Explore the Travelpro Maxlite 5 Carry-On Luggage Review: Lightweight Spinner for Travelers

Description

Design & Materials

The Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Carry-On (model number 401176706) stands out with its sleek and professional design. The slate green color is both stylish and understated, perfect for both business and leisure travelers. The polyester fabric, coated with a stain-resistant and water-repellent Duraguard finish, feels durable yet lightweight. While testing it, I accidentally spilled coffee on it, and to my surprise, the liquid beaded up and wiped off easily. However, the material doesn’t feel as premium as some higher-end luggage, but for its weight and purpose, it strikes a great balance.

Features

This carry-on comes packed with features that make travel easier. The PowerScope Lite handle with its patented contour grip stood out during my testing. I found the rubberized touchpoints genuinely comfortable, even after maneuvering it through long airport corridors. The adjustable handle stops at 38 inches and 42.5 inches, accommodating travelers of different heights, which my cousin appreciated when she borrowed it. The spinner wheels glide effortlessly in all directions, which made navigating crowded terminals surprisingly hassle-free. One clever feature is the unique bottom tray design that stabilizes the wheels, ensuring smooth alignment even over slightly uneven surfaces.

The suitcase also expands up to two inches for those of us who tend to overpack—though the tapered design prevents it from tipping over when fully loaded. Inside, the adjustable hold-down straps and multiple compartments, including a full-length interior lid pocket and side accessory pocket, kept everything organized. I even managed to squeeze in a pair of shoes and toiletries without feeling cramped, thanks to the thoughtful design.

Handles & Comfort

Carrying this suitcase is a breeze. The low-profile top, side, and bottom carry handles are all strategically placed and padded for comfort. I carried it up a steep flight of stairs at a boutique hotel, and the side handle didn’t dig into my hand—a small detail, but one that makes a big difference during travel. My partner, who has arthritis, noted how easy it was to grip and lift.

Capacity & Organization

Despite being an international-sized carry-on, the suitcase offers a generous 39-liter capacity. I packed for a week-long business trip and was surprised by how much it could hold, especially when using packing cubes. The interior layout is smart, with multiple compartments that make it easy to separate essentials like chargers, toiletries, and clothes. However, I noticed that the interior lining could have been a little more flexible to fully utilize the space around the telescoping handle bars, which did slightly limit packing efficiency.

Security & Locking System

One area where this carry-on could improve is its security features. It doesn’t come with an integrated lock, which feels like a missed opportunity given its other premium features. I had to use my own TSA-approved padlock, which worked fine but isn’t as convenient. If security is a top concern, this might be a drawback for some travelers.

Size & Airline Compatibility

The dimensions of this carry-on—19 x 15 x 7.75 inches—make it compliant with most international airline size restrictions. I tested it on a budget airline notorious for stringent baggage policies, and it fit perfectly in the overhead bin. Its compact size is a lifesaver for avoiding checked luggage fees, but if you tend to pack heavily, you might find it a tad restrictive.

Weather Resistance

The weather resistance of this suitcase was put to the test during a rainy trip. I had to wheel it across a wet parking lot, and the water-repellent coating kept the contents completely dry. However, I wouldn’t recommend leaving it exposed to heavy rain for prolonged periods, as it’s not entirely waterproof.

Weight & Portability

Weighing just 5.28 pounds, this suitcase truly lives up to its “ultra-lightweight” claim. It’s significantly lighter than other carry-ons I’ve used, which is a game-changer when you’re rushing through airports or frequently lifting it into overhead compartments. My 12-year-old niece found it so light she insisted on wheeling it around during our trip.

Warranty

The Trusted Traveler Promise that comes with this suitcase offers peace of mind. It includes limited lifetime coverage and one year of repair coverage for airline or carrier damage, provided you register it. I haven’t had to use the warranty yet, but knowing it’s there adds an extra layer of confidence in the product.

Positives

Here are the good aspects of the Travelpro Maxlite 5:

• Ultra-lightweight design makes it easy to handle and carry.
• Smooth 360-degree spinner wheels for effortless maneuvering.
• Water-repellent coating protects against light spills and rain.
• Multiple compartments for excellent organization.
• Expandable design provides added packing capacity without tipping.

Negative Attributes

Every product has its quirks. Here are the negative attributes:

• No integrated TSA lock for added convenience.
• Interior lining limits full utilization of packing space around the handle bars.
• Material feels slightly less premium compared to high-end competitors.

Product Comparisons

When compared to Samsonite and Away carry-ons, the Maxlite 5 excels in weight, making it a better choice for travelers who prioritize portability. However, Samsonite’s integrated locks and Away’s built-in power banks offer more modern features. The Maxlite 5 also competes well against the AmazonBasics carry-on, providing better durability and a more polished design, albeit at a higher price point.

Worth Every Penny

Considering its features and performance, the Travelpro Maxlite 5 offers excellent value for its price. It’s a smart investment for frequent travelers who need a light, reliable carry-on without splurging on luxury luggage. While there are a few areas for improvement, its overall functionality and thoughtful design make it a worthwhile addition to your travel gear.

Additional information