Packing for a trip can be overwhelming. One of the biggest decisions you’ll have to make is choosing between hardside or softside luggage.
It’s important to consider your needs and preferences when making this decision as it will affect your travel experience significantly.
In this article, I’m going to explore both types of luggage and discuss which one is better overall – so you can make an informed choice!
Hardside luggage is typically made from plastic materials like polycarbonate, while softside suitcases are usually crafted out of canvas-like fabrics such as nylon and polyester.
Both styles offer their own unique benefits – but which one should you choose? Keep reading to find out!
Durability
When it comes to durability, hardside luggage is the clear winner. Not only does it offer more protection for your belongings during travel, but its sturdier construction means it’s less likely to suffer damage from being tossed around in baggage carousels and other areas of an airport. Plus, if you’re worried about theft or want peace of mind while traveling through sketchy neighborhoods, a locked suitcase with hard sides can provide extra security.
On the other hand, softside luggage offers packing convenience that hardshell suitcases don’t have. This type of bag usually has several pockets on the outside and inside which makes it easy to organize items like clothing, electronics, toiletries and accessories so they’re easier to find when you need them. As well, many types of softside bags are expandable – meaning if you’ve overpacked for your trip or decide to shop until you drop once you get there; having some extra room will come in handy for fitting all those souvenirs back into your bag!
Travel comfort-wise, soft side bags also tend to be lighter than their hard shell counterparts. Depending on how long your journey is this could make carrying multiple pieces around much easier especially if you’ll be using public transportation at any point along the way.
So if weight isn’t an issue then both styles may work out just fine – though I’d still suggest opting for hard side bags if durability is key factor in making your decision.
Weight
I have had the pleasure of using both hardside and softside luggage in my travels over the years.
When it comes to weight, I find that hardside suitcases are heavier than their soft counterparts. This can be an issue when you’re trying to stay within a certain weight limit or if you don’t want your bag weighing too much on its own – especially if you’re traveling for extended periods of time.
On the other hand, soft suitcases tend to offer more packing efficiency due to their ability to expand and flex without adding any extra bulk. They also provide more options for organization with pockets, straps and compartments which make them great for those who need a bit of structure and order while they pack.
Ultimately, whether you choose hardside or softside luggage is up to personal preference but taking into consideration these factors will help ensure you get the most out of your travel experience.
Security
I’m sure you’ve heard of stories where someone’s luggage was broken into while they were away, or even worse – their identity stolen.
When it comes to choosing between hardside and softside luggage, security should be an important consideration. Hardside suitcases are more secure than softside bags because they usually come with a built-in lock system that can’t easily be accessed by strangers.
Softside bags may not have these same features, so if theft is a concern then opting for a hardshell suitcase is the better choice. On top of this, many hardsided models offer TSA approved locks which provide extra protection against potential thieves.
If you’re looking for added peace of mind when travelling, considering investing in one of these types of locks as they’ll make it much harder for someone to get their hands on your personal items.
All in all, when weighing up which type of luggage is best for you, keep safety at the forefront of your decision making process!
Cost
I’m trying to decide between hardside and softside luggage, and cost is definitely a factor.
I’ve heard hardside is typically more expensive than softside, but I’m not sure how much more.
Can anyone tell me what the price difference is for hardside versus softside luggage?
I’d really appreciate any insight on the different costs of each type of luggage.
Price Of Hardside Luggage
When it comes to cost, hardside luggage often has a higher price tag than softside.
Not only do you have the upfront cost of buying the suitcase, but there are also ongoing airline and other fees associated with these carry options.
For example, some airlines charge more for checked bags that use hardshell cases instead of fabric ones.
So if you plan on travelling frequently and checking your bag each time, then it could end up costing you quite a bit extra in the long run.
That being said, if durability or protection is most important to you when selecting a suitcase then spending more money on a quality hardside might be worth it in the end due to its superior strength.
Price Of Softside Luggage
When it comes to price, softside luggage generally costs less than hardshell suitcases. This makes them a great option for those on a tight budget who don’t mind compromising on strength or protection for their belongings.
Plus, they often have higher capacity and more storage options compared to the average hardside piece of luggage. You might be able to fit all your items in one suitcase rather than having to buy two separate pieces!
That being said, if you need something that’s tough enough to last through multiple trips then spending a bit extra money on a quality hardside could be well worth it in the long run.
Aesthetics
I’m a big fan of both hardside and softside luggage. It really depends on your travel preferences and style choices.
Hardside is great if you’re looking for something that will withstand the wear-and-tear of modern travel trends. It’s also useful if you want to keep your belongings safe from potential damage or theft, as it can provide extra security.
On the other hand, softside bags are incredibly lightweight, which makes them ideal for packing more in one bag – perfect for long trips where you need to bring lots of clothing and items with you! Plus, they come in plenty of stylish designs so you can find something that suits your personal aesthetic.
Ultimately, when deciding between hardside and softside luggage, it comes down to what best fits your needs during the journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Best Size For Luggage?
When deciding on the best size for luggage, it’s important to consider security features, organization options and how much you’re planning to bring with you.
Depending on how many items you’ll be bringing along and where you’re traveling too, your ideal size could vary.
If you plan on packing a lot of gear, then something larger such as a 30-inch suitcase may work best; if you don’t need lots of space, then a carry-on bag or even a smaller piece like an 18 inch roller would suit your needs better.
Security features are also important; look for bags that have TSA approved locks and sturdy zippers.
Finally, think about the organizational options available in each bag; look into interior compartments and pockets that can help keep everything organized during travel.
How Easy Is It To Transport Hardside Luggage?
When it comes to transporting hardside luggage, the weight balance and packing flexibility can really make a difference in how easy it is.
Hardside suitcases are usually heavier than their softside counterparts, but they also provide more stability when walking around with them.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for something lighter, softside bags may be the way to go since they offer more packing flexibility while still providing enough protection for your belongings.
Ultimately, which type of bag you choose depends on what kind of traveling you plan to do and your personal preferences.
Does Hardside Luggage Come With Wheels?
When it comes to hardside luggage, you have a few options when it comes to wheels.
Some pieces of hardside luggage come with built-in wheels and handles for easy transport, while others may not include these features.
It’s important to consider the durability comparison between wheeled and non-wheeled designs when making your style selection so that you can choose the best option for your needs.
Are There Any Long-Term Care Tips For Softside Luggage?
When it comes to softside luggage, there are a few long-term care tips you should follow.
First of all, pay attention to the weight capacity of your bag and don’t overload it with items that exceed this limit – otherwise you risk damaging or tearing the material.
You also want to consider the style of softside luggage that best suits your needs – whether it’s an expandable piece or one with several compartments.
Finally, be sure to store your bag in a cool, dry place as humidity can cause damage over time.
Is There A Difference Between Hardside And Softside Luggage In Terms Of Noise While In Transit?
When it comes to air travel, there is a difference between hardside and softside luggage when it comes to noise.
Hardside luggage tends to be more secure as the material is harder and more durable which can help reduce security concerns. However, this also means that hardside luggage makes more noise than its softer counterpart.
Softside luggage on the other hand may have some give in terms of durability but does not make much noise during transit.
So if you’re looking for something quieter while traveling, then softside might be your best bet!
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing the right luggage for your needs, both hardside and softside have their advantages.
Hardside is great if you want something that’s more durable and secure, while softside offers a bit of flexibility when it comes to packing space.
Ultimately, the decision depends on how often you travel, what kind of items you plan on bringing with you, and how much weight or bulkiness you’re comfortable carrying.
Regardless of which type you choose, be sure to take proper care of your luggage by following any instructions provided by the manufacturer.
With proper care and maintenance, either type can last for years!
