Choosing the best material for a luggage suitcase is essential for a traveler’s comfort, convenience, and overall travel experience. The best materials for a luggage suitcase are durable, lightweight, and able to protect the contents from any damage.
This article will discuss the main materials used in luggage suitcases, including hardshell, softshell, and hybrid suitcases. We will also consider other factors to consider when choosing a suitcase material, such as weight, durability, and aesthetics.
Hardshell Suitcases
Hardshell suitcases are made from rigid materials that can withstand high impacts. Polycarbonate, ABS, and aluminum are the most popular materials for hardshell suitcases.
Polycarbonate is lightweight, durable, and flexible, making it an ideal choice for hardshell suitcases. ABS is also a popular choice due to its impact resistance and affordability. Aluminum suitcases are durable, scratch-resistant, and provide excellent protection for fragile items.
Advantages
The advantages of polycarbonate suitcases are their lightweight and flexible features, which make them easy to carry around. They are also durable and can withstand high impacts. The disadvantages of polycarbonate suitcases are that they can scratch easily and are prone to discoloration over time. Popular polycarbonate suitcases include the Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Spinner and the Travelpro Maxlite 5 Hardside Spinner.
Affordability
ABS suitcases are affordable, durable, and can withstand high impacts. The disadvantages of ABS suitcases are that they are heavier than polycarbonate suitcases and can crack under extreme pressure. Popular ABS suitcases include the American Tourister Moonlight Hardside Spinner and the AmazonBasics Hardside Spinner.
Durability
Aluminum suitcases are the most durable and provide excellent protection for fragile items. The disadvantages of aluminum suitcases are that they are heavy and can dent easily. Popular aluminum suitcases include the Rimowa Classic Cabin Suitcase and the Samsonite S’Cure Hardside Spinner.
Softshell Suitcases
These suitcases are made from soft, flexible materials such as nylon, polyester, and leather. Softshell suitcases are lightweight and can be easily packed in tight spaces. Nylon and polyester suitcases are affordable and come in various colors and designs. Leather suitcases are stylish and durable but are also the most expensive.
Benefits
The benefits of nylon suitcases are that they are lightweight, affordable, and water-resistant. The disadvantages of nylon suitcases are that they can tear easily and provide less protection for fragile items. Popular nylon suitcases include the Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Spinner and the Samsonite Ascella X Softside Spinner.
Affordability
Polyester suitcases are affordable and come in various colors and designs. The disadvantages of polyester suitcases are that they are less durable and less water-resistant than nylon suitcases. Popular polyester suitcases include the AmazonBasics Softside Spinner and the Rockland Safari Softside Spinner.
Durability
Leather suitcases are stylish and durable but are also the most expensive. The advantages of leather suitcases are that they are water-resistant and provide excellent protection for fragile items. The disadvantages of leather suitcases are that they are heavy and require more maintenance than other materials. Popular leather suitcases include the Tumi Alpha 3 Expandable Carry-On and the Briggs & Riley Baseline Domestic Carry-On.
Hybrid Suitcases
The hybrid suitcases feature a combination of materials such as polycarbonate/nylon and ABS/polycarbonate. Hybrid suitcases offer the benefits of both hardshell and softshell suitcases.
Advantages
Advantages of polycarbonate/nylon suitcases are that they are lightweight, durable, and water-resistant. The disadvantages of polycarbonate/nylon suitcases are that they can be more expensive than other materials and may not offer as much protection as hardshell suitcases. Popular polycarbonate/nylon suitcases include the Samsonite Winfield 3 DLX Hardside Expandable Luggage and the Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside Expandable Spinner.
Affordability
ABS/polycarbonate suitcases are affordable, durable, and offer excellent protection for fragile items. The disadvantages of ABS/polycarbonate suitcases are that they can be heavy and not as flexible as other materials. Popular ABS/polycarbonate suitcases include the Kenneth Cole Reaction Out Of Bounds 20-Inch Carry-On and the Coolife Luggage Expandable Suitcase.
ALSO READ: Difference Between Hard and Soft Shell Luggage Suitcases
Other Considerations
When choosing the best material for a luggage suitcase, it’s important to consider other factors such as weight, durability, and aesthetics. Lightweight suitcases are ideal for air travel as they won’t add extra weight to your luggage, allowing you to pack more items. However, lightweight suitcases may not be as durable as heavier ones. Choose a suitcase that reflects your style and taste when it comes to aesthetics.
To maintain and care for your suitcase, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and storage. Softshell suitcases can be cleaned with a damp cloth and mild soap, while hardshell suitcases can be wiped clean with a cloth and mild detergent. Always store your suitcase in a dry and cool place to avoid damage from moisture and heat.
Conclusion
Choosing the best material for a luggage suitcase is crucial for a comfortable and convenient travel experience. Hardshell, softshell, and hybrid suitcases all offer unique advantages and disadvantages that should be considered when choosing a suitcase. Additionally, other factors such as weight, durability, and aesthetics should also be taken into account. Regardless of the material chosen, proper maintenance and care can ensure that your suitcase lasts for many trips to come.
Based on your needs and preferences, consider a polycarbonate suitcase if you prioritize lightweight and flexibility, an aluminum suitcase if you prioritize durability and protection, a leather suitcase if you prioritize style and quality, or a hybrid suitcase if you want to combine the benefits of both hardshell and softshell suitcases. Ultimately, the best material for a luggage suitcase is one that meets your travel needs and preferences.
