Lightweight luggage sounds great, but it doesn’t always live up to the name. We’ve seen plenty of carry-ons labeled as “lightweight” that tip the scales at over 9 lbs, which can be quite a heavy baseline before you even pack your bags. In our opinion, only bags that weigh under 7 lbs truly deserve the “ultralight” label. The challenge? Finding luggage that meets that mark. We’ve done the digging for you and rounded up the best carry-on lightweight spinner suitcases to take on your next trip.
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Samsonite Proxis Global Carry-On Spinner
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Gregory Cache Carry-On
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American Tourister Airconic Carry-On
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TravelPro Maxlite Air V2 Carry-On Hardside Spinner
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July Light Expandable Carry-On
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Osprey Ozone 4-Wheel Carry-On
Weight: 4.6 lbs
Samsonite managed to pack a number of features into the Proxis Global Carry-On Spinner despite its light weight. There’s a built-in USB port so you can keep all your devices charged, dual-spinner wheels for smooth gliding across any surface, and two internal dividers (one with pockets) to keep everything organized.
The outer shell is crafted from Samsonite’s trademarked Roxkin material—a lightweight yet exceptionally strong, multi-layered design that springs back into shape if it’s mishandled by baggage handlers or accidentally tumbled down the stairs (a lesson we learned the hard way).
Related: Carry-On and Personal Item Size Limits for 32 Major Airlines
Gregory built the Cache Carry-On for travelers who don’t just stick to city streets. This tough, vacuum-molded shell is ready for everything from aggressive baggage handlers to gravel paths on the way to your accommodation. It rolls effortlessly on multi-directional dual-spinner wheels, expands up to 1.5 inches to handle extra gear, and keeps your essentials secure with a TSA-approved combination lock.
Our favorite feature is the removable packing cube, which is coated with Gregory's ActiveShield material, making it easy to clean and to keep your dirty gear separated from your clean stuff.
Even with all these rugged features, this carry-on weighs just 6.50 lbs.
Weight: 4.43 lbs
Living up to its name, the Airconic is one of the lightest hardside carry-ons you can find. The sleek polycarbonate shell comes in a range of bright, fun colors that stand out on the baggage carousel, and the textured finish helps hide scratches from rough handling. Four multi-directional spinner wheels make navigating busy terminals effortless, while the roomy interior offers cross-straps and a divider to keep items in place.
The Airconic’s featherweight build makes it easy to lift into overhead bins, and the sturdy zippers and reinforced corners add a surprising amount of durability.
Weight: 6.7 lbs
The TravelPro Maxlite Air manages to stay under our ultralight threshold while offering premium touches, like a water-resistant zippered expansion, an interior divider panel with built-in pockets, and a scratch-resistant finish. We love the inner corner guards, which help the suitcase from getting dented or damaged, meaning this budget-friendly bag will last through many miles.
The ergonomic handle system is comfortable for extended use, and the wheels roll quietly and smoothly across both airport tiles and outdoor pavement.
Weight: 4.9lbs
The Carry-On Light Expandable suitcase is a compact 35L option that can be expanded up to 40L, providing plenty of packing space. The lining is water- and stain-resistant, and the exterior is made from a strong polycarbonate, making the suitcase durable for many trips.
The minimalist design and wide range of colors add to its traveler-friendly appeal, and the precision-engineered wheels and balanced handle ensure maneuverability even when it’s fully packed.
Weight: 5 lbs
Light packers will appreciate the Osprey Ozone, a compact carry-on that measures just 9” high. Top and bottom handles, along with high-clearance wheels, make it easy to carry and maneuver throughout the airport. The included Travel Sentry ID also ensures you don't have to worry about lost luggage if you need to gate-check your bag. The Ozone also features a flexible, ultralight frame that maximizes interior space without adding bulk—perfect for travelers who value every ounce saved.
The reinforced zippers and water-resistant materials provide extra protection for your gear, no matter how far off the beaten path you’re roaming.
Related: How to Choose the Perfect Suitcase