@ellerbracke Ahh, gotcha. I have trouble with my massive suitcase too when I have to actually lift it. I really wanted to buy a new one, a little bit smaller before going away again, but I have not. Thankfully my husband can lift it. When I do get around to buying a new one I will definitely be looking at weight. As it is with the one I have now I have to weigh my suitcase before flying to make sure it's not overweight.
It really does sound as if having to lift it is the cause of your hip/knee problems. If you are still in traveling mode, maybe you could get a young, strong, gentleman to lift it up those steps for you. I have seen people ask others to do that and I am sure they do not mind, I know my son would not.
JK