Lightweight Carry Ons That Mean Business
For most business travelers, the Travelpro Platinum Elite stands out as the top pick. It weighs just 7.5 pounds, offers a spacious interior, and includes a built-in USB port. Its main limitation is the higher price point compared to other options.
Carrying a heavy suitcase through airports and train stations can slow you down and cramp your style. A lightweight carry on is essential for business travelers who need to move quickly and look sharp.
We compared seven of the lightest and most functional carry on suitcases currently on the market. Each one balances weight with durability, so you can pack your essentials without checking a bag.
The top picks, ranked
Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry On
The Travelpro Platinum Elite is a favorite among pilots and flight crews. It weighs only 7.5 pounds and features a high-density nylon fabric that resists wear and stains. The PrecisionGlide system ensures smooth rolling, and the built-in USB port lets you charge devices on the go.
Pros
- Extremely durable and water-resistant
- Smooth-rolling wheels with magnetic spinner system
- Built-in USB port for charging
Cons
- Higher price point
- No exterior pocket for quick access
Samsonite Omni PC Carry On Spinner
Samsonite’s Omni PC is a lightweight hard shell suitcase that weighs just 6.8 pounds. Its micro-diamond texture resists scratches, and the four spinner wheels provide quiet, effortless movement. The interior includes a divider and cross straps to keep your clothes organized.
Pros
- Very affordable
- Scratch-resistant exterior
- Smooth 360 degree spinner wheels
Cons
- Hard shell can crack under extreme pressure
- Lacks a TSA lock
Briggs & Riley Baseline Carry On
The Briggs & Riley Baseline is a durable soft-sided carry on that weighs 9.2 pounds. Its unique CX expansion system expands 25% without compromising maneuverability. The suit carrier compartment keeps jackets and dress shirts wrinkle free, and the built-in compression system maximizes packing space.
Pros
- Expansion system adds 25% more space
- Dedicated suit carrier keeps clothes wrinkle free
- Lifetime warranty covers all repairs
Cons
- Heavier than some other options
- Premium price tag
Delsey Paris Helium Aero Carry On
The Delsey Helium Aero is a French made hard shell suitcase that weighs just 6.5 pounds. It features a patented double security zipper system that deters theft and keeps contents secure. The 100% polycarbonate shell is lightweight yet impact resistant, and the 18 spinner wheels provide a smooth, stable ride.
Pros
- Very lightweight
- Double security zippers
- Smooth spinner wheels
Cons
- Smaller capacity
- Interior organization is basic
Away Carry On
The Away Carry On is a stylish hard shell suitcase that weighs 7.5 pounds. It includes a built in ejectable battery that charges your phone up to 4 times. The interior has a compression system and a laundry bag to separate dirty clothes. The polycarbonate shell is durable and comes in a variety of colors.
Pros
- Built in USB charger
- Compression system saves space
- Sleek, minimalist design
Cons
- Battery must be removed for air travel
- Can scratch easily
American Tourister Fieldbrook XLT Carry On
The American Tourister Fieldbrook XLT is one of the lightest carry ons available, weighing just 5.5 pounds. It is a soft sided suitcase with a large main compartment and several pockets for organization. The rolling system is sturdy, and the telescopic handle is comfortable to grip.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight
- Spacious interior
- Affordable price
Cons
- Less durable than hard shells
- Basic zippers and materials
Travelpro Maxlite 5 Carry On Spinner
Travelpro’s Maxlite 5 is a lightweight soft sided carry on that weighs just 5.4 pounds. It is made with a durable polyester fabric and features a low profile expansion system that adds space. The four spinner wheels glide smoothly, and the ergonomic handle is comfortable for all heights.
Pros
- One of the lightest at 5.4 lbs
- Expandable for extra space
- Great value for the price
Cons
- Fabric can stain
- Less structured so items may shift
How they stack up
| # | Model | Weight | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry On | 7.5 lbs | Frequent flyers who want premium features | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | Samsonite Omni PC Carry On Spinner | 6.8 lbs | Budget-conscious travelers seeking a hard shell | 8.9 | Check price |
| 3 | Briggs & Riley Baseline Carry On | 9.2 lbs | Business travelers who need a garment bag feature | 9.2 | Check price |
| 4 | Delsey Paris Helium Aero Carry On | 6.5 lbs | Travelers who want a secure, stylish hard shell | 8.7 | Check price |
| 5 | Away Carry On | 7.5 lbs | Modern travelers who want a sleek look and useful features | 8.8 | Check price |
| 6 | American Tourister Fieldbrook XLT Carry On | 5.5 lbs | Lightest option for minimalists | 8.2 | Check price |
| 7 | Travelpro Maxlite 5 Carry On Spinner | 5.4 lbs | Lightweight soft side at a great price | 8.6 | Check price |
What matters most
Questions worth asking
What is the absolute lightest carry on suitcase?
The American Tourister Fieldbrook XLT weighs only 5.5 pounds, making it one of the lightest options. The Travelpro Maxlite 5 is also very light at 5.4 pounds. However, note that these ultra light bags may use thinner materials, so they might not be as durable as heavier models.
Are hard shell or soft shell suitcases better for business travel?
It depends on your preference. Hard shells offer better protection for items like electronics, but they can crack. Soft shells are flexible and often have more exterior pockets for quick access. For business travel, a soft shell with a suit carrier may be more practical if you need to carry formal attire.
Can I bring a 23 inch suitcase as a carry on?
Most airlines have a carry on limit of 22 inches, but some allow up to 23 inches. Always check with your specific airline. The Travelpro Platinum Elite and Samsonite Omni PC are both 23 inches, so they may be too large for some budget airlines. The Away Carry On is 21.7 inches, which is safer for most carriers.
What is the best warranty for a carry on suitcase?
Briggs & Riley offers a lifetime warranty that covers all repairs, even damage from airlines. Travelpro also provides a limited lifetime warranty. Samsonite and Delsey give 10 year warranties, which is still a good sign of durability. Look for a warranty that covers damage from normal use.
How much does a typical lightweight carry on weigh?
Lightweight carry ons typically weigh between 5.5 and 9 pounds. Many airlines have a weight limit of 15 to 20 pounds for carry ons, so staying under 8 pounds is a good idea. The lightest models are around 5.5 pounds, but they may sacrifice some features.
Is it worth paying more for a premium carry on?
Premium carry ons like the Travelpro Platinum Elite and Briggs & Riley come with better materials, more thoughtful features, and stronger warranties. If you travel frequently for business, the extra cost can be justified by durability and convenience. For occasional travelers, a mid range option like the Samsonite Omni PC may be sufficient.
Do these suitcases have TSA approved locks?
Most hard shell suitcases, including the Samsonite Omni PC and Away Carry On, come with TSA approved combination locks. However, the Travelpro Platinum Elite and some soft sided models do not have built in locks. You can always add an external TSA lock if needed.
Can I use these carry ons as personal items?
No, these are carry on suitcases, which are meant to go in the overhead bin. A personal item is smaller and fits under the seat. You would typically pair a carry on with a briefcase or laptop bag as your personal item.
The bottom line
For business travelers who want the best combination of weight, durability, and features, we recommend the Travelpro Platinum Elite. It offers superior construction and a smooth ride, making it worth the investment. If you are on a budget, the Samsonite Omni PC is a great value, but if you need a suit carrier, the Briggs & Riley is the way to go.
