“Traveling light” is not something I’m especially good at. To put it into perspective, I was once charged a $123-plus excess baggage fee for a single checked bag. It means I’m never without outfit options—you never know when that spare sweater will come in handy—but it does make lifting my carry-on in and out of the overhead bins quite an ordeal, for both myself and the unsuspecting fellow passenger who is inevitably called on for assistance.
So I was intrigued by the bold claim made by Australian luggage brand July, a relative newcomer to the market, which asserts it has developed the world’s lightest carry-on. Weighing in under 4 lbs, the July Carry On Light, $245, offers a 32L capacity, aerospace-grade polycarbonate shell, specially designed noise-reducing wheels, and a lifetime guarantee.
I put it to the test on a weekend away in Palma. It’s a smart, minimal suitcase, available in nine pretty colors that match the rest of the brand’s range. All July cases nest inside each other for compact storage, as well. (Editor’s tip: the brand’s Volume+ backpack also made the cut in our best backpacks roundup.)
It’s true that the suitcase’s weight is impressive. I was immediately struck by how light it felt—it was noticeably easier to handle than other cases I’ve used. But there is a compromise: it is on the smaller side. For trips longer than two nights, consider sizing up to the larger Light Expandable, which allows an additional 8L of space. There is also no laptop sleeve or inner and outer pockets—the benefit of having such a streamlined, lightweight case does mean doing away with a little bit of functionality.
Nonetheless, by rolling my clothes, I was able to fit in everything I needed for my two-night trip, including a couple of outfit changes for evening festivities. Here’s what I packed:
- Three dresses
- A pair of shorts
- A shirt
- Pajamas
- Two pairs of shoes
- Handbag
- Washbag
- Straighteners
- Swimsuit
