· Maggie · Reviews/Home · 8 min read
Top 5 Lightweight Carry-On Luggage for Frequent Travelers in 2025
Discover the top 5 lightweight carry-on luggage options for frequent travelers, designed to make your trips smoother, more organized, and less stressful. Whether you’re a minimalist or a maximalist, there’s something here for everyone.
Introduction
Let’s face it—traveling can be a hassle, especially when you’re lugging around a clunky, heavy suitcase. If you’re like me and find yourself constantly on the move, you know that every pound counts. That’s why I’ve spent years testing and comparing lightweight carry-on luggage to find the best options for frequent travelers. Trust me, the right bag can make all the difference between a smooth journey and a chaotic one.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through five standout carry-ons that have earned their stripes in the travel world. From budget-friendly picks to premium options, I’ve got you covered. Whether you’re jetting off for a weekend getaway or a month-long adventure, these bags are designed to keep up with your lifestyle. So, let’s get into it—what makes these carry-ons worth your hard-earned cash?
Travelers Club Richmond Spinner Luggage, Charcoal, Carry-On 20-Inch
I recently took the Travelers Club Richmond Spinner on a domestic trip, and it held up pretty well for the price. At 20 inches, it’s the perfect size for most airlines, sliding easily into overhead bins without a fuss. The spinner wheels are a dream—they glide like butter, even in crowded terminals.
The hard shell is lightweight and feels sturdy, though it does pick up scuffs after a few uses (nothing major, but worth noting). Inside, there’s plenty of room, with a zippered divider to keep things tidy. My only gripe? The telescopic handle feels a bit wobbly when fully extended. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s something to keep in mind if you’re a frequent traveler.
Overall, this is a solid choice for casual travelers or anyone on a budget. It’s not the fanciest option out there, but it gets the job done without breaking the bank.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lightweight and compact | Telescopic handle feels flimsy |
| Smooth spinner wheels | Hard shell shows scuffs easily |
| Affordable price | Limited durability for heavy use |
Traveler’s Choice Mykel Front Pocket Polycarbonate Hardside Suitcase
If you’re a business traveler, the Traveler’s Choice Mykel might just be your new best friend. This hardside suitcase has a front pocket specifically designed for laptops, which is a total game-changer for quick security checks. The polycarbonate shell is impressively light yet tough enough to handle the rigors of travel.
One feature I absolutely love is the front-access zipper. It’s perfect for grabbing your laptop or documents without having to open the main compartment. Inside, you’ll find multiple pockets and a zippered divider to keep everything organized. The spinner wheels are smooth, and the handle feels comfortable to grip, even during long walks through terminals.
That said, the front pocket does eat into the main packing space a bit, so if you’re someone who likes to pack to the brim, this might not be the best fit. Also, while the hardshell is durable, it can scratch over time. Still, for short trips or business travel, this suitcase is a winner.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Front laptop pocket for easy access | Reduced packing space due to front pocket |
| Lightweight yet durable polycarbonate shell | Hardshell may show scratches over time |
| Smooth-rolling spinner wheels and ergonomic handle | Handle durability issues reported by some users |
Wrangler 20” Hardside Carry-On Spinner Luggage
The Wrangler 20” Hardside Carry-On is a no-frills, reliable option for travelers who want something simple and functional. The 360-degree spinner wheels are a standout—they roll effortlessly, even in crowded spaces. The ABS hard shell feels sturdy, though it’s not as premium as the polycarbonate used in some higher-end models.
Inside, the fully-lined compartment with compression straps keeps your clothes in place, though it lacks the extra pockets found in other models. The telescoping handle is decent but feels a bit delicate, so it might not hold up as well over time. For the price, though, this is a solid choice for occasional travelers or those who don’t want to spend a fortune.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lightweight and easy to maneuver | Telescoping handle feels delicate |
| Durable ABS hard shell | Limited interior organization |
| Smooth 360-degree spinner wheels | No expansion zipper |
Travelers Club Chicago Hardside Expandable Spinner Luggage, Rhubarb, 20” Carry-On
If you’re looking for versatility, the Travelers Club Chicago Hardside Spinner is worth a look. Its expandable feature is a lifesaver when you need a little extra packing space. The hardshell exterior held up well during my tests, showing only minor scuffs after being checked on a full flight.
The spinner wheels are smooth on most surfaces, though they struggled a bit on rougher terrain. Inside, the layout is practical, with a zippered compartment and elastic straps to secure your belongings. My only complaint is the handle—it feels a bit flimsy and occasionally gets stuck when retracting. Still, for the price, it’s a solid option for budget-conscious travelers.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lightweight and easy to maneuver | Handle feels flimsy |
| Expandable for extra packing space | Wheels struggle on rough surfaces |
| Affordable price point | Limited durability for frequent use |
U.S. Traveler Aviron Bay Expandable Softside Luggage with Spinner Wheels, Teal, Carry-on 22-Inch
The U.S. Traveler Aviron Bay is a great choice if you prefer softside luggage. It’s incredibly lightweight and offers expandable storage, making it ideal for longer trips. The front pockets are a standout feature—perfect for stashing toiletries or travel documents for quick access.
The spinner wheels roll smoothly on most surfaces, though they can struggle on uneven terrain. The telescopic handle is sturdy and locks securely, but the overall durability feels a bit questionable compared to hardside options. If you’re a fan of softside luggage and don’t mind sacrificing a bit of structure, this is a solid pick.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lightweight and expandable | Wheels struggle on rough surfaces |
| Front pockets for easy access | Limited interior organization |
| Smooth spinner wheels | Durability concerns over time |
Frequently Asked Questions
What size carry-on is best for international travel?
For international travel, most airlines stick to a standard carry-on size of around 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm). This size fits comfortably in overhead bins and avoids the need to check your bag. That said, always double-check your airline’s specific requirements—some budget carriers have stricter limits.
Do airlines prefer hard or soft luggage?
Airlines don’t really have a preference, but hard-shell luggage tends to hold up better during handling. It’s less likely to get caught in conveyor belts or damaged during loading. Softside luggage, on the other hand, is more flexible and can be easier to squeeze into tight spaces. It really comes down to your personal preference and travel needs.
What is the TSA approved carry-on size?
The TSA doesn’t set size restrictions—that’s up to the airlines. Most U.S. carriers allow carry-ons around 22 x 14 x 9 inches, including handles and wheels. Always check your airline’s guidelines to avoid surprises at the gate.
What is the size of a carry-on for Europe?
In Europe, the standard carry-on size is usually around 55 x 40 x 20 cm (21.7 x 15.7 x 7.9 inches). However, this can vary by airline, so it’s best to verify with your carrier before you fly.
Is a 22-inch carry-on too big for international travel?
It depends on the airline. While 22 inches is generally acceptable for domestic flights, some international carriers have stricter size limits. Always check your airline’s specific requirements to avoid issues.
What type of luggage is best for international travel?
For international travel, I recommend a lightweight, durable carry-on with spinner wheels. Hard-shell options offer better protection, while softside luggage is more flexible. Look for features like TSA-approved locks, multiple compartments, and water-resistant materials to make your trip as smooth as possible.
Final Thoughts
After testing these five carry-ons, I can confidently say there’s something here for every type of traveler. If you’re after durability and smooth rolling, the Travelers Club Richmond Spinner is a solid pick. Business travelers will love the Traveler’s Choice Mykel for its laptop pocket and quick-access features. Budget-conscious folks should check out the Wrangler 20” Hardside, while the Travelers Club Chicago Hardside is perfect for those who need extra packing space. And if you prefer softside luggage, the U.S. Traveler Aviron Bay is a lightweight, practical option.
No matter which one you choose, you’ll be well-equipped for your next adventure. Safe travels!
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As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you click on one of the product links above and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support my work and keeps the reviews coming. Thanks for your support!
