Why do hard-shell suitcases open in the middle?

Most hard-shell luggage comes in the classic clamshell design, where a zipper down the middle opens the case in an even, 50/50 split. That way, you can pack both sides evenly to create an equal weight distribution.

Soft bags usually open to one main compartment that may have interior pockets and/or suiters. Hard shell bags are typically made with “split construction”–meaning the bag zips down the middle and opens into two shallower main compartments, like a clamshell.

Disadvantages of a hard shell suitcase

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.

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.

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.

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

Soft-shell suitcases are often cheaper than their hard-shell siblings, making them a more budget-friendly choice. However, when you factor in the longer lifespan of a hard-shell case, we reckon the extra money is more than worth it.

Hard-sided bags are the most unforgiving; you can't squeeze them into a storage space. Soft-sided, structured bags have a little forgiveness on the front and back. If you have no place to store a stand-up suitcase, you may want to limit yourself to duffels. What Size Luggage Do You Need?

Best Luggage For International Travel Overall

For these two foundational reasons, Travelpro and its line of Platinum Elite luggage is our go-to choice for getting you and your stuff securely to Destination Unknown.

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.

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

Most Durable Carry-On Luggage

Leave it to Samsonite, one of our favorite legacy travel brands, to crack the code on the most durable hard-shell construction for suitcases. First of all, this carry-on comes in a 100% polypropylene exterior, the sturdiest plastic material out there.

A suitcase with 4 wheels is very convenient, especially at train stations and airports. A suitcase with 2 wheels is only an option for me if I'm traveling with a small suitcase (size S) and have to pull it over longer distances. Even more important than the number of wheels is the quality.

Use a flashlight to check seams, folds and pockets for bugs or eggs. Vacuum the suitcase using a brush and crevice tool attachment. Once finished, enclose the vacuum bag or the dirt into a plastic bag sealed with tape. The suitcase can then be washed with hot soapy water or other common household cleaners.

They can crawl into your luggage on any form of transport. Deet won't kill then, but they repel the buggers. I spray the inside of all forms of luggage/bags with permethrin as well as the sleeping bag. I react very quickly to a bed-bug bite so I know when I wake up, if I have been bitten.

Hardside Suitcase

To avoid these pests from latching on to your bags, the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene says that travelers should “use hard-cased luggage if possible,” noting that, “it is more difficult for bed bugs to attach to rigid materials than to fabric.”

Most suitcases these days have a zipper in the lining, sometimes hidden by having the pull to the inside. This isn't just an incredibly obvious place to hide your valuables; it allows luggage repair people to get at the luggage frame without ripping up the lining.

You may want to buy hard-shell luggage if you'll be packing breakable items. It could offer better security than soft-sided baggage because it can't be ripped open as easily and usually has integrated locks.

American Tourister is a brand of luggage owned by Samsonite. Brothers Sol and Irving Koffler founded American Luggage Works in Providence, Rhode Island, United States in 1933. In 1993, American Tourister was acquired by Astrum International, which also owns Samsonite.

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.

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.

Sure, you can find a suitcase for $50, but if it only lasts for two trips before the wheels and zipper break, it could be more expensive in the long run than a $200 suitcase that lasts for several years. Quality is key if you're looking for good value.

50 pounds is the usual weight limit. The largest checked international luggage size allowed is 62 linear (total) inches. Typically, a standard checked luggage size wavers around 27 x 21 x 14 inches.

Lock Your Luggage on Domestic and International Flights

Your luggage lock isn't just for traveling between cities in the US. While not every country has similar access to TSA approved locks, most do. There is no need to stress about luggage security when crossing the ocean.

Best Overall Luggage: Samsonite

Both hardside and softside styles from the brand have excelled in our tests. We've also been impressed by each of the sizes, including carry-ons, checked bags and underseat luggage.