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

Last Updated on December 15, 2025 by Cassie Moorhead

Have you ever struggled to zip up your luggage just minutes before a flight? Or felt frustrated when your suitcase didn’t fit in the overhead bin?

International travel can be stressful enough without worrying about your luggage. Choosing the right soft sided luggage can change everything. It makes packing easier and gives you peace of mind while on the go. With lightweight designs, smooth wheels, and smart compartments, your trips become smoother and more enjoyable.

In this article, I’ll share some of the best soft sided luggage options that fit perfectly for international travel. Whether you need a compact carry-on or a full set for longer trips, these picks will help you travel smarter and lighter. Keep reading to find the perfect suitcase that will ease your travel worries and make every journey better.

Swissgear Sion Softside Expandable Luggage

The SwissGear Sion Softside Expandable Luggage is an excellent choice for travelers seeking a reliable and stylish carry-on suitcase. Ideal for individuals going on short trips lasting 1-3 nights, business travelers, and weekend adventurers, this 21-inch luggage combines functionality with convenience. Its compact size and thoughtful design make it perfect for those who want to travel light without compromising on storage space or mobility.

Pros:

• Features 360-degree wheels for effortless maneuverability
• Expandable design offers extra packing space when needed
• Durable softside construction in an attractive teal color
• Lightweight at just 8.0 pounds, making it easy to carry
• Retractable handle provides comfortable handling and easy storage
• Compact dimensions (22.75″ H x 14.25″ L x 10.25″ W) meet most airline carry-on size requirements

Cons:

• Limited to short trips due to its smaller size
• Softside material may offer less protection than hard shell luggage
• Only available in teal, which might not suit all style preferences

The SwissGear Sion Softside Expandable Luggage stands out with its practical features tailored for efficient travel. The 360-degree spinner wheels allow smooth and effortless navigation through crowded airports or hotel lobbies, reducing strain on the user. Additionally, the expandable feature provides flexibility for travelers who may need extra space for souvenirs or additional clothing without requiring a larger suitcase. Its softside design not only keeps the luggage lightweight but also offers external pockets for quick access to essentials.

Crafted with durability in mind, this luggage’s compact and lightweight frame ensures it complies with most airline carry-on standards, making it an ideal companion for frequent flyers. The retractable handle adds to the ease of transport, allowing users to effortlessly switch between rolling and carrying. The stylish teal color adds a unique touch, making it easy to spot on baggage carousels while also appealing to travelers who want their luggage to reflect a bit of personality. Overall, the SwissGear Sion is a smart investment for anyone looking for a dependable, versatile, and stylish carry-on suitcase for short getaways.

To buy this product, click here.

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Carry-on Luggage

The Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Carry-On Luggage is perfect for frequent travelers and business professionals who value lightweight and durable luggage with convenient mobility. Ideal for those who need a reliable carry-on that fits in overhead compartments yet offers ample packing space, this suitcase suits anyone seeking hassle-free travel with easy maneuverability.

Pros:

• Lightweight design at just 5.4 pounds for effortless carrying
• Expandable capacity to accommodate extra belongings
• Spinner wheels that provide smooth 360-degree mobility
• Compact 21-inch size suitable for most airline carry-on requirements
• Durable softside construction in an attractive slate green color

Cons:

• Softside material may offer less protection compared to hard-shell luggage
• Limited internal organization features for complex packing needs
• Color options are limited, with only the slate green variant available

The Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Carry-On stands out for its incredibly lightweight build which reduces strain while navigating busy airports or city streets. Its expandable feature allows travelers to increase packing space as needed, making it highly versatile for short trips or longer journeys. The suitcase’s spinner wheels ensure smooth and quiet movement in any direction, enhancing travel comfort.

Measuring 23 inches in height with a width of 14.5 inches and a length of 9 inches, this carry-on is designed to meet airline size restrictions without compromising on space. The softside exterior provides flexibility and ease of storage while maintaining durability from Travelpro’s trusted manufacturing quality. Overall, it offers a practical and stylish solution for travelers seeking convenience and reliability in their luggage.

To buy this product, click here.

Travel Select Amsterdam 21-inch Softside Expandable Carry-on Luggage

The Travel Select Amsterdam 21-Inch Softside Expandable Carry-On Luggage is ideal for frequent travelers who prioritize convenience and durability in a compact design. Perfect for business trips, weekend getaways, or short vacations, this lightweight luggage is tailored for those seeking easy maneuverability combined with ample packing space.

Pros:

• Lightweight 2-wheel upright design for effortless mobility.
• Expandable capacity to accommodate extra belongings.
• Equipped with a TSA-approved lock ensuring security during travel.
• Compact 21-inch size suitable for most airline carry-on requirements.
• Durable softside construction in a sleek gray color.

Cons:

• Weighs 10.0 pounds, which may be heavier compared to some ultra-light carry-ons.
• Limited to 2 wheels, which might affect smoothness on uneven surfaces.

The Travel Select Amsterdam carry-on luggage offers a perfect balance between size and functionality. Its expandable feature provides flexibility for travelers who need extra packing space without compromising on portability. The softside exterior allows for easier storage in overhead compartments and offers some flexibility when fitting into tight spaces.

In addition, the inclusion of a TSA lock adds a layer of security, giving peace of mind when passing through airport checkpoints. The 2-wheel upright system is designed for straightforward navigation through busy terminals, and the sturdy construction ensures that it withstands the rigors of frequent travel. Overall, this carry-on is a dependable choice for those seeking a stylish, secure, and practical luggage option.

To buy this product, click here.

Rockland Journey Softside Upright Luggage Set

The Rockland Journey Softside Upright Luggage Set is ideal for frequent travelers who need a versatile and durable luggage solution. Whether you are a business traveler, a family planning a vacation, or someone who values organized packing, this expandable 4-piece set in navy offers convenience and style for all your travel needs.

Pros:

• Expandable design provides extra packing space when needed
• Includes four different sizes (14″, 19″, 24″, 28″) to cover various trip lengths
• Lightweight and easy to maneuver with smooth rolling wheels
• Durable softside construction with a stylish navy color
• Multiple compartments and pockets for organized packing

Cons:

• Softside luggage may offer less protection compared to hard-shell options
• Wheels may not perform well on very rough terrains
• The largest piece weighs 9 pounds, which might be heavy for some users

The Rockland Journey Softside Upright Luggage Set is designed with user convenience in mind. Its expandable feature allows travelers to maximize their packing capacity, making it perfect for both short trips and extended vacations. The set includes four sizes—ranging from 14 inches to 28 inches—giving users the flexibility to choose the right suitcase for each journey. The softside design ensures the luggage is lightweight, enhancing portability without compromising on durability.

Crafted by Fox Luggage, this set features multiple compartments and pockets that help keep belongings organized and easily accessible. The smooth-rolling wheels and telescoping handles make navigation through airports and hotels effortless. The attractive navy color adds a touch of sophistication while also being practical for hiding minor scuffs or dirt encountered during travel. Overall, this luggage set offers an excellent balance of style, function, and versatility for a wide range of travelers.

To buy this product, click here.

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage

The Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage is ideal for frequent travelers, both men and women, who need a reliable, lightweight, and compact carry-on suitcase for international trips. If you prioritize ease of mobility and durability without compromising on storage space, this 19-inch carry-on suitcase is perfect for you. Its sleek black design and manageable size make it suitable for business travelers, vacationers, and anyone looking to streamline their travel experience.

Pros:

• Ultra-lightweight at just 5.29 pounds, reducing travel strain
• Expandable design offers additional packing space when needed
• Four smooth spinner wheels for effortless 360-degree maneuverability
• Durable softside construction protects belongings while being flexible
• Compact 19-inch carry-on size fits most airline overhead compartments

Cons:

• Limited color options, available only in black
• May not accommodate larger packing needs due to size constraints
• Softside material may be less protective against heavy impacts compared to hard-shell cases

The Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage features a thoughtfully engineered design that balances lightweight construction with durability. Its softside exterior allows for flexible packing and easy storage, while the expandable feature provides extra room for unexpected souvenirs or additional items. The integrated four spinner wheels enhance mobility, making it effortless to navigate through crowded airports or busy streets. This suitcase’s dimensions, standing at 21.75 inches in height and 15.75 inches in width, ensure it meets international carry-on standards, making it a practical companion for diverse travel needs.

Users benefit from the Travelpro brand’s reputation for quality and innovation in luggage design. The lightweight nature of this suitcase significantly reduces the burden of carrying heavy bags, improving overall travel comfort. Its sleek black color maintains a professional and timeless look suitable for any occasion. Whether traveling for business or leisure, this expandable carry-on suitcase offers a perfect blend of convenience, style, and functionality.

To buy this product, click here.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Makes Soft Sided Luggage Ideal For International Travel?

Soft sided luggage offers flexibility, lightweight design, and expandable compartments. These features help fit more items and navigate tight spaces during international trips.

Which Luggage Has The Best Spinner Wheels For Easy Maneuvering?

The SwissGear Sion and Travelpro Maxlite 5 models feature 360-degree spinner wheels. These wheels provide smooth, effortless movement in all directions.

How Important Is Luggage Weight For International Travelers?

Lightweight luggage like Travelpro Maxlite 5 reduces strain and meets airline weight limits. It allows travelers to pack more without extra fees.

Are Expandable Carry-ons Good For Short Trips?

Yes, expandable carry-ons like Travel Select Amsterdam add extra space. They are perfect for 1-3 night trips or when packing souvenirs.

What Security Features Do These Soft Sided Suitcases Offer?

Many, such as Travel Select Amsterdam, include TSA-approved locks. These locks ensure luggage security while allowing airport screening without damage.

Can A Luggage Set Benefit Frequent International Travelers?

Absolutely. Sets like Rockland Journey offer multiple sizes for different trip lengths. They provide versatility and consistent style for all travels.

Conclusion

Choosing the best soft sided luggage for international travel helps make trips easier and more comfortable. The bags listed offer lightweight designs and smooth wheels for easy movement through airports. Expandable features provide extra space when needed. Durable materials ensure your belongings stay safe.

Whether you travel short or long trips, these suitcases fit different needs. Compact sizes work well for carry-on rules, saving time at check-in. Soft sided luggage also fits better in tight spaces and can handle rough handling. With options like TSA locks, your items remain secure.

Picking the right luggage means less stress and more focus on enjoying your journey. Remember to consider size, weight, and durability before buying. A good suitcase is a smart travel companion for any international adventure.