If you’re only jetting off for a night or two, save money on checked baggage and opt instead for lightweight carry-on luggage that holds everything you need while remaining small enough to be stored in the plane’s overhead luggage compartment.
Even if you are planning to take a longer trip in future, a carry-on bag can still serve you well. Check in your trusty big hard-cover suitcase but keep your carry-on close, filling it with outfits and just enough toiletries to see you through connecting flights, layovers and the first night at your destination.
Here is our roundup to the best carry-on luggage you can buy right now, plus tips on selecting the right cabin bag for you and your short but sweet trip.
The best lightweight carry on luggage to shop in Australia
From weekenders to duffels to suitcases, we’ve rounded up some of the best lightweight carry-on luggage options available in Australia so you can get from A to B with ease.
Carry All Weekender bag, $295, July
This weekender bag from July is an ideal pick for business trips as it features a minimalist design with a padded laptop sleeve.
Key features:
- Weight: 1kg
- Pass-through band for easy attachment to suitcase
- QuickPass hidden pocket with magnetic closure
- Internal dividers and zipped pockets for documents and small tablets
- Internal key hook
- 16″ laptop padded sleeve compartment
- Detachable dual adjustment shoulder strap
- Gunmetal external D-rings for other attachments
- 5-year warranty and 100-day returns
Monsac Glide Plus 55cm hard side black suitcase, $199, Myer
Marrying style with durability, this Monsac suitcase is a smooth companion across the airport floors.
Key features:
- Weight: 2.6kg
- TSA locks
- 8 wheel spinners
- Multiple internal organisers
- Telescopic handles
- PC film outer shell
Samsonite C-Lite 55cm suitcase, $449 (was $749), Strandbags
This top-notch, made in Europe carry-on suitcase ensures a smooth travel experience, offering double wheels and an elongated double pull handle.
Key features:
- Weight: 1.9kg
- Ultra-strong hard shell
- 8 spinner wheels
- Self repairing zippers
- 10-year warranty
Clifton cabin bag suitcase, $209.30 (was $299), Antler
This polycarbonate cabin suitcase from 1914-established British brand Antler is hand-finished and comes in 12 sleek shades with each feature thoughtfully designed for longevity.
Key features:
- Weight: 2.9kg
- Innovative, twist-grip handle
- TSA combination lock
- Lifetime warranty
- Comes with dust bag
Also available at:
- $179.40 (usually $299) at Myer
Wanderlite hard case shell lightweight carry-on, $37.95 (was $42.95), Kogan
This affordable lightweight carry-on suitcase by Wanderlite features a lightweight design for easy breezy jet-setting.
Key features:
- Weight: 2.5kg
- 360 dual wheels spinner
- Secure lock code
- Built-in retractable trolley system
- Aluminium pull rod
Also available at:
- $37.95 at Woolworths
Fila lightweight carry-on rolling duffel bag, $162, Amazon
If suitcases aren’t your style, this rolling duffel brings a cool and casual vibe to the overhead luggage compartment.
Key features:
- Weight: 2.1kg
- Spacious main compartment
- 4 side pockets and bungee cord tie down the centre
- Comfort padded top handle
- In-line skate wheel system
What is the size of a lightweight carry-on bag?
The general standard of a lightweight carry-on bag in Australia measures around 58 x 36 x 23cm, with the empty bag weighing between 1kg and 2.9kg. Be sure to look up the specific airline’s guidelines before your flight; however, most Aussie airlines have a 7kg carry-on luggage limit.
Is hard or soft luggage better for carry-on?
Ultimately, the best type of luggage for carry-on depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you are concerned about protecting your belongings, hard luggage is a good choice as it’s usually more water-resistant and less likely to be damaged if being squished in the overhead compartment. If you’re looking for an oftentimes more lightweight and easier-to-store option, soft luggage might be the way to go.
What to consider when shopping for lightweight carry-on luggage
Whether you’re jetting off to Europe or interstate, there are a few things to consider in your bag of choice.
- Weight: The lighter the luggage, the more weight you’ll have left for your clothes and other belongings (in accordance to different airlines’ carry-on weight allowance).
- Wheels: Luggage with four spinner wheels is usually the easiest to manoeuvre – especially in crowded airports.
- Handle: The handle should be sturdy and comfortable to grip – adjustability as a handle feature doesn’t go astray either.
- Pockets and compartments: Luggage with multiple pockets and compartments will help you keep your belongings organised.
You might also like:
Lightweight suitcases you’ll want to take on every adventure
Don’t let your holiday be ruined by a nicked wallet, invest in a crossbody bag
The best weekender bags you can buy for a short and sweet trip
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