Lightest of the Light – Large Suitcases
We’re listening… and the stats are telling us over and over that our customers want to know which suitcases are the lightest, the biggest and the best! We’ve rounded up our top 10 lightest large suitcases (5 soft & 5 hard) and provided information on who they suit to help you make an informed decision.
When shopping for suitcases it’s logical that customers want the lightest possible within their price category; as weight restrictions are tight, we want maximum packing capacity! The days of suitcases weighing 7-8kg are behind us thankfully! However it still is an important consideration that in order to achieve the lightest, compromises have been made in terms of layout, features, comfort and quality. To strip the suitcase back to its bare bones saves weight, but you might lose out on other things that are important to you. It’s a balancing act and the right option will usually be dependant on your travel style, your budget and your personal preference for style, tech and packing style.
A second consideration here is we are comparing large suitcases, that is, the 75cm or similar model. Many models now come in an extra large size, the below guide will also be a good indication of comparisons in the extra large category, we choose to compare 75cm models as not all models come in a larger size.
Typically, soft suitcases are both larger and lighter than hard side suitcases. The materials are simply lighter and more flexible. If your priorities are size, weight and value, a soft suitcase is likely to meet your needs. Within the 75 cm (large) size category, soft suitcases average 110L and around 3kg. Hard suitcases average 95L and average closer to 3.5-4kg for a lightweight model.
The exception to this rule is the Samsonite Curv range, for the purpose of this comparison, we’ve grouped them as one, however the Curv range of around 6 models are all ultra lightweight, hard suitcases weighing in at 2.5-3kg. The Curv suitcases are unmatched in terms of weight, and are a terrific option for those seeking the lightest hard suitcase. The models begin at $450+ when they are on Sale, which means they are not suitable for all travellers and budgets.
Top 5 Lightest Soft Suitcases
1. Samsonite Uplite 78cm Large Suitcase
Price
Capacity
Weight
Notable
Link
$287.00
(RRP $479.00)
107.5 – 122L
2.7kg
Shop it here
* The Uplite and & 72 Hours (number 2) are really just variations of the same design. Both ultra light with huge capacities. The Uplite has a modern two tone and rose gold styling and just edges out the 72 hours in lightest overall.
2. Samsonite 72 Hours 78cm Large Suitcase
Price
Capacity
Weight
Notable
Link
$287.00
(RRP $479.00)
115 – 124L
2.8kg
Shop it here
* The 72 Hours offers ultra light weight design, with a huge capacity, like the 72 hours. It’s available in a more conservative navy or grey, so not the most enthralling suitcase, however it’s sturdy double wheels and handle are a practical choice that is perfect for leisure and frequent travellers alike seeking a case under the 3kg mark.
3. American Tourister Applite 82cm
Price
Capacity
Weight
Notable
Link
$200.00
(RRP $335.00)
116- 129L
2.9kg
Shop it here
* The hugely popular Applite is huge, under 3kg and usually priced around $200 or less on sale. With sturdy oversized wheels and a bold interior that makes it easy to see your things, the Applite ticks a lot of boxes and will continue to be an easy choice for many travellers.
4. Samsonite B-Lite 4 Large Suitcase 78cm
Price
Capacity
Weight
Notable
Link
$269.00
(RRP $449.00)
110-120L
3.2kg
Shop it here
* The Samsonite B-Lite offers a premium quality and finish within the light weight category. With double wheels, larger zips and a premium durable polyester outer, the B-lite offers more in terms of durability of hardware making it suitable for leisure and frequent travellers. The B-lite also has a large range of accessories including duffels, toiletry bags and 4 sizes of suitcases for those who want to build out their collection.
5. American Tourister Curio SS Large Suitcase 81cm
Price
Capacity
Weight
Notable
Link
$169.00
(RRP $339.00)
101-107L
3.3kg
Shop it here
* The Curio SS delivers a similar suitcase to the Applite in terms of quality, value and features; however a variation in looks and colour options for those looking for something a little different! It can be mixed and matched with the popular Curio hard side model.
Bonus! Number 6. Delsey Montmartre Air 78cm
Since 1&2 are variations of the same case, and the two American Tourister options are very similar, we’ve added a number 6 for a balanced analysis!
Price
Capacity
Weight
Notable
Link
$251.00
(RRP $419.00)
118L
3.5kg
Shop it here
* We couldn’t leave the Montmartre Air out of our list, whilst it technically just misses out on a top 5 spot, the extra couple of grams might be forgiven for its great feature list including its recycled Pet material, washable lining, Delsey’s very effective and durable security zips and sturdy wheels.
Top 5 Lightest Hard Suitcases
1. Samsonite Curv Collection
Model
Price
Capacity
Weight
Notable
Link
Lite-Shock Sport 75cm
$457.00
(RRP $915.00)
98.5L
2.5kg
Shop it here
Firelite 75cm
$457.00
(RRP $915.00)
93L
3kg
Shop it here
Cosmolite 75cm
$457.00
(RRP $915.00)
94L
2.6kg
Shop it here
Lite-Cube DLX 75cm
$659.00
(RRP $1099.00)
96L
3.3kg
Shop it here
Lite-Cube Prime 75cm
$705.00
(RRP $1175.00)
96L
3.3kg
Shop it here
Lite-Box 75cm
$549.00
(RRP $1099.00)
100L
3kg
Shop it here
* The Samsonite Curv material is now 12 years old and still unmatched in terms of weight and strength. With such a lightweight material, the various models can offer customers design opportunities not seen in other hard suitcases such as luxurious leather trim and top of the line hardware, and still fall under the 3.5kg mark. Priced from $450 on sale it’s a premium suitcase. A great investment for frequent travellers.
2. American Tourister Airconic 77cm Large Suitcase
Price
Capacity
Weight
Notable
Link
$169.00
(RRP $339.00)
101L
3.2kg
Shop it here
* A terrific value option, the space is generous and 3.2kg is very lightweight. Coming in at just over 3kg and under $200, the Airconic is a great choice for leisure travellers.
3. Delsey Turenne 75cm Large Suitcase
Price
Capacity
Weight
Notable
Link
$359.00
(RRP $599.00)
94.39L
3.3kg
Shop it here
* The Turenne packs a punch in terms of very robust hardware including oversized double zips, double wheels and a comfortable, easy to pack interior with double zipper divider pads. Its very well made and a great choice for more frequent travellers in this lightweight category.
4. Samsonite Lite-Locked 75cm Hard Suitcase
Price
Capacity
Weight
Notable
Link
$659.00
(RRP $1999.00)
93L
3.8kg
Shop it here
* The Samsonite Lite-Locked is technically part of the Curv range, it’s made from the same patented material. We have given it it’s own listing though as the structure of the case is different; it has a frame a secure clip locks rather than a zipper. To get a frame and clip structure under 5kg is very rare, so this is ideal for those looking for extra security without giving up weight.
5. Delsey Clavel 76cm Large Suitcase
Price
Capacity
Weight
Notable
Link
$215.00
(RRP $359.00)
99-106L
3.84kg
Shop it here
* The Delsey Clavel is the only expandable and the largest of the top 5 lightest. Typical for Delsey it is feature packed despite its light weight and great price. It has water resistant zips, reinforced corners and interior organisation.
Prices correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Images via @delseyofficial, @samsonite_au, @mysamsonite & @americantourister_au with thanks