10 ultra-light suitcases that will save you from airline weight fees

Pros: Extremely lightweight; impressively quiet wheels; smooth movement; scratch-resistant shell

Cons: Smaller capacity; no laptop sleeve or additional compartments

Dimensions: 54 x 36 x 19cm

Weight: 1.8kg

If keeping your baggage weight to an absolute minimum is your priority, the July Carry-On Light is an essential contender. Tipping the scales as the lightest cabin bag in our testing lineup, the brand asserts that it is the lightest double-wheeled hardshell suitcase on the global market – a claim that, while we can’t say for sure is true, still earned it our top spot for ultra-light travel. Wrestling heavy hand luggage into overhead lockers becomes entirely stress-free with a case this light. Furthermore, we were thoroughly impressed by the silent performance of its spinner wheels, which glide seamlessly across uneven city pavements and station concourses. It’s also available in nine distinct shades with custom monogramming options, so it doubles as a sophisticated gift for frequent flyers.

Editor review: “I travelled with this on a weekend trip to Palma and managed to squeeze in four dresses, my wash bag, straighteners and two pairs of shoes. Next time I’ll use some compression packing cubes to maximise capacity further. Overall, it feels expensive, with a sturdy handle and strong polycarbonate shell that withstood several knocks on its first outing.” Charley Ward, commerce writer

Pros: External pockets; lightweight; excellent value; next-day delivery available

Cons: Basic design; not the most durable option on this list

Dimensions: 50 x 40 x 20cm

Weight: 2.1kg

For travellers seeking a reliable, budget-friendly option, this Aerolite soft-shell case delivers incredible convenience. It’s on the smaller side, so aligns with strict hand luggage dimensions for major carriers, including British Airways and EasyJet. The inclusion of two quick-access front pockets makes retrieving travel documents, passports, or boarding passes at security effortless, while the lightweight frame ensures easy lifting into overhead storage. While it keeps features simple, it covers all the fundamentals for hassle-free short-haul trips.

Editor review: “I've travelled with this case a couple of times on short city breaks. For the price, it does a good job, and the external pockets are handy for easy access. If you load up the case too much, especially the top, when it's standing upright, the case can often topple over. But otherwise, it's a great budget option.” Lauren Burvill, senior commerce writer

Pros: Lightweight suitcase; excellent value; wide colour selection; multiple compartments; matching luggage sets available

Cons: Only one internal section fully zips; lighter colours can scuff easily

Dimensions: 55 x 40 x 20cm

Weight: 2.8kg

Heritage luggage brand Antler brings over a century of British travel design to its Icon Stripe collection, making it a standout inclusion in our guide. Its effortless wheel maneuverability and lightweight yet robust polycarbonate construction impressed during our testing and, beyond its practical credentials, the aesthetic appeal is undeniable, with seven refined colourways alongside smart internal pockets to keep your belongings neatly organised on the move.

Editor review: “I have this case as part of the full travel set. This case is the one I use the most and it's just a dream to travel with. I really love the two zip-up pouches inside. If you don't travel with packing cubes, these can do a similar job and are ideal for storing delicates and toiletries.” Lauren Burvill, senior commerce writer

Pros: Good value; 10-year warranty; matching bags and luggage pieces available

Cons: Feels less sturdy than some of the higher-priced options we’ve tried

Dimensions: 56 x 36 x 20cm

Weight: 2.4kg

Having entered the market in 2023, Australian luggage label Nere has rapidly gained traction for its eye-catching range of travel gear. The Bondi Cabin Suitcase stands out for its playful pastel shades – ideal for spotting on a crowded baggage belt – and impressive feature set at an accessible price point. It has a durable yet featherlight shell lined with recycled materials, with integrated TSA locks, an expandable capacity, and a generous 10-year warranty. The included removable wash bag is another thoughtful touch that simplifies packing for weekend getaways.

Pros: Lightweight; 100-day trial policy; resistant to scuffs

Cons: Colours appear brighter in real life; handle can feel slightly stiff

Dimensions: 50 x 33 x 23cm

Weight: 2.8kg

Famous for its heritage-inspired backpacks, Herschel’s expansion into hard-sided suitcases is equally well done. This case is built using 70 per cent recycled materials repurposed from road barricades, offering great eco-credentials paired with high durability. Inside, a smart layout featuring zipped mesh dividers and compression straps allows you to squeeze the maximum volume out of its compact frame. It’s also good news for those who love a bright case, coming in a range of vibrant, high-visibility colours – including canary yellow – ensuring your hand luggage remains easily spotted should you need to check it.

Editor review: “This carry-on suitcase is on the smaller side, but it's perfect for me as I do a lot of short trips. It means I never have to worry about which airline I'm flying with and what dimensions they allow. I've taken this with me on multiple trips, and it's very durable, showing virtually no signs of wear and tear to date. I also personally love the cheerful bright colours.” Sarah James, digital editor

Pros: Very lightweight; smart colour range; British brand; lifetime warranty; full sets available

Cons: Expansive depth means it is easy to accidentally exceed airline weight limits if packed to the brim with heavy items

Dimensions: 78 x 52 x 34cm

Weight: 4.9kg

For long-haul adventures or chronic over-packers, Antler’s Icon Stripe expandable suitcase delivers a truly-impressive 122-litre capacity without adding a shred of unnecessary weight. Smartly engineered from lightweight recycled polycarbonate, it has the brand’s signature Silent Glide 360 spinner wheels for effortless navigation through crowded terminals, backed by a reassuring lifetime warranty.

Editor review: “As a self-confessed over-packer, finding a checked case that doesn’t feel like dragging a boulder through Heathrow is my ultimate goal. Antler’s Icon Stripe is a great option for this. Despite its massive 122-litre capacity, the recycled polycarbonate shell is very lightweight, meaning I could pack multiple heavy knit jumpers and boots on a camping holiday in Wyoming and still somehow stay within the airport weight limits. The glide is whisper-quiet and, even when packed to the absolute brim, it navigates busy terminals with effortlessly smooth precision. After multiple flights, train and car journeys across four countries, the case has picked up only a few minor scratches. The Silent Glide 360 spinner wheels still roll effortlessly, no matter how much I manage to cram inside. My favourite feature, though, is the colour – it stands out instantly on a baggage carousel, so there’s no squinting or second-guessing which suitcase is yours.” Preshita Saha, director of content, CNT Global Video

Pros: External pocket for last-minute extras and making security easier; smart matte design; large number of colour options; soft shell helpful for maximising every last inch of space

Cons: Matte fabric requires a bit more care to keep free of dust and airport grease marks than a wipe-clean plastic shell

Dimensions: 72 x 46 x 31cm

Weight: 3.7kg

If you favour a soft shell suitcase, here’s one that strikes an ideal balance between size and weight for mid-length getaways. Its waterproof, rubberised finish and comfortable padded handles make it easy to manoeuvre, while spacious external pockets provide quick access to travel essentials when you are on the move.

Editor review: “I’ve been searching, like Goldilocks, for the perfect suitcase for mid-length trips: not too small, not too big, not too bulky, not too heavy. Lipault UK’s Lost in Berlin Long Trip suitcase hits the mark. This soft suitcase is easy to move around with on a multi-destination trip; its gum material is waterproof and has a rubber-effect, while the padded handles give it extra comfort when hauling in and out of cars and off luggage belts. Its pockets and depth are ideal for a two-week-long trip – at a squeeze, I could successfully pack for two in it for a shorter getaway.” Chloe Laws, acting senior audience development manager

Pros: Quality German-engineered polycarbonate shell; Japanese 360° spinner wheels; eco-conscious, 99 per cent waste-free production; lifetime warranty

Cons: High-gloss finish is prone to superficial scratches

Dimensions: 64 x 46 x 24cm

Weight: 3.7kg

Precision-engineered in Germany, the Horizn Studios H6 combines sleek aesthetics with remarkable durability. Weighing just 3.7kg, it features ultra-smooth Japanese spinner wheels, water-resistant internal lining, and an eco-conscious design crafted with 99 per cent waste-free production. It is a sophisticated, reliable choice designed to withstand tough travel conditions.

Editor review: “There’s nothing like battling through torrential rain and gale force winds to really test a suitcase, and that’s what I had to face with the Horizn Studios H6 on a recent work trip to Edinburgh. Impressively, this German-engineered suitcase took on Storm Éowyn like a champ, with the polycarbonate shell handling any knocks and bangs with ease, while the Japanese 360° spinner wheels made gliding through the station and hotel lobbies totally effortless. Edinburgh’s cobblestones were slightly more of a challenge to move across, but it stood up to the task nonetheless. Inside, the design is nothing short of masterful, with recycled mesh screens, water-resistant lining, and space for everything. I love how the case looks, too (the Glossy Purple Night colour is striking) and, despite being seriously tough, it’s lightweight and sustainably crafted with 99 per cent waste-free production. If you’re looking for the perfect balance of style, function and eco-conscious design, the H6 does this beautifully.” Preshita Saha, director of content, CNT Global Video

Pros: Silent wheels; extra packing compartments; durable and eco-friendly; customisable; lifetime warranty

Cons: Minimalist, matte exterior can show scuffs after particularly rough trips through the baggage hold

Dimensions: 75 x 50 x 31cm

Weight: 4.8kg

Nortvi’s large check-in case caters to eco-conscious travellers who refuse to compromise on top-notch aesthetics. Our editors love the durable shell made from recycled materials, thoughtful internal organisation, and whisper-quiet wheels, which glide through airports effortlessly while offering plenty of room for trips of up to three weeks.

Editor review: “I took this chic Nortvi check-in on a trip to Indonesia that required some serious travel – three long flights each way. But I was instantly won over by its eco-credentials and sleek, modern design – it perfectly held its own inside the very smart hotel I eventually managed to arrive at. It was plenty roomy for the eight-night trip, but its standout feature has to be the buttery-smooth and silent wheels, which glided through the terminals with barely a peep. It looks good, feels sturdy and kept all my belongings safe and sound en route – a great, sustainably-made choice for design-conscious travellers.” Charley Ward, commerce writer

Pros: Very stylish; beautiful colour range; unusual matte shell; included laundry bag; clever compression

Cons: Can scuff easily, although cleans up well with a scrub

Dimensions: 76 x 53 x 28cm

Weight: 4.8kg

Combining chic minimalism with impressive functionality, the Monos Large Check-In is designed for organisational obsessives. It has a durable polycarbonate shell with a stylish matte finish, built-in compression pads, and an array of zipped pockets to maximise packing space while keeping gear neat on long-distance trips.

According to our editors: I’ve had a couple of Monos suitcases, and I’ve always been impressed with the number of internal pockets – something I'm grateful for as a consummate over-packer. The brand’s Large Check-In is no different, boasting more inner compartments than any other suitcase I’ve owned, giving me space for my laundry bag, wash bag, electricals and all the just-in-case bits and bobs I please. The compression system and dividers help squeeze everything in neatly. The textured casing is lovely, but it does get marked rather easily. However, it’s nothing a brief wipe down with a damp cloth can’t sort. Charley Ward, commerce writer