As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases. This means we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you if you click through and make a purchase.

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.

Looking for samsonite uplift lightweight medium checked alternatives? You might want a different size, shell material, or feature set. The original Samsonite UpLIFT is a softside spinner weighing 7.5 pounds. It measures 24.7 inches by 17.3 inches by 9.1 inches. It offers expandable storage and spinner wheels for smooth mobility. Its RightHeight handle system allows for customized handle heights. The body uses recycled PET bottles for a lighter profile. These specs make it practical for efficient packers who value organization over rigid protection.

You may prefer a hardside shell for better impact resistance. Some travelers need a larger capacity for extended trips. Others might prioritize a specific color or brand reputation. We selected these alternatives because their specifications overlap with the original. This list includes softside and hardside options in similar medium checked sizes. Each product shares key traits like spinner wheels and expandable compartments. You can compare weights and dimensions to find the best fit for your next journey.

How these options differ from the original

SwissGear Sion Large Softside Spinner

The SwissGear Sion Large Softside Spinner prioritizes capacity over compactness. It weighs 11.1 pounds, which is significantly heavier than the 7.5-pound Samsonite UpLIFT. Its dimensions are 29 inches by 18 inches by 10.5 inches. This larger footprint provides more packing volume for extended trips. It retains the softside shell and spinner wheels for familiar maneuverability. You gain space but lose the lightweight advantage. Choose this if you need maximum storage and do not mind the extra weight. It is a practical choice for travelers who prioritize volume over easy lifting.

Travelpro Maxlite 5 25-Inch Softside Spinner

The Travelpro Maxlite 5 25-Inch Softside Spinner is slightly lighter at 7.3 pounds compared to the Samsonite UpLIFT's 7.5 pounds. It measures 27 inches by 11.5 inches by 18.5 inches. This orientation offers a different internal layout for your belongings. It features a softside shell and spinner wheels similar to the original. The 25-inch size provides comparable checked capacity. You get a marginal weight saving and a different dimensional profile. This option suits travelers who want a reliable, lightweight softside bag. It is a solid alternative for those who value minimal weight in a medium checked size.

Travelpro Tourlite 25-Inch Softside

The Travelpro Tourlite 25-Inch Softside matches the Samsonite UpLIFT at 7.5 pounds. It measures 25.5 inches by 18 inches by 11 inches. This model offers a rubberized handle grip for comfort. It shares the softside construction and spinner wheel system. The weight is identical, but the dimensions differ slightly in height and width. You get a similar capacity with a different tactile handle experience. This is a good choice if you prefer a textured handle grip. It fits travelers seeking a lightweight, expandable softside spinner with comparable weight and familiar mobility features.

Delsey Paris Cruise 3.0 24-Inch Hardside

The Delsey Paris Cruise 3.0 24-Inch Hardside switches to a polycarbonate shell for rigid protection. It weighs 9 pounds, which is 1.5 pounds heavier than the Samsonite UpLIFT. It measures 26.8 inches by 17.3 inches by 11.3 inches. This model includes a TSA lock and a unique weight indicator. You gain durability and weight feedback but lose the softside flexibility. The hardside construction offers better impact resistance. Choose this if you prioritize protection for fragile items. It is ideal for travelers who want a sturdy, expandable checked bag with clear weight monitoring capabilities.

Travelpro Maxlite Air V2 25-Inch Hardside

The Travelpro Maxlite Air V2 25-Inch Hardside weighs 9.4 pounds, making it heavier than the Samsonite UpLIFT. It measures 27.5 inches by 17.5 inches by 11 inches. This model features a durable polycarbonate shell and a TSA lock. It retains the spinner wheels for smooth rolling. You trade the lightweight softside design for rigid hardside protection. The increased weight is the cost of added durability. This option fits travelers who need robust protection for their belongings. It is a practical choice for those who value a sturdy shell and secure locking mechanism in a medium checked size.

Samsonite Element 29-Inch Softside

The Samsonite Element 29-Inch Softside is designed for maximum packing space. It weighs 9.7 pounds, which is 2.2 pounds heavier than the Samsonite UpLIFT. Its dimensions are 29.5 inches by 19 inches by 11 inches. This larger size is intended for extended trips requiring extra room. It keeps the softside shell and spinner wheels. You gain significant capacity but accept a heavier bag. This is the right pick if you need to check a large bag. It suits travelers who prioritize volume and expandability over the compact, lightweight profile of the original model.

#ProductBest forPrice
1Samsonite UpLIFT Medium Checked Spinner Best overallLightweight packing with expandable storage
2SwissGear Sion Large Softside Spinner Best budgetextended trips needing maximum packing space
3Travelpro Maxlite 5 25-Inch Softside Spinner Also greatTravelers needing durable, expandable softside checked luggage
4Travelpro Tourlite 25-Inch Softside Best premiumexpandable softside checked luggage
5Delsey Paris Cruise 3.0 24-Inch Hardside Best checked-medium 24 inchTravelers needing weight monitoring and hardside protection
6Travelpro Maxlite Air V2 25-Inch Hardside Also greatTravelers needing durable hardside protection and lightweight design
7Samsonite Element 29-Inch Softside Also greatExtended trips needing maximum packing space
1Best overall
Samsonite UpLIFT Medium Checked Spinner

Samsonite UpLIFT Medium Checked Spinner

Best for: Lightweight packing with expandable storage

Empty Weight
7.7 lbs
Overall Dimensions
27.75" x 18.75" x 12"
Shell Material
100% recycled PET polyester
Wheel Type
Spinner wheels
Expandable Design
0.75" expansion
Shell
Softside

This Samsonite UpLIFT is a medium checked softside spinner weighing 7.5 pounds. It measures 24.7 by 17.3 by 9.1 inches and expands 0.75 inches. The body uses recycled PET bottles. You get a multi-stop handle and spinner wheels for shock absorption. It includes a removable wet pouch and seatbelt webbing. This setup suits travelers who need lightweight durability and organized packing for medium trips.

Pros
  • Lightweight 7.5-pound build for easier handling
  • Expands 0.75 inches for extra packing space
  • Multi-stop RightHeight handle for customized reach
  • Patented spinner wheels reduce noise and shock
  • Removable 3-1-1 wet pouch keeps liquids safe
Cons
  • Softside shell offers less impact protection than hardside options
  • Medium size holds less volume than the 29-inch large checked alternative
  • 10-year warranty is shorter than the 15-year terms found on some competitors
Good fit if
  • You want a lightweight bag that stays under airline weight limits
  • You need expandable capacity for return trips with extra items
  • You prefer organized interiors with dedicated wet pouches
Skip if
  • You require a rigid shell for maximum crush protection
  • You need the largest possible checked luggage capacity
  • You prefer a longer warranty period than 10 years

Verdict: Samsonite UpLIFT Medium Softside Spinner is a practical choice for travelers prioritizing weight savings and expandable storage. It fits those who pack efficiently and value organized compartments over rigid protection.

2Best budget
SwissGear Sion Large Softside Spinner

SwissGear Sion Large Softside Spinner

Best for: extended trips needing maximum packing space

Empty Weight
11.1 pounds
Overall Dimensions
30 x 18.5 x 12.5 inches
Shell Material
Polyester fabric
Wheel Type
360-degree spinner wheels
Closure Type
Durable zippers
Expandable Design
Expansion feature

The SwissGear Sion is a softside, lightweight checked-large suitcase built for extended trips. It measures 29 x 18 x 12 inches and weighs 11.1 pounds. The durable polyester shell expands for extra packing space. Four 360-degree spinner wheels provide smooth maneuverability. A telescopic handle and reinforced zippers support frequent travel. This bag suits you if you need maximum capacity for long vacations.

Pros
  • Softside polyester shell offers packing flexibility
  • Expands to increase storage capacity
  • Four 360-degree spinner wheels for easy mobility
  • Includes a 10-year warranty
Cons
  • Heavier at 11.1 pounds than the Samsonite UpLIFT
  • Larger 29-inch height exceeds medium checked limits
Good fit if
  • You need extra packing space for extended trips
  • You prefer a softside shell for maximum flexibility
  • You want a durable build with a long warranty
Skip if
  • You need a compact medium checked size
  • You prefer a lighter suitcase under 10 pounds
  • You require a hardside shell for impact protection

Verdict: SwissGear Sion Softside Large Spinner provides ample capacity and smooth rolling for travelers prioritizing space over compactness. It fits you best if you are checking a large bag for a long vacation and need expandable storage.

3Also great
Travelpro Maxlite 5 25-Inch Softside Spinner

Travelpro Maxlite 5 25-Inch Softside Spinner

Best for: Travelers needing durable, expandable softside checked luggage

Packing Capacity
91 L
Empty Weight
6.8 lbs
Overall Dimensions
27" x 18.5" x 11.5"
Shell Material
Polyester
Wheel Type
360° spinner wheels
Closure Type
High-strength zippers

The Travelpro Maxlite 5 is a softside spinner suitcase designed for medium checked travel. It weighs 7.3 pounds and offers 91 liters of volume. The shell features a water-resistant DuraGuard coating and an expandable design that adds two inches of space. You get four spinner wheels for smooth mobility and a lightweight PowerScope Lite handle. This model suits travelers who need durable, eco-friendly materials and organized packing options for extended trips.

Pros
  • 91 liters of volume with 2-inch expansion capability
  • Lightweight 7.3-pound build with spinner wheels
  • Water-resistant DuraGuard coating and recycled interior lining
  • PowerScope Lite handle adjusts to 38 and 42.5 inches
Cons
  • Weighs 7.3 pounds, which is heavier than the 6.8-pound Maxlite 4
  • Softside construction offers less rigid protection than hardside alternatives
Good fit if
  • You need a durable softside suitcase with water-resistant fabric
  • You want expandable storage for packing more items
  • You prefer a lightweight spinner with an adjustable handle
Skip if
  • You require a hardside shell for maximum impact protection
  • You are looking for the absolute lightest possible option
  • You need a carry-on size instead of checked luggage

Verdict: Travelpro Maxlite 5 25-Inch Softside provides reliable mobility and expandable capacity for medium checked trips. It fits travelers who value water-resistant materials and organized packing over rigid shell protection.

4Best premium
Travelpro Tourlite 25-Inch Softside

Travelpro Tourlite 25-Inch Softside

Best for: expandable softside checked luggage

Empty Weight
7.5 lbs
Shell Material
DuraGuard
Wheel Type
360° spinner wheels
Shell
Softside
Features
Expandable, Lightweight
Size
Checked-Medium 25-Inch

The Travelpro Tourlite is a 25-inch checked-medium softside luggage weighing 7.5 pounds. It features 360-degree spinner wheels and an adjustable PowerScope handle with a patented Contour Grip. The expandable design adds two inches of packing space, while DuraGuard material offers water repellency. This model suits travelers seeking durable, lightweight checked bags with flexible packing options and comfortable handling.

Pros
  • Weighs 7.5 pounds for easy maneuvering
  • Expandable zipper adds two inches of capacity
  • DuraGuard exterior provides water and stain protection
  • PowerScope handle adjusts to 38 in and 42.5 in
  • Includes full-length mesh pocket and compression straps
Cons
  • Weighs 7.5 pounds, which is heavier than the 7.0-pound Travelpro Maxlite 5
  • Softside construction offers less rigid protection than hardside alternatives
  • Limited to two exterior pockets for quick access
Good fit if
  • You need extra packing space for longer trips
  • You prefer a softside bag that is water repellent
  • You want a handle with rubberized grip points
Skip if
  • You require a hardside shell for maximum impact resistance
  • You prioritize the lightest possible weight under 7 pounds
  • You need extensive external organization pockets

Verdict: The Travelpro Tourlite 25-Inch Softside is a practical choice for travelers who value expandable capacity and a comfortable, rubberized handle grip over rigid shell protection.

5Best checked-medium 24 inch
Delsey Paris Cruise 3.0 24-Inch Hardside

Delsey Paris Cruise 3.0 24-Inch Hardside

Best for: Travelers needing weight monitoring and hardside protection

Packing Capacity
69L to 76L
Empty Weight
9 lbs
Overall Dimensions
26.75 x 17.25 x 11.25 in
Shell Material
100% polycarbonate
Wheel Type
360° double spinner wheels
Expandable Design
Expansion zipper adds 1.5 inches

This hardside spinner features a 100% polycarbonate shell that weighs 9.3 pounds. Its 69-liter capacity expands to 76 liters for extra packing room. The integrated patented overweight indicator helps you stay under airline limits. A washable interior lining keeps the suitcase clean. This model suits travelers who need durable protection and smart weight management for medium checked bags.

Pros
  • Patented overweight indicator on the handle
  • 100% polycarbonate hardside shell
  • Expands from 69L to 76L
  • TSA-accepted lock included
  • Washable interior lining
Cons
  • Heavier at 9.3 pounds than typical lightweight alternatives
  • 5-year limited warranty is shorter than some competitors
  • Fixed 24-inch checked-medium size limits flexibility
Good fit if
  • You want a hardside shell for impact resistance
  • You need to monitor bag weight before checking it
  • You prefer an expandable interior for souvenirs
Skip if
  • You require a hardside suitcase under 9 pounds
  • You need a warranty longer than 5 years
  • You prefer a softside construction for maximum packing flexibility

Verdict: Delsey Paris Cruise 3.0 24-Inch Hardside offers a durable polycarbonate build and a unique weight indicator for travelers who prioritize protection and compliance. It fits those who want a sturdy, expandable checked bag with clear weight feedback.

6Also great
Travelpro Maxlite Air V2 25-Inch Hardside

Travelpro Maxlite Air V2 25-Inch Hardside

Best for: Travelers needing durable hardside protection and lightweight design

Empty Weight
9.4 lbs
Overall Dimensions
27.5 x 18.5 x 12 in
Shell Material
Polycarbonate
Wheel Type
8 360° spinner wheels
Expandable Design
Expands 2 in
Lock Type
TSA-approved lock

This is a 25-inch checked hardside luggage built from polycarbonate. It weighs 9.4 pounds and measures 27.5 inches in height. The shell expands by 2 inches for extra packing space. You get 360-degree spinner wheels and a TSA-approved lock. The interior features divider panels for organization. This model suits travelers who need a durable, lightweight option for domestic flights.

Pros
  • Polycarbonate hardside shell flexes on impact to resist cracking
  • Expands 2 inches for additional packing capacity
  • 8 smooth-gliding 360-degree spinner wheels for effortless mobility
  • Includes a TSA-approved lock for security
  • Weighs only 9.4 pounds for easy handling
Cons
  • Heavier than softside competitors at 9.4 pounds
  • Limited to a 1-year airline damage repair promise
  • Only 2 inches of expansion compared to deeper softside options
Good fit if
  • You want a hardside shell to protect fragile items
  • You need a lightweight bag for domestic airline compliance
  • You prefer organized interiors with zippered divider panels
Skip if
  • You require a softside exterior for maximum flexibility
  • You need a warranty longer than one year for airline damage
  • You prioritize the lightest possible weight under 9 pounds

Verdict: Travelpro Maxlite Air V2 25-Inch Hardside offers a durable polycarbonate shell and 9.4-pound weight for travelers who need protection and organization. It fits those who value spinner wheels and a TSA lock for domestic trips.

7Also great
Samsonite Element 29-Inch Softside

Samsonite Element 29-Inch Softside

Best for: Extended trips needing maximum packing space

Empty Weight
9.7 lbs
Overall Dimensions
32.5"H x 20.5"L x 13.5"W
Shell Material
Polyester
Wheel Type
360° spinner wheels
Expandable Design
1.35” expansion zipper
Features
Expandable, Lightweight

This 29-inch softside suitcase is a lightweight checked bag weighing 9.7 pounds. It features 360-degree spinner wheels and a telescopic handle for easy maneuvering. The expandable design adds 1.35 inches of space when needed. You get multiple exterior pockets for organization and compression straps to keep clothes neat. It is built from scratch-resistant polyester. This large checked bag suits travelers needing maximum packing capacity for extended trips.

Pros
  • Lightweight 9.7-pound softside construction
  • Expands 1.35 inches for extra packing room
  • Four 360-degree spinner wheels for smooth rolling
  • Multiple exterior zippered pockets for quick access
  • Wide mesh compression straps minimize wrinkles
Cons
  • Heavier than the 9.7-pound limit of the Samsonite UpLIFT
  • Larger 29-inch size exceeds medium checked dimensions
  • Softside build offers less impact protection than hardside options
Good fit if
  • You need a large checked bag for two-week trips
  • You want expandable space for souvenirs
  • You prefer softside luggage for flexible packing
Skip if
  • You require a medium checked bag under 25 inches
  • You need a hardside shell for impact protection
  • You prioritize the lightest possible weight under 9 pounds

Verdict: Samsonite Element 29-Inch Softside is a high-capacity option for travelers who need extra room and expandability. It fits those checking large bags who value flexible packing over compact size.

Specifications side by side

SpecSamsonite UpLIFT Medium Checked SpinnerSwissGear Sion Large Softside SpinnerTravelpro Maxlite 5 25-Inch Softside SpinnerTravelpro Tourlite 25-Inch SoftsideDelsey Paris Cruise 3.0 24-Inch HardsideTravelpro Maxlite Air V2 25-Inch HardsideSamsonite Element 29-Inch Softside
Packing Capacity––91 L–69L to 76L––
Empty Weight7.7 lbs11.1 pounds6.8 lbs7.5 lbs9 lbs9.4 lbs9.7 lbs
Overall Dimensions27.75" x 18.75" x 12"30 x 18.5 x 12.5 inches27" x 18.5" x 11.5"–26.75 x 17.25 x 11.25 in27.5 x 18.5 x 12 in32.5"H x 20.5"L x 13.5"W
Shell Material100% recycled PET polyesterPolyester fabricPolyesterDuraGuard100% polycarbonatePolycarbonatePolyester
Wheel TypeSpinner wheels360-degree spinner wheels360° spinner wheels360° spinner wheels360° double spinner wheels8 360° spinner wheels360° spinner wheels
Closure Type–Durable zippersHigh-strength zippers––––
Expandable Design0.75" expansionExpansion featureExpands up to 2"–Expansion zipper adds 1.5 inchesExpands 2 in1.35” expansion zipper
Lock Type––––TSA-accepted lockTSA-approved lock–
ShellSoftsideSoftsideSoftsideSoftsideHardsideHardside–
WheelsSpinner WheelsSpinner WheelsSpinner WheelsSpinner WheelsSpinner WheelsSpinner WheelsSpinner Wheels
FeaturesExpandable, LightweightExpandable, LightweightExpandable, LightweightExpandable, LightweightExpandable, TSA Lock, LightweightExpandable, TSA Lock, LightweightExpandable, Lightweight
ColorBlackBlackBurgundyDeep PurpleBlackBlackBlack
SizeMedium CheckedChecked-LargeChecked-Medium 25-InchChecked-Medium 25-InchChecked-Medium 24 InchChecked Medium 25-Inch29-Inch Checked-Large
Use––Women––Women–
StyleWheeledWheeledWheeledWheeledWheeledWheeledWheeled
Dimensions24.7 × 17.3 × 9.1 inches18 × 10.5 × 29 inches11.5 × 18.5 × 27 inches18 × 11 × 25.5 inches17.3 × 11.3 × 26.8 inches17.5 × 11 × 27.5 inches19 × 11 × 29.5 inches
Weight7.5 pounds11.1 pounds7.3 pounds7.5 pounds9 pounds9.4 pounds9.7 pounds
Model152025-10416283202181401176509TP8008S651140287982000401259501158706-1041

Frequently asked questions

Which alternative is the lightest checked bag?

The Travelpro Maxlite 5 25-Inch Softside Spinner is the lightest option on this list. It weighs 7.3 pounds, which is slightly lighter than the 7.5-pound Samsonite UpLIFT. This makes it ideal if every ounce matters for your airline allowance. It features spinner wheels and expandable storage for flexible packing.

Is there a hardside option with a weight indicator?

Yes, the Delsey Paris Cruise 3.0 24-Inch Hardside includes a built-in weight indicator. This feature helps you monitor load before checking the bag. It has a durable polycarbonate shell and measures 26.8 inches by 17.3 inches by 11.3 inches. It weighs 9 pounds and offers expandable capacity.

What is the best choice for maximum packing space?

The SwissGear Sion Large Softside Spinner offers the most capacity for extended trips. It measures 29 inches by 18 inches by 10.5 inches, providing a larger footprint than the medium options. It weighs 11.1 pounds and includes expandable storage to maximize your packing volume for long vacations.

Does any option offer a rubberized handle grip?

The Travelpro Tourlite 25-Inch Softside features a comfortable, rubberized handle grip. It weighs 7.5 pounds and measures 25.5 inches by 18 inches by 11 inches. This bag provides expandable capacity and spinner wheels. It is a practical choice if you prefer a secure, comfortable grip over rigid shell protection.

Which bags include a TSA lock?

The Delsey Paris Cruise 3.0 24-Inch Hardside and the Travelpro Maxlite Air V2 25-Inch Hardside both include TSA locks. The Delsey weighs 9 pounds and offers polycarbonate protection. The Travelpro weighs 9.4 pounds and also features spinner wheels. Both are suitable for domestic trips requiring secure locking mechanisms.

Are there options in colors other than black?

Yes, the Travelpro Maxlite 5 is available in Burgundy. The Travelpro Tourlite 25-Inch Softside comes in Deep Purple. Most other listed bags, including the Samsonite UpLIFT and SwissGear Sion, are black. If you prefer non-black colors, these two Travelpro models provide those specific color options.

See also