Small Suitcases

Dion Walker
11 min readJun 10, 2024

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A small suitcase can make all the difference when it comes to traveling light and efficiently. In this article, we’ve compiled a roundup of the best small suitcases available on the market, perfect for your next adventure!

The Top 7 Best Small Suitcases

  1. Chariot Gatsby 2-Piece Hard Carry-On Luggage Set — Enhance your travel experience with the Chariot Gatsby 2-Piece Hardside Carry-On Luggage Set in Ice Blue — a combination of vintage luxury and modern function, providing maneuverability, portability, and large capacity for your small suitcase needs.
  2. Lightweight, Durable Carry-On Suitcase for Stress-Free Travel — Experience the perfect blend of style, durability, and portability with the Travelers Club Skyline Spinner Luggage, an ideal travel companion for your next adventure.
  3. Amazon Basics 14-Inch Underseat Travel Luggage Bag — Travel light with the Amazon Basics Underseat Carry-On Rolling Travel Luggage Bag, a versatile and efficient companion for any trip.
  4. Rockland Rio 2-Piece Purple Carry-On Luggage Set — Experience the perfect weekend getaway with the Rockland Rio 2-Piece Carry-On Luggage Set in Purple, featuring a stylish and durable design, EZ-roll in-line skate wheels, and roomy storage for all your essentials.
  5. TravelArim Portable Carry-On Suitcase with Wheels — The TravelArim 22-inch Carry On Luggage impresses with its airline-approved dimensions, durable hard-shell design, and tech-friendly features, making it an ideal travel companion for those on the go.
  6. Wrangler Smart Suitcase with USB Charging Port — Transform your vacation with Wrangler’s 20" Intelligent Spinner Carry-On Suitcase, equipped with a 3-in-1 design, effortless mobility, and adaptable structure for unparalleled transportability.
  7. Lightweight Melbourne Expandable Carry-On Luggage — Enjoy lightweight durability and effortless portability with the Rockland Melbourne Expandable Carry On Luggage, tailor-made to accommodate your travel requirements and fashion sense.

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Reviews

Chariot Gatsby 2-Piece Hard Carry-On Luggage Set

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The Gatsby Collection is truly a sight to behold, with its captivating blend of vintage charm and modern functionality. Crafted from high-quality materials and featuring a unique charm, this set is sure to turn heads wherever you go.

The beauty case is a true standout, boasting a beautiful vanity mirror and a versatile bag strap for easy attachment to your luggage. The telescopic handle with a push-button locking system provides convenience and reliability, while the four multi-directional spinner wheels ensure effortless maneuverability.

Available in a range of stylish colors, this elegant set is a perfect choice for those who value both fashion and practicality in their travel accessories.

Lightweight, Durable Carry-On Suitcase for Stress-Free Travel

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Embark on your travels with style and ease using the Skyline Spinner Luggage. This carry-on luggage features hard ABS construction for durability, and is equipped with 4 spinner wheels for effortless maneuverability.

With a locking telescopic handle, top carry handle, and fully lined interior, this luggage offers ample storage space for your essentials. Weighing just 7.4 lbs, this compact yet sturdy luggage is perfect for travels lasting 2–3 days. The luggage measures 22.00 x 13.00 x 9.50 inches and is an attractive, lightweight option for any traveler.

Amazon Basics 14-Inch Underseat Travel Luggage Bag

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This Amazon Basics luggage bag is a convenient option for frequent travelers. Its cabin suitcase design with a telescopic handle allows for easy maneuvering and locks into place when extended to a comfortable height.

The navy blue bag is perfect for a medium-sized weekend getaway, fitting under most airline seats and into overhead compartments with ease. With a spacious main compartment, it’s great for holding clothing and an extra pair of shoes, as well as featuring plenty of interior pockets for small items like toiletries. At 22 liters capacity, it’s a great size for quick weekend getaways or business trips.

Users praise the suitcase for fitting their travel needs and having plentiful organizational features.

Rockland Rio 2-Piece Purple Carry-On Luggage Set

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I recently tried out the Rockland Rio 2-Piece Carry-On Luggage Set in purple, and it has become my go-to for weekend getaways. The set is made from a heavy-duty EVA-molded fabric, making it both sturdy and lightweight. It’s perfect for the seasoned traveler who needs a compact yet reliable set for their travels.

What stood out to me most was the telescoping handle, which made maneuvering the luggage a breeze. The EZ-roll inline skate wheels and stability bars at the bottom ensure a smooth glide, even when navigating through crowded airports. I also appreciated the inside retractable handle, as it gave my luggage an extra level of organization.

However, there were a few minor drawbacks. The zippers seemed a bit flimsy, which made me a bit concerned about their longevity. Additionally, the luggage dimensions for the carry-on bag were slightly smaller than I anticipated, which made packing a bit of a challenge.

Despite these minor issues, I overall had a positive experience with the Rockland Rio 2-Piece Carry-On Luggage Set. It’s a stylish, practical, and affordable option for anyone looking to upgrade their travel gear.

TravelArim Portable Carry-On Suitcase with Wheels

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I recently had the pleasure of using the TravelArim 22-inch carry-on luggage, and I must say, it exceeded my expectations. The moment I unboxed it, I noticed the high-quality craftsmanship that went into creating this carry-on luggage set.

One of the features that stood out to me was the set’s ability to fit well into the overhead compartment of an airplane. The spacious interior provided enough room for all my belongings without feeling cramped. Additionally, the cosmetic case was a nice touch, ensuring that my smaller items remained within reach yet safe during travel.

The smooth 360-degree spinning wheels made maneuvering through crowded airports a breeze, and the telescoping handle provided the perfect height for me. However, I did find the handle a bit stubborn when it came to staying up, which was a small annoyance.

Another great feature was the USB port and charging capabilities, which allowed me to keep my devices powered up during my travels. Although my power bank wasn’t included, I appreciated the convenience of this feature. Lastly, the impact-resistant design held up well during my journeys, with the brushed finish reducing scratches and beveled sides deflecting hard impacts.

Overall, the TravelArim carry-on luggage set proved to be a great investment, making my travels easier and more organized. However, I would recommend being careful with the handle, as it may require a bit more effort than other luggage handles.

Wrangler Smart Suitcase with USB Charging Port

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Whenever I travel with my Wrangler Smart Spinner Carry-On 20-inch luggage, I’m always grateful for its built-in features. The 3-in-1 utility design is a game-changer, offering a cup holder, USB port, and even a place to hold your phone.

Effortless mobility is another highlight, with its smooth 360º maneuverability that makes getting through a crowded airport a breeze. Expandable capacity is a win when I need extra space for souvenirs, and the convenient top and side handles make carrying a breeze. Stability is also top-notch thanks to the side studs, ensuring the luggage doesn’t topple over.

Lightweight Melbourne Expandable Carry-On Luggage

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The Rockland Melbourne Expandable Carry On Luggage in a vibrant mint color offers a reliable and stylish travel solution. This versatile and lightweight piece of luggage boasts multi-directional spinner wheels for seamless maneuverability. The telescoping handle ensures a comfortable carry experience, and the zipped mesh and elastic pockets ensure convenient storage. The luggage’s expandable capacity allows you to bring along more belongings while avoiding excess weight surcharges.

With dimensions of 13"W x 10"D x 20"H, this carry-on luggage provides ample space for your essentials while meeting airline requirements. The durable and lightweight construction, along with the modern design, makes it an attractive choice for travelers. The luggage also features a keyed lock, and available in a range of colors to suit individual preferences.

Reviewers have shared their positive experiences, highlighting the luggage’s practicality, durability, and aesthetic appeal. Some users have noted a few drawbacks, such as potential weakness in the handle and potential scratching due to the plastic construction. Overall, the Rockland Melbourne Expandable Carry On Luggage receives high marks for its functionality, portability, and style, making it a suitable option for both short and longer trips.

Buyer’s Guide

When it comes to choosing the right small suitcase for your travels, there are several important features and considerations to take into account. In this buyer’s guide, we’ll discuss the general aspects of small suitcases, helping you make an informed decision for your next adventure.

What to Look for in a Small Suitcase

  1. Size: The most crucial aspect of a small suitcase is its size. Ensure it meets the airline’s carry-on dimensions and fits within your budget. Most airlines require a maximum carry-on size of 22 inches (56 cm) in length, 14 inches (35 cm) in width, and 9 inches (23 cm) in height. If you frequently travel with items like a laptop, tablet, or a change of clothes, consider a suitcase within these dimensions.

Material

  1. Material: The material of your small suitcase will significantly impact its durability and weight. Common materials include polycarbonate, ABS, and nylon. Polycarbonate and ABS are lightweight and extremely durable, which makes them ideal for frequent travelers. Nylon is also durable, but it tends to be heavier.

Wheels

  1. Wheels: Choose a small suitcase with durable, smooth-rolling wheels. Spinner-style wheels offer better maneuverability but may add to the overall weight. Also, consider the wheel size, as larger wheels can handle uneven terrain and rough surfaces more effectively, but they may not fit well in small spaces.

Handles

  1. Handles: A well-designed handle is essential for easy transportation. Look for suitcases with comfortable grips, ergonomic designs, and handles that lock into place to prevent the suitcase from sagging. Handles with multiple stages allow for a more comfortable carry, while telescoping handles offer more compact storage.

FAQ

Which small suitcase is best for short trips?

The best small suitcase for short trips is the Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Luggage. This suitcase is lightweight, durable, and has a compact design that makes it perfect for short trips. It also features an expandable compartment, making it ideal for packing more clothes and accessories. The Samsonite Winfield 2 is available in various sizes, but the small size is perfect for weekend getaways.

Another great option is the Delsey Helium Aero Expandable Suitcase. Despite its lightweight construction, it features a sturdy aluminum frame that ensures durability. The Delsey Helium Aero Expandable Suitcase is available in different sizes, with the small size being suitable for weekend trips or short business visits.

What features should I look for in a small suitcase?

When looking for a small suitcase, consider the following features: durability, expandability, and ease of maneuverability. Look for a suitcase with a sturdy construction, preferably made of hardside materials like polycarbonate or ABS. A suitcase with an expandable compartment provides additional storage space when needed. A small suitcase should also be easy to maneuver, so look for one with retractable handles and smooth-rolling wheels.

Furthermore, consider the suitcase’s design and style. A suitcase with a sleek and stylish design can enhance your overall travel experience. It is also essential to ensure the suitcase’s dimensions comply with airline carry-on size restrictions for hassle-free travel. Lastly, consider the brand’s reputation for quality and customer support.

What is the difference between softside and hardside suitcases?

The main difference between softside and hardside suitcases lies in their construction materials and overall durability. Softside luggage is made of flexible fabric materials, whereas hardside luggage is typically constructed of rigid materials, such as polycarbonate or ABS. The hard exteriors of hardside suitcases make them more resistant to scratching, impact, and water damage than softside suitcases.

Softside suitcases are generally lighter than hardside suitcases and offer more flexibility in terms of storage and packing options. They are also more compact and easier to store when not in use. However, hardside suitcases provide better protection for your belongings, especially when traveling by air, as they are less prone to damage from baggage handlers.

Are hardside suitcases suitable for all types of travel?

Yes, hardside suitcases are suitable for various types of travel, including business trips, vacations, and even outdoor activities like camping. They are particularly useful when traveling by air, as their durable construction provides better protection for your belongings during transit. Moreover, their sleek and modern design appeals to many travelers.

However, hardside suitcases may not be the best option for everyday use or shorter trips, as their rigid design can make them cumbersome and less convenient to carry around. In such cases, softside suitcases may be a more practical choice due to their lighter weight and increased flexibility in terms of storage and packing options.

Are there any lightweight small suitcases available?

Yes, there are many lightweight small suitcases available on the market. Some popular options include the Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Luggage and the Delsey Helium Aero Expandable Suitcase, both of which have been mentioned earlier in this FAQ. These suitcases are designed to be lightweight while still providing durability and functionality.

Other options include the Swiss Gear Skyline International Carry-On Spinner Suitcase, which is made of lightweight polycarbonate and features a spacious interior. The Patagonia Black Hole 45L Wheeled Duffel is another lightweight option, designed with outdoor enthusiasts in mind. With so many lightweight small suitcases available, you are sure to find one that suits your needs and preferences.

What is the warranty period for small suitcases?

The warranty period for small suitcases varies depending on the brand and model. Generally, most reputable luggage brands offer a warranty ranging from 5 to 10 years. The warranty may cover defects in materials or workmanship, as well as damage caused by airline baggage handlers. However, it is crucial to read the warranty terms carefully, as they may exclude some types of damage or require registration of the suitcase within a specified period after purchase.

If you plan to purchase a small suitcase with a warranty, it is essential to choose a reputable brand known for producing high-quality luggage. This will increase the likelihood of receiving a warranty that covers your suitcase effectively and offers good customer support in the event of a warranty claim.

As an Amazon Affiliate™ we earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you.

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