Softsided Luggage: Which Is Best? Hard-shell luggage is the way to go for durability and maneuverability, but soft-shells often pack more easily.
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Unlike soft-sided bags, hardshell luggage is easy to clean. You don't have to worry about stains from weather-related incidents, a leaky toiletry bag, the coffee you were drinking while running to catch your flight, or anything else life throws your way.
Hard-shell luggage is the way to go for durability and maneuverability, but soft-shells often pack more easily. American Way, Hemispheres, CultureMap, JohnnyJet, and more.
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.
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.
Hard-shell luggage is the way to go for durability and maneuverability, but soft-shells often pack more easily. American Way, Hemispheres, CultureMap, JohnnyJet, and more.
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.
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.
Aluminum luggage is more durable than polycarbonate or soft-sided luggage, though it's still prone to scratches and dents. It's also more secure, as aluminum suitcases typically close via latches rather than zippers.
Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Carry-OnIt's no secret that Travelpro is one of the most recommended brands by flight attendants, and this Maxlite 5 softside carry-on is a great example of why.
That said, a hard case around your valuables can also mean they stay more protected during rough handling. Fragile items are less likely to break since the bag won't compress. Hard shell bags may also be less susceptible to slashing by thieves armed with blades.
Hardsided luggage tends to be more waterproof than its softsided counterpart, so if you're trudging through rain or snow, your clothing may stay drier longer. However, hardsided luggage may sustain more scratches and scuffs when exposed to thrashes and bumps.
Hardside luggage materials offer maximum protection for suitcase contents and can withstand rough baggage handling. While stronger than most soft-side bags, hard-side luggage can be more difficult to fit into crowded overhead compartments, as you cannot compress the bags to fit in small spaces.
Hard-sided luggage is dented: Most hard-sided luggage that has a dent is made of ABS and can be repaired. Manufacturers like Samsonite commonly use ABS in manufacturing luggage. Use a 1600w or higher hair dryer to heat up the area where the dent is.
Not every bag, or every traveler for that matter, is built the same – but for the more part, you can sit, lean or stack stuff on your hard luggage without worry.
While Smart luggage does make travelling much easier, one of the biggest drawbacks with using them is that they cause a premium to buy, certainly much more expensive than traditional luggage. Sometimes, they tend to be 3 times as expensive as a regular carry-on of the same size.
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.
For business and frequent travelers: Go with polycarbonate luggage, as it's the strongest luggage plastic. It's sturdy enough, very resistant to cracks, and it isn't too heavy. For airline crews and extra-frequent travelers: Go with aluminum as it's the most durable material used in luggage.