What is light weight?

Suitcase? I have no idea. I use a regulation sized, convertible (non-wheeled, soft) bag that weighs 1# 13oz. It might not provide the best protection for "goodies", even if not checked. I pack about 10# of clothes, etc, and carry it on.

According to a French study I saw, the creme of the suitcases is the hard-sided, ultra-lightweight, four-wheel Samsonite line. It will be cheaper to get it in the States.

Terry, we bought the Samsonite "Lift". Macys and J C Penney have these Samsonite suitcases under the Samsonite name but are called by different names at each store. I researched a light weight bag for our trip down under. We were limited to 23kg for carry on. These suitcases are light (7lb for the carry on when empty), have smooth rolling spinner wheels and are spacious. I read one review where a person complained that because of the size, he over packed (overweight). We have the carry on size and the 29(?) inch. The Samsonite store we went weighed the different bags I was looking at and the range was from 7-13lbs empty. Worth taking a look at.

We use the Rich Steves 21" Wheeled Bag and it expands. It weighs 7 lbs. I am in my 70's and have used my for several international trips.

How about buying a large soft sided duffle bag and then putting a Rubbermaid type storage container inside with the things you don't want to get crushed? Shouldn't be more than a few pounds and probably much cheaper than the Samsonite.

I use a Landor Hawa Sub-zero 21 in. They come in larger dimensions, too. It is light weight and I was surprised at how much it holds. I use compression bags and that is a great help. Reasonably priced around $100.00. It probably would not hold up if it is checked repeatedly. But it is my go to bag for carry on which I do most of the time.

Check out Lipault bags. They're a French company so she may even be able to get on in Europe at a good price. They are fairly lightweight, good quality and very popular.

Look at the stated weight on the sales tag, then pick it up or roll it around. See how it feels, whatever the label claims. For a young packrat, an extra pound shouldn't matter. Better to search for sturdy construction: heavy-duty or double stitching everywhere; wheels semi-concealed to reduce damage; firm extendable handle. Jet-age "ultra-lite" materials may save weight, at a high cost, but it is the stitching that will give out or a wheel will get bent out of shape or a handle hangs on by a thread.
Big department stores in North America often have big selections. They also stage frequent sales, so never pay list price. An ugly colour is also a benefit since it will stand out on the luggage carousel.

For a "stashing" piece of luggage, I would go to Marshalls and buy something somewhat sturdy but inexpensive. Especially, if it's just going from point A to point B and doesn't need to be lugged around on a two week trip. Coming home from the Christmas markets last year I bought a large, basic piece and checked it through. Served its purpose.

Thabks all...I have been looking on line at the Lipault line....seem to be well constructed and weighs 7.25 pounds. The dream would be a Rimowa Salsa, it's only a little over 6.5 pounds, but at over $500 it is out of our price range! She does use it for travel in Europe also... Every time I visit I am amazed at the art work, vases, glass ware and linens she has bought on ther travels. If she ever comes back to the US she'll need to charter a cargo ship!

Terry, if you have TJMaxx convenient to you, you might take a look at what they have. I have been eyeing a Tumi bag at my local one. It is $300 retail, down to $199 at TJ and now reduced to $149. If it ever goes under $100 it's mine. It's a very light wheeled case.

Eight or nine pounds is about right for lightweight, if you want something with wheels. You can go lighter with a basic duffel, of course. Not sure what you consider reasoably priced, but I recommend Eagle Creek for something that will last. Eagle Creek has duffels that weigh three pounds; try "Hybrid Hauler Large". If you want something that is built to last only a few trips, you can probably get a duffel for $50 or so.

In 1969 I bought a regulation army duffel bag at an army surplus store for $2. It weighs less than 1 pound and can hold just about anything. I wouldn't use it for travelling, but when I go to the U.S. I always take it to bring back all my shopping.