If you like to travel light, then you don't want your luggage weighing you down.
But what's the best lightweight luggage?
In this post, we'll give you our top picks for stylish yet lightweight carry-on bags and luggage, as well as how best to choose.
Our top picks:
| 1 |  | Best for a smart rolling carry-on bag. Voyager Leather Carry-On Bag |
| 2 |  | Best for a smart convertible laptop backpack. 10X Laptop Travel Bag |
| 3 |  | Best for a smart leather laptop bag. City Laptop Bag |
| 4 |  | Best for a smart duffle style weekender. Weekender |
| 5 |  | Best for a small, professional leather work backpack. Liberty Men's Leather Backpack |
| 6 |  | Best for a professional looking garment bag. Grand Leather Garment Bag |
| 7 |  | Best for a professional laptop backpack. Prime Men's Leather Backpack |
| 8 |  | Best professional business briefcase. No.1 Briefcase |
| 9 |  | Best minimalist leather laptop bag. Elegant Briefcase |
| 10 |  | Best for a modern leather laptop briefcase. Essential Briefcase |
| 11 |  | Best for a 17-inch professional leather laptop bag. City Large Laptop Bag |
Best Lightweight Luggage for 2023
Here are our top picks for lightweight luggage by style and type:
Voyager Leather Carry-on Bag with Wheels
Best for effortless business travel with a touch of luxury - Voyager Leather Carry-On Bag with Wheels.
Voyager Leather Carry-On Bag Product Highlights:
| Color Options | Available in Elegant Black, Solid Brown, Classic Tan, and more |
| Laptop Sleeve | Includes a sleeve for up to a 16" laptop |
| Material | Handmade from premium vegetable-tanned Italian leather |
| Convenience Features | Smooth-rolling wheels, foldaway telescopic handle with two height settings, and easily accessible pockets |
| Interior | Durable cotton lining with small slots and an interior zipped pocket |
| Zipper Quality | High-quality Japanese YKK zippers |
| Sustainability | Crafted sustainably with a focus on supporting local communities |
| Origin Certificate | Comes with a certificate of leather origin guaranteeing quality and origin |
| Travel-Friendly | Carry-on compliant with ample space for travel essentials |
| Additional Features | Luggage tag included for easy identification |
Watch the Voyager product video below:
Browse more images of the Voyager:
Our review:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Made of full grain leather | May have a slightly higher cost compared to other materials |
| Stylish and refined appearance | Not completely waterproof |
| Built-in wheels and retractable handle for effortless mobility | Not ideal for extremely rough terrain |
| Ample storage space for essentials | Not the lightest option for a carry-on bag |
| Durable and long-lasting construction | |
| Develops a unique patina over time | |
| Multiple compartments for organized packing | |
| Perfect for business or personal travel |
10X Leather Laptop Travel Bag
Best for business travel with a touch of luxury. The 10X Leather Laptop Travel Bag is perfect for carrying your essentials in style.
10X Laptop Travel Bag Product Highlights:
| Product | 10X Laptop Travel Bag |
| Material | Full Grain Leather - Certified Vegetable Tanned |
| Laptop Size | up to 15.6 inch |
| Lining | Durable Cotton Canvas |
| Zippers | YKK Zippers - Italian-Made |
| Handmade? | Handmade in Florence, Italy |
| Straps | Backpack Straps and Adjustable Shoulder Strap |
| Carry-on Compliant? | Yes |
| Width | 31 cm (12 in) |
| Height | 42 cm (17 in) |
| Depth | 17 cm (7 in) |
| Weight | 2 kg (0.9 lbs) |
| Personalization? | Custom Laser Engraving |
Watch the 10X product video below:
Browse more images of the 10X:
Our review:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Made of full grain leather | Price point may be considered a worthwhile investment |
| Durable and long-lasting | Weight adds to its overall quality and strength |
| Spacious and versatile | Proper care and maintenance will ensure its longevity |
| Suitable for both professional and casual use | |
| Fits most laptops up to 16 inches | |
| Designed for easy travel and convenience | |
| Multiple compartments for organized storage |
City Leather Laptop Bag
Best for business trips and city travel with a sleek leather design and spacious compartments for laptops and documents.
City Laptop Bag Product Highlights:
| Material | Certified Italian vegetable-tanned leather |
| Color Options | Solid Brown, Elegant Black, Deep Red |
| Laptop Compatibility | Fits up to 15.6-inch laptop |
| Inner Lining | Durable Italian cotton lining |
| Zipper Quality | Japanese YKK zipper for reliable access |
| Origin | Made in Florence, Italy |
| Sustainability | Supports local communities and eco-friendly |
| Design | Professional and spacious design for work or travel essentials |
| Adjustable Strap | Adjustable and detachable shoulder strap |
| Inner Pockets | Stitched 100% cotton canvas lining |
| Compartments & Pockets | 1 large zipped main compartment divided by a zipped padded pocket |
| Personalized | Option to personalize with initials or a special message. |
Watch the City product video below:
Browse more images of the City:
Our review:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Made of full grain leather | May have a slightly higher cost compared to other materials |
| Stylish and sophisticated design | Not completely waterproof |
| Ample storage space and compartments | Not ideal for extremely heavy items |
| Comfortable to carry and handle | |
| Durable and long-lasting construction | |
| Develops a unique patina over time | |
| Easy to clean and maintain |
Weekender Leather Weekend Bag
Best for a stylish weekend getaway with friends, the Weekender leather bag is spacious and durable, perfect for packing all your essentials.
Weekender Product Highlights:
| Material | Certified Italian vegetable-tanned leather |
| Design | Spacious design perfect for gym and travel with a dedicated sleeve for up to a 16" laptop |
| Interior | Durable cotton lining with compartments for organization |
| Zipper | Japanese YKK zipper for reliable access |
| Compliance | Meets airline size standards for carry-on luggage |
| Craftsmanship | Handcrafted in Florence, Italy by experienced craftsmen |
| Additional Features | Adjustable and removable leather shoulder strap, studs on the base for protection, solid brass hardware |
| Personalized | Option for custom laser engraving |
| Use Cases | Travel, gym, sports, weekend getaways |
| Sustainability | Supports local communities and eco-friendly practices |
Watch the Weekender product video below:
Browse more images of the Weekender:
Our review:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Made of full grain leather | May have a slightly higher cost compared to other materials |
| Stylish and sophisticated design | Not completely waterproof |
| Ample storage space for essentials | Not ideal for extremely heavy items |
| Comfortable to carry and handle | |
| Durable and long-lasting construction | |
| Develops a unique patina over time | |
| Easy to clean and maintain | |
| Multiple compartments for organized packing | |
| Suitable for weekend trips and overnight stays |
Liberty Leather Backpack
Best for urban explorers seeking a sleek and functional backpack for work and play - Liberty Leather Backpack.
| Product | Liberty Men's Leather Backpack |
| Material | Full Grain Leather - Certified Vegetable Tanned |
| Laptop Size | |
| Lining | Durable Cotton Canvas |
| Zippers | YKK Zippers - Italian-Made |
| Handmade? | Handmade in Florence, Italy |
| Straps | Adjustable Straps |
| Carry-on Compliant? | Yes |
| Width | 40 cm (16 in) |
| Height | 33 cm (13 in) |
| Depth | 12 cm (5 in) |
| Weight | 1.4 kg (0.6 lbs) |
| Personalized | Custom Laser Engraving |
Watch the Liberty product video below:
Browse more images of the Liberty:
Our review:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Made of full grain leather | Price point may be considered a worthwhile investment |
| Durable and long-lasting | Weight adds to its overall quality and strength |
| Spacious and versatile | Proper care and maintenance will ensure its longevity |
| Designed for men | |
| Multiple compartments for organized storage | |
| Stylish design | |
| Comfortable to wear as a backpack |
Grand Leather Garment Bag
Best for business travelers who want to arrive in style with wrinkle-free clothing, the Grand Leather Garment Bag is a must-have.
| Material | Certified Italian Vegetable-Tanned Full-Grain Leather |
| Garment Duffel Bag | Carry your suit in style and without creases |
| Interior Lining | Durable Italian Cotton Lining |
| Zipper Quality | Japanese YKK Zipper |
| Carry-On Compliant | Meets airline size standards for carry-on luggage |
| Origin | Made in Florence, Italy |
| Sustainability | Supports local communities and eco-friendly |
| Capacity | Can fit 2-3 suits, shirts, shoes, accessories, and a laptop |
| Suit Carrier | Attached to the travel bag |
| Personalized | It can be personalized with a custom laser engraving |
Watch the Grand product video below:
Browse more images of the Grand:
Our review:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Made of full grain leather | May have a slightly higher cost compared to other materials |
| Stylish and elegant design | Not completely waterproof |
| Ample storage space for clothes and accessories | |
| Comfortable to carry and handle | |
| Durable and long-lasting construction | |
| Develops a unique patina over time | |
| Features hanger hooks for easy storage of garments | |
| Zippered compartments to keep clothes secure during transport |
Prime Leather Backpack
Best for business trips with a touch of luxury. The Prime Leather Backpack is spacious, organized, and exudes sophistication.
Prime Men's Leather Backpack Product Highlights:
| Product | Prime Men's Leather Backpack |
| Material | Full Grain Leather - Certified Vegetable Tanned |
| Laptop Size | |
| Lining | Durable Cotton Canvas |
| Zippers | YKK Zippers - Italian-Made |
| Handmade? | Handmade in Florence, Italy |
| Straps | Adjustable Straps |
| Carry-on Compliant? | Yes |
| Width | 40 cm (16 in) |
| Height | 27 cm (11 in) |
| Depth | 12 cm (5 in) |
| Weight | 1.2 kg (0.5 lbs) |
| Personalized | Custom Laser Engraving |
Watch the Prime product video below:
Browse more images of the Prime:
Our review:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Made of full grain leather | Price point may be considered a worthwhile investment |
| Durable and long-lasting | Weight adds to its overall quality and strength |
| Spacious and versatile | Proper care and maintenance will ensure its longevity |
| Designed for men | |
| Multiple compartments for organized storage | |
| Stylish design | |
| Comfortable to wear as a backpack |
No.1 Men's Leather Briefcase
Best for business travel with a touch of luxury. The No. 1 Premium Leather Briefcase exudes sophistication and practicality for the modern professional.
No.1 Briefcase Product Highlights:
| Material | Certified Italian vegetable-tanned leather |
| Design | Spacious triple-gusset design suitable for a laptop up to 15.6 inches |
| Interior Lining | Durable Italian cotton lining |
| Zipper | Japanese YKK zipper for reliable access |
| Security | Locking feature for unattended safety |
| Origin | Made in Florence, Italy |
| Sustainability | Supports local communities and eco-friendly practices |
| Engraving | Option to personalize with engravings |
| Shoulder Strap | Padded for extra comfort, adjustable and detachable |
| Personalized | Custom engraving options available for a unique touch |
| Usage | Ideal for professionals, travelers, and students; versatile for work, meetings, and travel |
Watch the No.1 product video below:
Browse more images of the No.1:
Our review:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Made of full grain leather | Price point may be considered a worthwhile investment |
| Durable and long-lasting | Weight adds to its overall quality and strength |
| Spacious and versatile | Proper care and maintenance will ensure its longevity |
| Classic and stylish design | |
| Suitable for both professional and casual use |
Elegant Slim Leather Laptop Bag
Best for business travel with a touch of sophistication. The Elegant Slim Leather Laptop Bag is perfect for carrying your essentials in style.
| Product | Elegant Briefcase |
| Material | Full Grain Leather - Certified Vegetable Tanned |
| Laptop Size | up to 14 inch |
| Lining | Durable Cotton Canvas |
| Zippers | YKK Zippers - Italian-Made |
| Handmade? | Handmade in Florence, Italy |
| Straps | Detachable and Adjustable Shoulder Strap |
| Carry-on Compliant? | Yes |
| Width | 40 cm (16 in) |
| Height | 30 cm (12 in) |
| Depth | 8 cm (3 in) |
| Weight | 1.1 kg (0.5 lbs) |
| Personalized | Custom Laser Engraving |
Watch the Elegant product video below:
Browse more images of the Elegant:
Our review:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Made of full grain leather | Price point may be considered a worthwhile investment |
| Durable and long-lasting | Weight adds to its overall quality and strength |
| Slim and compact design | Proper care and maintenance will ensure its longevity |
| Elegant and professional appearance | |
| Fits most laptops up to 15.6 inches | |
| Multiple compartments for organized storage |
Essential Modern Briefcase
Best for business trips with a modern edge. The Essential Modern Briefcase is sleek and functional, perfect for carrying your work essentials in style.
| Product | Essential Briefcase |
| Material | Full Grain Leather - Certified Vegetable Tanned |
| Laptop Size | up to 15.6 inch |
| Lining | Durable Cotton Canvas |
| Zippers | YKK Zippers - Italian-Made |
| Handmade? | Handmade in Florence, Italy |
| Straps | Detachable and Adjustable Shoulder Strap |
| Carry-on Compliant? | Yes |
| Width | 40 cm (16 in) |
| Height | 31 cm (12 in) |
| Depth | 10 cm (4 in) |
| Weight | 1.3 kg (0.6 lbs) |
| Personalized | Custom Laser Engraving |
Watch the Essential product video below:
Browse more images of the Essential:
Our review:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Made of full grain leather | Price point may be considered a worthwhile investment |
| Durable and long-lasting | Weight adds to its overall quality and strength |
| Modern and stylish design | Proper care and maintenance will ensure its longevity |
| Spacious and versatile | |
| Suitable for both professional and casual use | |
| Multiple compartments for organized storage |
City Large Leather Laptop Bag
Best for urban professionals who need to carry a laptop and essentials in style. The City Large Leather Laptop Bag is sleek and functional.
| Product | City Large Laptop Bag |
| Material | Full Grain Leather - Certified Vegetable Tanned |
| Laptop Size | up to 17 inch |
| Lining | Durable Cotton Canvas |
| Zippers | YKK Zippers - Italian-Made |
| Handmade? | Handmade in Florence, Italy |
| Straps | Detachable and Adjustable Shoulder Strap |
| Carry-on Compliant? | Yes |
| Width | 45 cm (18 in) |
| Height | 34 cm (13 in) |
| Depth | 8 cm (3 in) |
| Weight | 1.6 kg (0.7 lbs) |
| Personalized | Custom Laser Engraving |
Watch the City Large product video below:
Browse more images of the City Large:
Our review:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Made of full grain leather | Price point may be considered a worthwhile investment |
| Durable and long-lasting | Weight adds to its overall quality and strength |
| Spacious and versatile | Proper care and maintenance will ensure its longevity |
| Suitable for both professional and casual use | |
| Fits most laptops up to 17 inches | |
| Multiple compartments for organized storage |
Softshell vs Hardshell
To protect your device, you should use either a hard or a softshell case. If you're unsure which one is right for you, let me help you sort it out.
Softshell bags are ideal for individuals who wish to maintain their travel arrangements in order in terms of weight and convenience. Hardshells just can't compete with the number of compartments found inside and out of softshell cases. Unfortunately they're not as powerful or durable. Another downside is if you're obliged to check a softshell bag, it may look like a pancake on the luggage carousel.
Compare this with a hardshell bag. In the case of an emergency, your carry-on bag can be checked. Each case will be made of high-grade materials and is quite durable. Designed to withstand airport baggage handlers, these bags are perfect for flying travel.
For choosing between the two, first identify the most important features to you, such as spinning wheels, an expandable capacity, dividers, and pockets. Choose the luggage that fulfills all of your requirements, then.
Related pages:
Consider Size Limits for Travel Bags
Carry-on baggage comes in a variety of sizes and designs. Make sure your bag is carry-on size approved before you purchase.
Several sizes are available for each of the luggage I've detailed here. So far, I've concentrated on carry-ons because they're the lightest. Because of this, I only provided information about their weights and heights.
Choose Quality for a Travel Bag That Will Last
The material of the casing tells you a lot about its build quality and long-term usefulness.
In most cases you will get what you pay for, particularly with softshell bags.
With hardshell bags, you will likely end up with broken handles if you choose a lower quality bag, whereas softshell bags tend to wear down and can rip.
The best material for a softshell bag is leather, as it combines both durability and style.
Related pages:
- Laptop Travel Bags
- Small Travel Bags
- Travel Backpacks
- Travel Briefcases
- Women’s Leather Travel Bags
- Crossbody Bags For Travel
- Leather Travel Bags
- Men's Leather Holdalls
Alternatives to Lightweight Luggage
The most obvious alternative to a lightweight piece of luggage is something more heavy duty.
This could be a hardshell suitcase, or simply a bulkier backpack.
What is considered lightweight to you may be heavy to someone else, so try to weigh a bag that you're comfortable carrying at the moment, to give yourself a baseline of what you will be able to handle.
Conclusion
We hope you found our lightweight luggage article useful.
If you have any questions, leave them in the comments, or email info@vonbaer.com.
Related:
- Best Mens Travel Bag
- Best Soft Sided Luggage
- Best Luggage for Men
- Best Designer Luggage
- Best Time To Buy Luggage
- Best Luggage for Business Travel
- Best Luggage for European Travel
- Best Carry On Luggage for American Airlines
Want to read more? We have some great articles on Style, and Travel.
Leave a Comment
Your email address will not be published.