Why are hard shell suitcases so popular?

1. It's Incredibly Durable. Back in the day, hardside luggage was known to crack and deteriorate more quickly than soft-sided luggage, but luckily, companies like Briggs & Riley have changed all that. Our hard shell luggage is made out of 3-layer, 100% virgin Makrolon® polycarbonate material.

The main drawback is that hard-shell luggage can't be twisted to fit into a small space. Hard-shell suitcases also require a lot of room to store at home, making them less convenient in this sense.

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.

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.

It's true in the debate between hard or soft luggage. What–and how–you pack should be factored into your decision on which type of luggage is best for you. If you like to squeeze the maximum capacity out of your suitcase, the construction of a soft bag naturally offers more give than a hard-sided suitcase.

Both hard-shell suitcases and fabric suitcases have advantages and disadvantages. When deciding on a type of suitcase, you have to weigh up what you value most: Hard-shell suitcases are much more sturdier and protective. In addition, they are more resistant to weather conditions and are easier to clean.

Hard-shell suitcases

They are also waterproof and can be cleaned more easily when they get dirty. Hard-shell suitcases also have disadvantages: Cheap models made of ABS plastic are usually heavier than soft-shell suitcases. However, the weight of suitcases made of polycarbonate and polypropylene is comparable.

A hard shell suitcase is a great option if you want protection for fragile possessions and delicate electronics. A tough exterior keeps moisture from rain, snow and puddles away from your valuables, helping everything get to your destination in the same condition you packed it.

Pack bulky items like shoes and personal care items on one side and clothing on the other.

Weight. While polypropylene is the lightest weight material in the hardside suitcase category, other hardshell suitcases will likely still be heavier than softside bags.

Our top picks:

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Carry-On

It'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.

Soft-sided luggage gives you more packing flexibility, but hard shells protect your belongings better. Also, hard shells tend to be heavier, but soft-sided ones can damage more easily. There are good and bad features for both and, in the end, it really comes down to personal preference.

The construction of the bag also impacts the weight of the suitcase: In hard-shell bags, polypropylene, polycarbonate and ABS are the lightest options. By contrast, soft-sided bags made with durable yet lightweight nylon or polyester tend to weigh the least.

Often considered the most durable type of luggage, a hard shell suitcase has a rigid exterior that is usually made from moulded polypropylene, polycarbonate or ABS plastic, with some using aluminium. They're less flexible than soft-sided suitcases, making them a better option for protecting delicate items.

Rolling your clothes in your suitcase will generally save space. This is because it squeezes air from between folds and means the most of available space is used. If done correctly, rolling can also ensure less wrinkles in your clothes.

They can also help you avoid bringing bed bugs home. Use hard-cased luggage if possible. It is more difficult for bed bugs to attach to rigid materials than to fabric. Pack your clothing in re-sealable plastic bags.

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.

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)

The main selling point for the soft option is its superior flexibility. Built from a malleable material, this pliable fabric-encased bag can be contorted to squeeze into small spaces, be it an overhead compartment or the gap underneath your bed.

Polycarbonate. The plastic polycarbonate is perfect for the manufacture of suitcases. It is characterized by extremely high impact resistance and high rigidity. Polycarbonate is also very flexible.

The strong yet light material construction makes travelling around a breeze. High-quality wheels and handles ensure the suitcase is easy to handle, manoeuvre and carry around. Samsonite's assortment includes both soft and hard suitcases in a range of sizes.

Aluminum is lightweight and is much more durable than other materials like plastic or polyester. You can find the right size and features you want at a reasonable price. It won't melt like other plastics; it supports the weight of heavier items inside the bag, including golf clubs and snowboards…etc.

High-quality, durable luggage can last for over a decade of frequent use.

The Samsonite Omni has a fully polycarbonate shell with a micro-diamond texture that prevents scuffing and keeps the back from feeling bulky.

Most bags that fit under 20kg suitcase category are large or XXL suitcases that are suitable for checked in travel on airlines. In general a 20kg suitcase has the following dimensions: Length: 69-81 cm (27-32 inches) Width: 43-51 cm (17-20 inches )