Wirecutter's budget pick and the lightest structured carry-on they've tested at just 5.4 lbs. Pedigree from a brand trusted by flight crews, with solid warranty coverage on zippers, wheels, and handles.
At 5.4 pounds, the Travelpro Maxlite 5 Carry-On Spinner, our budget pick for the best carry-on, is the lightest suitcase we tested that we like.
The most popular hard-shell carry-on in its price class, beloved by WIRED staffers and consistently recommended across expert and community sources. Polycarbonate shell balances durability with reasonable weight.
At just 2.5 lbs, this carry-on backpack is the lightest option tested by Wirecutter and their top pick for small carry-on travel. Clamshell design makes packing and organization genuinely easy.
Unique hybrid of soft-sided flexibility and hard polycarbonate back panel with two large fixed wheels. Built for travelers who want ruggedness without committing fully to a hard-shell bag.
A well-constructed hard-shell carry-on that skips the zipper entirely for a cleaner, more secure closure. Wirecutter calls it one of the better-built bags in its price range and a lighter alternative to aluminum suitcases.
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