit.
It weighs only 7 lbs, and comes in a wide range of colors, too, including some bright options that’ll make it hard to miss at baggage claim!
A traveler says, “Love these Kenneth Cole Reaction suitcases! Super lightweight and hold a ton of stuff. Just took them on a three week trip to Europe and they held up great. After numerous flights and baggage handlers, they are still in great shape!”
You’ll never struggle in the airport again with these best travel bags with trolley sleeve.
Shop: Kohl’s
Delsey Paris Helium 25” Checked Bag Luggage
So chic! The Delsey Helium Aero 25” suitcase is praised by readers for its durability and weightless feel, even when packed to the brim. The four spinner wheels can help you tackle tight spaces or uneven roads, and the hard shell can withstand tons of pressure and rough handling with ease!
It weighs 8.1 lbs and offers two large compartments with multiple pockets so you’ll be able to pack plenty. This bag’s functional features are made even better by its gorgeous, metallic finish!
A reader reports, “I have the Delsey Helium Aero and love it. It seems to be indestructible. It carries a ridiculous amount and the compression zipper setup is fantastic. I like that each side is packed independently, too.”
Shop: Bloomingdale’s | Macy’s | Kohl’s
Delsey Paris St. Tropez 24” Check In Baggage
The St. Tropez 24” hardside suitcase is another stunning option from Delsey that weighs 9.1 lbs, and comes equipped with rugged zippers, wheels, and handles that can definitely hold up to the rigors of travel. The already roomy interior expands up to 2”, and comes with compression straps, a zipped divider, and even shoe pockets for effortless organization!
TSA locks keep your things safe, and the double spinner wheels roll silently and smoothly. The vegan leather accents add an elegant touch, too! A reader says, “I absolutely love it. Super light and rolls like a dream.”
Shop: Quince
Quince Hard Shell 24” Checked Suitcase
Quince is a favorite brand within the TFG community for its travel-friendly clothing, but their sleek, affordable, and quality luggage has been making a name for itself as well!
Their 24” hard side checked luggage is created for strategic packing. Users say you can fit a lot inside, but it’s not too heavy at 8.8 lbs. With ultra-easy spinner wheels, a firm aluminum handle, and tough zippers, it’ll make your travels smooth and keep your items secure.
One user says, “The luggage is great quality for the price, and it has an attractive sheen in person. I love how much can fit with the interior compression.” If you need a size up, this suitcase is available in 27” and in expandable version too!
Shop: Paravel
Paravel Aviator Checked Luggage
Paravel is an up-and-coming luggage brand that’s been getting praise from travelers for its gorgeous luggage that’s designed with sustainability at its core. The Aviator check-in option is not only a stylish piece but is made from extremely durable polycarbonate, aluminum handles, and tough zippers, all of which are recycled. Travelers highlight the effortless spinner wheels, interior organization, including a laundry bag, scuff-hiding finish, and vegan leather details.
This carbon-neutral beauty is 11.8 lbs, and at 18.25″ x 28″ x 11″, it’s a compact, yet good option to check in and it’s still lightweight.
Best Checked Baggage for Softside Suitcases
Shop: Travelpro
Travelpro Maxlite 5 25” Light Checked Luggage
This Travelpro Maxlite 5 25” is the checked version of our readers’ absolute favorite Travelpro Maxlite 19” carry on suitcase, offering the same amazing features but with a lot more room! The 25” is one of the lightest checked luggage options at 7.3 lbs, with a water-resistant and stain-resistant exterior that’s reinforced with crash protection to keep your belongings safe.
The spinner wheels roll effortlessly, and the sturdy PowerScope handle stops at 38” and 42.5” for easy maneuvering. It also expands up to 2” whenever you need extra room.
A traveler says, “The perfect lightweight larger checked bag for European travel that I could lift and roll via planes, trains, and automobiles. Very pleased with its quality—great zippers, expandability, and pockets, and the interior is roomy. Wheels are very well attached and roll quietly!”
Read our review on the Travelpro Maxlite suitcase and learn why readers adore this luggage brand SO much!
Shop: Samsonite
Samsonite Ascella 3.0 25” Checked Luggage Bags
The Samsonite Ascella 3.0 25” suitcase is incredibly packable, and its multidirectional spinner wheels keep it mobile and easy to stroll with, even when it gets heavy! Compression straps and zippered pockets keep things compact and organized, and the construction is extremely durable and will hold up well after numerous trips and being roughly handled.
It’s lightweight at 9.92 lbs and expands to add 2” of packing space when needed! A user says, “Great suitcase for a reasonable price. It’s high quality and easy to maneuver. Holds everything for a long trip and couldn’t be happier with the durability and weight!”
Shop: Briggs & Riley
Briggs & Riley 26″ Checked Luggage Bag Suitcase
If you’re looking for luxury, the Briggs & Riley Baseline 26” is it! Beyond the beautiful exterior, this suitcase boasts a spacious interior with a built-in garment folder with a foam roll bar, 2 mesh pockets, and 2” of expansion with the simple press of a button! The large front pocket is super useful, too.
The handle stops at multiple heights and is impact resistant, and the spinner wheels are beyond smooth and have shock absorption, too. It’s definitely a pricey suitcase, but readers love the brand!
A TFG sings its praises, “Best luggage!! I travel at least once a month (business) and have gone through lots of luggage until I got this suitcase—and have never had to replace it. The Baseline balances beautifully no matter what I cram in there. I’m a customer for life!”
Shop: Travelpro
Travelpro Platinum Elite 25” Medium Checked Luggage
With a polished look and stellar features, the Travelpro Platinum Elite 25” suitcase is a great option that’s loved for its incredibly smooth wheels and easy maneuvering. It’s made of tough fabric that’ll resist abrasions and stains, and the zippers are incredibly strong. The interior features accessory pockets, a compression system, a toiletry bag, AND a fold-out suiter to keep your clothes wrinkle-free!
This suitcase is also equipped with TSA locks, it expands up to 2”, and it weighs 9.7 lbs.
A happy user shares more, “Lots and lots of pockets! Love that it comes with a garment bag and a TSA-compliant toiletry bag. Has lots of room and those wheels are awesome. This bag is ready for anything. Definitely worth the price!”
Best Duffel Bag for Checked Luggage
Shop: Walmart
Editor’s Pick: Wandf Duffle Bag Checked Luggage
If you need maximum packing space with a bag that weighs as little as possible, opt for a duffle bag! I love the Wandf 80L duffle bag because it’s just under American Airlines’ maximum baggage guidelines. It’s flexible, moldable, packable, and perfect to transport large items from point A to point B.
I wouldn’t use it for travel that consists of more than one destination or stop, though, as it can get quite heavy and hard to carry if fully packed. The fabric is super durable, water-resistant, and tear-resistant, it comes in a wide range of colors, and it weighs just over 1 lb!
A reader says, “I have a Wandf and I’m pretty tough on it. It goes on almost every trip. I’ve checked it and it held up just fine.”
Check out this review on Wandf to find out more information on this duffle (I love it so much!).
Shop: L.L.Bean
L.L.Bean Adventure Wheeled Checked Duffle Bag
Readers love rolling duffle bags for their great packing capacity, rugged construction, and easier transporting. The L.L. Bean Adventure rolling duffle bag is a top pick, made of strong, water-resistant fabric that comes in a host of cute colors. This duffle pairs a telescoping handle with smooth-glide wheels for the easiest rolling, and users especially appreciate that it can stand upright without tipping over!
It’s super packable and spacious, weighs in at 8 lbs, and tons of users say they’ve stayed looking nice throughout years of use!
A traveler says, “Used this bag to pack gear for a recent trip to Oahu and northern California requiring equipment for hiking, snorkeling, and more. It’s strong, durable, and easy to roll through weeks of travel. It fits so much stuff. Highly recommend it!”
Shop: Samsonite
Samsonite Andante Wheeled Duffel Bag Checked Luggage
Samsonite’s Andante rolling duffle features a roomy main compartment, two side compartments, and a drop bottom compartment to keep things ultra organized. The construction is definitely robust, with corner guards, bumper runners, and water-resistant fabric.
The handle and wheels will allow you to easily roll the bag along, while multiple grab handles offer easy lifting and carrying. It weighs 7 lbs and comes in three sleek colors.
A traveler says, “This is a great looking luggage piece with just enough pockets. Absolutely love the bottom compartment. We used it for shoes and dirty laundry. It also has a retractable pull handlebar which makes it a great rolling piece!”
TFG readers have weighed in with the best tote bags for travel they’ve found, which are not only practical, but stylish enough for the (airport) runway!
Shop: Osprey
Osprey Sojourn Wheeled Luggage
If you need something a little more rugged and versatile for your next adventure, check out Osprey’s Sojourn wheeled luggage. It’s light and spacious, while the sturdy wheels and handle make for smooth and balanced rolling.
And if you need even more mobility, for speeding through an airport, waking up steps, or traveling over uneven roads, it has a deployable backpack harness, hip belt, and back panel that wearers say is comfortable and well-fitting!
One traveler raves, “This is one of the best pieces of luggage I have ever purchased! The wheels are large and glide easily over rough cobblestones found in many European cities and the bag stands easily on its own. And the backpack straps come in handy when trying to board trains or climb up five flights of stairs.”
The Osprey Transporter rolling suitcase is another highly-rated option with a bit more packing capacity and without the backpack harness.
Shop: Amazon
Gonex Rolling Duffle Bag Checked Luggage
Simple and sturdy, this Gonex 70L rolling duffle bag is roomy and packable, but won’t weigh you down! It’s lightweight at 7.1 lbs yet made from waterproof and wear-resistant fabric which makes it great for outdoorsy travels. The wheels can easily handle different terrain, and rain or shine, your belongings inside will be protected!
Interior pockets give you some extra organization, and the outer compression straps keep everything contained. And as a bonus, you can fold this duffle bag down when not in use.
One traveler gives a rave review, “Took this bag full of ski gear to Patagonia for a backcountry trip. Dragged it through many airports and buses and rolled it on dirt and snow-covered roads. The wheels moved it around effortlessly and the PVC material defended it well against the elements. Lots of zippered pockets and straps to secure your items. Great duffle at a great price!”
Readers say the Samsonite 3-Piece Luggage Set is a smart way to have a carry-on and checked bag at once!
Checked Luggage Vs. Carry-On Luggage
Deciding to check luggage or to just travel carry-on really depends on your needs and what type of trip you have planned.
Many readers will use checked luggage for these occasions:
- Traveling with family members and/or children when the occasion calls to either share luggage or in need of extra packing space.
- Trips where extra items need to be packed (like a destination wedding, or sporting activity like diving, or a conference).
- Moving internationally (I know I’ve done this!).
- Bringing gifts for the holidays.
- Great for lengther stays—being in one location longer, rather than moving around a lot.
When traveling carry-on, readers say these occasions is when they tend to do so:
- Shorter term stays, such as packing for two to three week trips, or one week away.
- Traveling in Europe where there are more stairs than elevators available.
- Traveing in Asia when it’s easier to have more lightweight, mobile luggage.
- Wanting to save money on checking luggage and avoid paying baggage fees.
- Handy when you need to move from one accommodation to another frequently.
Compass Rose Carryon Size Packing Cubes: Slim Size Cubes | Medium Size Cubes
Pro Packing Tip
When you’re ready to travel with your newly purchased items, start with packing cubes; they will seriously change the way you pack! We designed our own brand of slim packing cubes, with a unique color and numbering system, so it’s easy to remember where you’ve packed everything. See more in the video below.
The Compass Rose Packing Cubes are offered in two sizes: slim and medium. The slim size cubes measure 13” x 5” x 2.8”, and the medium size cubes measure 2.8” x 13” x 8.5”. Both fit an international carry-on suitcase. Users say the medium size is great for bulkier items!
If you want to learn how to use packing cubes, watch the video below.
Learn our packing hacks with packing cubes in this video!
We also put together a five-part YouTube series showing the different methods to use packing cubes for travel. If you use this specific packing strategy, packing cubes can also compress your belongings. This method has helped many women travel carry-on only!
Compass Rose Digital Luggage Scale
Not many people are familiar with luggage scales, but they’re incredibly helpful when you’re a frequent traveler.
We recommend bringing along a lightweight luggage scale to weigh your cases before going to the airport. This will ensure you are below the weight limit and avoid extra charges.
With a compact luggage scale in hand, you’ll never have to worry about excess baggage fees!
If you’d like more guidance on the type of luggage you could pack, here are more resources:
- Best Hardside Suitcases
- Best Softside Suitcases
- Best Luggage Sets (great for family travel)
- Best International Carry-On Luggage
- Best Duffle Bags and Best Rolling Duffle Bags
- Best Weekender Bags
Regardless if you’re choosing to travel carry-on or check a bag, readers say it’s all about still packing efficiently, and there is no right or wrong type of luggage to bring, as everyone should do what’s best for their own personal preferences and requirements.
What do you think is the best checked suitcase or luggage? Share and comment below!
For more luggage tips, please read:
- Find the Best Carry On Suitcase to Suit Your Trip With These Top Picks
- Best Under Seat Luggage and How to Pack with Minimal Space
- Hardside vs Softside Luggage: Our Readers Weigh the Pros and Cons
- Best Luggage Tags and Luggage Trackers For a Worry-Free Trip
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These lightweight checked luggage picks are a game changer for travelers! It’s great to see readers sharing their experiences and ratings, making it easier to choose the best options. Lightweight luggage can really ease the stress of travel and keep packing efficient. Excited to find the perfect bag for my next adventure!
Thanks for sharing this.
Wow! You’ve sorted through the entire market of endless options to provide an organized outline to narrow and focus my search for the perfect bag for my upcoming trip to Italy. Thank you for taking what felt like a daunting mountain of information and providing expert, experience-based reviews to help me make my decision.
We just bought the Delsey Helium luggage for my husband (after his previous discount suitcase got pummeled in Italy on the cobblestones) based on recommendations from TFG and the FB group. I was quite impressed with the quality of the materials and how light weight it is! Plus it’s red, so I know we won’t miss it when it comes out of the baggage carousel. Cannot wait to take it on our cruise in January. Thank you for reviewing products for us so we can get great quality items that will last!