When it comes to protecting your belongings during travel, hard suitcases are a popular choice among travelers. With their durable exterior and sturdy construction, hard suitcases offer superior protection and security for your items.
However, with so many options available on the market, finding the best hard suitcase can be a daunting task. That’s why our team has conducted extensive tests to bring you our guide on the Best Hard Suitcases available on the market. We have carefully considered factors such as material quality, construction, weight, size, practical features, and overall design to identify the most reliable and efficient options.
These hard suitcases offer a range of features to suit any traveler’s needs, from ample storage space to easy maneuverability and practical features such as built-in charging ports and TSA-approved locks. We have also paid close attention to the durability and longevity of each suitcase to ensure that they can withstand the wear and tear of frequent travel.
Investing in a high-quality hard suitcase can make all the difference in ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable travel experience. So, let’s explore the Best Hard Suitcases available on the market and find the perfect option for your next travel adventure.
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Pros:
✅ Expandable for extra space when you need it
✅ Doubles as a backpack with the removable strap
✅ Durable, portable, and lockable
Cons:
⭕ Not the best for very large people
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Pros:
✅ The wheels are smooth and durable
✅ It’s lightweight
✅ Durable and sturdy
✅ Has a large capacity for packing clothes and toiletries.
Cons:
⭕ A little expensive for some people, but worth it in the long run.
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Pros:
✅ Lightweight and durable
✅ Spinner wheels provide a smooth ride
✅ Expandable to fit more items
Cons:
⭕ It is heavier than other luggage
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Pros:
✅ Lightweight design
✅ Expandable to fit more clothes
✅ 4 spinner wheels for easy mobility
✅ Fits in most overhead bins
Cons:
⭕ Zipper is not sturdy enough to withstand being pulled on too hard, which could result in damage to the bag and contents
What are hard suitcases?
Hard-sided suitcases are made of a hard plastic shell and are more durable than soft sided suitcases. They’re usually more expensive, heavier, and harder to pack than soft sided models.
If you’re trying to choose between hard and soft suitcase materials for your next vacation, here are some factors you should consider:
Spend how much?
- Hard-sided suitcases cost more because they’re made of stronger materials (usually polycarbonate or ABS plastic).
- If you travel often, the extra cost is worth it since most airlines charge up to $100 for overweight baggage, so a stronger material can save you money in the long run!
Weight requirements?
- Most airlines limit checked bag sizes to fit in airplane cargo holds.
- If you want to put as many things as possible into your luggage while staying under airline weight limits, pick a lighter model like Travelers Club Luggage ($30).
- If ease-of-use is most important and space isn’t a concern, a sturdier option like this Samsonite one may be worth $40 if it fits size requirements.
What’s the difference between hard side and soft side luggage?
Hard-sided luggage is more durable and secure than soft-sided. You may store valuables in a hard shell pocket without worrying about dents or scratches.
Hard side bags are more heavier than soft ones, but if you’re flying or taking a train, this shouldn’t be a problem.
Soft-sided baggage is ideal for travelers who need to pack light yet still have enough space! For inexperienced or rushed travelers, it’s easy to pack (no packing cubes needed). Downside?
Soft-sided bags are less protective against bumps and falls while flying and at the airport because they’re composed of cloth instead of hard plastic.
Because these types of occurrences happen so often, insurance won’t cover the expense of restoring your bag if it’s damaged in transit.
How much do hard sided suitcases cost?
Hard-sided suitcases cost extra. Brand and suitcase size are key variables. Quality affects luggage prices.
Expect to pay more for anything that can withstand many flights or daily use around town. If not, you could save money (but still want something sturdy).
On average, though? You can expect hard sided suitcases to cost anywhere from $50-$200+ depending on size and brand!
What is TSA lockable?
TSA locks are available in the form of a cable or combination lock. If you’re not sure which type to use, follow these steps:
Pick the proper bag lock. Flexible steel cables can be wrapped around luggage and locked with a key.
They’re perfect for little luggage that need airport theft protection but don’t need extensive security. They’re less secure than combination locks yet easy to use even if you’re disabled (such as those with arthritis).
Combination locks are more versatile because they don’t require keys or other manual entry methods. Simply enter your code on the dial-based mechanism and travel hassle-free!
These are fantastic if you’ll be using one suitcase for numerous journeys, but they can be difficult when attempting to go through security lines at large airports where there may not be room for extended waits (though some models do feature backup keys).
Are hard sided suitcases waterproof?
Hard-sided suitcases can become wet. Rubberized suitcase shells are watertight and easy to carry. In the event of a leak or spill, hard-sided suitcase zippers are not rubber and will not keep your belongings dry.
Waterproofing costs more than non-waterproofing since it requires adding layers to a material like fabric to make it stronger and endure longer.
However, some firms utilize cheap materials like cardboard instead of metal or plastic, which would strengthen their luggage and prevent them from heavy goods falling into them while traveling!
How to save on luggage costs?
Use a travel agent. Many airlines offer flight-and-lodging packages, but adding extras may be better. Check travel agent deals if you’re booking your own flight and accommodation. You may get more value than if you booked everything online or over the phone.
Discount a suitcase. Buying luggage on sale, especially if it’s durable, can save you a lot of money over time, especially when combined with other money-saving strategies.
Purchase warranty-covered luggage: Some companies will repair or replace any item purchased from them within its warranty period without question!
Conclusion
After conducting extensive tests and research, we have concluded that the best hard suitcases on the market are those that offer the perfect balance of durability, functionality and style.
Our top pick is the Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Luggage, which offers a strong and lightweight polycarbonate shell, four multi-directional spinner wheels for easy maneuverability, and a TSA-approved lock for added security. Its interior is also spacious and well-organized, with divider panels and multiple pockets for easy packing.
Another great option is the Travelpro Maxlite 5 Hardside Spinner Luggage, which boasts a sleek and stylish design, lightweight construction, and a scratch-resistant shell. Its spinner wheels ensure easy movement, while the expandable design allows for additional packing space when needed.
Finally, the American Tourister Moonlight Hardside Luggage is a budget-friendly choice that doesn’t compromise on quality. It features a durable ABS shell, four spinner wheels, and a push-button handle for easy handling. Its interior is also well-designed, with cross straps and a mesh pocket for organization.
Overall, these hard suitcases offer the durability, functionality, and style that travelers need to make their trips comfortable and stress-free.