Home Travel

6 lightweight hard-shell luggage options for stress-free travel

Travel light!

When it comes to travel, lightweight hard-shell luggage is the ultimate companion for those seeking a balance between durability and convenience. The best options in this category are crafted from robust yet lightweight materials, offering excellent protection for your belongings without the bulk.

These suitcases are designed to be both practical and stylish, with sleek exteriors that resist scratches and maintain their appearance even after multiple trips.

Top-notch lightweight hard-shell luggage often comes with smooth 360-degree spinner wheels for effortless manoeuvrability, making it easy to glide through busy airports or hotel lobbies. Features like TSA-approved locks and expandable compartments enhance security and provide extra space when needed.

Ideal for frequent flyers and holidaymakers, this type of luggage helps travellers avoid baggage fees while ensuring their items remain safe. With a blend of form and function, they’re the perfect solution for modern travellers who value reliability and ease on their journeys.

With that in mind, we’ve gathered the best lightweight hard shell suitcases to shop in 2024 below.

The best lightweight hard shell suitcases 2024

01

Antler expandable carry-on luggage set in moorland pink – icon stripe

$1047 at Antler

They say good things come in threes, and Antler’s Icon Stripe Set proves just that. With three sizes in one lightweight, complete set, including a compact cabin case with an expandable design, it offers endless packing possibilities for longer stays or family getaways.

Crafted from premium recycled polycarbonate, the hardwearing shell protects your belongings, whether tucked in the car boot or placed in a luggage rack. The cases nest inside one another, making storage a breeze between trips. Glide effortlessly with Silent Glide 360 spinner wheels and enjoy the comfort-grip handle, ensuring your journey is as smooth as it is stylish.

Key features:

  • Water-resistant polycarbonate shell made from partially recycled materials for enhanced durability
  • Adjustable comfort-grip handle with personalised height settings
  • Silent Glide 360 spinner wheels for smooth and effortless movement
  • TSA-approved combination lock for added security and peace of mind
  • Expander zip providing 5cm extra depth for increased packing capacity

02

American Tourister Airconic suitcase

$226 (usually $380) at Amazon

American Tourister continues to lead the way in innovative, lightweight luggage with its sleek Airconic collection. As the lightest hardside case to date, Airconic pairs contemporary design with cutting-edge features. It includes a front zip pocket with dedicated compartments for your computer and tablet, along with a convenient USB charging port.

The generously spacious interior includes a modesty pocket, mesh door pocket and elastic tie tapes for organised packing. With a TSA-approved combination lock, your belongings are secure throughout your travels. Airconic is the perfect fusion of style, functionality and ultra-lightweight construction for effortless journeys.

Key features:

  • Extremely lightweight large spinner for effortless travel
  • Water-repellent coated zippers for enhanced protection
  • Double spinner wheels for smooth and easy movement
  • Premium TSA lock for secure travel
  • Fully lined interior with dual straps for organised packing

Also available at:

03

July Light Checked set

$535 (usually $570) at July

The July Light Checked set claims it is the world’s most lightweight double-wheeled luggage set. Featuring the Carry On Light, and Checked Light, this collection lets you pack more while weighing less. No more sacrificing essentials like boots or books due to weight restrictions! Crafted from 100 per cent aerospace-grade German polycarbonate, the unbreakable case features a curved eggshell design to minimise damage and enhance durability.

All pieces nest neatly into one another for easy storage between trips. Elevate your travel experience with this thoughtfully designed, ultra-light luggage set, making every journey smoother and more stylish.

Key features:

  • Includes Carry On Light and Checked Light for versatile travel options
  • Nests into each other for easy storage between trips
  • Combined 107L capacity with twin bar 3-stop telescopic handle
  • SilentMove Series 2 360° double spinner wheels for smooth manoeuvrability
  • Aerospace-grade German polycarbonate shells with YKK Japanese zippers and integrated TSA lock

04

Samsonite Oc2Lite 75cm Spinner suitcase

$276.67 (usually ($465) at The Iconic

Samsonite has been a trusted name in premium luggage since 1910, blending cutting-edge technology with sleek design. The Oc2Lite 75cm Spinner suitcase is no exception, offering durability and functionality in a lightweight design. Weighing just 4.1kg, it allows for more packing while still adhering to weight restrictions.

Its expandable hard-case construction offers a generous 101-113 litre capacity, perfect for extended holidays. Featuring four smooth spinner wheels, a retractable handle, and a TSA-approved lock, this suitcase ensures effortless travel. Internally, elastic cross-straps and zip compartments keep your belongings organised and secure. Samsonite delivers unmatched quality for every journey.

Key features:

  • Lightweight hard-case construction weighing just 4.1 kg
  • An expandable design offering 101-113 litre capacity for increased packing space
  • Four smooth spinner wheels for effortless manoeuvrability
  • TSA-approved 3-point combination lock for enhanced security
  • Internal elastic cross-straps and zip compartments for organised packing

Also available at:

05

Rimowa Check-In L

$1390 at Rimowa

The RIMOWA Essential Lite Check-In L is the lightest suitcase in the entire Rimowa collection, offering a durable yet lightweight solution for your travels. Designed in Germany, this gloss ivory beige suitcase is perfect for adventure. It features a T-Bar telescopic handle and the Rimowa Multiwheel System for smooth mobility, along with TSA-approved locks for added security.

Inside, a zipped mesh divider keeps your belongings organised. Choose from a range of colours to match your style, and enjoy the added touch of a complimentary leather luggage tag and sticker. Effortless luxury for your journey.

Key features:

  • Ultra-lightweight design, making it the lightest suitcase across all RIMOWA collections
  • T-Bar telescopic handle for easy handling and manoeuvrability
  • RIMOWA Multiwheel System for smooth and effortless movement
  • TSA-approved locks for enhanced security during travel
  • Zipped mesh divider for organised packing and easy access to belongings

06

AnyZip Suitcase Hardside PC ABS Lightweight USB Luggage

$159 at Amazon

The AnyZip Hardside PC ABS Lightweight USB Luggage is the perfect companion for all your travels. This 28-inch checked suitcase combines practicality with a sleek design, measuring 19.6 x 11.4 x 30 inches.

Its built-in USB charging port allows you to charge your devices on the go, keeping you connected without the hassle of opening your luggage. The TSA Customs lock provides enhanced security, ensuring your belongings are safe during travel.

Crafted from a durable ABS and PC composite, this suitcase offers both strength and flexibility. Plus, with a ten-year warranty, you can travel with confidence, knowing it’s got you covered.

Key features:

  • Built-in USB charging port for convenient on-the-go device charging
  • TSA Customs lock for enhanced security and peace of mind during travel
  • Durable composite material that offers both firmness and flexibility
  • Spacious 28-inch size, ideal for boarding, travel, and daily storage
  • Ten-year warranty for reliable support and customer satisfaction

What is the lightest luggage brand?

The lightest luggage brand often cited for its ultra-light designs is Samsonite, which we listed alongside others! These suitcases are crafted from innovative materials known for being incredibly strong yet feather-light. Travellers benefit from easy handling without compromising on durability, making them perfect for navigating airports and crowded terminals. Lightweight luggage helps you maximise your baggage allowance, ensuring you can pack more essentials without worrying about excess weight. Brands like Samsonite offer added features such as TSA-approved locks, expandable compartments and smooth spinner wheels, combining practicality with effortless travel.

Which luggage is lighter hard or soft?

Soft suitcases are made from flexible fabrics like nylon or polyester, which tend to weigh less than the rigid materials used in hard-shell designs, such as polycarbonate or ABS. This can be beneficial when trying to maximise your packing space or stay within strict weight limits. However, hard-shell luggage offers superior protection for fragile items and is more resistant to moisture, making it ideal for checked baggage.

Related stories