Lightweight suitcases: A buying guide to the best

Large suitcases (76cm by 48cm by 29cm) weighing 6kg or less when empty are considered by most manufactures to meet the definition of a 'lightweight suitcase'.  In this article we consider the different attributes offered by different brands and styles to help you decide on the best lightweight suitcase for your needs.

The benefits of a lightweight suitcase design are obvious:  They are easier to handle, you’ll have less risk of injury and will have more luck meeting airline weight restrictions.  And best of all, given the innovation in the field, you shouldn’t have to sacrifice strength and durability.

We start by comparing hard and soft suitcase materials, then move on to consider questions of durability, expansion and maneuverability.  We end the article with a trick to check on the overall quality of the suitcase.

Soft suitcases tend to slightly lighter than their hard body equivalents, but they offer less protection for contents. Soft suitcases are made from synthetic fibers such as nylon or polyester. The thicker the thread used in construction, the heavier the weight of the suitcase. Thicker threads also provide strength. Many of the top brands use a mix of different thread weights ranging from 600-1800 denier.

Hard cases are generally built from ABS, polycarbonate or polypropylene. If you are looking for a super lightweight suitcase, ask to see models made from ABS as this is the lightest of these three materials. And you still won’t need to compromise on strength.

Some hard shell suitcases, even the super-lightweight models, claim that they are 'hard enough to stand on'.  While we wouldn’t recommend trying this out, its a good feeling to know that the contents are secure.  Soft suitcases cannot provide the same level of protection but may be more resistant to scratching, dents and light damage and look newer for longer.

Remember that on many airline routes we're required to pack liquid and cream toiletries in our checked baggage.  These may be better protected in a hard shell. 

If you're looking for a happy medium between soft and hard, look out for the soft lightweight suitcase brands that have EVA for added rigidity.

While a few hard cased lightweights suitcases offer expansion zips that can be opened to add as much as 20% space to the suitcase, expansion zips are still the realm of soft sided cases.  This feature adds a great deal of flexibility especially on shopping trips where you are much heavier on your return trips.  Unfortunately if your flying its also quite easy to supersede your weight limit.

Top brands of lightweight suitcases on wheels will have four 360 degree spinning wheels.  They can move easily in any direction and can either be pushed along without tilting or lifted up and pulled using the back two wheels. 

Hard suitcases are a little easier to maneuver given their added rigidity but not significantly.  On the other hand it’s much harder to fit a hard suitcase into the back of a taxi than a soft model.

Telescopic push button handles for easy handling and maneuvering come standard with most lightweight suitcase designs. It’s one of the most used parts of the suitcase and is prone to wear out. A good idea is to extend the handle to maximum and shake it from left to right and forward and backwards. Does it rock around or feel secure? Cheap lightweight suitcases tend to have more play than the more durable models.

Other suitcase features to look out for

Don’t overlook some of the minor features such as elastic packing straps, interior lining, and organizer pockets. These are useful in keeping your belongings in order. Some people are especially keen on front zip pockets for easy access. The best brands are often sold with a guarantee so don’t forget to ask. But remember there is normally a get our clause for mishandling in transit or airline damage. Also don't just look for the standard rectangle suitcase, there are a growing number of lightweight duffel and wheeled holdall designs available.

You'll notice that a number of fashion brands have appeared in the market, vying for market share with the traditional suitcase brands.  The good news is that if you're after a bright pink suitcase or a retro look, you should find what you are looking for.  But remember that the quality may not be the same.  If you're looking for durable, high quality products, it's probably safer to stick with the manufacturers with longer track records.

Once you've narrowed down your perfect lightweight suitcase, it's time to consider other travel accessories that will improve your travel comfort. 

• Once you've found a comfortable travel pillow you'll find that you wont be able to do without it on long-haul flights where you need to rest.  Check out these travel pillow reviews by Awiderview.com  We particularly liked this memory foam travel pillow.
• A good pair of thick airline socks.  Far more comfortable than wearing shoes while you fly.
• A soft eye mask so that you can sleep uninterrupted whether it is day or night.
• A pair of noise canceling headphones.  Perfect for enjoying better sound during your in-flight entertainment.