Best Lightweight Luggage & Carry-Ons Under 8lb
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:
Best for the stylish and practical businessman on short business trips, the Voyager Leather Carry-On Bag with Wheels is a must-have.
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:
"This fantastic men's travel bag is ideal for your global adventures thanks to features including the wheels, telescopic handle, luggage tag and carry-on compliance. The bag is manufactured from elegant Italian full-grain leather and should serve you well on your travels for many years before you need to replace it. Stay connected by taking advantage of the 16" laptop sleeve and close up the bag with the robust YKK zipper. Other great features of the bag include the reliable cotton lining. The bag is ideal for the airport, the hotel and beyond. Why not take a closer look at this travel bag for men today?"
| 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 |
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Best for the fashionable executive traveling for business, the 10X Leather Laptop Travel Bag exudes sophistication and practicality.
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:
"Aim high if you've been searching for a dependable men's bag for travel. This all-in-one offering can work as a backpack, a messenger bag and a travel bag. Manufactured from premium Italian full-grain leather, the bag has a strong YKK zipper and a robust cotton lining. It also comes with a sleeve for a 15.6 inch laptop or a 16-inch MacBook Pro. Its front-loading design makes it easy to get to your holiday essentials whether you're relaxing on the beach or exploring the city. The canvas-lined internal compartments make organisation so much simpler. Take a closer look at this travel bag for men today."
| 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 |
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Best for a businessman on short city trips, the Business City Leather Laptop Bag exudes sophistication and practicality.
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:
"This highly dependable men's bag for travel has been designed with the airport and the hotel in mind. The bag is made from strong, reliable premium Italian full-grade leather and comes with a tough YKK zipper alongside durable cotton lining. The bag is noted for its slim profile, with additional protection for your goods being provided by the canvas interior. This big-selling bag also has rounded top handles which make transporting it around the world a breeze. It can fit a laptop up to 15.6 inches, enabling you to stay connected and get things done no matter where you are."
| 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 |
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Best for a rugged weekend escape with the boys, the Weekender leather bag exudes masculine charm and durability.
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:
"If you need access to an exquisite men's bag for travel that's easy to carry and is manufactured from highly elegant and dependable materials, we have the ideal solution for you. This big-selling travel bag will serve you well at the airport, in the hotel and beyond. Made by specialist craftsmen in Florence, the bag has a sleeve to accommodate any laptop up to 16" and also boasts a YKK zipper. The bag can serve you well throughout years of travel before it needs to be replaced and also features an adjustable leather shoulder strap and leather handles. Why not take a closer look today?"
| 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 |
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Best for the modern man on a city break, the Liberty leather backpack exudes sophistication and practicality with its sleek design and ample storage.
| Product | Liberty Men's Leather Backpack |
| Material | Full Grain Leather - Certified Vegetable Tanned |
| Laptop Size | up to 14 inches |
| 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:
"If you require a men's travel bag that will withstand everything your global adventures can throw at it, the ideal solution is here. This big-selling bag has a sleeve for a laptop up to 14 inches in width and comes with a host of fantastic features. These include the elegant premium grade Italian full-grain leather that it is manufactured from as well as the robust YKK zipper and the handy zipped front pockets where you can store various holiday essentials like your passport and suncream. You can carry the bag with the comfortable top handle or the adjustable shoulder straps."
| 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 |
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Best for the professional businessman on short business trips, keeping suits and shirts wrinkle-free in the Grand Leather Garment Bag.
| 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:
"Are you looking for a high-quality men's bag for travel? If so, we have the ideal solution. This fantastic unisex Italian full-grain leather bag is ideal for overseas and inland travel. The bag offers ample space for suits, laptops and more. It comes complete with a tough YKK zipper as well as highly dependable cotton lining. The bag is manufactured from full-grain vegetable-tanned cow leather by specialist Italian craftsmen and can serve you well for many years to come before it needs to be replaced. This bag has everything required to become your perfect travel partner, regardless of the destination."
| 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 |
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Best for the competent businessman on business trips, the No. 1 Premium Leather Briefcase exudes confidence and sophistication.
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:
"Do you need a robust, long-lasting men's bag for travel? If so, this could be the perfect solution. This men's travel briefcase is designed to serve you well on your journeys for many years before you need to replace it and comes complete with a tough YKK zipper, a convenient zipped back pocket and enough capacity for a laptop of up to 15.6 inches so you can stay connected no matter where you are. The bag is manufactured from premium Italian full-grain leather in Florence and is noted for its elegant triple-gusset design. If you need something that's as stylish as it is spacious, this may well be the bag for you."
| 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 |
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Best for the classy CEO on short business trips, the Elegant Slim Leather Laptop Bag exudes sophistication and practicality.
| 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:
"Have you been looking for a men's bag for travel that will serve you will throughout various global endeavours? If so, this could be the option for you. The bag is manufactured from premium Italian full-grain leather and comes complete with a tough YKK zipper and strong cotton lining. Noted for its attention to detail, the bag boasts meticulous stitching. You can take advantage of the adjustable shoulder strap whenever you wish to adopt a casual look. The bag also has capacity for a 14-inch laptop compartment and a large back pocket. Expect this bag to support you during your travels for many years."
| 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 |
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Best for the modern businessman who wants to make a statement. The Essential Briefcase is sleek, functional, and perfect for work travel.
| 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:
"If you wish to purchase an elegant travel bag for men that will last for years to come, this briefcase could be just the thing. The briefcase gives you enough capacity for a 15.6 inch laptop and can be used to transport clothes, books, toiletries and more through the airport, to the hotel and beyond. The bag is manufactured in Florence, Italy by skilled craftsmen and is made from premium Italian full-grain leather. This popular bag is noted for its exquisite hardware finish, its large back pocket and fine cotton canvas lining. It comes with a strong YKK zipper and a detachable shoulder strap."
| 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 |
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Best for the stylish businessman on a city break, the City Large Leather Laptop Bag exudes sophistication and practicality.
| 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:
"Aim higher if you need access to a men's travel bag that will serve you well for years to come. This bag is manufactured from premium grade Italian full-grain leather and is designed to help you travel in style. It can fit a laptop up to 17 inches in width and has a pleasingly slim profile. The bag can be used to transport all your holiday essentials including your laptop, books, toiletries, clothes and refreshments. This popular bag comes with sturdy zippers and hardware and also offers round top handles that make carrying a breeze alongside an adjustable shoulder strap."
| 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 |
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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.
Author: Albert Varkki
Albert Varkki is the co-founder of Von Baer. He understands leather products as a consumer, supplier, and a manufacturer, helping you with the inside knowledge you need, to choose the perfect leather product for you.
We strive for the highest editorial standards, and to only publish accurate information on our website.
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