Hardside luggage, also known as hardshell luggage, is a crucial option for travelers seeking a robust case to protect their belongings from sudden drops or bangs. It is lightweight, durable, and easy to clean. The top 10 hardside luggage pieces to shop for include the Paravel Aviator Carry-On Plus, July Classic Family Luggage Set, and TravelPro Platinum Elite Hardside Carry-On Spinner.
A hard-side suitcase is sturdy, crush-resistant, and easy to clean. It is recommended for everyday travelers due to its iconic design and easy interior layout. Aluminum is more durable than plastic but can easily get dents, dings, and scratches. The sleek design of hardside luggage is appealing, as the shell is typically protective enough to safeguard your belongings.
The top pick for the best hard-sided carry-on is the Away Carry-On, which has top-of-the-line features such as expander zippers, TSA-approved locks, zip-up compartments, and telescopic handles. Aluminum is more durable than plastic but can easily get dents, dings, and scratches.
In summary, hardside luggage is a great option for travelers looking for a robust case that protects their belongings from sudden drops or bangs. The top 10 hardside luggage pieces include the Paravel Aviator Carry-On Plus, July Classic Family Luggage Set, and TravelPro Platinum Elite Hardside Carry-On Spinner.
📹 How to Pick the BEST Luggage for Your Travels: Hardshell vs Softside 🧳
Hey there, fellow travelers! Need help choosing the ultimate luggage companion for your adventures? Ever wondered why …
Do airlines prefer hard or soft luggage?
Airlines do not have a preference for hard or soft suitcases, but rather focus on the size and weight of checked and carry-on bags. Soft-side carry-ons are easier to pack into crowded overhead compartments, while hard case bags provide greater protection for fragile belongings. Soft-side bags are also more likely to have external pockets for easy access to small items.
For international travel, the choice depends on the destination. For a shopping holiday in Europe, extra packing room may be necessary, while for an African safari, hard-side bags will weather better and provide more protection for belongings. Soft-side carry-ons may be easier to pack into crowded overhead compartments, while hard case bags offer greater protection for fragile items.
Which luggage material is the most durable?
Polycarbonate is the most durable luggage material, but it is heavier and more expensive than aluminum. Aluminum luggage is easily dented and expensive, making it less popular. ABS, a high-tech plastic, is lighter but not as durable as polycarbonate. Polycarbonate suitcases last longer and are not as heavy as aluminum luggage. Polypropylene, a lightweight synthetic material, is easy to carry but not as durable or flexible as polycarbonate. Both materials are used in hard-shell luggage, but polypropylene is not as durable or flexible as polycarbonate. Overall, polycarbonate and ABS are the most popular and durable options for luggage.
What is the best material for luggage for international travel?
Polypropylene is lighter but not as durable as polycarbonate. Polycarbonate is a tough polyester compound used in over 40 hard-side luggage, offering more rigid protection and flexibility. It is heavier than polypropylene and ABS, but is also highly resistant to cracks. The Maxlite® Air Medium Check-In Hardside Spinner is an excellent example of a polycarbonate suitcase. Polycarbonate is moderately priced, strong, durable, water-resistant, flexible, and lightweight, making it an excellent choice for travelers.
What are the disadvantages of hard-side luggage?
Hard-shell luggage is rigid and requires a lot of storage space, making it less convenient for over-packing. It lacks exterior pockets due to its use of high-tech plastics or aluminum. Once full, it’s impossible to stuff anything else in, forcing over-packers to re-think their needs. Despite these drawbacks, hard-shell luggage is a useful option for those who prefer a compact and portable option.
Which is better for luggage, polycarbonate or polypropylene?
When choosing between polypropylene and polycarbonate luggage, it’s crucial to consider your specific travel needs and preferences. Polycarbonate is a better choice due to its durability, lightweight construction, and versatile design options, making it an excellent investment for frequent and style-conscious travelers. Understanding the key differences between these two types can help you make an informed decision.
Is soft shell or hard shell luggage better?
Hard-shell luggage offers better security than soft-sided baggage due to its resistance to rips and integrated locks. Aluminum luggage, with metal drawbolt latches, is even more secure. Hard-shell luggage prevents overstuffing and ensures a no-bulge fit in airline luggage sizers. It stacks easily, making it ideal for cruise ships. However, it can scuff, scratch, and be rigid, making it difficult to fit extras.
Additionally, it requires fixed storage space, which can be a challenge for apartment and small-house dwellers. Choosing the right size and size can ensure a no-bulge fit and a comfortable travel experience.
Which is better for luggage, polycarbonate or aluminum?
Aluminum luggage is durable, secure, and stylish, but is prone to scratches and dents. It typically closes via latches rather than zippers, making it suitable for carry-on use. To avoid denting, choose a carry-on size and follow airline measurements. Aluminum luggage can be cleaned as often or infrequently, depending on the manufacturer’s instructions. Generally, it should be cleaned with a damp cloth and gentle soap, as it is more secure and stylish than polycarbonate or softside luggage.
What type of luggage is most durable?
Polycarbonate is the most common hardside material on the market, making it lighter and more durable than plastic. ABS plastic is the most low-cost hardside luggage. Samsonite is the top choice for luggage due to its wide assortment for business travelers and vacationers, as well as its durability and ease-of-use features. Both hardside and softside styles from Samsonite have excelled in tests, with models like the Freeform hardside, Solyte DLX softside, and Stryde Glyder being popular.
Both hardside and softside styles have been impressed by various sizes, including carry-ons, checked bags, and underseat luggage. Some of the favorite models include the Freeform hardside, Solyte DLX softside, and the Stryde Glyder, a wide-sided checked case that is less likely to tip over.
Which suitcase material is best for international travel?
Nylon is a durable and lightweight material for softside luggage, ideal for frequent flyers or rough travelers. It offers a spacious interior and easy-to-use spinner wheels. However, some testers reported a loose telescopic handle. Samsonite’s top-performing hardside carry-on, made of polypropylene, weighs just 6. 5 pounds, making it one of the lightest bags tested. Despite its lightweight nature, the telescopic handle may feel loose. The bag is priced under $200, making it an excellent value for its price.
Is polycarbonate or ABS better for luggage?
ABS is popular for budget shopping, but polycarbonate luggage is durable and can withstand hard impacts. ABS is cheaper for one-time travel, but polycarbonate is more durable and safe. Softshell luggage is more flexible and lighter but can be torn apart with impact, leading to issues at airports and frequent luggage changes. Ultimately, the choice between ABS and polycarbonate depends on the specific needs and budget of the traveler.
📹 10 Bad Luggage Features That’ll Drive You Crazy While Traveling (Do NOT buy these bags)
Learn 10 luggage features to avoid before you buy a new carry-on suitcase for airline travel. #traveltips #travelbag #carryononly …
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Hi Nora, I agree with everything you said but I would add one more thing in terms of moving your case around. When you carry your case on 2 wheels, the whole weight of the case is on your arm and back. When you carry on 4, the weight is on the floor. I know that it is not possible to wheel your case on 4 wheels all the time and you rightly pointed that any uneven surface will make it hard. I am a feeble woman 😉 and I appreciate any relief I can get, ie in the airplane aisle, in public transports, at the airport etc. Also you can move your 4 wheeler sideway rather than full front allowing you to move easier through narrow passage, ie entering or exiting gates on public transport when you have to validate a ticket as well. I think the hard cover luggage should get an extra point for that
I’ve travelled to over 60 countries, and I’m definitely in the soft shell, 2 wheel, camp. I have found people with hard shell, 4wheel type bags tend to walk with them slightly in front of themselves, which leaves their backpack vulnerable to street robbers. I have witnessed this happen twice. On both occasions they hadn’t locked the backpack, and both were opened. Luckily nothing was stolen, only because of intervention by other travellers.
Soft sided has been my choice since the 80’s. As you pointed out, the flexibility makes it a hands down winner, though I do have a LARGE aluminum case for checking in. Used that one only once, years ago, having to bring TONS of requested items to several friends in 3 European countries. My soft bag has no wheels, and I carry it either over one shoulder or in my hand, without a problem. After perusal this segment, I might consider the 2 wheel soft one.. Thanks for the presentation.. Though through my own expieriences I learned much, I do enjoy all the tips you so kindly share with the rest of us. 🎈Happy travels and stay safe..🙏😊💖
I’m a soft-side luggage girl who travels to Europe several times a year. As you mentioned, Nora, the soft-side luggage wheels feel more durable and protected from snapping off during handling, and the numerous outside pockets make things more accessible. I’m wary of bags that can’t be flexible in overhead compartments. Great article, Nora!
Thank you for doing this article. This is a very unique and important topic. I used to be a soft shell luggage only person for various reasons. The first one was that the hard shell luggages always open in the middle, and only luggage so far I found that has a top zipper that you don’t have to open the whole luggage in the middle is Delsea Paris and onlyMacy’s used to have them. Unfortunately they are discontinued. I have a hard shell check-in, a hard shell and a soft shell carry-ons, all open on the top like soft luggage and it was very very convenient. I still have and use them. I didn’t find any hard shell luggage that has the top zipper that you can only open for convenience to get stuff without opening the whole suitcase all the way on both sides. I still have the first hard shell luggage set I bought years ago, but I only use them for storage in my closet this days 😂. I also found that if you do not pack it strategically the hard shells kind of topple and you have to make sure that the bottom is heavy when it’s standing. Otherwise, it can lose balance and topple. And if your stuff is not packed to the brim, it will all get totally messed up. So, overall, I did not like hard shell luggages at all except for the spinner wheels. However, I have shoulder problems and what I have found is that when I am traveling to Asia,on Singapore airlines( I love that airline btw ), their carry-on luggage limit is 7 kgs. I had a long stopover in Singapore before flying to India, and this soft shell carry-on with only two wheels I had to drag on all day, was excruciating for my shoulder.
The advantage of solid suitcases in terms of security is that even if it is possible to open the zip with a pen, if the metal tabs of the zip are enclosed in the lock incorporated into the suitcase, it will be impossible for the thief to close the zip again once it has been opened fraudulently. On the other hand, soft-sided cases less often have a built-in security system that immobilizes the metal tabs of the zipper, so once the zipper has been forced open, it can be reclosed by passing the tab over the area to be reclosed. So it’s the hardshell luggage with a built-in lock that win the day.
Another great vlog Nora. I’ve always been soft-side in carry-on or checked. Can I share with you a gripe of mine. I have been asked on flights to put my soft-side carry-on under the seat in front to make room in the overhead lockers for all the huge hard-side luggage that other people have on the flight ! That’s really taking the piss !
I came to your conclusion back in 2018 when I traveled for 8 weeks in Europe with only my Osprey Ozone 42L bag. I have a CPAP machine, which all fits inside along with all my clothes (a few pieces of which I never wore…) and literally everything I needed for the trip. I did also have a small personal bag, as you also recommend. The biggest thing I’m glad you mention is THE WHEELS. The Ozone has even better wheels than the Daylite one you have- they absolutely gobble cobblestones and stairs and in the airport I can pull it alone effortlessly with only my pinkie due to the excellent ball bearings within the wheels. Oh- and before I left on that particular European trip, I asked Osprey if I could purchase an extra wheel just in case of a problem (I’ve had multiple problems with spinner wheels!!) Osprey sent me, no charge, an extra set of both wheels. I haven’t needed either one, and use that bag for every trip I take, checked or not. One thing I prefer about the Ozone is that it does not include backpack straps, giving me more room for my stuff. I like the strong single center expandable handle. There are several lines of Osprey luggage in various sizes, carry on or not. Oh- and the bag only weighs 4 1/2 pounds! The company’s 100% guarantee, design, fit and finish and general quality make it well worth the cost IMHO, and I am grateful for it every time I travel. Thanks for verifying my own experiences (and those of my wife, who also uses one).
I’ve travelled extensively over 40 years for business and pleasure with both hard and soft sided. The only 2 catastrophic failures I have suffered were both hard sided cases (a Samsonite and a Delsey). My preference nowadays is softsided (Travelpro) with spinners on the large checked bags but 2 wheel pull along on the carryon. That for me is the optimum blend of ruggedness, flexibility and mobility. For shorter trips sometimes I’ll take a travel backpack that’ll fit under the seat and avoid the need to battle for overhead space.
Team Softside here. For all the reasons you mentioned plus NESTING. When we unpack in a hotel or cruise cabin we can put the carry on inside of the checked bags. Can’t do that so reliably with hard side- especially when there are hard dividers between the sides of the hard side cases. Plus, with hard side I am concerned that if the weight is uneven or the wheels snag in something the zipper will be torn/pulled open.
I already have both kinds that I use for different purposes (watching this to decide which to take with me on my next trip). But note, those of us living in tight spaces can make great use of hard sided luggage at home! My shared apartment is tiny and everything I own fits on one shelving unit. When I am not traveling with it, I have a lockable home storage space and I love it. It’s one of my life hacks LOL
On the security front, my Away aluminum luggage has NO ZIPPERS, and great locks. There are other (more expensive) brands that are similar. So any hardsided luggage built with no zippers and with a sturdy locking system will be more secure. I agree that zippers in either hardsided or softsided luggage are the weakest link.
Hi Nora, I recently purchased a hard shell suitcase because my friend had one and I liked the organization component. Having said that I wish I had purchased a soft sided with inline wheels and the one you showed looks awesome (what’s the name btw). I don’t dare buy another suitcase but I think on my next trip my soft side will be my choice. I agree about the opening a clamshell in a small room. I’m on team soft side!
I used to have soft sided but 3 years ago I switched to hard side and I’m never going back. I have Monos luggage and use the carryon 90% of the time and it’s been great. It’s holding up really well and the scratches and scuffs don’t bother me because it’s a sign that it’s been places, like old battle scars with a story. The 360 wheels are silent, smooth and work well on all surfaces on 4 or 2 wheels. Packing with the clamshell is better IMO because I can organize my stuff better than piling it all up like in a soft side. And it has the best compression of any luggage I’ve ever owned. Also it doesn’t take up much space when stored because the carryon nests inside of the check in. I don’t miss the pockets because I always have a backpack for my personal item. I think any luggage with spinner wheels is has better mobility than 2 wheels, especially when pushing it down the aisle of the plane.
I am soft shell as I was boarding a very packed plane with a friend who had a hard shell, both carry-on. The flight attendant looked at our bags and asked my friend to check her hard case because the cabin was too crowded. He let me on, though. Soft cases are much easier to fit in overhead compartments. Last thing I want to do is wait for my carefully packed carry on at the baggage carousel. Also, I have side handles and straps to grab.
Team soft side and two wheels here. Trial and error. Two wheels, hands down! And even in foreign countries, you can get a replacement wheel, just in case you blow out a wheel on your 15 year old wheelie bag. My newer bags are noisy on sidewalks, and don’t seem to hold as much. So what to do with all these new bags?
I have always used soft-sided luggage for their flexibility. I have spinner carry-ons and 2-wheeled styles so I can choose which one will work best for my travel. Back in the ’70s my friend and I traveled in Europe for 2 months with soft-sided bags (adding trolleys after we got tired of schlepping the bags). They packed great, held everything in place, and even stayed mostly dry in a downpour.
Meh, it all depends on where you are going. And HOW will you travel. I go to EU all the time but I have my own place there, and have transport door to door from the airport. Moot point about cobblestone. If you have to walk around in EU I would choose to be loud, then drag the entire weight of my luggage on my hand or back and ruin my vacation with shoulder pain. Soft sided luggage will for sure get you in trouble with acceptable dimension of carry ons on international flights. Been there. It’s super easy to make them thicker than 9 inches. One sweater, and you will fail the fitting cages or machines. Hardside luggage for me, in 99% of cases. Soft side for checked luggage, and for more allowable airlines, car and train travel.
Softside all the way. More capacity, better wheels, and much easier to access. I just purchased the Daylight in preparation for living home free permanently. I will be using two carry-ons and need one I can carry on my back. I tested Patagonia Blackholes (2 sizes) and a variety of travel packs. Daylight is a clear winner for versatility.
16:13 I wish all luggage was designed better. I have spinner wheels on a softshell. I like them because they stabilize my top heavy bag a little (I am terrible at packing and I try). Also, when I need to carry four other bags at the same time (it was a long-term move), I need something to be easy. They were all about the same size because the airline was strict and I still have no idea how people travel with huge luggage. I have no idea how people who need to bring a lot move the stuff. Some people I talked to said they checked cardboard boxes and it worked out great. Did they pull a hand truck out of their butt? Wish they came with skis for ice and snow. All the wheels I’ve ever seen are pretty pathetic.
80% of the time I’m a 35L Aer Travel Pack 3 person. Kicks butt over both the options. That said… When I need more room I’ve found that a Monos Hybrid (zipperless hardshell) combined with an AER City Pack Pro Backpack as my personal item solved nearly all the downsides you’ve listed for the Hardshell. Security definitely shift to Hard. Accessibility is a personal problem if you’re not putting all the stuff you need in the backpack. One thing that you didn’t cover is that hardshell forces limits. So…while you list flexibility as a pro for soft. I think that that disregards that it begs people to overstuff right past airline limits. This just doesn’t happen with hard and I like KNOWING that I’m within spec. 🙂
If I’m checking a bag, I have to agree with you Nora. Soft sided for the win, except if there is a major rain storm going on while they load/unload the bags. Or the trolley sits outside in the rain while waiting to put on the baggage conveyor. If I’m just going carry on? I like my 22 in Level 8 bag….recommended by some fun lady in Toronto….Haha. It works great for most everything, including getting the laptop out without opening the case. It’s surprisingly roomy too. Great minds/experiences think alike.
This review is SPOT ON! I just don’t understand the current trend of trendy cases. I was a commercial pilot for 33 years. People are always asking me what luggage do I use. My 4-day trip bag since it first came out maybe 20 -25 years ago was an absolute tank made by “Luggage Works”. I beat the hell out of it, showed it no mercy whatsoever, used it roughly 182.5 days a year, and I replaced it twice, mostly just because it looked dirty from too many coffee spills. It has a rugged aluminum frame with a ballistic nylon cover, 2 ball bearing roller blade wheels that never break, and a stainless steel retractable handle that will carry the suitcase fully loaded banging up a flight of concrete stairs. You can’t kill it. On the other hand, it weighs 13 lbs and costs $370 so not fun to lift into an overhead bin or what I take on vacation. I also think their quality control has slipped a bit recently, However if that’s all you need for a trip, it will pay for itself eventually. They also have a hook as well as clip fasteners for attaching their other modular bags. I used the combination laptop/insulated cooler bag a lot to pack my own food (slides over the extended handle). For personal travel I am totally underwhelmed by what’s popular today. A few years ago I bought a 3-piece soft-sided set – 21″ spinner, 30″ spinner, and a satchel, made by “Leisure” on sale at Kohls for maybe $150 in a loud blue color that no one else owns (think “Meet The Parents”). Ever heard of that brand? Me neither.
Well I must admit that I was definitely a hard shell luggage person, but that I might reconsider after seeing your article! Right now I’m gonna keep my hard shell because we’re going to Crete with checked luggage and bringing back tons of olive oil and delicious honey, and I feel they’ll be safer in a hard shell. But …. I’ll let you know what I do in the future!
Team soft side for sure. Great analysis of the practical things travellers need. 100% agree with the wheel analysis, I don’t understand those trendy spinner wheel designs. I am hanging on to my trusty old Atlantic nylon carry on. In Europe outside the airport/train stations it is 2 inline skate style wheels all the way. Also if they are replaceable even better. Last year in Portugal(nothing smooth there) I blew a tread off one of my wheels but the hub got me home. I replaced both wheels and kept the surviving one as a spare. I’m all set for Europe this year . That Osprey bag looks great.
Team Hardside Luggage. Don’t have to worry about your bag getting wet when it rains. Spinner wheels are life. I don’t like pulling anything behind me. I haven’t had an issue with my hardshell set. I have used soft shell in the past. I feel the hardshell is more durable and protective of your things. My hardshell has expansion. I can expand it if need be. Still was able to fit in the overhead bin.
Nora, I have a question that maybe you can answer. I can’t find the anser on YT or the internet. If you are traveling with a lot of electronics (laptop, tablet, power bank, phone etc.) is there a way to keep track of them in the bin? Can you put all that stuff in to say, a mesh bag and then put that into the bin. I’ve heard of people losing stuff. It’s the one thing I’m really paranoid about with my next trip and yes, I have to take all that stuff, plus. Please help!
I’ve never owned a hard-shell full suitcase, but I tend to agree with all you’ve said here. A side note: About 10 years ago I purchased a Zuca carry on. It’s partly soft-sided, but has an aluminum outer frame. At the time, it complied with FAA dimensions (I actually live in Canada). Then in 2013 I flew El Al and YIKES, the Zuca didn’t fit in the overhead compartment. I still love my Zuca for non-flying travel. It rolls beautifully and you can sit on it during waits (up to about 250 lbs). Maybe I’ll look on their website and see whether they’ve altered their dimensions…although I already spent a bundle on the 1st one, and as a Canadian it’s so expensive to buy from the States. The Zuca also came with a liquids cube and 5 other packing cubes, which converted me to the cube camp (I have organizational challenges!). Thanks for the terrific episode.
One more thing for security, consider a luggage cover for suitcase. It can be removed but it makes your case less desirable than one without it. Also it makes your case easier to recognise in the conveyor belt. It will protect your case from marks an scratches. Some are made with PVC and protect your case from rain water.
You missed a couple important disadvantages of soft shelled luggage (at least of the two wheeled variety). The first is the obvious physical burden pulling it behind you puts on your joints that many other commenters have mentioned, but the second is the poor stability which is just as important to me. A bag on four wheels is much much easier to keep upright than a bag with two. I know there are some wizards who have mastered the art of perfectly balancing the contents of their suitcase by weight so that their soft sided suitcase doesn’t face plant every time you take your hand off of it, but this is a skill I’ve never been able to get down. That’s a frustration I’m happy to no longer have to deal with now that I’ve switched to hard sided luggage. I will admit that I miss the front pockets on soft sided luggage, but it’s not a big trade off to me to just carry the sort of stuff I would have kept there in my personal item instead. I’m a woman who carries a purse, so I’m never going to be one bagging it no matter what luggage I choose, so this isn’t a big deal, but I imagine it would be a greater pain if for people who only want to worry about one bag with them.
My soft shell unfortunately was incredibly damaged during my return home from a trip. They are trickier to stack and un stack for the airport luggage handlers. All the things I placed inside the outside pockets (usb sticks with photos and sky dive, snorkel experiences etc.) were lost. 🥺❤️🩹 I’m team hard shell now!
Hi Nora! I bought the day lite 40l duffel on Amazon- the zippers are quite difficult for me to get around the bag. Also, I attached the backpack straps and the little carabeener is sooooo hard I cannot get the clip to open because I can’t get the leverage! Lol I was wondering if you had that problem of if I got a bad bag or I am just a weakling
Durability. Many claim that hard-shell wins – I mean that’s the point right? – but then amazon is full of reviews of the plastic cracking which is essentially impossible for a softshell. Until someone actually tests it, I’m very sceptical that soft shell is actually more durable. E.g. imagine throwing (filled) large soft and hard shell suitcases respectively off a 30ft drop. You would expect all the hard materials to crack whereas the soft would simply absorb the impact.
Interesting concepts. I have a hard-shell zipper-less (latches) checked suitcase for international travel, which I bought in 2010, and still going strong, in spite of 30+ long international flights. Poly-carbonate is DIY easy to repair. My carry-on is a two-wheeled, soft-side top with rigid sides, same age as the other one, although a different brand. Nevertheless, they are showing their age, and specially the checked bag may be going into retirement this or next year.
I have owned the Hypath 2-in-1 soft side luggage for years. It’s actually 2 backpacks that zip together, one with wheels. I keep looking for better luggage, but for me, I just can’t find anything. I keep comparing, but am in agreement with you. Guess I’ll stick with what I have. Just weighed my carryon & it’s just 7#. Now I’m even more content.
Just got a hardshell with an outside pouch. I like the protection for my computer. I used to put it in my backpack but my packpack would get too heavy. Love the better protection the hard shell has. I also like the roller wheels so I can get it through the narrow aisles more easily when getting on and off the plane.
Ok, that settles it. I was looking at getting a carry-on bag for an upcoming Australia trip and I was almost about to get a Monos. But I think sticking to my gut and your analysis, soft sided is the way to go. Now i just have to decide between the 500 options of soft models. Haha. I am notoriously bad for thinking about these things way too much.
I am on the fence as I see your points about both. I purchased a brilliant knock-your-eyes-out yellow set of hard sided last year from Heys and used the medium size and the carry on to go to Comox in February. It was -40 in Calgary and when the luggage changed planes, they tore the wheel housing off one wheel. Heys replaced the bag free of charge which was great PR for them but now I am nervous about heading to Fort Lauderdale in February next year. I have kept my old perfect soft side American Tourister set of luggage from my work travelling days, just in case. It has quite a bit of wear but is just brilliantly easy to pack and I have never found any other brand designed so well. Fuchsia color so no man is going to touch it in error. My latest concern, regardless of type, other than weight of the empty bag, is the ease of opening the zippers with a pen and nobody seems to be talking about that. I never pack anything other than clothes and any thief would be sorely disappointed to find a case full of plus sized women’s wardrobe essentials.
I have soft shell, that looks more like the hard & has spinners. Spinners are a pain in European cities but essential for my back & good for security. I think it’s as light or lighter than those (about 8yo). I’m appalling for shopping while travelling but usually am well enough organised to freight stuff if I need to, still need a bag that takes double home. Been perusal your website & really enjoying. I’ve only road tripped last few years and found myself getting really anxious with a planned long haul (short) trip to UK at Christmas, your articles have really helped to remind me I love vagabond life. Think it’s just the distance + peak season + short time hyping me up. One thing for sure, I seem to take the same amount for 5 days as 5 months so no excuse for new luggage! Safe travels
Team hard shell here. I’ve used both and prefer hard shell for a number of reasons. I’ll just mention a couple. Not only are they easier to clean but I’m sure it’s harder for bedbugs to invade them. Yes they are still a thing. Also I prefer not to have the expandability. Most of us pack too much anyway. It keeps you honest.😂
Great article! We’ve been weighing all the same pros and cons and I am switching to a 2 wheel after making a wrong turn in the Netherlands and turning a 10 minute walk into an hour over some very rough streets while lugging spinners and too many bags. I will have 2 bags now with a 2 wheel that I know will fit Ryanair and a 30L backpack that I think I can get to fit properly as my personal item (may need a compression strap) plus I’ll wear my fleece jacket around my waist with my puffer and gloves in the pockets. Side note: one of the best things we carry in addition to our firestick is a bluetooth transmitter so we can watch movies with full sound quality and volume one person can watch something and not bother the other and we won;t bother neighbors. One bit of caution: if you get one be sure to get one that can do 2 sets of earbuds as many will only do one. They caost about $40.
Nora, I generally agree with your conclusions on the individual factors and the winner for each factor, and for many years I used soft-sided suitcases and was happy. But eventually, I bought an Away hard-sided suitcase (carry-on size but I always check it). One factor you did not include in your analysis was attractiveness/stylishness of the bag, and here I think the hard-side usually wins. To be honest, with my hard-sided Away case, I just feel more professional (even though I am retired) and more stylish; I just like the look of me and it. So, even with its drawbacks, I’m quite happy with my Away. Oh, and regarding durability: Cases like the Away have a life-time warranty, so if the wheels or zipper go bad, they will replace or repair the bag, and anecdotally, I understand Away is very good about such warranty claims.
Team soft side! I briefly reconsidered my long time stance after my checked bag sat in the rain and arrived at my destination with everything wet on my last trip, but accessibility still trumps all the other reasons. I’ve had my eye on your demo bag for a while now, want the backpack straps for cobblestone and train stations.
Literally just bought a 29″ soft luggage for an international trip. I had the same thought about the 50/50 split in having to pack and open and close. The soft I liked the box type storage with a lid to open and close. Maybe I’m being partial to what I’m used to but let’s see. I really was torn between the two types but went with what I know especially in terms of having to open the luggage last minute for something and the floor space it may take up in room etc.
I liked your realistic comparisons!! ❤ A total must … Carry on has to be under five lbs 😊 so that means i’m on team soft-side. I add art or stencil in acrylics to the outside so it is easy to identify anywhere – esp these days when sometimes grrrr! it can get checked!! I spray it with lots of fabric protector (like i spray my bag, shoes, hat etc) so it’s easy to wipe clean and ok in the rain! 🎉 Truly – lately i do the same thing to a cloth small underseater with 2 wheels ❤ so i don’t have store luggage above and far away from my seat… Porter —- 😅
I’ve always used soft-sided luggage. The bags have suffered some tears here and there, but I have heard that hard-shell luggage can crack to the point that your belongings end up all over the conveyor belt! Embedded wheels are important, and many hard-shell cases do not have these. To protect belongings in a downpour, keep a large garbage bag with you and put your stuff inside it for an extra layer of protection. Is it true that if these TSA locks that are embedded in the case get broken, you can’t get into your suitcase without breaking the zippers? Thanks for the article!
I’m going to be 72 later this month, and I still use a soft shell convertible backpack that can transform into a duffel bag. No wheels. My Minaal 21 litre Daily. I used to use a 35 litre bag, but learned how to downsize and go more minimalist. Whether for two weeks, two month, or indefinitely…my 21 litre and a small crossbody sling is all I take. Carry on always. Never a checked bag. No wheelie luggage for me….even at my age.
I appreciate your information, details, and enthusiasm. The one piece of information I did not hear, or may have missed, is dimensions. In traveling internationally, especially in Latin America, a common size limit for a carry-on is 21.7 in x 13.8 in x 9.8 in or 55 cm x 35 cm x 25 cm. The luggage in your article looks bigger than this, but could you clarify?
Brics has softsided 28 inch luggage that’s 8 lbs and it has 4 wheels The duffle that’s a carryon is 5.5 lbs Pricy but worth it to me I’ve had my hardshell luggage cracked open and split open and they had to tape my stuff that feel out into a plastic bag As for rain protection you can also spray it with scotchguard to waterproof it
I pack in a trunk hard side two pops and it’s open. I also have a Topo Design roller/soft and hard as well that’s great in between. Which bag I use depends on the trip. Once that hard side is packed (I hate zippers on hard side bags with a passion) unless I get extra screening at TSA it’s not opening till the hotel-my underseat has stone cold everything I need. You have in my opinion have to really know who you are as a person. I wanted hard sided with NO expansion-yes I realize that you can use the expansion like compression but I felt that it just encourages me to take way more than I should-no bueno. I don’t pay to check bags- also not a factor in why I pack carry on only. It’s because when I get off the aircraft I can walk right on out! For years I used an LL Bean rolling back pack on skate wheels and while it was smaller than most soft sided rollers and awkward to pack the main compartment-it was stone cold the best to manage on any roads and great on two wheels at airports. Still dragged out for a trip of less than 4/5 days. Since 2001 I have checked bags less than a dozen times planned and that was when my now 22 year old was little.
I have one of those old “brocade” soft suitcase groups…and the smallest on has 2 wheels and 2 little, stubby legs where other wheels would go…so, it stands up beautifully. Whether it would meet today’s standards for size, I don’t know…but it’s real handy to have a case that stands up securely!
im about to go home from a 5 week trip and I need to check in a bag with bottles of wine and liquor 😂 I’m team-soft shell & usually only do carry on backpack style so im contemplating of buying a small hard shell cuz if it does get tossed around, it has a little more protection. And yes, Im padding/stuffing it with clothes too. Im torn if i should go ahead with it 😅
One issue not covered is contents durability. A soft bag at the bottom of 6 other cases, contents will get crushed, hard shell, if it does not burst a seam will protect contents. On luggage conveyor the handlers throw soft bag down on the soft front not the hard back, potential damage to contents. Cheers Warren
Thank you for this, i learned alot, including a new a new luggage term: kickplate! Love this Osprey, I took the checked version on a trip to Uganda where we were required to have soft sided luggage (at a total of 35lbs 😳) so it could be crammed into the offroad vehicles we traveled in – it performed beautifully. Thanks Nora!
Good article 👍 I do have to disagree with lockable zippers being as good as built-in locks. While I’ve never actually gotten to use built in locks, I bet they wouldn’t get broken off by airline equipment and lost, as has happened to me multiple times with TSA padlocks (even on carryon luggage!). I just got home with a duffle bag (a spare initially carried inside other luggage in case of returning with more stuff) still having the twist-tie holding the zippers together but missing the lock (which I had to attach to the ends of the pulls). Since the twist-tie seemed to be as I left it, I figure the lock was pulled off by baggage-handling machinery rather than intentionally removed. More frustratingly, I once put my carryon in a sizer and had trouble pulling it out because something had caught. A rude airline employee accused me of forcing my bag in (which I hadn’t!) even though she should have been able to feel that it was something catching rather than tightness when she pulled it out. I later realized my lock was missing. Btw, the reason I try to use TSA locks to keep zippers closed and slightly deter thieves, instead of twist-ties or whatever, is not because I think they work better. It’s because I think TSA agents are more likely to put them back in place to hold the zipper closed. I particularly don’t understand the people who recommend zip ties; TSA agents can’t replace those even if they wanted to, they’re single-use plastic waste, and you need a blade to remove them when you want to open your luggage.
I purchased a great brand hard frame with soft sides luggage. It was suppose to be carry-on size for most major airlines, you can get it services at all major airports should you lose a wheel etc. Well, it turns out to be way to heavy empty and many airlines highly suggest that it be checked in. I’ll keep it for a check in luggage, cause it is solid and the wheels have been great so far. I was looking at getting a hard shell luggage for my carryon only trips, but now I think I’ll research the type of soft shell luggage that was featured in this article.
Just subscribed. Thank you for your practical travel tips, especially the security & money handling tips. We looked at both options today and opted for soft for all the reasons you mentioned, except with 4 “spinny” wheels instead of two. Spoiler: the axels on the partially concealed two wheels on one of our previous soft sides distorted so we ended up dragging the case instead of rolling it along. We have both hard& soft and have found the hard shell very impractical in handling and luggage storage.
I think one thing you forgot to mention was that if you have a personal item bag, you should be putting important items in that, so the point of pockets on the outside might be unnecessary for some. Especially if the airline is making you check your carry-on due to limited space in the overhead bins.
Great tips all around. As a lens-based artist: Nanuk 935 (5kg) + Peakdesign Everday Tote (Without Dividers: 1.05kg (the one you tried to love)). When on, or over water the Nanuk carry-on (for all film gear/docs – I have gone overboard a few times, and each tome the case became my life vest). The tote is for all the things I need to rapid access whilst in the sky, or use as a pillow. For Storage, the tote fits into the Nanuk, then used as a coffee table, etc.. Also the Nanuk, pull handle slightly opened becomes my support stand for my iPad for editing or watch movies whilst waiting to fly. SO, both; hard and soft for this old guy.
Tap here for all links: Luggage you saw: Blue carry-on luggage with pocket (still love): amzn.to/48nQi0A Green textured suitcase: amzn.to/42TljrX Silk blouse: bit.ly/3smTUB4 Pink textured suitcase (still love): amzn.to/42TljrX Gray backpack 15.7 version: amzn.to/3Hl05cK Striped backpack 15.7: amzn.to/3I9jrls Travel outfit: Pink t-shirt: bit.ly/3weeBAE Coral hoodie: bit.ly/3HZIY0u (large is size 10) Multi-colored necklace: amzn.to/49BUvyF Straw crossbody bag: amzn.to/3OGaLXC New sneaker that is so supportive: bit.ly/3SZCeWG Purple suitcase: Monos Special Edition Silver carry-on suitcase: amzn.to/49sya73 Black tote bag: bit.ly/LaurieToteBag Purple purse: amzn.to/3O2nxiP Star sneakers: bit.ly/3mWX0J5 Similar star sneakers: bit.ly/3OIGVBP **Wheel protectors: amzn.to/3wJVZsA Under airplane seat luggage (still love): amzn.to/49sEknB 2 wheeled 22″ luggage: amzn.to/4bLqj65 Wheel covers: amzn.to/3wJVZsA Weigh luggage scale: amzn.to/3OQKh5u Bracelet stack: amzn.to/3OPhaj5 Luggage rack (the best): amzn.to/3STXN9I Budget-Friendly Carry-on Bags: Soft-sided: bit.ly/49qgfxD Hardshell: bit.ly/4bSqv3t Soft-sided: bit.ly/3wxwsmw Similar to my son’s carry-on: bit.ly/4drzmJX **Free Packing List: bit.ly/FreeUltimatePackingList Amazon page: amazon.com/shop/traveltipsbylaurie Other travel tip articles: My best bags article: bit.
My Swiss Army (the knife company) suitcase has traveled with me for over two decades and still going strong. Has all the right features except for the quartet of wheels. They only made the two wheel styles back then, but they are recessed and have never loosened or stuck even after being dragged along cobblestone streets. The pull-up handle is solid and there is a side handle. The interior layout makes sense. Springing for quality does pay off in the long run.
I bought a wheeled carryon twenty seven years ago that I still use. It’s been all over the world with me. It has covered wheels (two of them) as well as a handle in the right place. It cost a small fortune back but it’s been worth every cent. I’ve been thinking about replacing it, but it just won’t die 😊
I love my 2 wheeled carry on. It allows me to have it slightly behind me at a slant so that people are forced to keep their distance when standing in line. Yes, I know this can be done with 4 wheelers also, but you’re less likely to slant a 4 wheeler. You’re more likely to keep it at your side or in front. Then people behind can just stand right up behind you. Very few people respect personal space nowadays, especially in lines.
So I took a promotion with my company back in October that requires a significant amount of travel and I must say your website has helped me tremendously. I’d just like to say you for all the great dialogue surrounding travel. I also truly enjoy the episodes that you’ve included your husband in as well.
Very, thorough, comprehensive analysis. Weight matters A LOT. Two more tips: I got an attractive silver cloth suitcase that in short order had mars and stains all over it from having been checked. Airlines attach gummy labels onto bags and when the label is removed the glue can be left behind and it attracts dirt that cannot be removed. So stick with ubiquitous boring black. Second, choose a brand that has a website with customer service. The airline broke one of the wheels on my bag and the manufacturer was able to send me a replacement.
Your tips are awesome!!! I had to travel for work 26-36 flights every year. I asked airline crew what was the best luggage so I bought Tumi for myself -large hard side and soft carryon, and I bought my son Briggs Riley about the same time for graduation. They were expensive but with the amount of travel I needed it to hold up and to last, I worked way too much to spend time looking for luggage.. That was 21 years ago, the handle on my large bag has finally stopped working right. My son still has his B/R and it looks and works great. if you can swing it, buy what will last. I have seen clothes all over the bag pick up because zippers burst open. I have seen pretty pink luggage really messed up because it was dropped on the tarmac. I have seen people with their luggage full of water due to downpours during transfer. Be wise when you shop.
I so appreciate how you emphasized that you’re “not pushing the brand.” I pushed and pulled my wobbly-handled 21″ upright, and the telescope broke mid-trip (and it was an international trip). My fault — I’m a loyal subscriber to your website but sadly I chose the pretty new suitcase. And it was the two-wheeler. I’ve learned my lesson and going forward will follow every single tip that you discuss.👍🏼
Wow, this article is incredibly informative! Thanks for sharing these 10 luggage features to avoid when shopping for a new suitcase. I appreciate your honest review of different suitcase brands and your personal experiences with them. Your tips on checking for the quality are also very helpful. Keep up the great work, and I’ll definitely be referring back to this article next time I’m in the market for a new suitcase!
OMG Laurie you are SO RIGHT #10 feature! I’ve been a flight attendant for almost 43yrs. My first airline we had Eiffle crew bags(assist lifting handle on left side) which I love. My current airline again we had Eiffle bags. About 5yrs ago my current airline switched from Eiffle to Tumi. Ugh, the assist handle is now on the right side. It seems like such a small thing but IT’S A HUGE PAIN if you travel a lot. If I could switch back to Eiffle I wouldn’t think twice!
I love all the pretty colored suitcases, but I have always had a teacher’s limited budget. I started out with Samsonite soft sided suitcases, 3 sizes, and I stick with Samsonite soft sides. They are usually on sale and are a good deal even if you can’t get a ‘set.’ Right now I have bright red, deep green, and blue.
Great tips! I even look for a suitcase with a handle on the bottom to help getting it stowed away easily in other forms of transport. Always amazes me that people will spend thousands on their travels and be concerned about the money they’ll save on jewelry and alcohol at the duty free; however, buy the cheapest suitcase on offer. There’s a 50% chance it won’t make it home intact.
Why do luggage departments not have an airport carry on measuring box…..there are all different sizes and not all will fit at the airport. I use soft side IT suitcases….never damaged after hundreds if flight,, feather weight, sturdy handle and wheels. Solid suitcases are most likely not to fit in the measurement box.
I’ve used travel pro crew for over 25 years and it’s a soft-sided luggage and you can get into zippered compartments very easily without opening up the entire bag for phone accessories and pens and so forth The last few years I have switched to just using a backpack I’m 72 The backpack is comfortable if you don’t pack too much and you don’t need to pack too much … Wash clothes in sink and or laundromats Hard-Sided luggage is a stupid idea
The worst thing I ever bought, I learned quickly about. I was a flight attendant for 32 years never had to check a bag. It was always up in the overhead and I always had a spot. As soon as I retired and started traveling on my own I started checking my luggage. I learned quickly if you travel to a place like London, where it rains quite a bit or any station that has a rainstorm your luggage is most likely going to get soaked and all of your clothes on the inside if you don’t have a hard sided luggage. The downside to that is hard sided luggage gets broken. Often the wheels get broken off. The luggage shell gets cracked if you travel enough.it’s really hard to settle on what is the best luggage because they all have downfalls right now I’m traveling with a hard shell metal luggage that has no zippers because my last zipper hard shell was broken into by someone after I checked it in
Was trying to decide between Level 8 & Away and watched some articles and chose the Away. Have used it on two overseas trips and am disappointed in several things-the wobbly handle when fully packed, hard to extend the handle when fully packed & if I put my backpack on top, it doesn’t roll well on carpet. For awhile thought it was me and my weak shoulder from surgery, but it’s the suitcase itself. It weighs only 28# so it’s not overpacked. Thanks for all your articles and I love the backpack that you have with the stripes-bought one and it’s great!
Just travel light at all cost… use any case you like. If you don’t travel like a move houses, then don’t need to cares about features. My whole family of travelled in carry ons for 3 weeks to countries, so many jealous looks …. We used up almost everything and did two laundry stops. So nice. The happiness that comes with a beat up old suitcase is that if it breaks, throw it away with joy and buy a new one. Such happiness. I did that on the last two trips, just throw away old ones. My two kiddos love the hello kitty suitcases we had. No issue that it doesn’t roll well, let’s beat it up and enjoy it before a new one. I always carry tape, needle and thread that I actually had to use one time😂. can fix any zipper or buttons until you search for a new one . I saw two older couple on the euro rail with four luggages, the guy must be in his 70s, dealing with two heavy duffle bags and two large check-ins for him and his wife. OMG, I almost said a little prayer for them. His wife looks like the lion king in the middle of stampede in the train station. I actually watched this entire informative article twice before my last trip and ended up using 2 beat up suitcase with wobbly wheels. Tossing them around was fun on the cobble stone roads in Amsterdam. They still work, need to finish them off on the next trip. Bon voyage. Please please pack light.
I find your articles very helpful because of your concise, practical explanation. Thank you. Question: What is your opinion of bags that open on one side rather than zip in half? I had a hard sided carryon similar to some in your article, and found it annoying that I needed twice as much space in my hotel room to open it. The soft sided one I currently have (though old and lacking some features), seems to be more accessible since can reach everything without doubling the floor/carrier space to open it.
Great article! When I chose a suitcase, my 3 important features was textured surface to minimize scratches, a stable handle and smooth durable wheels. We got the Travelers Choice Silverwood II. They have 2 wheels in each corner that are half embedded, but they are 2 chubby, round, wide, and low to the ground wheels, so the stability is amazing. And since they are low to the ground, the shock absorption is flawless making it less susceptible to get knocked off. And the handle on it is shaped like a T…so it just feels more comfortable the the regular straight across handle.
Okay weighing in on the 10lb+ empty weight bag issue. Trust me folks, you are not going to care how cute your bag is, how much it weighs empty or how well it rolls until you land in hurricane conditions or your bag goes thru the automatic bag shredder at DIA. After both our bags (Away brand) got destroyed coming thru DIA when we were forced to gate check our carry ons, I decided to look into a virtually indestructible case. Since none exist, I found the closest thing in Pelicans. Yea they are hideous. Yea they are HEAVY empty (mine is just under 10lbs empty), yea they aren’t the easiest to roll but they survive. They have study clasps that you can actually put a real padlock on. They are hinged with no zippers, and an airtight seal. They are solid, tough, and if they are good enough for photographers and others with delicate equipment then that was good enough for me. We landed in Iceland in literal hurricane conditions. Wind blowing 70mph with sideways firehose rain, it was amazing we even landed. Passengers watched with horror as the bag cart was blown over on the tarmac scattering suitcases everywhere where they eventually wound up against a barrier where water was draining. Most of them were submerged. Poor handlers running after them in that wind and rain. The bags started coming off the belt literally streaming water out the zippers, totally saturated, many split at sides. People were lifting their water logged bags (yes even hard cases because water seeped thru the zippers) and water just poured out.
I bought a soft-sided faux leather carry on at KMart in the early 80s and a large soft-sided faux leather check in bag in the mid 80s, both of which are still in excellent condition and I still use for storage. I do still also use them for travel on the rare occasions I get to travel. And both were very inexpensive, even for the times.
Thank you for being so honest Laurie. I usually use Antler carry on suitcase which is a great product but I recently switched to Eastpak Transit’R 4 wheel small cabin suitcase which is sturdy and very well made. It comes with a lifetime warranty for complete peace of mind. You are truly amazing and I always look forward to your content 🫶🏽
After a lot of research, I ended up buying a BÉIS carryon. It checks off all the boxes you mentioned plus more, AND it’s cute! I also bought the matching mini weekender as my under seat personal item. I’ve purchased so many of the items you’ve recommended and feel so prepared for my European cruise in the Spring. Thanks Laurie!
Sorry you got a quirky Monos! I have the bigger carryon Mono. One thing I love about monos is the compression bar. Really packs a ton and has made every airline above space. I agree with your tips. Also I like when suitcases “deep side” is on flat side – not the bar side! If worried about “theft” rather than locks, Amazon inexpensive stretchy suitcase covers not only protect and easy to use, most thefts will avoid them. Some really decent suitcases out there that are reasonable too! Only suitcase I gave away quickly was the one with handle rather than zipper! If you pack tight (always!) Then the slots are not always easy to align at least for me!
Good afternoon, Mrs. Laurie… I consider myself a world-class traveler. I remember you about a year or two years ago advertising a certain suitcase that pushes up three different sizes. I did purchase that, and I can say it’s a little bit different. I have not used it yet, but I will. Just want to give a shout-out for this article. Thank you. I do try to test luggage suitcases because I had a fetish for luggage suitcases of all different sorts. I will keep these tips in mind for future purchases.
Love love your tips ! Just last week I purchased two carry on suitcases. Both were Travelpro, one is a rollerboard and the other 8 wheel spinner. The tips you gave are the same criteria I use when purchasing luggage. I chose the Travelpro because of the weight of the product. My previous luggage I absolutely love, but I wanted lighter luggage. I seriously looked at the hardshell luggage but couldn’t bring myself to purchase one. Sort of set in my ways I guess. I found them a bit heavier but I really liked the look of hardshell. Perhaps one day! Thank you for all the tips and tricks. You are always such a joy to watch!
Hi, what a great article, thanks for sharing. Let me bring another perspective of your tip #10 (for right-handed). When the suitcase is in vertical position the handle near to the body makes everything more even to hold as you said, leaving also more space between the suitcase and the leg. Now consider the situation where you need to carry it in the horizontal position. If you keep the handle near the body (for the same reasons before) the wheels will be in front of you with a greater risk of people injury or get their clothes dirty. As I said, just a different POV ;). Cheers from Brazil.
Hey Laurie! Watch your articles all the time with my dog and a few snacks at night. Not kidding about the wheels! I just upgraded to the pickle green Level 8 Carryon …I love to! I fly to my sisters and use it to cruise, always just a carryon. My first use I stopped on the airplane jetway to attach a valet tag and had a runaway suitcase…you should have seen that thing go! I yelled runaway ! and the baggage handler caught it…a few good laughs.Then my last cruise up and down the gangway up and down escalators, etc with my sister …what a great suitcase! It basically drives itself 4 wheels on the ground! (Same in airports just a small grip to guide it) . I watched my sister struggle dragging her cute but cheap palm tree suitcase on 2 wheels behind her..never again! Well worth the investment! thank you!
Great tips! One thing I can say about the rolling on 4 wheels is that it’s only useful when walking slowly. At the speed I typically walk through the terminal, I find that it’s easier to tip the suitcase on one side, where just two sets of wheels engage the floor. Less rolling resistance and faster travel. So make sure to test your bag at a 45 degree angle, rolling on 2 wheels.