Polycarbonate has high tensile strength and is extremely long-lasting. Of all hardside, plastic suitcase materials, it is by far the most durable. ABS is ranked second.
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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. It is both lightweight and durable, but it can scratch easily.
When comparing polypropylene vs. polycarbonate bags such as the Platinum® Elite Medium Check-In Expandable Hardside Spinner, it's important to remember that while polypropylene is lighter, polycarbonate is the sturdier choice. A polycarbonate suitcase may cost more but will offer more rigid protection.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Bright red, bright green, bright blue, and even bright yellow are good luggage colors. They are striking enough that you can easily spot them on the luggage carousel, but they aren't light enough that they will show all the wear and tear of having been used for several trips.
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.
Soft Versus Hard ShellHard 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 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.
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.
Soft-sided luggage is generally lighter than hard luggage, so if you're worried about going over an airline's weight limit, it's a smart option, as it gives you more leeway to use those pounds for your belongings rather than for the suitcase.
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.
Together, the ABS plastic blend makes a nice impact resistant material that can be easily processed into various shapes, while offering a nice gloss property. Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene plastic is also much more affordable than the more expensive polycarbonate sheet material.
ABS offers a cost-effective solution while maintaining satisfactory mechanical properties. This affordability makes it a popular choice in industries where cost optimization is important. Polycarbonate, on the other hand, tends to be more expensive than ABS.