New Trip Editorial Department Last updated: 2026.07.20

Lightweight Suitcase Ranking! New Trip's Guide to Choosing and Packing

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When preparing for a trip, one thing that's surprisingly easy to overlook is the weight of the suitcase itself.

"The design is nice, but it's surprisingly heavy when you lift it..." If you choose one like that,

Even a wonderful trip can be exhausting just from the travel itself.

Especially in today's travel environment with strict baggage restrictions, "lightness" is now a valuable feature .

This article features the latest lineup from New Trip.

We've published a "Lightweight Suitcase Ranking" based on weight limits and ease of transport.

Furthermore, we will provide a detailed explanation of how to choose a truly user-friendly lightweight model from a professional's perspective.

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Contents

一、軽いスーツケースは何kgから?サイズ別の重量目安

New Trip offers a variety of models with different features to suit the travel style of each user.

Here, we present a ranking of representative models in each category that meet the needs of those who want to "reduce the burden of carrying it" and "clearly meet weight restrictions."

サイズ 一般的な重量 軽量モデルの目安 対象旅行
Sサイズ 3.5〜4kg 3kg以下 1〜3泊、機内持ち込み
Mサイズ 4〜5kg 4kg以下 3〜5泊、国内・短期海外
Lサイズ 5〜6kg以上 5kg以下 5泊以上、長期海外

--The lightest model in the brand, designed for ultimate lightness.

If you're choosing based on sheer "lightness," then the "0201" is definitely the one for you. At an astonishingly light 2.8kg for the S size, it's perfect for those who want to meet the strict weight limits of low-cost carriers (LCCs) or for domestic travel involving frequent stair climbing. Its appeal lies in its nimble handling, achieved by stripping away unnecessary embellishments.

Features: Ultra-lightweight body made of highly durable ABS + polycarbonate

・Recommended for: Those who want to be as light as possible, even by just 1 gram! Those who prioritize light footwork above all else.

Sサイズ:3kg以下が目安

The S size is often used for domestic trips of 1-3 nights or as carry-on luggage.

For lightweight models, a guideline is under 3kg.

Super lightweight models weighing around 2.5kg are especially recommended for women and those who frequently travel by train or bullet train.

Mサイズ:4kg以下が目安

The M size is the most convenient size for trips of 3 to 5 nights.

For lightweight models, under 4kg is a good guideline.

At this size, the balance between storage capacity and lightness becomes important.

Models that are too light may have sacrificed durability, so be sure to check the materials as well.

Lサイズ:5kg以下が目安

Size L is suitable for overseas trips of 5 nights or more or long-term travel.

For lightweight models, the guideline is under 5kg.

As capacity increases, the main unit's weight tends to increase,

but models weighing under 5kg are relatively easier to move even when packed with luggage.

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二、軽量スーツケースを選ぶ4つのポイント

--A high-performance model that combines lightness and "safety"

The "0701 Plus" maintains an astonishingly light weight of just 2.9kg while featuring caster stoppers as standard equipment. This prevents unexpected rolling on trains and inclines, while also minimizing the burden when lifting. Furthermore, it is equipped with a hook for hanging items, making it an attractive design that prioritizes comfort during travel.

Features: Ultra-lightweight body weighing less than 3kg × Convenient caster stopper included

・Recommended for: Those who want something lightweight, but also the peace of mind of being securely fastened while traveling on public transport.

軽さと耐久性のバランスを見る

The main types of materials used for lightweight suitcases are:

  • Polycarbonate (PC): Lightweight and impact-resistant. Good balance of durability and lightness.
  • ABS + PC (Hybrid): Lightweight while keeping costs down. Good balance of price and performance.
  • ABS resin: Inexpensive, but heavier and less impact-resistant than PC.

Note:
Models that are "too light" may have achieved lightness by using thinner materials. It's important to check the type and thickness of the material to find a good balance between lightness and durability.

キャスター性能が重要

Many people misunderstand that "lighter weight equals easier to move."

In reality, the "perceived lightness" can vary significantly depending on the performance of the casters.

  • Double wheels (8 wheels): High stability and smooth movement
  • Quietness: No disturbance to others even when moving early in the morning or late at night
  • 360-degree rotation: Excellent maneuverability, easy to move even in narrow aisles

Even if the weight is light, if the caster performance is poor, it will be difficult to pull, ultimately leading to fatigue. You can rest assured if you choose a model that uses high-quality casters from manufacturers like HINOMOTO.

必要な機能だけを選ぶ

Suitcases tend to get heavier as more features are added. Therefore, if lightweight is a priority, it is important to choose "only the truly essential features."

Common features and their impact on weight:

  • Front opening: +0.3~0.5kg (suitable for business trips/city walks)
  • Expansion function: +0.2~0.3kg (suitable for trips with many souvenirs)
  • Stopper: +0.1~0.2kg (suitable for travel by train/Shinkansen)
  • Cup holder/USB port: +0.1~0.3kg (convenient to have, but not essential)

By prioritizing features you will "definitely use" for your travel style and eliminating those you won't, you can ensure a lightweight suitcase.

サイズと収納力を確認する

Prioritizing lightness too much often leads to the mistake of a bag being "light but unable to fit belongings."

  • Does it have enough capacity for the length of your trip?
  • Are the internal dividers and depth sufficient?
  • Can it hold clothes and shoes together?

Before purchasing, be sure to check internal photos and descriptions thoroughly.

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三、軽量スーツケースは本当におすすめ?メリットと注意点

メリット

  • Easier to lift onto stairs and shelves
    When traveling by train or through areas with many stairs, you'll find yourself lifting your suitcase surprisingly often. A lightweight model reduces the burden, even for women and the elderly.
  • Allows for more airline weight allowance
    For example, if an airline's checked baggage weight limit is 23kg, and your suitcase itself weighs 3kg, you can pack 20kg of belongings. But if the suitcase weighs 5kg, you can only pack 18kg.
    Especially for those using LCCs or planning to buy many souvenirs, choosing a lightweight model provides more leeway with weight restrictions.
  • Reduces fatigue during long journeys
    For trips involving long hours of carrying a suitcase, such as walking around tourist spots all day or moving between airports and hotels, a lightweight model will be less tiring.

注意点

  • Greater capacity means greater weight.
    While there are some lightweight large-capacity L-size models, there are limits to achieving both capacity and lightness. You need to decide whether to prioritize capacity or lightness.
  • A balance with durability is necessary.
    Extremely lightweight models may achieve their lightness by using thinner materials. Considering long-term use, a certain level of durability is also necessary.
  • Caster performance is also important.
    As mentioned earlier, even if an item is lightweight, it can be difficult to move if the caster performance is poor. In addition to lightness, check the quality of the casters.

軽量スーツケースを優先すべき人

If any of the following apply to you, we recommend prioritizing lightweight luggage:

  • Individuals who lack physical strength, such as women or the elderly
  • Travel involving frequent train or bullet train transfers
  • Using stations or hotels with many stairs
  • Traveling with LCCs and needing to be mindful of weight restrictions
  • Travel styles that involve carrying luggage for extended periods

Conversely, those who primarily travel by car or have a large amount of luggage may find it more beneficial to prioritize durability and capacity over lightness.

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四、New Tripおすすめ軽量スーツケース|シーン別の選び方

コスパ重視の軽量モデル|New Trip 0201

-- A lightweight model with "expandable" features that can flexibly accommodate increased luggage.

Weighing approximately 3.0kg, the "0801" is easy to handle, yet features a capacity expansion function to solve the problem of "my luggage has increased" while traveling. Normally, it's slim and lightweight for easy carrying, but when you have more luggage, such as souvenirs, simply expand the gusset to increase storage capacity. It's a highly versatile bag that can be used in any situation.

Features: Stable double casters × Reliable capacity expansion function

・Recommended for: Those who prioritize lightness while also wanting to fully enjoy shopping at their travel destination.

New Trip 0201

New Trip 0201 スーツケース

S・40L|ABS+PC

拡張機能 コーナーパッド TSAロック 静音キャスター

移動の多い旅行に|New Trip 0701 Plus

Simply choosing the one with the lowest numerical value isn't the best approach.

Here are three key points to consider when choosing a truly excellent lightweight suitcase that you can cherish for years to come.

New Trip 0701Plus

New Trip 0701Plus スーツケース

S・40L|ABS+PC

ストッパー付き 物掛けフック TSAロック 静音キャスター

女性向けデザインの軽量モデル|MONOMI 0801

You might be worried about the strength of a lightweight suitcase, but the secret lies in the combination of materials.

Many of the high-end models introduced here use a hybrid material that combines lightweight and hard ABS resin with impact-resistant polycarbonate (PC).

This combination achieves a good balance between lightweight thinness and durability that can withstand everyday impacts, which is difficult to achieve with a single material. Furthermore, frame models like the 1101 use a higher-purity polycarbonate, achieving a thorough weight reduction that even compensates for the weight of the frame.

MONOMI 0801

MONOMI 0801 スーツケース

S・40L(拡張後48L)|ABS+PC

拡張機能 物掛けフック TSAロック 静音キャスター

機能性重視の軽量モデル|MONOMI 0802

In fact, it's not just the weight of the device that determines how much weight it feels in your hand.

Poor quality casters increase frictional resistance, requiring several times more force to move the vehicle.

Models with silent double casters rotate smoothly,

Even when fully packed, it feels incredibly light, as if you could push it with just one finger.

MONOMI 0802

MONOMI 0802 スーツケース

S・40L|ABS+PC

ストッパー付き 物掛けフック ドリンクスタンド 静音キャスター
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五、よくある質問(FAQ)

Q1. 軽いスーツケースは壊れやすいですか?

A1:必ずしもそうとは限りません。
ポリカーボネート(PC)やABS+PC素材を使用した軽量モデルは、軽量でも割れにくく、耐久性があります。
ただし、極端に軽いモデルは素材を薄くしている場合があるため、素材の種類と厚みを確認することが大切です。

Q2. 女性なら何kg以下のスーツケースがおすすめですか?

A2:Sサイズなら3kg以下、Mサイズなら3.5kg以下が目安です。
階段や電車移動が多い場合は、できるだけ軽量なモデルを選ぶことで移動時の負担を減らせます。

Q3. 軽量スーツケースと普通のスーツケースの違いは?

A3:軽量スーツケースは、素材や設計を工夫して本体重量を抑えたモデルです。
普通のスーツケースと比べて、持ち上げや長時間移動が楽になります。
ただし、軽量化のために一部の機能を省いている場合もあるため、自分に必要な機能が搭載されているか確認しましょう。

Q4. 軽いスーツケースは何泊用がおすすめですか?

A4:軽量スーツケースは1〜3泊程度の短期旅行に特におすすめです。
電車や新幹線での移動が多い国内旅行、LCCを利用する短期海外旅行では、軽量モデルのメリットを感じやすくなります。

Q5. 軽量スーツケースは飛行機の重量制限に有利ですか?

A5:はい、有利です。
例えば航空会社の預け荷物重量制限が23kgの場合、本体重量3kgのスーツケースなら荷物を20kgまで入れられますが、本体重量5kgの場合は荷物が18kgまでになります。
特にLCC利用者や、お土産を多く購入する予定がある方は、軽量モデルを選ぶことで重量制限に余裕が生まれます。

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六、まとめ

Even if the main body is light, the ease of moving it can change dramatically depending on how you pack it.

We'll teach you tips to maximize the mobility of your lightweight suitcase and make it feel even lighter.

執筆・監修

New Trip編集部
本記事は、スーツケース・旅行用品ブランド「New Trip」の編集部により制作されました。
製品開発やユーザーの声を活かしながら、ユーザーに合ったスーツケースや、旅行・出張をより快適にするアイテムを発信しています。