When it comes to air travel, savvy air travelers understand the importance of reliable and durable luggage that can withstand the rigors of a long journey. While carry-on luggage is ideal for shorter trips, for longer trips, or when traveling with family, a dependable checked bag is essential. The market offers a range of popular checked suitcases that excel in durability, capacity, and maneuverability, ensuring your belongings remain intact even when handled by busy baggage handlers.
One top pick that stands out in the realm of hard-shell checked luggage is the 28-inch Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Luggage. This stylish, durable, and spacious suitcase has been thoroughly tested and examined to simulate the treatment it may encounter during a long trip. From being dropped and wheeled through the bustling streets of New York City to enduring a flight of stairs, this suitcase proves its worth with its outstanding durability. Its high-capacity design allows you to pack and unpack with ease, and its maneuverability ensures smooth navigation through any obstacle course.
For frequent fliers and occasional jet-setters alike, choosing the right luggage is of utmost importance. A high-strength exterior that can withstand wear and tear is a must, as is the maneuverability to navigate busy airports and transfers effortlessly. The Samsonite Freeform Carry-on Spinner is a crème de la crème choice in the hardside variety. Its top-notch design and rigid frame prevent breaking and crushing, while its sleek and modern appeal makes it a standout in style. Tested and examined by the Travel + Leisure team, this compact and spacious suitcase offers durability and expandability, making it one of the top picks for both checked bags and carry-ons.
Best Hard Shell Checked Luggage
When it comes to investing in the best hard shell checked luggage, it is essential to consider the needs of the traveler. For those seeking a no-fuss experience, hardshell roller suitcases are a smart choice. Their sturdy and dependable construction safeguards your belongings, and their maneuverability allows for easy navigation through airport doors and tight spaces. The Samsonite Freeform Carry-on Spinner, with its smooth-rolling capabilities and perfect scores in testing, is a favorite among travelers. Its compact yet spacious design, durable shell, and expandable feature make it a top pick in the market.
1.) Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Luggage:
The Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Luggage with Spinner Wheels is a remarkable checked bag that combines durability and style. Its polycarbonate exterior resists impacts, scratches, dents, and gashes, ensuring that it maintains its original form even after rigorous handling. This hard side spinner suitcase’s lightweight design is a major advantage, as it allows travelers to pack more without exceeding weight limits.
The maneuverability of the Samsonite Winfield 2 is exceptional, thanks to its smooth spinner wheels. Whether on carpet or gravel, this suitcase glides effortlessly, making it effortless to navigate through crowded airports or busy streets. Inside, the interior offers ample space for storage, with an expandable storage system and a zippered mesh barrier that allows for easy organization and separation of clean clothes from worn ones during a trip.
One of the standout features of this suitcase is its affordable mid-market price range. Despite its impressive quality and features, it falls on the lower side of the price spectrum, making it an excellent investment for travelers seeking a reliable and stylish checked bag. The Samsonite Winfield 2 is available in a variety of colors, adding a sleek and stylish touch to your luggage collection.
When it comes to performance, this suitcase has been rated highly by travelers. It sustains minimal scuffs and marks, and any rare damage sustained can be attributed to the unavoidable wear and tear of travel. Its smooth surfaces make it easy to clean, ensuring that it maintains its exceptional appearance even after multiple trips. The compression straps within the interior provide added security for your belongings, preventing any shifting during transit.
In conclusion, the Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Luggage with Spinner Wheels is a top choice in the best hard shell checked luggage category. Its lightweight, durable, and spacious design, coupled with its stylish aesthetics, make it an exceptional choice for travelers. With its impressive maneuverability, variety of colors, and affordable price, this suitcase offers a winning combination of functionality and style.
2.) Kenneth Cole Out of Bounds Hardside Suitcase:
The Kenneth Cole Reaction Out Of Bounds 28-Inch Hardside Suitcase is a top choice for travelers seeking a reliable and stylish luggage option. This suitcase combines practical features with a contemporary design, making it a standout choice in the market.
One of the standout features of this suitcase is its sturdy handle and smooth-rolling wheels. The handle provides a comfortable grip, allowing travelers to navigate through airports with ease. The spinner wheels effortlessly glide across various surfaces, making it a breeze to maneuver through crowded spaces and busy baggage claim areas.
The exterior of the Kenneth Cole Reaction Out Of Bounds suitcase is not only aesthetically pleasing but also durable. Constructed from high-quality materials, this bag can withstand the rigors of travel and protect your belongings. It’s streamlined design and bold color options, such as kelly green or magenta, make it easy to spot on the luggage carousel.
In terms of affordability, the Kenneth Cole Reaction Out Of Bounds suitcase excels as a budget pick. With its reasonable price point, this suitcase offers excellent value for money. Despite being an affordable option, it doesn’t compromise on quality. The limited 10-year warranty provides peace of mind and a considerable period of protection for your investment.
When it comes to capacity, this suitcase offers ample space for clothing and other essentials. Whether you are a meticulous packer or going on a longer trip, the roomy interior of this suitcase accommodates your needs. The well-made construction ensures that your belongings remain secure throughout your journey.
Weighing just a few pounds and measuring at inches, the Kenneth Cole Reaction Out Of Bounds 28-Inch Hardside Suitcase strikes the perfect balance between being lightweight and providing sufficient space for your belongings. The swivel wheels and sturdy handle contribute to its ease of use, ensuring that traveling becomes a hassle-free experience.
In summary, the Kenneth Cole Reaction Out Of Bounds 28-Inch Hardside Suitcase is an excellent choice for travelers seeking a reliable, well-made, and affordable luggage option. With its contemporary design, bold color options, and durable construction, this suitcase serves its purpose while making a stylish statement. Whether you are a frequent traveler or planning a vacation, this suitcase offers bang for your buck, combining functionality and aesthetics seamlessly.
3.) Travelpro Platinum Elite Hardside Luggage:
The Travelpro Platinum Elite Large Check-In Expandable Hardside Spinner is a remarkable suitcase that combines the finest materials and advanced features to create a truly luxurious travel experience. Crafted from a blend of polycarbonate and aluminum, this hard side suitcase boasts a durable and striking exterior shell that is both lightweight and sturdy. The trompe l’oeil textures add a touch of artistic elegance to its design, making it a true dream for fashion-forward travelers.
With a generous capacity, this bag provides ample space to fit all your belongings while still meeting the weight limits imposed by airlines. Despite its size, the Travelpro Platinum Elite Large Check-In Expandable Hardside Spinner remains easily maneuverable, thanks to its spinner wheels and responsive hardware. Whether you’re navigating crowded airport terminals or tackling sudden direction changes, this suitcase glides effortlessly, making your journey a breeze.
Durability is a key feature of this high-quality luggage. It has been extensively tested to withstand the rigors of travel, including being tossed, caught, and subjected to the heaviest of burdens. The robust materials and sturdy construction ensure that this suitcase stands up to the demands of frequent use. Furthermore, the exterior shell is resistant to scratches and scuffs, maintaining its impressive appearance even after years of travel.
Cleaning the Travelpro Platinum Elite Large Check-In Expandable Hardside Spinner is a breeze, thanks to its spot-cleaning capability. You can easily wipe away any dirt or stains, keeping your luggage looking brand new throughout your adventures. This attention to detail and maintenance is sure to impress potential purchasers who value both style and functionality.
While this suitcase may be on the heavier side compared to other options, the added weight is a small downside considering its numerous advantages. The heftier build ensures that it can accommodate more of your belongings, making it perfect for longer trips or for those who prefer to pack heavier items. Moreover, the weight limit is well within the range accepted by airlines, allowing you to travel worry-free.
In terms of pricing, the Travelpro Platinum Elite Large Check-In Expandable Hardside Spinner offers excellent value for its features and quality. Considering its durability, expandable capacity, and ease of maneuverability, this suitcase is a worthwhile investment for travelers who prioritize both style and functionality.
In summary, the Travelpro Platinum Elite Large Check-In Expandable Hardside Spinner is a top-tier hard shell checked luggage that ticks all the boxes for discerning travelers. With its durable and striking exterior, high-quality materials, impressive capacity, and easily maneuverable spinner wheels, this suitcase is sure to delight those who appreciate both aesthetics and functionality. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience the luxury and convenience offered by this exceptional travel companion.
In conclusion, when it comes to the best hard shell-checked luggage, the market offers a wide range of options that cater to different travelers’ needs. From the durable and spacious 28-inch Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Luggage to the stylish and reliable Samsonite Freeform Carry-on Spinner, these top picks excel in durability, capacity, maneuverability, and standout features. By choosing the right luggage, travelers can navigate their journeys with ease, safeguard their belongings, and enjoy a hassle-free and enjoyable travel experience.
4.) Samsonite Freeform Hardside Spinner:
The Samsonite Freeform Medium Spinner is an exceptional choice when it comes to hard shell checked luggage. Designed with durability and convenience in mind, this suitcase has been rigorously tested and proven to perform well in various scenarios. The wheels on this spinner are not only cost-effective but also offer smooth and effortless maneuverability. Additionally, the expandable zipper ensures a perfect fit for your belongings, making it a winner in terms of functionality.
Weighing your options for the ideal luggage? The Samsonite Freeform Medium Spinner incorporates a compression panel and X-shaped straps, providing optimal organization and securing your items during travel. Moreover, the zippered compartment is perfect for storing odds and ends, allowing for easy access when needed. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or simply looking for a roller with ample internal space, this suitcase is sure to exceed your expectations.
The expandable feature of this spinner truly sets it apart. With just a simple unzipping action, you can increase the internal capacity of the suitcase, accommodating any additional items you may pick up along your journey. Despite its expandability, the Samsonite Freeform Medium Spinner remains light on the scale, making it an excellent choice for those who value a lightweight luggage option.
When it comes to portability, this suitcase has you covered. The company’s site understands the importance of carrying your load with ease, and that’s why they have equipped this spinner with comfortable, cushioned handles. Whether you’re navigating flights of stairs or maneuvering through an apartment building, the telescopic handle ensures a firm grip and easy change of direction. Unlike flimsier alternatives, this spinner remains sturdy even when packed full to the brim.
Concerned about potential damage during your travels? The Samsonite Freeform Medium Spinner has undergone a drop test, proving its ability to withstand scuffs, scratches, and even structural damage. Rest assured that your belongings will remain well-protected, as this suitcase is designed to resist dents and cracks. All this durability is achieved without sacrificing the internal capacity or weight of the suitcase.
In conclusion, the Samsonite Freeform Medium Spinner is an excellent choice for anyone in need of the best hard shell checked luggage. Its lightweight and easy rolling capabilities make it a top contender, while its sturdiness ensures your belongings stay secure. With a focus on organization and durability, this spinner comes highly recommended by experts in the field. Don’t compromise on quality when it comes to your travel needs, choose the Samsonite Freeform Medium Spinner for a worry-free journey.
5.) Rockland Melbourne Hardside Luggage:
Rockland Melbourne Hardside Expandable Spinner Wheel Luggage offers the perfect solution for travelers seeking reliable and stylish luggage for their short breaks or vacations. This 2-piece expandable spinner set provides ample packing space to accommodate all your belongings. The set includes a large expandable spinner case and a small expandable spinner case, both made of lightweight ABS material, ensuring durability and protection for your items during transit.
One of the standout features of this luggage is its multi-directional spinner wheels, which offer excellent maneuverability and a smooth ride. These wheels allow you to effortlessly navigate through crowded airports or busy streets, making your travel experience hassle-free. The telescoping push-button handle ensures comfort while moving the luggage, allowing you to adjust it to a comfortable position for easy maneuvering.
The Rockland Melbourne Hardside Expandable Spinner Wheel Luggage also boasts a clamshell design, making packing a cinch. You can easily access the inside of the luggage and organize your clothes, souvenirs, and other essentials. The expandable dimensions provide additional packing space when needed, allowing you to bring back more memories without worrying about storage limitations.
Inside the luggage, you’ll find fully-lined interiors that not only protect your belongings but also add a touch of elegance to the overall design. The stunning exteriors of this luggage set make it visually appealing and standout among other options in the market. It’s a value set that caters to travelers on a budget, providing excellent features and functionality at an affordable price point.
Whether you’re a frequent flyer or someone who enjoys taking short trips with your family, the Rockland Melbourne Hardside Expandable Spinner Wheel Luggage is a reliable companion that meets your travel needs. Its lightweight construction, sturdy ABS material, and thoughtful design make it an ideal choice for any traveler. Pack your belongings with confidence, knowing that they will be protected throughout your journey, and enjoy the convenience and style this luggage set has to offer.
In summary, the Rockland Melbourne Hardside Expandable Spinner Wheel Luggage is the best hard shell checked luggage option for travelers seeking a reliable, lightweight, and budget-friendly solution. Its expandable design, smooth maneuverability, fully-lined interiors, and stunning exteriors make it a perfect choice for any journey. Whether you’re embarking on a short break or a family vacation, this luggage set offers the packing space and functionality you need while ensuring your belongings remain safe and secure during transit.
Buying Guide:
Size:
When it comes to the size of hard shell checked luggage, there are various factors to consider. Suitcase manufacturers design their products to meet the requirements set by airlines in terms of size restrictions. For travelers who prefer a compact option, small cases or carry-on luggage can be suitable choices. These cabin-sized hard side suitcases are specifically designed to fit in the overhead bins of most airlines, ensuring a hassle-free travel experience.
Airline regulations often specify linear measurements to determine if a suitcase is within acceptable size limits. It is important to check these restrictions before embarking on a journey, as exceeding the size limitations may result in additional fees or the need to check the luggage. Besides size, the weight of the case is another crucial aspect to remember. Airlines have specific weight restrictions for both carry-on and checked cases, so it’s essential to keep this factor in mind when choosing a suitcase.
When considering the size of hard shell checked luggage, it’s important to take into account not only the external dimensions but also the internal dimensions. While a suitcase may appear larger from the outside, the internal dimensions might be smaller due to the thickness of the hardshell material. Softside cases, on the other hand, may offer more flexibility as they can expand to accommodate odd-shaped items or full packing. However, it’s necessary to be cautious not to exceed the overall size restrictions set by the airline.
To ensure a smooth travel experience, travelers should measure their luggage accurately and assume nothing. It is always recommended to double-check the specific requirements of the airline regarding the size and weight of checked luggage. By adhering to these regulations, travelers can avoid any inconvenience upon arrival and eliminate the possibility of incurring additional fees.
Weight:
When it comes to the weight of hard shell-checked luggage, there is a common misconception that hard side suitcases are significantly heavier than their soft-sided counterparts. However, the truth is quite different. In reality, the weight difference between hard-sided cases and soft-sided alternatives is usually minimal. On average, hard side cases only weigh 2 to 5 pounds more than their soft-sided counterparts.
It’s important to note that the latest generations of hard side cases have made significant advancements in terms of weight. They are now designed to be incredibly lightweight while maintaining exceptional durability. One such material used in their construction is ABS, which provides a lightweight composition. Although hard side cases made from ABS materials may weigh slightly less than those made from polycarbonate, the difference is truly minuscule. Polycarbonate is known for its hard-wearing nature, making it an excellent choice for hard side luggage.
The misconception regarding the weight of hard side suitcases may have originated from the perception that their sturdy construction automatically translates to heaviness. However, this is far from the truth. The latest hard side cases have achieved a delicate balance between weight and durability. Travelers can now enjoy the benefits of a hard side suitcase without compromising on weight. These lightweight yet supremely durable hard sided cases are a testament to the advancements in luggage design and material innovation.
In summary, while hard side suitcases may have been unfairly associated with being heavier, the reality is that the weight difference between hard side and soft-sided luggage is generally negligible. With the advent of lightweight materials such as ABS and the exceptional durability of polycarbonate, travelers can confidently opt for hard side cases without concerns about excessive weight. The weight of hard shell checked luggage is no longer a hindrance, as modern designs prioritize both durability and lightweight construction.
Number of Wheels:
When it comes to the number of wheels on hard shell checked luggage, modern-day suitcases have revolutionized the traveling experience. Gone are the days of struggling with 2-wheeled cases that required constant pulling and tipping to navigate through airports and concourses. The introduction of 4-wheeled spinning cases has changed the game entirely.
These spinning wheels offer the ultimate experience in terms of maneuverability and ease of movement. With their smooth rolling capabilities, travelers can effortlessly keep their luggage close by their side throughout the journey. Whether it’s a push or a pull, there is no need to think twice about navigating through tight spaces or crowded areas.
The convenience provided by the four spinning wheels is simply unfathomable for those who have experienced the struggles of the past. Almost all modern suitcases now come equipped with these innovative wheels, allowing travelers to glide gently through airports and effortlessly transition from one location to another.
In addition to the ease of movement, the four-wheeled cases provide much-needed stability. They eliminate the need to constantly balance the luggage, as the weight is evenly distributed across all wheels. This feature is particularly valuable when maneuvering through tight spaces and crowded areas, as the suitcase remains steady and easy to control.
In summary, the inclusion of four spinning wheels on hard shell checked luggage has transformed the way we travel. The smooth rolling capabilities, coupled with the ease of maneuvering in tight spaces and crowded environments, make these suitcases the ideal choice for any traveler seeking a hassle-free journey.
Material and Durability:
When it comes to material and durability for hard shell checked luggage, options like aluminum, polycarbonate, and ABS offer excellent choices. Aluminum, known for being the strongest and heaviest among hard cases, provides unparalleled strength and durability. Despite being the most expensive option, aluminum cases are worth the investment. However, they may be prone to scratching and might not always fare well against the rough and tumble of air travel.
Polycarbonate, on the other hand, boasts high-level impact resistance and impressive durability. It is available in a wide range of colors and styles, allowing travelers to choose according to their preferences. These cases not only offer excellent protection against bumps, dings, heat, and moisture but are also virtually unbreakable. Polycarbonate is considered one of the most durable materials on the market, ensuring that your belongings remain secure throughout your journey.
For those on a budget, ABS cases can be an ideal choice. Made from a mixture of three plastics, they exhibit resistance to both heat and impact. Despite being cheaper compared to other materials, ABS cases still offer reliable protection. Their sophisticated, high gloss finish adds a touch of elegance. However, it’s important to note that ABS cases are not as strong as polycarbonate or aluminum ones.
Are Hard Shell Suitcases Any Good?
When considering the question “Are hard-shell suitcases any good?” it is important to evaluate their various features and advantages. Hard-shell suitcases, made of materials such as ABS plastic, polycarbonate, and polypropylene, offer numerous benefits. One notable advantage is their waterproof nature, ensuring that your belongings remain dry and protected even in challenging weather conditions.
Additionally, these suitcases are easy to clean, allowing for effortless maintenance and ensuring they always look pristine. The hard-shell design provides enhanced durability and protection, shielding your belongings from potential damage during transit. While some cheap models made of ABS plastic may be heavier than their soft-shell counterparts, suitcases crafted from polycarbonate and polypropylene offer a comparable weight, striking a balance between sturdiness and portability. Overall, hard-shell suitcases offer a reliable and stylish solution for travelers, providing peace of mind and practicality.
Does hard-side luggage crack?
When it comes to hard side suitcases, durability is a key factor. These suitcases are typically made from sturdy plastic, such as polycarbonate, which is designed to withstand the rigors of travel. Despite regular use, they may scuff over time, but the risk of cracking is minimal. However, it’s important to note that hard-shell luggage made from less expensive materials can be more prone to cracking over extended periods. To ensure the longevity of your luggage, opt for durable bags that are built to stand up to your travels.
Fortunately, many luggage brands now offer limited or even lifetime warranties on their products. This provides added peace of mind, as you can rest assured that any potential damage will be taken care of. Before making a purchase, it’s advisable to thoroughly read and understand the warranty policies of different brands. By doing so, you can make an informed decision and choose a hard side suitcase that aligns with your needs and concerns regarding potential damage.
