Do aluminum suitcases dent easily?

Aluminum is very strong, but it scratches and dents very easily, and it shows every little ding. Does polycarbonate scratch? It does, as do all plastics. But it's more resistant to scratches than other materials used to make hard shell suitcases.

The aluminum will scratch, ding and dent – even more than the polycarbonate – so it's important that you're ok with this. These photos show the suitcase when brand new, but don't expect it to stay like this for long.

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.

The aluminum body is really well made and provides the sturdiness and classic aesthetics you want from a piece of aluminum luggage. Scratches and dents give it a cool, weathered look and the hidden battery pack is a convenient feature to have on hand for unexpected delays.

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.

To prevent sneaky snatchers from accessing your belongings, aluminum luggage provides greater security than any soft luggage option. Even with locks and straps on your soft carry-on bags, thieves can still easily cut the fabric of the case or jam open the zipper to get inside.

In terms of price, expect to pay more for aluminum, as the cost of materials and production is higher. Keep in mind that high-end luggage brands like Rimowa offer complimentary maintenance and warranty specific parts that might break over the years.

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.

How Long Does Luggage Last? How long luggage lasts depends on multiple factors, including how often you travel, the quality of your luggage, and how well you care for your suitcases and bags. High-quality, durable luggage can last for over a decade of frequent use.

Here's a quick lowdown: hard cases offer total protection for your belongings, they keep things nicely organized, they're easy to clean and some models expand for more room; soft cases are tough, the side pockets are great for quick access, the material is long-lasting and it's easy to stuff in a little bit extra at ...

Often, fixing dents on aluminum surfaces is more difficult and expensive than popping out dented steel. This is due to various properties that make aluminum more difficult to work with. If you're looking to repair dents, it's vital to keep this in mind. If playback doesn't begin shortly, try restarting your device.

Built for a lifetime of journeys, our aluminium suitcases are a work in progress. They might be made by our hands, but they're defined by those who travel with them. Hallmarked with the inevitable dents and scratches of time, every RIMOWA is a vehicle for storytelling.

Soft Versus Hard Shell

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.

Hard-shell luggage is the way to go for durability and maneuverability, but soft-shells often pack more easily.

Samsonite succeeded in creating a range of extremely lightweight polypropylene collections, thanks to new revolutionary polypropylene material called Flowlite. This material enables us to inject very thin moulds whilst still keeping a strong shell, giving protection to personal belongings inside the suitcase.

Below, we've selected the best luggage brands of 2023 for every type of traveler.

Dengler approaches it from a different perspective: “The key is to set your luggage apart from the rest.” The travel pro recommends opting for colors like beige, light blue, light red, light pink, light green, and white, which will instantly catch the eye.

You are paying for a better quality product that will last longer, is water-resistant, and needs less maintenance. You can shop our black aluminum briefcase here. Aluminum is much lighter than leather, making it easier to carry around. It is also more durable, meaning it will last longer.

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.

You can clean your bag's exterior and interior using a soft damp cloth and mild soap.

While polycarbonate shell luggage appears rigid, when it absorbs shock it can sometimes cave in, causing an indentation. Such is the material's elasticity, however, that it can be easily returned to the original shape with force.

Travelpro Platinum Elite 29"

It's big, beautiful, and built to last. The Travelpro Platinum Elite 29" continues to be our favorite overall suitcase over the past several years for more reasons than we can fit into this small paragraph, but we'll give it our best effort — please fasten your seat belts.

Polycarbonate suitcases are durable in more ways than one. Aluminum is very strong, but it scratches and dents very easily, and it shows every little ding.

The wrapping will reduce the chances of damage and pilfering. But if the TSA removes the wrapping to look inside, not all companies will rewrap the bag. (Secure Wrap says it will.) Another simple and affordable way to guard against scuffs and scratches is to buy a protective cover to encase your bag.

“Polycarbonate is the best balance of weight and durability,” she says. “While soft shell suitcases are generally a little lighter, a hard polycarbonate case provides much better protection.”

You are allowed to bring a quart-sized bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes through the checkpoint. These are limited to 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item. This is also known as the 3-1-1 liquids rule.

Although there are various shapes and sizes, most 23 kg suitcases have large and extra large suitcase dimensions and are appropriate for checked-in travel on airlines. Typically, a 23kg suitcase size will have the following measurements: Length: 71-81 cm (28-32 inches ) Width: 43-51 cm (17-20 inches)