How durable are hard suitcases?

A hardshell suitcase is typically better than a softside bag for protection (as long as your items are packed safely inside, too). However, all hardshell materials are prone to getting scuffed, scratched, or possibly cracked more so than with fabric suitcases.



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Hard shell suitcases can crack, which causes them to fall apart more rapidly than soft luggage. To avoid this concern choose a suitcase made from polycarbonate ABS that stands up to the rigors of travel. The FERGE brand makes a TSA-lockable suitcase on wheels using polycarbonate ABS.

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Hard case luggage doesn't easily fit into compartments the way soft luggage does. A con of some hard surface luggage pieces is that they can be much heavier than cloth cases. On the other hand, a pro is that many are available with extending handles, bottom wheels and other innovative features.

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The 12 Most Durable Luggage Brands
  1. LEVEL8 Luggage. Credit: LEVEL8. ...
  2. Away. Credit: Away Travel. ...
  3. Pelican. Credit: Pelican. ...
  4. Briggs & Riley. Credit: Briggs & Riley. ...
  5. Eagle Creek. Credit: Eagle Creek. ...
  6. Samsonite. Credit: Samsonite. ...
  7. Delsey. Credit: Delsey. ...
  8. Travelpro. Credit: Travelpro.


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What to look for when shopping for the best hardside luggage
  • Aluminum is the most durable material for hardside luggage, but it's much heavier than other options and can be pretty expensive.
  • Polycarbonate is the most popular material for hard luggage.


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Consider hard-shell luggage if you want durable, easy-to-maneuver luggage with a robust exterior to protect your valuables. Soft-shell luggage can be for you if you're seeking versatility, ease of packing, and a big interior.

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Swedish pilot Maria Pettersson prefers “half soft-sided” luggage, which offers a bit more support than the typical soft-sided luggage, but provides more flexibility than hard-sided luggage.

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Best Overall Luggage: Samsonite Both hardside and softside styles from the brand have excelled in our tests. We've also been impressed by each of the sizes, including carry-ons, checked bags and underseat luggage.

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For maximum durability, the handle should have little to no wiggling or rattling as you pull the bag. Also, check for smooth movement as you pull it up and retract it. The suitcase's wheels should roll smoothly and stay in place. Gently jiggle the wheels with your hands to make sure they are firmly attached.

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Soft Versus Hard Shell Hard shell suitcases can crack, which causes them to fall apart more rapidly than soft luggage. To avoid this concern choose a suitcase made from polycarbonate ABS that stands up to the rigors of travel.

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Soft-sided luggage gives you more packing flexibility, but hard shells protect your belongings better. Also, hard shells tend to be heavier, but soft-sided ones can damage more easily. There are good and bad features for both and, in the end, it really comes down to personal preference.

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Additionally, hard suitcases are often very lightweight and spacious, and are sometimes even lighter than soft suitcases! This is a big plus when trying to keep your baggage weight to a minimum, or when you're traveling carry on only and want to keep things as light as possible.

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In short, the 3-1-1 rule is: Each liquid you bring through the TSA checkpoint must be in a 3.4-ounce or smaller container (3), all containers must be placed inside one clear quart-size plastic bag (1) and each passenger is only allowed one plastic bag (1).

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Hard-sided luggage: Pros and cons Pros: Water- and stain-resistant; easy to wipe spills off. Rigid exterior protects fragile contents. Variety of four-wheel spinner styles.

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Most hard-shell luggage comes in the classic clamshell design, where a zipper down the middle opens the case in an even, 50/50 split. That way, you can pack both sides evenly to create an equal weight distribution.

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25 - 27 Checked Luggage They are ideal for trips of 5 to 7 days, or longer, depending on how you pack.

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