Luggage Review

Lighter luggage is the trend

As airlines get stricter about size and weight limits, travel experts say it's more important than ever to pack lightly -- preferably in one carry-on bag. Luggage manufacturers are responding with new bags that weigh significantly less than older models, meaning you can pack more and still avoid weight surcharges, or avoid checking a bag at all.

We found the best comparison tests of new, lightweight luggage at Good Housekeeping, where editors review medium-size bags that are too big to meet carry-on limits. However, the same luggage that passes their tests of maneuverability, construction and durability is also available in carry-on sizes. ConsumerReports.org tests a dozen rolling carry-ons with simulated durability testing and on an obstacle course. Other publications also put luggage through rigorous tests, but cover fewer models. Outside magazine tests mostly larger luggage, for example, and Popular Mechanics tries to break hard-sided luggage.

We found the best review of soft-sided carry-on bags at OneBag.com, where travel expert Doug Dyment recommends non-rolling, carry-on luggage rather than the more popular rolling luggage. Editors at Fodors.com and travel guru Rick Steves agree that backpacks and carry-on bags weigh far less, leaving more space for contents. They also fit better into overhead compartments since they are more malleable and are more convenient when traveling by train, bus or maneuvering on rough sidewalks. However, all these experts agree that not everyone is able to carry bags, even light ones weighing 15 pounds or so. A rolling carry-on may also be your best bet if your trip will involve lots of long airport corridors.

If you travel more than once or twice a year -- or if a broken zipper or lost wheel would ruin your trip of a lifetime -- then travel experts say it's worth investing in durable, well-tested luggage, preferably with a lifetime warranty that also covers accidental damage. For infrequent travel, however, travel experts at Fodors.com say even discount-store luggage should be fine. Owners report more quality control problems with budget luggage, however. The zippers, wheels and handle are most apt to cause problems.

Even pricey luggage can disappoint reviewers. Plenty of users wax nostalgic about the heavy-but-indestructible Samsonite suitcases of yesteryear. But the new, lighter Samsonite bags get lackluster reviews, especially for durability. Three separate sources -- CNNMoney.com, Wired and Popular Mechanics -- test $400-plus Samsonite Black Label X-Lite cases and wind up with dented luggage, broken handles and wrinkled, smudged exterior fabric trim. However, the less expensive Samsonite Pro DLX 2 21-inch Expandable Upright (*Est. $245) is a top pick at About.com.

Since many people -- particularly business travelers -- want to fly with a carry-on bag (in case the checked baggage is delayed or even lost), our report, like most luggage reviews, concentrates more on carry-on bags. (The typical maximum size is 22 inches by 14 inches by 9 inches, including any wheels and pockets.) Reviews also recommend some rugged wheeled duffel bags that come only in a large size – suitable for car travel or long trips -- covered in a separate section.