The Best Hardside Luggage
Whether you're embarking on your first international adventure or you're a seasoned jet-setter looking to upgrade your travel arsenal, choosing the right case for the job is important. Hardside cases are a go-to option for keeping your belongings organized and safe while you travel. Thanks to their sturdy exterior shell, you can put your mind at ease as you watch your case disappear from the check-in desk into an unknown world of conveyor belts and baggage handlers. We've put together this list of our favorite hardside luggage to help you find the right one for your needs.
What to Look For
Hardside cases come in a variety of materials. We paid close attention to each one’s impact resistance and structural integrity under punishment. We were also careful to pay attention to cases with wheels and handles that offer ease of mobility. If you’re looking for a basic option that ticks all the boxes at a bargain, the hardside spinner from Amazon Basics is the choice for you. This sturdy case is available in three sizes, so there’s plenty to choose between whether you’re setting off on a wild adventure or just a weekend away. If you’re looking for the ultimate option for shorter trips, check on the Level8 Grace EXT which is an ideal carry-on option. Read on below and, wherever you’re headed next, we’re sure you’ll find a case for you.
Amazon Basics Hardside Spinner
Plain and simple
If you’re planning a well-earned vacation but you’re on a budget, it can be easy to get overwhelmed as the costs quickly accumulate from airline tickets, hotels, tour plans, and more. If you’re caught short when the time comes to pack your belongings, you might be reluctant to splurge on a fancy case. This simple and dependable hardside spinner from Amazon Basics offers a functional and reliable solution at a reasonable price, so you can save your extra dollars for fun when you arrive at your destination.
Pros:
- The 150D polyester lining includes a central divider and three zipper pockets to help you keep things organized.
- An expansion zipper can be opened to increase the case’s capacity by 15%, leaving plenty of room for souvenirs on your return journey.
- The sturdy telescopic handle is easily adjustable, so it will fit you no matter your height.
Cons:
- These wheels have a smooth action, but they might not be as durable in the long run as some other options.
Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable
Lock and key
When we part ways with our baggage at check-in, we all want to know that it will remain safely sealed until we’re reunited with it. This sturdy security case from Samsonite will put your mind at ease, thanks to a recessed combination lock that keeps the main compartment sealed shut.
Pros:
- The four multi-directional spinner wheels facilitate an effortless 360° motion, reducing pressure and strain on your arms during transport.
- Thanks to a built-in ID tag compartment, you don’t have to worry about your contact details falling loose if you lose track of this case.
Cons:
- The matte finish can develop superfluous scuffs and scratches relatively quickly.
American Tourister Stratum XLT
Roll on to your next holiday with this sleek hardside companion from American Tourister. The Stratum is sure to keep fragile contents safe from the clumsy mischief of airport luggage handlers thanks to the robust ABS shell that shakes off impacts like they’re nothing. This classic book-opening design is equipped with a mesh divider and cross straps to keep the bulk of your luggage secure, and a central zipper pocket so that smaller valuables can be quickly retrieved from within.
Pros:
- An expansion zipper offers extra room for your return journey, or luggage compression when you’re traveling light.
- Weighing just 6.6 pounds, this slender case won’t break your back during transit.
- The push-button handle has three different locking positions, so you’re sure to find a comfortable height no matter your stature.
Cons:
- You’ll probably notice the lack of a side handle when lifting this case into compartments or the trunk of a car.
Coolife Luggage Set, 3-Piece
Spacious trio
Maybe you’re stocking up for travel with your family or a group of friends, or perhaps you’re planning a long-haul holiday or even relocating overseas. If that’s the case, you’ll probably have a few more belongings on your hands than the average jet-setter. This matching set of three from Coolife won’t leave you short of space thanks to a monstrous combined capacity of 191 liters. Pair that with the three-digit TSA combination locks mounted on each and you have a safe and secure transport solution fit for the most demanding journeys.
Pros:
- These 100% ABS shells provide ample cushioning against accidental impact, as well as being relatively lightweight for their size.
- The bold colors make it easy to spot this set on a luggage belt.
- The multidirectional spinner wheels are silent while they roll, so you don’t have to deal with that annoying click-clack sound of tourist travel.
Cons:
- Though impact resistant, the ABS shell will crumple to cushion the biggest blows, so rough handling can result in dents.
Level8 Grace EXT
Business class
Resilient hardside luggage isn’t only for the hold, and this compact case from Level8 proves that you can reap the benefits of a sturdy design in a portable carry-on form. An expansion zipper lining the side means that this petite option can pack more than first meets the eye with a maximum capacity of 42 liters when it’s fully opened. A lightweight ABS and PC composite shell offers sturdy durability, and a micro-diamond textured coat helps to prevent scratches and other surface damage.
Pros:
- The corners of this case are reinforced with metal plates to prevent denting and damage at these common impact sites.
- An easy-open front pocket with a built-in padded sleeve for laptops and tablets makes it easy to retrieve your devices for an airport security check.
Cons:
- The frontal laptop sleeve can take up a lot of capacity when in use, meaning this miniature option is better suited for short trips.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the maximum dimensions for carry-on cases?
While most hardside cases find their way to the aircraft hold during travel, if you’re traveling light, you may be looking for an option that’s fit for the overhead compartment. Specific restrictions can vary between airlines, so it’s worth researching with your carrier before your trip to avoid a surprise fee at the airport. Generally, we found that most commercial airlines will accept carry-on bags with dimensions of 22″ x 14″ x 9″.
Does my hardside case count towards the total weight for checked-in luggage?
When you check in your case, airline attendants will measure the total weight of your case, including its contents. Be sure to factor in the empty weight of the case when calculating whether you’re within weight restrictions before you fly.
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