TravelPro Maxlite 5 Expandable Spinner Review (2025)
Is It the Best Lightweight Carry-On for Frequent Travelers?
You're rushing through the airport, dragging a heavy suitcase that feels like it weighs more than your entire wardrobe. The wheels catch on every crack in the floor, your arm aches from the weight, and you're already dreading the overhead bin struggle. Sound familiar?
For frequent travelers who've experienced this frustration one too many times, the TravelPro Maxlite 5 Expandable Spinner offers a refreshing solution. Weighing just 5.4 pounds—half a pound lighter than its predecessor—this carry-on proves you don't have to sacrifice durability for lightweight mobility. Whether you're a business traveler hopping between cities or a minimalist explorer navigating international terminals, this luggage is designed to make your journey smoother from check-in to destination.
Looking for more travel essentials? Check out our complete best travel gear guide for expert recommendations on everything you need for your next adventure.
TravelPro Maxlite 5 Expandable Spinner
What Makes It Stand Out
- Ultra-lightweight design at only 5.4 lbs—half a pound lighter than Maxlite 4
- Expandable up to 2 inches for flexible packing capacity
- DuraGuard coating provides water and stain resistance
- Eco-friendly interior made from recycled plastics with H2O Guard protection
- Trusted Companion Promise with limited lifetime warranty
Key Features of the TravelPro Maxlite 5 Expandable Spinner
Ultra-Lightweight Design
At just 5.4 pounds, the Maxlite 5 is one of the lightest carry-ons in its class. That's half a pound lighter than the previous Maxlite 4 model, making it easier to lift into overhead bins and maneuver through crowded terminals without arm fatigue.
Durable DuraGuard Coating
The stain-resistant polyester fabric features TravelPro's proprietary DuraGuard coating, which provides excellent water resistance and protects against spills, rain, and everyday wear. This coating helps your luggage maintain its appearance trip after trip.
Eco-Friendly Interior
The interior lining is made from recycled plastics, reflecting TravelPro's commitment to sustainability. The H2O Guard moisture protection keeps your belongings dry even if the exterior gets wet, while the recycled materials reduce environmental impact.
Smooth 360° Spinner Wheels
Four multi-directional spinner wheels provide effortless mobility in any direction. Whether you're navigating tight airplane aisles or rushing through busy terminals, these wheels roll smoothly and quietly, reducing strain on your arms and shoulders.
PowerScope Lite Handle
The lightweight telescoping handle features comfortable height stops that lock at multiple positions to accommodate travelers of different heights. The ergonomic grip reduces hand fatigue during extended use, and the handle retracts smoothly when not needed.
2-Inch Expansion Capability
Need extra packing space for souvenirs or an unexpected purchase? The expansion zipper adds up to 2 inches of depth, increasing capacity from 46L to approximately 52L. Just remember that expanding may affect carry-on compliance on some airlines.
Excellent Organization
Multiple interior pockets, zippered compartments, and hold-down straps keep your belongings organized and secure. The thoughtful layout includes a large main compartment with divider, mesh pockets for small items, and compression straps to prevent shifting during travel.
International Carry-On Compliant
With dimensions of 21"x14"x9" (23"x14.5"x9" overall including wheels and handles), the Maxlite 5 meets most international carry-on size restrictions. This means you can avoid checked baggage fees and keep your belongings with you throughout your journey.
Packing Pro Tip
The Maxlite 5's organized interior works best when paired with packing cubes and a strategic packing system. Check out our comprehensive travel packing list to learn how to maximize space and keep everything organized for trips ranging from weekend getaways to week-long adventures.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Extremely lightweight at only 5.4 lbs—easy to lift and maneuver
- Expandable up to 2 inches for flexible packing capacity
- Smooth multi-directional 360° spinner wheels
- Durable DuraGuard water and stain-resistant coating
- Eco-friendly recycled interior lining with moisture protection
- Excellent organization with multiple pockets and compartments
- PowerScope Lite handle with comfortable height adjustments
- Trusted Companion Promise with limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Softside construction not as rigid as hardshell luggage
- Light fabric may show wear and scuffs over extended use
- Expansion feature reduces strict carry-on compliance on some airlines
- No external USB charging port for devices
Real-World Performance
Airport Travel Experience
From curbside check-in to gate arrival, the Maxlite 5 excels in real airport conditions. The lightweight design means you can easily lift it onto baggage scales, into car trunks, and up escalators without breaking a sweat. The spinner wheels glide smoothly across polished terminal floors, carpeted jetways, and even slightly uneven surfaces. At just 5.4 pounds, it's light enough that even when fully packed, you won't exceed most airlines' weight restrictions for carry-ons.
Overhead Bin Fit
One of the most stressful moments of air travel is finding overhead bin space and hoisting your luggage up. The Maxlite 5 makes this process remarkably easy. Its lightweight construction means you can lift it overhead with one hand if needed. The dimensions (21"x14"x9") fit comfortably in most domestic and international overhead compartments, even on smaller regional jets. The soft sides allow for a bit of give when squeezing into tight spaces, unlike rigid hardshell cases.
Rolling Through Terminals
Long walks through sprawling airports become much more manageable with the Maxlite 5. The four spinner wheels provide true 360-degree mobility, allowing you to push the luggage alongside you rather than dragging it behind. This reduces shoulder and arm strain significantly during those marathon terminal treks. The wheels are surprisingly quiet, so you won't be that person creating a racket as you rush to your gate. The PowerScope handle adjusts to comfortable heights for travelers of all sizes.
Packing Organization
The interior layout is thoughtfully designed for efficient packing. The main compartment offers 46 liters of space (expandable to approximately 52L), which is sufficient for 3-5 days of travel depending on your packing style. Multiple zippered pockets keep small items like chargers, toiletries, and documents easily accessible. The hold-down straps prevent clothes from shifting during transit, keeping everything neat. The divider panel creates two separate compartments, perfect for separating clean clothes from worn items or keeping shoes away from garments. For maximum organization, pair this luggage with our recommended travel packing essentials.
Weekend vs. Long Trips
For weekend getaways or 3-4 day business trips, the Maxlite 5 provides ample space without the expansion feature. Pack efficiently with rolled clothes and packing cubes, and you'll have room for everything you need plus a few extras. For longer trips (5-7 days), the 2-inch expansion becomes invaluable, especially if you're traveling to varying climates or need to bring back souvenirs. However, remember that expanding the luggage may push it beyond strict carry-on limits on some international carriers. Always check your airline's specific requirements before your trip. For planning multi-destination journeys, use our travel planning tools to optimize your itinerary and packing strategy. And don't forget to review our travel safety tips for keeping your belongings secure throughout your journey.
Comparison With Alternatives
Samsonite Winfield 2 Carry-On
Read Full ReviewHardshell protection, scratch-resistant, TSA lock included
Heavier (6.5 lbs), not expandable, less flexible packing
Travelers who prioritize durability and protection over weight
Osprey Farpoint 40
Read Full ReviewBackpack-style carry, excellent for adventure travel, very comfortable
Less formal appearance, not ideal for business travel
Backpackers and adventure travelers who need hands-free mobility
Away The Carry-On
Read Full ReviewSleek design, built-in USB charger, hardshell protection
More expensive, heavier, not expandable
Style-conscious travelers who want modern features and aesthetics
Which Should You Choose?
Choose the TravelPro Maxlite 5 if you prioritize lightweight mobility, expandable capacity, and excellent organization. It's the best choice for frequent flyers who want to minimize weight while maximizing packing flexibility.
Choose the Samsonite Winfield 2 if you need maximum protection for fragile items and prefer the durability of a hardshell case, even if it means carrying a bit more weight.
Choose the Osprey Farpoint 40 if you're an adventure traveler or backpacker who needs hands-free mobility and comfort over formal appearance.
Choose Away The Carry-On if you want a premium, stylish luggage with modern features like USB charging and don't mind paying more for aesthetics and brand prestige.
Who Should Buy the TravelPro Maxlite 5?
Frequent Flyers
If you travel regularly for business or pleasure, the lightweight design will save your arms and shoulders from fatigue trip after trip.
International Travelers
The dimensions meet most international carry-on restrictions, helping you avoid checked baggage fees and keep belongings with you.
Eco-Conscious Travelers
The recycled interior lining and sustainable manufacturing practices align with environmentally responsible travel values.
Organization Enthusiasts
Multiple pockets, compartments, and compression straps keep everything neat and accessible throughout your journey.
Flexible Packers
The 2-inch expansion feature gives you options—pack light for short trips or expand for longer journeys or souvenir shopping.
Business Travelers
Professional appearance, smooth mobility through airports, and organized interior make it ideal for work trips.
Value Seekers
Excellent quality-to-price ratio with TravelPro's trusted reputation and limited lifetime warranty backing your investment.
Who Should NOT Buy It?
Need Maximum Protection
If you're carrying fragile items like electronics, camera equipment, or breakables, a hardshell case like the Samsonite Winfield 2 offers better impact protection.
Want Built-In Charging
This model doesn't include external USB ports for charging devices. Consider the Away Carry-On if this feature is essential.
Chronic Overpackers
If you consistently pack beyond carry-on capacity, even with the expansion feature, you might need a larger checked bag or a more spacious backpack-style option.
Prioritize Aesthetics
While functional and professional-looking, it's not as fashion-forward as premium brands like Away or Rimowa if style is your top priority.
Extreme Adventure Travel
For rugged outdoor adventures with rough terrain, a backpack-style carry-on like the Osprey Farpoint 40 offers better mobility and comfort.
Need Integrated TSA Lock
Unlike some hardshell competitors, this model doesn't have a built-in TSA lock (though you can easily add TSA-approved locks to the zippers).
Final Verdict — Is It Worth It?
The TravelPro Maxlite 5 Expandable Spinner stands out as one of the best lightweight carry-ons available in 2025, and for good reason. At just 5.4 pounds, it's remarkably easy to maneuver through crowded airports, lift into overhead bins, and carry up stairs—all without sacrificing durability or functionality.
What truly sets this luggage apart is its thoughtful design. The DuraGuard coating provides excellent water and stain resistance, keeping your bag looking fresh trip after trip. The eco-friendly recycled interior lining with H2O Guard protection demonstrates TravelPro's commitment to sustainability without compromising performance. The 360° spinner wheels glide smoothly and quietly, while the PowerScope Lite handle adjusts comfortably for travelers of all heights.
The expandable feature is a game-changer for flexible packers. Start with 46 liters for a streamlined carry-on, then expand up to 2 inches when you need extra space for souvenirs or an unexpected purchase. The interior organization—with multiple pockets, compression straps, and a divider panel—keeps everything neat and accessible throughout your journey.
While it lacks some premium features like built-in USB charging or hardshell protection, these omissions are intentional trade-offs that keep the weight down and the price reasonable. For frequent travelers who prioritize lightweight mobility, expandable capacity, and reliable performance, the Maxlite 5 delivers exceptional value backed by TravelPro's trusted reputation and limited lifetime warranty.
Bottom line: If you're a frequent flyer, business traveler, or minimalist explorer who values lightweight design and flexible packing options, the TravelPro Maxlite 5 Expandable Spinner is absolutely worth the investment. It's the kind of luggage that makes travel easier, not harder—and that's exactly what you want from a carry-on companion.
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Based on expert review and user feedback