You may want to buy hard-shell luggage if you'll be packing breakable items. It could offer better security than soft-sided baggage because it can't be ripped open as easily and usually has integrated locks. Aluminum luggage can be even more secure. It often has metal drawbolt latches instead of zippers.

The primary advantages of hardside (hard-shell) luggage are protection, security, and cleanliness. Constructed from materials like polycarbonate, ABS, or aluminum, hardside bags offer a rigid shield for fragile items like electronics, glassware, or souvenirs that could be crushed in a soft-sided bag. They are also inherently more water-resistant, protecting your belongings from rain on the tarmac or spills in the cargo hold. From a security standpoint, many hardside suitcases feature a "clamshell" design with integrated TSA locks rather than exterior zippers, making them much harder for thieves to "puncture" with a pen. In 2026, hardside luggage is also favored for its hygiene; you can easily wipe down the exterior with disinfectant after a trip, which is much more difficult with porous fabric bags. While they lack the external "stuff-it" pockets of softside bags, their ability to maintain a consistent shape and protect high-value contents makes them the preferred choice for long-haul international travel and "check-in" use.