Best Luggage for International Travel: Top Lightweight Carry-Ons Reviewed

Last Updated on December 14, 2025 by Cassie Moorhead

Traveling internationally can be exciting, but packing and handling luggage often brings stress. Have you ever struggled with a heavy suitcase that won’t fit in overhead bins?

Or dealt with wheels that get stuck just when you’re rushing through the airport? These moments can make travel tiring and frustrating. Choosing the right luggage changes everything. It makes moving through airports smooth and hassle-free. It helps you stay organized and saves you from unexpected delays.

In this article, you’ll find some of the best luggage options for international travel in 2024. Each one is designed to be lightweight, durable, and easy to handle. Whether you prefer softside or hardshell, carry-on or expandable models, there’s something here for you. Keep reading to find the perfect suitcase that will make your next trip easier and more enjoyable.

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage

The Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage is ideal for frequent travelers who prioritize a lightweight, durable, and versatile carry-on suitcase. Whether you are a business professional, a casual vacationer, or an international traveler, this luggage is designed to offer convenience and reliability in one compact package.

Pros:

• Lightweight design makes it easy to carry and maneuver.
• Expandable capacity allows for extra packing space when needed.
• Four spinner wheels provide smooth and effortless 360-degree movement.
• Durable softside construction offers flexibility and protection for belongings.
• Compact 21-inch carry-on size meets most airline requirements.

Cons:

• Limited color options, available only in black.
• May not accommodate very large packing needs due to its carry-on size.

The Travelpro Maxlite 5 suitcase features a sturdy yet lightweight build, weighing just 5.4 pounds, which significantly reduces travel fatigue. Its softside expandable design adapts to your packing needs, allowing you to increase storage space when necessary while maintaining a sleek profile. The four spinner wheels ensure effortless navigation through crowded airports or tight spaces, enhancing mobility and convenience.

With dimensions of 23.0 inches in height, 14.5 inches in width, and 9.0 inches in length, this carry-on suitcase fits comfortably in overhead compartments on most airlines. The durable materials used by Travelpro protect your belongings from everyday wear and tear, making it a reliable travel companion for both men and women. Overall, this luggage combines functionality and style, catering to international travelers who need a dependable and lightweight suitcase.

To buy this product, click here.

Amazon Basics 21″ Hardside Carry-on Luggage

The Amazon Basics 21″ Hardside Carry-On Luggage is perfect for frequent travelers, business professionals, and weekend vacationers who need a reliable, compact, and stylish suitcase. Ideal for those who prefer a lightweight yet durable option, this carry-on is designed to fit overhead compartments while offering expandable storage for added convenience.

Pros:

• Hardshell suitcase with a scratch-resistant surface for durability and a sleek look.
• Expandable design provides up to 25% more packing space when needed.
• Equipped with four multi-directional wheels for smooth and effortless mobility.
• Compact dimensions (21.7″ x 14.8″ x 10.0″) that comply with most airline carry-on size restrictions.
• Lightweight at only 6.8 pounds, making it easy to carry and maneuver.

Cons:

• Limited color options, available only in black.
• Hard shell may be less flexible when packing oddly shaped items.

The Amazon Basics 21″ Hardside Carry-On Luggage stands out due to its robust hardshell construction with a scratch-resistant surface, ensuring your belongings stay protected while maintaining an attractive appearance. The suitcase’s expandable feature is a significant advantage, allowing travelers to increase packing capacity by up to 25%, ideal for bringing back souvenirs or packing additional items on longer trips.

Mobility is enhanced by the suitcase’s four multi-directional wheels, which provide smooth rolling and easy navigation through airports and crowded spaces. Despite its sturdy build, the luggage remains lightweight, contributing to hassle-free handling. Its compact size adheres to most airline requirements, making it a practical choice for carry-on luggage without compromising storage space or durability.

To buy this product, click here.

Samsonite Omni 2 International Carry-on Luggage

The Samsonite Omni 2 International Carry-On Luggage is perfect for frequent travelers who value both style and durability. Ideal for business professionals, weekend adventurers, and international travelers, this carry-on combines a sleek rose gold finish with practical features designed to simplify travel. If you need a lightweight, airline-approved suitcase that can withstand the rigors of travel while offering smooth mobility, this luggage is an excellent choice.

Pros:

• Durable scratch-resistant hardshell protects belongings from impacts.
• 360° spinner wheels allow effortless maneuverability in busy airports.
• Expandable polycarbonate shell provides extra packing space when needed.
• TSA-approved lock offers enhanced security and peace of mind.
• Lightweight design at 7.5 pounds makes carrying and lifting easier.

Cons:

• The rose gold color may show dirt or scratches more easily over time.
• Dimensions may be restrictive for travelers needing to pack bulky items.
• Price point may be higher compared to basic carry-on options.

Featuring a robust polycarbonate shell, the Samsonite Omni 2 offers exceptional protection without adding unnecessary weight. Its expandable design is perfect for those who occasionally need extra space for souvenirs or additional gear, making it versatile for different trip lengths. The 360° spinner wheels provide smooth, quiet rolling in any direction, reducing strain on your arms and allowing you to glide effortlessly through crowded terminals and narrow aisles.

Security is also a top priority with the built-in TSA-approved lock, which ensures your belongings remain safe while complying with airport regulations. The carry-on’s compact dimensions meet most airline size restrictions, making it a reliable travel companion for international and domestic flights. Overall, this suitcase blends aesthetic appeal with functional benefits, making your travel experience more convenient and stylish.

To buy this product, click here.

Swissgear Sion Softside Expandable Luggage

The SwissGear Sion Softside Expandable Luggage is ideal for frequent travelers, business professionals, and weekend adventurers who need a reliable and compact carry-on suitcase for short trips lasting 1-3 nights. Its compact size and practical features make it perfect for those seeking convenience without sacrificing durability or style.

Pros:

• 360-degree spinner wheels for effortless maneuverability
• Expandable design to increase packing capacity
• Retractable handle for easy transportation
• Lightweight at just 8.0 pounds, ideal for carry-on requirements
• Durable softside construction with a sleek black finish
• Compact 21-inch size fits most airline overhead compartments

Cons:

• Limited internal organizational compartments compared to some competitors
• Softside material may not protect as well against heavy impacts
• Weight of 8.0 pounds might be slightly heavier than some ultralight carry-ons

The SwissGear Sion Softside Expandable Luggage boasts a practical and stylish design tailored for travelers who value both functionality and ease of use. The 360-degree spinner wheels enable smooth navigation through crowded airports and tight spaces, reducing strain on the user. The expandable feature adds versatility, allowing travelers to pack extra items when needed without compromising the bag’s compact profile.

Equipped with a sturdy retractable handle, this carry-on ensures comfortable handling and quick mobility. The durable softside construction offers a balance between lightweight portability and resilience, while its sleek black color maintains a professional and classic look. Overall, this luggage is a dependable companion for short trips, providing convenience and style for those on the go.

To buy this product, click here.

Samsonite Freeform Hardside Carry-on Luggage

The Samsonite Freeform Hardside Carry-On Luggage is ideal for frequent travelers, business professionals, and vacationers who prioritize durability, style, and convenience in their luggage. If you need a reliable and lightweight suitcase that meets TSA and airline regulations while offering smooth mobility, this hardshell carry-on is perfect for you. Its compact size and expandable design make it suitable for both short trips and extended travel.

Pros:

• Durable hardshell construction protects belongings from impact and rough handling
• Expandable design provides extra packing space when needed
• Lightweight at just 6.5 pounds, making it easy to carry and maneuver
• Spinner wheels ensure smooth 360-degree rolling for effortless mobility
• TSA-approved locks enhance security while complying with airport regulations
• Stylish white color with a modern, sleek appearance

Cons:

• White color may show dirt and scuffs more easily than darker luggage
• Limited interior compartments might require additional organizers for better packing
• Relatively compact size might not be suitable for longer trips requiring more luggage space

The Samsonite Freeform Carry-On Luggage features a sturdy hardshell exterior that safeguards your belongings from damage during transit. Its TSA-approved lock adds an extra layer of security, giving travelers peace of mind when navigating airport security checks. The suitcase’s expandable design allows users to increase packing capacity when necessary, making it versatile for different travel durations. Additionally, the lightweight build ensures that it meets carry-on weight requirements without sacrificing durability.

Equipped with smooth-rolling spinner wheels, this suitcase provides effortless maneuverability in busy airports or crowded streets. The compact dimensions (Height: 10.0 inches, Width: 14.5 inches, Length: 19.5 inches) make it airline-approved, fitting easily into overhead compartments. Its sleek white finish adds a touch of elegance, helping travelers stand out while maintaining a professional look. Overall, the Samsonite Freeform is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a balance of style, functionality, and travel-friendly features.

To buy this product, click here.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is The Best Lightweight Luggage For International Travel?

Travelpro Maxlite 5 is the best lightweight luggage. It weighs very little and has durable spinner wheels. It’s ideal for carry-on use on international flights.

Which Luggage Offers The Most Expandable Space?

Amazon Basics 21″ Hardside Carry-On expands up to 25% more space. This makes it perfect for travelers needing extra packing room.

Are Tsa-approved Suitcases Necessary For International Flights?

Yes, TSA-approved suitcases like Samsonite Omni 2 ensure smooth security checks. They offer built-in locks recognized by airport security worldwide.

Which Carry-on Suitcase Is Best For Short Trips?

SwissGear Sion Softside Expandable Luggage is perfect for 1-3 night trips. Its 21-inch size and smooth wheels make travel easy.

What Makes Samsonite Freeform Suitable For International Travel?

Samsonite Freeform features a hard shell, TSA approval, and spinner wheels. It’s lightweight, durable, and airline-approved, ideal for global travelers.

Conclusion

Choosing the right luggage can make your international trip easier and more enjoyable. The Travelpro Maxlite 5 offers lightweight convenience with smooth spinner wheels. Amazon Basics provides a sturdy hardshell case that expands for extra space. Samsonite Omni 2 stands out with its scratch-resistant design and TSA approval.

SwissGear Sion is great for short trips, featuring 360-degree wheels and a retractable handle. Samsonite Freeform combines durability and smooth rolling in a sleek white hard shell. Each option suits different travel needs, from short getaways to longer journeys. Remember to consider size, weight, durability, and ease of use when selecting luggage.

The right suitcase helps you stay organized and stress-free. Choose what fits your style and travel plans best. Safe travels start with smart luggage choices that keep your belongings secure and accessible.