Polyester and nylon are typically the two lightest choices if you prefer soft-sided suitcases. For hardside suitcases, polycarbonate, ABS, and polypropylene are popular, with polypropylene being the lightest option.
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Soft-shell luggage tends to be a tad lighter than hard-sided, which lets you carry more contents without exceeding the airline weight limit.
Polycarbonate is more flexible than ABS and has a higher impact resistance. As a result, it makes for a stronger suitcase. ABS suitcases are cheaper than Polycarbonate ones, but they are often heavier and do not last as long.
Samsonite is known for making some of the lightest luggage available, including the popular Cosmolite range – but it tends to be priced at a premium. Samsonite's more affordable sister brand, American Tourister, also makes quality lightweight luggage, as do other major brands including Antler.
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.
Because softshell luggage has more give, a hard shell suitcase can be better at protecting fragile contents, assuming you cushion it well inside. On the other hand, that rigid exterior makes hardshell bags unable to be compressed to squeeze into tight spaces like softsided bags are more apt to allow.
The main drawback is that hard-shell luggage can't be twisted to fit into a small space. Hard-shell suitcases also require a lot of room to store at home, making them less convenient in this sense.
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.
Nylon bags resist tears and abrasion better than polyester. Nylon tends to have a lower Deniers range than polyester but is nonetheless stronger. The Platinum® Elite 25” Check-In Expandable Spinner is an excellent example of a high-density nylon bag.
Durability and securityMore and less durability can be found in softsided luggage than hardsided luggage. On the one hand, it is more prone to scratches and stains, harder to clean and less protective of valuables if the bag is thrown or pushed around during transit.
Monos Check-In Large. For those looking to secure a sturdy and dependable checked baggage option, Monos' large Check-In is made out of aerospace-grade polycarbonate, known for its extreme durability, and features tough YKK zippers that can withstand every type of pull.
Bright colored luggage also has an advantage if your bags get lost during transit. While uncommon, this does happen. Airline staff will have an easier time locating missing bags if they're colorful and stand out on luggage carts. If you don't own bright colored luggage, you can still make your luggage stand out.