When you’re flying internationally, every kilo counts. Choosing a lightweight
Best Lightweight Suitcases for International Flights: Samsonite vs Antler vs American Tourister
Refreshed February 2026 (Originally published 12 December 2025)
TL;DR: If you want the lightest premium check-in suitcase, Samsonite’s Lite-Shock Sport (75cm) at 2.5kg is hard to beat. If you want stylish hard-shell durability, Antler Icon Stripe (66cm) is a strong pick at 3.9kg. If you want value + lightweight soft-side, American Tourister Applite 5 (72cm) comes in at 2.6kg and expands for extra space.
Which lightweight suitcase is best for international flights?
It depends on your priorities: choose Samsonite if you want the lightest high-end hard case and frequent-flyer durability, Antler if you want a stylish hard-shell with solid build and standout colours, and American Tourister if you want a lighter, more flexible soft suitcase that’s great value for family travel. (Weights and sizes below are verified from Feb 2026 product listings.)
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Why lightweight luggage matters for international flights
When you’re flying internationally, every kilo counts. A lightweight suitcase means you can pack more without tipping over airline limits and it’s easier to lift into car boots, onto hotel luggage racks, and onto baggage belts.
Lightweight luggage helps you:
- pack more within your checked baggage limit
- reduce the risk of excess baggage fees
- handle your bag more comfortably during stopovers and transfers
Many full-service international Economy fares commonly include a 23kg checked bag, but inclusions vary by airline and fare type, so it’s always worth checking your booking.
Samsonite: the ultra-light frequent flyer pick
Samsonite is well known for lightweight hard-shell options designed for frequent travellers. The Lite-Shock Sport product listing shows 2.5kg for the Spinner 75, with a capacity of 98.5L.
Why travellers love it
- very low empty weight for a check-in hard case
- designed for durability across repeated travel
- many models include TSA locks and smooth-rolling wheels
Best lightweight model
- Samsonite Lite-Shock Sport Spinner 75cm is only 2.5kg!
Antler: stylish hard-shell durability
Antler’s Icon Stripe Medium listing shows 3.9kg, with expandable capacity, up to 90L.
Why travellers love it
- clean, stylish look with standout colour options
- hard-shell protection + expandable zip for flexibility
- built to handle heavier handling on longer trips
Best lightweight model
- Antler Icon Stripe Medium 66cm is 3.9kg
American Tourister: family-friendly value (and lighter than you’d expect)
For travellers wanting a lighter, flexible suitcase at a sharper price point, American Tourister’s Applite 5 Medium (72cm) listing on Luggage Direct shows 2.6kg, expandable, with TSA lock and security zip.
Why travellers love it
- strong value for money
- soft-side flexibility (helpful when you’re packing awkward items)
- lightweight for a check-in size, plus expandability
Best lightweight model
- American Tourister Applite 5 EXP Medium 72cm is 2.6kg.
Quick comparison
|
Brand |
Model |
Size class in listing |
Advertised weight |
Shell type |
Best for |
|
Samsonite |
Lite-Shock Sport Spinner |
75cm |
2.5kg |
Hard-shell |
Frequent flyers, long-haul |
|
Antler |
Icon Stripe Medium |
66cm |
3.9kg |
Hard-shell |
Style + protection |
|
American Tourister |
Applite 5 EXP Medium |
72cm |
2.6kg |
Soft-shell |
Families, value trips |
Note: “Medium” sizes vary by brand (e.g., 66cm vs 72cm vs 75cm). Always compare both weight and capacity (litres) for a fair match.
Which is best for international flights?
- Want the lightest premium hard case? Samsonite Lite-Shock Sport at 2.5kg.
- Want hard-shell style + durability? Antler Icon Stripe (66cm) at 3.9kg with expandability.
-
Want best value with a lighter soft suitcase? American Tourister Applite 5 (72cm) at 2.6kg and expandable.
Pro packing tip
Pair your lightweight suitcase with:
- packing cubes (faster packing + better organisation)
- a digital luggage scale (avoid overweight surprises)
Key Takeaways
- Lightweight suitcases give you more usable packing weight and are easier to handle on long trips.
- Verified weights: Samsonite Lite-Shock Sport 75cm = 2.5kg, Antler Icon Stripe 66cm = 3.9kg, American Tourister Applite 5 72cm = 2.6kg.
- “Medium” sizes vary by brand ,compare weight + litres, not the label alone.
- Many international Economy fares commonly include 23kg checked baggage, but it depends on airline and fare type.
- Add packing cubes and a luggage scale to stay organised and avoid overweight fees.
Ready to travel smarter?
At Luggage Direct, we stock Australia’s best range of luggage, carry-ons, and travel accessories from trusted brands like Samsonite, Antler, American Tourister and more. Whether you’re after a lightweight suitcase for international flights, a hard-shell case for extra protection, or packing cubes and TSA locks for stress-free travel, we’ve got you covered.
Shop our full range of luggage and travel accessories now. https://www.luggagedirect.com.au/
Travel better. Pack smarter. Go further with Luggage Direct.
