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The 16 Best Hardside & Hardshell Luggage in 2024 [Carry-on & Checked]

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Amar Hussain
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Amar Hussain

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The luggage you use for your annual vacation to the sun, a weekend away, or longer adventures in faraway places is almost as important as the belongings you take with you. Whether you choose to check your luggage or carry it in the cabin, there are many benefits to traveling with hardside luggage.

Why Buy Hardside Luggage?

Hardside luggage has a rigid exterior that is stiff and solid rather than the soft and flexible exterior of more traditional fabric suitcases. Although slightly heavier even when empty, hardside cases offer an extra layer of protection for your precious possessions and are often much more durable than their softer-sided counterparts.

Here are some of the very best reasons to choose hardside luggage on your next adventure.

Keep Your Belongings Really Safe

If you are planning on taking valuables like your laptop, camera, or other electronics with you, a hardside or hardshell suitcase offers the highest level of protection against damage in transit. A good quality case will also help to keep your most prized possessions dry in wet or humid conditions.

Bottom Line: These types of cases offer an increased level of protection against theft, as would-be thieves can’t slash the sides of the case, and locks are usually harder to break into.

Use the Space the Way You Want

Away luggage internal compartment
Hardside luggage can have 1 main compartment or be split into 50/50 compartments. Image Credit: Amar Hussain

Most hardside cases open like a book, offering a 50/50 split that allows you to fill both sides equally. The space is also incredibly usable as there are no fabric folds to contend with.

Of course, there will always be lots of similar or identical cases on any carousel, but with hardside cases you can go all out and wear your style on your case with bright colors, bold designs, and even personalized printed images, making it super easy to find at baggage claim. If this wasn’t enough you can also use some unique and creative luggage tags.

Move It With Ease

Hard cases offer a much smoother ride than other types of wheeled luggage. Built to remain upright and even balanced with the weight of their contents, hardside suitcases often have 4 wheels and a superstrong handle making them easy to roll along next to you.

Things To Consider With Hardside Luggage

Because not all hardside suitcases are equal and no 2 trips are the same, there are many things to consider before you invest in your next suitcase.

Size

Hardside luggage sizes
Hardside cases are suitable for checking or carrying on. Image Credit: Amar Hussain

Most suitcase manufacturers will offer a range of sizes across each of their ranges. Small cases are usually designed for those who want to take carry-on luggage only and are not looking to check their luggage on arrival.

Small cases usually measure around 22 x 18 x 10 inches. Never assume, though, that any “cabin-sized” hardside suitcase will automatically be accepted in the overhead bins — always check the size restrictions of the airline you are traveling with.

Medium cases can measure 25 to 27 inches while large cases can go up to as much as 32 inches in length. While there are no standard restrictions in terms of size when it comes to checked cases, many airlines often state that the linear measurements must not exceed 62 inches. Restrictions can also apply to the weight of the case, and how many you can take with you. If your cases are too heavy, you will be subject to additional fees.

Another thing to remember when it comes to hardside luggage is the fact that the internal dimensions may be slightly smaller overall than those found in softshell cases. Softside cases can also expand a little when full, allowing you to squeeze in the odd extra item here and there.

Bottom Line: It is the exact lack of flexibility and stretching that appeals to hardside luggage lovers, as a solid structure leads to better security for your belongings in transit.

Weight

Hardsize luggage weight
Hardside cases are not much heavier than soft-sided cases. Image Credit: Amar Hussain

It is a common misconception that all hardside suitcases are much heavier than similarly sized soft-sided ones. The truth is that at most there is usually only a very small difference in the weight of the two. Hardside cases weigh an average of 2 to 5 pounds more than soft-sided alternatives.

It should also be noted that the latest generations of hardside cases are actually incredibly lightweight, while still being supremely durable. Those made from ABS materials are generally lighter than those made from more polycarbonate, but the difference is minuscule and the latter is more hard-wearing.

Number of Wheels

Hardsize luggage wheels
Spinner wheels can be single or double. Image Credit: Amar Hussain

It seems unfathomable to think about carrying your case these days, with spinning wheels being available on almost all modern-day suitcases. The 2-wheeled cases can easily be pulled along behind you, as you gently tip the case towards you as you roll. These are easy to use and smooth to maneuver.

If you really want to wheel with ease though, a 4-wheeled spinning case gives you the ultimate experience in smooth rolling capabilities. You can keep the case close to your side on your journey through the concourse. You can even push 1 case while you pull another if you need to, and 4-wheeled spinning wheels are much easy to maneuver in tight spaces and crowded airports.

Hot Tip: If you opt for a 4-wheel spinner instead of a 2-wheel, you may find the internal space is squeezed a little more with the 4 recessed wheels taking a few more inches out of the overall packing space.

Handles

Hardsize luggage handles
Telescopic handles can be set to several heights. Image Credit: Amar Hussain

Because you will want to pull your suitcase along with you, the handle needs to be strong enough to withstand numerous trips and adventures. The handle should be able to slot away quickly once you have finished pulling or pushing your suitcase.

Bottom Line: The best telescopic handles are usually made of high-grade aluminum and have a supersmooth mechanism.

Zippers

Hardsize luggage zips
Zippers should be smooth and hardwearing. Image Credit: Amar Hussain

The zipper of your suitcase should be well-engineered and designed to last multiple uses. It should also be set back into the body of the suitcase when shut, and strong enough to withstand any attempt to be slashed or opened by would-be thieves in transit. Some of the latest generations of hardside cases don’t even have zippers, meaning they shut tight by clipping down and using a lock.

Locks

Speaking of locks, they are a must-have on any suitcase, and the lock you choose will need to be TSA-approved. These types of locks are accessible by transport authority agents should they need to check the contents of your case, but will still protect your belongings from theft or damage.

TSA locks have a keyhole at the bottom that allows agents to use a special TSA key to unlock your suitcase. Although you can buy these locks to use on any type of case, some hardside cases have them already built-in.

Material and Durability

Hardside luggage materials
Hardside luggage can be made from a variety of materials. Image Credit: Amar Hussain

Aluminum — The heaviest of all hard cases is also the strongest and usually the most expensive. These cases look impressive, but they can scratch easily and do not always fair particularly well against the rough and tumble of air travel.

Polycarbonate — Offering high-level impact resistance and impressive durability, polycarbonate cases are available in a wide range of colors and styles, all of which offer excellent protection against bumps, dings, heat, and moisture. As one of the most durable materials on the market, polycarbonate cases are virtually unbreakable.

ABS — Being made from a mixture of 3 plastics, these cases are resistant to heat and impact and have a sophisticated, high gloss finish. ABS cases can be cheaper than some other materials, but they are not as strong as polycarbonate or aluminum cases and are best if you are on a budget.

The 6 Best Hardside Luggage Under $100

There are a whole host of different hardside suitcases out there to choose from, with various sizes to suit every budget. Here are some of the best.

1. A Great Value Set for Travelers on a Budget

DISCOUNT: 66%
BEST OVERALL: Rockland Melbourne Hardside Expandable Spinner Wheel Luggage
Made with ABS, this suitcase is designed to be as lightweight and sturdy as possible. This allows you to carry more and know your belongings are secure.

Rockland Luggage 20 Inch and 28 Inch 2 Piece Expandable Spinner Set

This impressive and super useful 2-piece expandable spinner set is perfect for short breaks and vacations for you and your family. Offering more packing space for your money, the set comprises:

  • 1 large expandable spinner case measuring 28 x 17 x 12 inches and weighing 10 pounds
  • 1 small expandable spinner case measuring 22 x 13 x 9 inches and weighing 6 pounds

Both cases are made from extremely lightweight ABS that will protect your belongings from damage in transit. They also feature 8 multi-directional spinner wheels that can rotate a full 360 degrees for easy maneuverability and a guaranteed smooth ride. The telescoping push-button handle also makes it easy for you to find the most comfortable position to wheel your cases with you, wherever you may go.

On the inside, the clamshell design of both cases makes packing a cinch, and the expandable dimensions mean you can squeeze even more clothes or souvenirs in there when you really need to.

Fully-lined interiors and stunning exteriors make this a great value set for travelers on a budget.

What We Like

  • Lightweight and durable ABS material

What We Don’t Like

  • No underside handle to help lift from the overhead locker

2. Basic by Name Only

DISCOUNT: 20%
Amazon Basics 21-inch
An expandable hard case made from durable ABS with 4 double-spinner wheels for increased maneuverability. It has a scratch-resistant finish and a comfortable telescope handle. The polyester interior features multiple compartments for packing organization.

AmazonBasics Hardside Spinner 20 Inch Suitcase

As part of the ever-popular AmazonBasics range, this cabin-sized hardside spinner is perfect for frequent flyers, business travelers, and holiday-makers alike. Made from extra-thick ABS, this incredibly affordable, good-looking carry-on case offers enhanced strength and durability.

Measuring a compact 14.9 x 10 x 22 inches, and weighing just 7.34 pounds, this hardshell suitcase even features a scratch-resistant finish to help it stay looking as good as new for many years to come.

On the inside, there is a fully-lined interior with a divider and an incredibly durable 150D polyester organizer with 3 zippered pockets for keeping your smaller items safe in transit.

With 4 double-spinner wheels, this suitcase glides effortlessly in any direction, and the telescopic handle tucks away into the body of the case when you are not using it. Even more exciting, this little case has a handy expandable body, meaning you can squeeze an extra 20% capacity out of it when you need additional space for souvenirs on your way home.

Basic in name only, this is a great little case for travelers on a budget.

What We Like

  • Expandable for up to 15% extra packing room

What We Don’t Like

  • The telescopic handle can sometimes get stuck

3. Bold, Bright, and Ready for Anything

American Tourister Moonlight Expandable Luggage
Hard cases designed to accompany you on longer trips. Made from highly resistant ABS, this trendy luggage pieces can expand to suit your needs and features a push-button locking handle for comfort and convenience.

American Tourister Moonlight Expandable Hardside Luggage With Spinner Wheels

Designed to take you anywhere you want to go, this hardside suitcase range comes in a choice of 3 sizes:

  • Carry-On Case measuring 20 x 14 x 9 inches and weighing 8.2 pounds
  • Checked-Medium Case measuring 24 x 16 x 11 inches and weighing 9.5 pounds
  • Checked-Large Case measuring 25 x 19.5 x 12.5 inches and weighing 11.5 pounds

Available in a variety of attractive and eye-catching colors and prints, the American Tourister hardside range is made using highly durable ABS and PC material. These cases also expand for added packing capacity and the deep main compartment and large interior pocket make light work of organizing everything you need for your next adventure.

The top-of-the-range 360-degree spinner wheels help the suitcase to glide effortlessly, and the multi-stage aluminum pull handle with a wide, ergonomic grip means you can keep this baby close by your side at all times. With an ultra-strong zipper closure and the ability to add your own TSA-approved locks, these are great-looking, practical, and hard-wearing suitcases.

These suitcases look a lot more expensive than they actually are and are bold cases for big adventures.

What We Like

  • Variety of colors and stylish designs

What We Don’t Like

  • Lack of pockets and compartments

4. Pretty on the Outside, Spacious on the Inside

Kenneth Cole Reaction Renegade 3-Piece Luggage Set
5,147 Reviews
Kenneth Cole Reaction Renegade 3-Piece Luggage Set
This fashionable and expandable collection features ergonomic retractable handles, interior zippered pockets to help divide your belongings, and 8-wheel multi-directional spinners. The collection includes a carry-on piece and 2 check-in pieces for maximum convenience.

Kenneth Cole Renegade Hardside Expandable 8-Wheel Spinner Luggage

These multi-direction 8-wheel spinners from Kenneth Cole offer supersmooth 360-degree handling over any terrain, making them an excellent choice for both long-haul explorers and weekend adventurers alike. Available in a choice of sizes, the Renegade series will have the right size case to suit your requirements. Choose from:

  • 20-Inch Carry-On measuring 22 x 14 x 9-11 inches and weighing 7.35 pounds
  • 24-Inch Medium Checked Case measuring 26 x 18.5 x 12-14 inches and weighing 8.9 pounds
  • 28-Inch Large Checked Case measuring 30 x 21.5 x 13-15 inches and weighing 11 pounds

With protective hardshell cases made from lightweight and water-resistant materials, complete with molded edges for extra protection, these cases are able to easily stand up to the knocks and bumps of airline travel. Zippers are designed to be long-lasting and durable and you can use your own TSA-approved locks to keep your items safe in transit.

With 2 spacious, fully-lined interior compartments, as well as a choice of large mesh zipper pockets, this is an excellent hardshell case choice for travelers who need that little bit extra, as the case also expands up to 2 inches for that all-important, extra capacity.

What We Like

  • Incredibly durable with protected corners

What We Don’t Like

  • Book-opening cases require more space than lid-opening cases

5. A Compact Carry-on, Perfect for a Weekend Away

DISCOUNT: 34%
Olympia Apache Carry-On
This elegant 21-inch hard case is made from highly durable ABS and aluminum to keep the design lightweight. It has expandable features for convenient packing, and it includes an internal divider and mesh pockets to help with organization.

Olympia Apache Ii 21″ Carry-On Spinner

This hardside suitcase from the luggage experts at Olympia features its unique “hidden compartment” feature, offering a secure space for your most prized possessions. Made from rugged and durable, lightweight ABS material, this suitcase also expands to give you the crucial extra space to hold everything you need for your next trip.

Measuring a compact but convenient 9 x 14 x 21 inches and weighing just 6.6 pounds, this carry-on case adheres to authority regulations and has enough room to hold all you need for a short break or weekend away. The interior is fully padded, giving it an upscale feel, and the hidden pocket, buckle tie-downs, and useful wet zip pouch will keep your clothes organized on the journey.

The 4-wheel spinner design helps it glide effortlessly along next to you, while the high-quality aluminum locking handle system makes it easy to find the most comfortable position to suit your height. This little carry-on has enough space for everything you need.

The Apache series of suitcases also offers 2 further sizes:

  • 25-inch spinner check-in measuring 25 x 17 x 10 inches and weighing 7.9 pounds
  • 29-inch spinner check-in measuring 29 x 19 x 12 inches and weighing 9.7 pounds

With its rugged good looks and durable construction, this little case is well-equipped to deal with many years of airline travel.

What We Like

  • Hidden compartment for laptops and other personal items

What We Don’t Like

  • Suitable for light use, not frequent travel

6. Go Anywhere With the Goplus Range

Goplus 20” Expandable Luggage
A hard trolley case featuring a TSA-compatible lock that keeps you protected. This durable choice is created from polycarbonate and ABS, materials that make it lightweight, resistant, and waterproof.

Goplus 20″ Expandable Carry-On Luggage, Hardside Suitcase

Made with a lightweight, durable ABS hard shell and a selection of colors to choose from, the Goplus luggage series is a brilliant budget option for travelers who want high quality at low prices.

The carry-on case measures 15 x 10.5 x 22 inches and weighs 7 pounds, so it fits nicely into the overhead compartment of most airlines. Completely waterproof, your clothes will stay nice and dry should you get caught in the rain and the integrated TSA locks will keep the contents of both pockets secure.

On the inside, there are several multi-use compartments and zippered pockets for keeping your belongings well-organized, and the cross straps secure tightly to prevent your clothing from moving around in transit.

The 4 flexible 360-degree universal wheels make it easy for you to roll the case alongside you through the concourse, and the premium metal pull rod and handle are designed to last through many years of international adventures.

What We Like

  • External compartment with a padded laptop pocket

What We Don’t Like

  • Suitcase doesn’t expand to allow extra packing space

The 10 Best Hardside Luggage Over $100

1. Sophisticated Suitcases for the Discerning Traveler

Check on Kohl's

DELSEY Paris Helium Aero Hardside Luggage With Spinner Wheels

The Delsey Paris Helium Aero range is made from lightweight and durable polycarbonate that is extremely resilient to cracking, breaking, and the usual bumps and rigors of air travel. Choose from a variety of different sizes, including the:

  • Small Carry-On measuring 19 x 13 x 9.5 inches and weighing just 8.2 pounds
  • Large Carry-On measuring a slightly more spacious 22 x 15 x 10 inches and weighing just 8.4 pounds
  • Medium Checked Case measuring 25 x 17.5 x 11.5 inches and weighing 10.2 pounds
  • Large Checked Case measuring 29 x 19.5 x 12.5 inches and weighing 12.5 pounds

For even more valuable space for your travel belongings, each of these Delsey cases expands up to 2 inches for additional packing space.

Double spinner wheels assure smooth maneuverability no matter what the terrain and the sophisticated handle system has 2 locking positions to help you find the most comfortable height for pulling.

Inside the case, there are 2 large, fully-lined compartments with multiple pockets that allow easy access and organization for all of your items. To protect your belongings in transit, these Delsey cases also offer TSA-approved locks that only allow access to TSA agents and will keep your belongings safe from intruders along the way.

Delsey offers good-looking premium suitcases that are built to last and have a large collection of luggage items.

What We Like

  • Lots of pockets and compartments for storage

What We Don’t Like

  • Zippers can sometimes break

2. Upscale Cases With an Affordable Price Tag

DELSEY Paris Chatelet Hardside Luggage With Spinner Wheels

This elegant and upscale hardside suitcase is perfect for the stylish traveler and those that appreciate the finer things in life. With leather-like accents and a deluxe interior, this 100% virgin polycarbonate case is one of the best your money can buy.

Available in a selection of sizes and colors, you can choose from:

  • Carry-On Case measuring 20.25 x 14.25 x 9.5 inches and weighing 9.3 pounds
  • Checked-Medium Case measuring 24 x 16.5 x 11 inches and weighing 10.8 pounds
  • Checked-Large Case measuring 27.5 x 20 x 12.5 inches and weighing 12.6 pounds

If you really want to travel in style, invest in the complete set.

Not only blessed with stylish good looks, but the Paris range also comes with some unique features. The award-winning brake system, for example, is button activated and will prevent your case from rolling away from you in transit, and the recessed integrated TSA-accepted lock and SECURITECH zipper offers maximum security for your belongings.

Finally, these cases are pretty impressive on the inside, too. Designed for those who are really going places, the interior features a removable hanger, 2 full packing compartments with tie-down straps, as well as separate laundry and shoe bags.

Upscale luggage from Delsey is perfect for the stylish traveler who wants to look great and buy quality.

What We Like

  • Elegantly designed with an optional matching tote bag

What We Don’t Like

  • Marks are easier to see on a light-colored bag

3. Attractive Minimalist Aesthetic and Super Functional

Away Carry-On Luggage Black
Image Credit: Away

The Away Travel Range

The Away Travel hardside suitcase range comes in a variety of colors and sizes and is built to last. Choose from:

Made from a high-quality and extremely durable polycarbonate shell, all of the cases in the Away range are built to see you through many adventures. To keep your belongings safe, the cases also feature tough and durable zippers that slot directly into TSA-approved combination locks that can be opened only when necessary.

On the inside of the cases, the buckle-down compression pads and straps help to keep your clothes well-organized and wrinkle-free, and the hidden laundry bag will keep your damp or dirty items separate from the rest.

The whisper-quiet wheels roll along smoothly, and design touches like black leather luggage tags enhance the upscale look and feel across the range.

What We Like

  • Integrated TSA lock for protection against thieves

What We Don’t Like

  • No external pockets for quick access

4. For Frequent Flyers Who Want Chic Design

Trek Aluminum Black
Image Credit: MVST Select

TREK Aluminium Suitcase from MVST

Hot Tip: Use our special promo code UP10 for 10% off!

Made from an extremely high-grade aluminum alloy hardshell exterior, this range of cases is perfect for the stylish traveler who expects first-class performance from their luggage. The unbreakable aluminum-magnesium alloy shell is designed to withstand many years of bumps and knocks and the suitcases in this range come with a 5-year warranty.

Available in 3 different sizes, travelers can choose from:

  • TREK Carry-On measures a compact 22 x 14 x 8.7 inches and offers a 34-liter capacity while weighing just 9.6 pounds
  • TREK Medium Checked is perfect for short trips away and measures 26.8 x 18.9 x 10.5 inches and weighs just 10.7 pounds, with a useful 65-liter capacity
  • TREK Large Checked is big enough to cope with all your family travel needs with an impressive 97-liter capacity, and measuring just 29.5 x 20.9 x 11.4 inches, this remains a reasonably lightweight case with a weight of just 14 pounds

Wheel your TREK case effortlessly with the ultra-smooth 360-degree spinner wheels and the aluminum telescoping handle. Reinforced corners help to protect your case from damage on the go, and the zipper-less closure offers state-of-the-art, super-secure protection for your possessions.

With dual TSA-approved combination locks, your TREK case offers easy access when necessary and supreme protection from damage and theft when you are traveling.

TREK has a great range of hardside luggage with impressive features and incredibly durable construction.

What We Like

  • Zipless closure and hardshell for tamper protection

What We Don’t Like

  • Might be out of budget for many travelers

5. A Stylish and Durable Luggage Set

Coolife Luggage 3 Piece Set Suitcase Spinner Hardshell Lightweight TSA Lock
A lightweight hardshell case made from resilient and water-resistant ABS and polycarbonate, featuring a stylish design and a TSA-approved lock. The interior has 2 compartments that allow for efficient packing.

COOLIFE Luggage Suitcase Piece Set

With a 20-inch carry-on and 28-inch checked bag, these cases feature a tough ABS and polycarbonate hard shell that is designed to protect your belongings wherever you may take them.

If you like to keep your belongings close at hand, the carry-on measures 21 x 14 x 9.5 inches, and weighs just 6.7 pounds. This lightweight but durable cabin case is perfect for short trips and frequent flyers.

If you need more space for your next adventure, the checked spinner suitcase has an impressive 93-liter capacity and neat 11.9 x 20.2 x 28 inches dimensions. The checked case weighs 10.5 pounds.

Both cases come complete with quiet 360-degree spinner wheels designed to glide effortlessly over any terrain and the 100% aluminum telescoping ergonomic handle offers superb control and maneuverability. They also come with a recessed TSA-approved lock to help you fly through TSA security without any problems.

On the inside, the cases offer 2 zippered compartments, a flexible divider, and 3 interior compartments to keep smaller items organized.

Modern design, lightweight, secure, and easy to maneuver, these spinner suitcases are a fine offering from COOLIFE.

What We Like

  • 3 interior zippered compartments

What We Don’t Like

  • Telescopic handle stores internally taking up packing space

6. Big Brand Cases With Brilliant Credentials

DISCOUNT: 15%
Samsonite Winfield Hardside Luggage
21,607 Reviews
Samsonite Winfield Hardside Luggage
A long-lasting hard case made from ABS with a shock-absorbent design. This elegant choice has a scratch-resistant finish and includes a TSA-compatible combination lock to keep belongings protected. The 4 multi-directional spinner wheels ensure easy handling.

Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Luggage With Spinner Wheels

Made from 100% lightweight polycarbonate materials, the Winfield collection offers a choice of 3 different cases to suit all of your traveling requirements. Choose from:

  • Winfield Carry-On measuring just 20 x 13.5 x 9.5 inches and weighing a feather-light 6.7 pounds
  • Winfield Checked Medium measuring 24 x 16.5 x 11 inches and weighing just 9.3 pounds
  • Winfield Checked Large offers a vast amount of storage space within its 28 x 19.75 x 12.5 inches dimensions with a respectable weight of 11.5 pounds

Each of the 3 available cases offers the same high-quality construction that Samsonite is so famous for, and you will be able to wheel your luggage anywhere using the 4 multi-directional spinner wheels and engineered, telescopic handle. There is also a strong and durable zipper closure that has a side-mounted TSA-approved combination lock to ensure your belongings are never tampered with in transit.

On the inside, there are 10 oversized zipper and interior dividers and pockets that will keep your belongings well organized. All of the Winfield range also comes with a 10-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.

The Winfield collection offers a choice of affordable, high-quality, hardside cases from the brand leaders at Samsonite — a big brand with brilliant cases.

What We Like

  • Integrated TSA lock for security

What We Don’t Like

  • Hardshell can scratch easily

7. Affordable and Impressive Suitcases From Samsonite

Check on Home Depot

Samsonite Omni Expandable Hardside Luggage With Spinner Wheels

Designed to take on even the harshest of travel conditions, the Omni range from Samsonite takes form and function to the next level. Made from light but durable polycarbonate, these cases also feature a micro-diamond texture that is extremely scratch-resistant. 

Available in a variety of sizes, you can choose from:

  • Cabin Bag measuring 19 x 14.5 x 9.75 inches and weighing 6.81 pounds
  • Checked Medium measuring 24 x 17.5 x 11.5 inches and weighing 8.34 pounds
  • Checked Large measuring 28.5 x 20.5 x 13.5 inches and weighing 10.35 pounds

Each of the suitcases in this range has top and side handles for easy lifting, as well as heavyweight 360-degree spinner wheels that allow the case to glide effortlessly next to you while you travel. For added security, the flush-mounted Travel Sentry combination lock will keep your belongings safe in transit while still allowing access by TSA agents if required.

This case is not just good-looking on the outside — it is equally as impressive on the inside. With a full-zip interior divider and cross-straps to keep your clothes in place, the clamshell design makes this case super easy to pack and unpack as many times as you need to.

The Omni is another great range of affordable and durable hardside suitcases from the experts at Samsonite.

What We Like

  • Scratch-resistant micro-diamond texture

What We Don’t Like

  • Can tip over when packed full

8. Geometric Design for the Modern-day Traveler

Samsonite Centric Expandable Hardside Luggage With Spinner Wheels

Made by the luggage giants at Samsonite, this range of hardside suitcases offers all the premium quality and sophisticated good looks you would expect. Available in a selection of sizes and colors, you can choose from:

  • Carry-On Case measuring 19.6 x 14.75 x 9.5 inches and weighing 7.5 pounds
  • Medium-Checked Case measuring 24 x 16.5 x 11 inches and weighing 9.0 pounds
  • Large-Checked Case measuring 27.75 x 19.6 x 12.4 inches and weighing 10.8 pounds

With curiously geometric angles and a polycarbonate construction that is built to last, the Centric range is scratch- and water-resistant and designed to withstand many years of air travel.

For additional security, the cases feature side-mounted TSA combination locks that require no keys, and the well-thought-out design also includes an expansion on all sizes for that much-needed extra space.

The 360-degree spinner wheels allow you to pull the case along next to you, and the telescopic handle helps to make it a comfortable ride.

The Centric range is another winning selection of hardside suitcases from Samsonite. It’s hard to go wrong with this brand.

What We Like

  • Smooth-rolling spinner wheels

What We Don’t Like

  • Too large for some airline carry-on requirements

9. Slim, Sophisticated, and Lightweight

Samsonite S'Cure Hardside Luggage with Spinner Wheels, Dark Blue, Checked-Large 28-Inch
833 Reviews
Samsonite S'Cure Hardside Luggage with Spinner Wheels, Dark Blue, Checked-Large 28-Inch
An efficient and elegant hard case made from durable and lightweight polypropylene. The interior features a lined divider with cross-straps. The 360-degree 4 double-spinner wheels help with mobility. The comfortable handles are flat to save on space.

Samsonite S’Cure Hardside Luggage

Made from Flowlite polypropylene, these cases have a lightweight, thinner shell, while still being super strong and resistant to the vigors of air travel.

Perfect for travelers who like to keep their possessions close by, the 28″ Samsonite S’Cure Hardside Spinner measures in at 28.5 x 18 x 11.5 inches and weighs just 11 pounds, making it one of the lightest checked luggage pieces around.

360-degree easy-pivot spinning wheels make it super easy to take the case with you, and the handles fold flat so as not to impact the external dimensions. Available in 3 different sizes and colors, you can get a matching set or opt for bright, bold, and contrasting.

On the inside, the case offers a lined divider and cross straps to keep your clothes free from wrinkles in transit, as well as extra pockets to keep your gear in order. To ensure the safety of your stuff wherever you are headed, the case also comes with an integrated 3-digit TSA lock for your peace of mind.

As part of Samsonite’s lightest-ever polypropylene collection, the S’Cure Hardside suitcases have a slim profile and offer zipper-free closures for extra waterproofing.

What We Like

  • Slim and lightweight structure

What We Don’t Like

  • Book opening requires a lot of room for access

10. A Good All-rounder for Every Type of Traveler

Briggs & Riley Torq-Hardside Checked Luggage
257 Reviews
Briggs & Riley Torq-Hardside Checked Luggage
A long-lasting hard case made from Makrolon polycarbonate and featuring a telescoping handle made from aircraft-grade aluminum with ergonomic grip. The lightweight design makes this a convenient companion for longer trips.

Briggs & Riley Torq Hardside Spinner Luggage

This sleek and sophisticated hardside spinner case is the perfect blend of fashionable good looks and well-built practicality. Made from durable polycarbonate material, travelers can choose from:

  • Torq International Cabin Case measuring 22 x 14 x 9 inches and weighing 6.9 pounds
  • Torq Checked-Medium Case measuring 27.5 x 18.5 x 11.5 inches and weighing 8.9 pounds
  • Torq Checked-Large Case measuring 30.5 x 20 x 12.5 inches and weighing 9.9 pounds

With stylish good looks, a retractable handle, and smooth quiet double spinner wheels, the Torq range is as good as any other on the market, but what sets these apart from the competition is the unique internal layout.

The 80/20 lid opening makes it easy to pack this case on your luggage rack and the top lid features pockets to help keep your belongings well-organized. These cases also come complete with built-in garment hanging loops that hold suits or other items.

There is also a privacy pocket, a TSA-approved combination lock for added security, and the patented Smartlink System that allows you to transport 2 bags as 1 easily.

The Tory is a great case for all of your carry-on requirements from a trusted brand.

What We Like

  • 80/20 top lid opening allows quick and easy access on the go

What We Don’t Like

  • No underside handle to help lift in and out of the overhead locker

Final Thoughts

Hardside suitcases offer tons of practical space when it comes to packing and superior protection for your prized possessions. While they can be a little more expensive to buy and a pound or 2 heavier to carry, modern-day hardshell cases offer some of the best carry-on and checked luggage solutions for every kind of traveler.

See things differently with an attractive and easy-to-maneuver hardside suitcase for your next adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hardside luggage better?

There are pros and cons of hardside luggage. The downside of hardside luggage is usually that they are more expensive than softside cases and as the sides are hard, there is no give in them (which can be difficult for those prone to overpacking).

The reason that hardside luggage is so popular is because of its durability and security. Hardside luggage will protect its contents from the bumps and rigors of travel and it is much more difficult to cut into a hardside case than it is a softside one.

What is the best material for hardside luggage?

Hardside luggage is usually made from either aluminum, polycarbonate, or ABS. Aluminum cases are the strongest, yet most expensive on the market. ABS cases are usually the cheapest but lack the durability of the other materials. Polycarbonate is the middle ground with a near-premium price point but with the durability and design features to make travel easy.

Which is better --- Samsonite or American Tourister?

American Tourister makes very attractive and budget-friendly luggage but this does come at the cost of your luggage being made from ABS. While slightly more expensive, Samsonite produces high-quality polycarbonate cases and has done so for a long time. If you can stretch your budget, Samsonite suitcases are the better buy.

Does hardside luggage crack?

Hardside luggage is made from high-impact resistant material and should be able to withstand a beating. However, cases made from ABS tend to lack the durability of other cases and many of these cheaper cases end up cracking. If your budget allows, always opt for a polycarbonate case.

Amar Hussain's image

About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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