Is it easier to carry than matches? (7)

I believe the answer is:

lighter

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'matches?' is the definition.
(matches is a kind of lighter)

I cannot understand how the rest of the clue works.

(Other definitions for lighter that I've seen before include "Barge (more likely to float?)" , "More manageable" , "Canal boat with a flat bottom" , "relieved of some cargo?" , "Less weighty" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

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