9 Best Pieces of Lightweight Luggage, Tested & Reviewed

The love for Rimowa runs deep, and it's not just because of its status symbolism. Rimowa luggage is sleek, minimal, and virtually indestructible. Its aluminum frames are known for denting as part of the whole adventure, and part of the game that you're playing when it comes to airy aluminum luggage. But Rimowa also designed the classic Cabin bag in an even lighter polycarbonate (7 pounds, versus aluminum's 9) that's also a bit cheaper. For a lightweight suitcase that's a hefty investment, it's a Rimowa through and through.

Samsonite has been tinkering with its suitcase design for as long as it has been around, and this is a big suitcase with little weight to it. It's a nice 30.7"H x 21.5"W size but only 6.3 pounds, ensuring you can stuff it full of clothes and it won't feel any heavier than necessary. It's simple, clean, and reliable for years to come.

Bric's makes a reliable, lightweight, soft-sided carry-on for anyone who isn't into this hard-sided business. It's still water-resistant and durable, but it's naturally going to be more flexible than any hard-sided suitcase can be. It's a classic: The top unzips for access to the big inside pocket, rather than opening into two separate sides.

Briggs & Riley's carry-on is part duffle, part suitcase. The soft-sided top unzips to reveal a huge space for packing in the middle, and there are some smaller organizational pockets, too. Carry it by the strap on front for a duffle style, or pull it on its two wheels. For shorter trips where you spend a lot of time carrying or moving your luggage, this one makes the process smoother.

For minimalist, medium-sized luggage, Calpak is a no-brainer. This suitcase is roomy on the inside and sturdy on the outside. It expands up to 2 inches, too, if you happen to acquire things in your travels. Nine pounds is fairly light for a medium-sized suitcase, but this one is also available in a carry-on (mini, pocket, and regular), large, and as part of a matching set.

Extraordinarily lightweight luggage is kind of travel brand July's whole schtick. And it is no joke: This carry-on weighs just 3.9 pounds (!). It has a polycarbonate shell, with a water-resistant and stain-proof nylon lining.

If you're trying to get the most reliable, straightforward luggage once and call it a day for the next 10 or so years, get a Tumi. It doesn't feel quite as luxe as, say, a Rimowa, but it still feels damn good. This option is sleek, reliable, and, while pricey, won't ever break in your travels.

Now, if you're not ready for an investment suitcase and just want something that can get the job done, Quince's carry-on is a solid lightweight option. It's generally straightforward, no extra bells or whistles to speak of, and it transports your stuff as intended. Although the polycarbonate is indeed light, it (along with the zippers) can feel a bit cheap.

I've owned a lot of suitcases in my lifetime, and my Monos is my favorite. It makes me feel like I have my shit together, the way wearing a $200 outfit to the gym makes me feel like I have my shit together. Do I need to do this? No. But do I feel good with a pretty suitcase that has a few extra inches of precious shoe space? You bet.