Top 5 Hard-Sided Luggage Options
Travelpro Platinum Elite Medium Check-In Hardside Spinner
This suitcase is perfect for frequent travellers seeking durability and style, offering ample space for all your belongings.
- Stylish and sturdy design with excellent organizational features.
- Expandable by 2 inches, perfect for extra packing.
- It can be a bit heavy at 11.1 lb for some users.
Samsonite Omni PC 20-Inch Carry-On
This carry-on is ideal for short trips, combining style and durability while fitting in most airline cabins.
- Lightweight at just 6.81 lb, making it easy to transport.
- Scratch-resistant surface with a variety of colour options.
- The interior organization is quite basic with only a mesh divider.
Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On Business Plus Hardside Spinner
Best suited for business travellers, this carry-on offers sophisticated design with practical features for tech users.
- Includes a laptop compartment and USB ports for charging.
- Durable build with excellent organisation for important items.
- At 9 lb, it may feel heavier than some competitors.
Travelpro Maxlite Air V2 Carry-On Hardside Spinner
This budget-friendly option is great for those looking for a lightweight carry-on that doesn’t compromise on quality.
- Very light at only 6.7 lb, making it easy to handle.
- Expandable by 2 inches for extra packing space.
- The overall capacity may be limited for longer trips.
Samsonite Freeform Medium Spinner
This medium-sized suitcase is ideal for those needing additional space without sacrificing ease of movement.
- Expandable by 1.5 inches, perfect for return trips.
- Lightweight construction with a modern design.
- Some users may find it lacks internal organization features.
Buying Guide for the Best Hard-Sided Luggage
Ready to choose your perfect suitcase? Here are our top picks:
- Best Overall: Travelpro Platinum Elite Medium Check-In Hardside Spinner
- Best Value: Samsonite Omni PC 20-Inch Carry-On
- Best for Business: Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On Business Plus Hardside Spinner
- Best Budget Option: Travelpro Maxlite Air V2 Carry-On Hardside Spinner
- Best Medium-Sized Luggage: Samsonite Freeform Medium Spinner
When selecting luggage, the first consideration is whether to opt for hard-sided or soft-sided options. Hard-sided luggage is known for its structure, protection against impacts, and stylish appearance. Recent advancements in materials mean that hard-sided luggage is now lighter than ever, making them a popular choice.
We, the FranksWaffle review team, evaluated various hard-sided luggage options focusing on their capacity, ease of packing, durability, and manoeuvrability. Below are our findings on the top five models we tested.
Editors’ Picks for 2025
Travelpro Platinum Elite Medium Check-In Hardside Spinner
Best Overall
Type: Checked | Dimensions: 27.25” L x 18” W x 13” H | Weight: 11.1 lb | Material: Polycarbonate, aluminium | Expandable: Yes (2”)
The Travelpro Platinum Elite is a stand-out suitcase, combining durability and style. Its polycarbonate shell is enhanced with aluminium corner guards for additional protection. The organised interior allows for vertical packing, and during our testing, we appreciated the zippered expansion feature that creates extra space for souvenirs.
Samsonite Omni PC 20-Inch Carry-On
Best Value
Type: Carry-On | Dimensions: 22” L x 15” W x 9.75” H | Weight: 6.81 lb | Material: Polycarbonate | Expandable: Yes
This carry-on from Samsonite is a reliable choice for budget-conscious travellers. It meets the dimensions for most airlines, and its lightweight design makes it easy to manage. We found the interior to be basic, but it effectively serves its purpose for short trips.
Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On Business Plus Hardside Spinner
Best for Business
Type: Carry-On | Dimensions: 23” L x 14.5” W x 9.5” H | Weight: 9 lb | Material: Polycarbonate, aluminium | Expandable: Yes (2”)
This model excels in organisation with its dedicated laptop compartment and exterior USB ports. It’s a fantastic option for business travellers. While it is a bit heavier than some other carry-ons, it provides excellent functionality.
Travelpro Maxlite Air V2 Carry-On Hardside Spinner
Best Budget Option
Type: Carry-On | Dimensions: 23” L x 14.5” W x 9.5” H | Weight: 6.7 lb | Material: Polycarbonate | Expandable: Yes (2”)
This suitcase is one of the lightest we tested, making it a great option for budget-conscious travellers who do not want to compromise on quality. Its expandable feature and impact-resistant shell are significant bonuses.
Samsonite Freeform Medium Spinner
Best Medium-Sized Luggage
Type: Checked | Dimensions: 27” L x 18.5” W x 12” H | Weight: 8.5 lb | Material: Polypropylene | Expandable: Yes (1.5”)
The Freeform Medium Spinner is a versatile option for longer trips. Its sleek design and expandable feature make it suitable for various travel needs, though some might find the lack of organisation features a drawback.
How We Analysed
We conducted extensive research on the best hard-sided luggage, evaluating models from top brands based on customer feedback and professional reviews. Our testing involved assessing several hard-sided options in terms of capacity, durability, packing convenience, and mobility.
Key Features to Consider
Size and Weight
Dimensions and Capacity
Understanding luggage size is crucial for seamless travel. Carry-on luggage is designed to fit in airplane cabins, while checked luggage is larger and intended for cargo holds. Be sure to check your airline’s regulations for specific dimensions.
Durable Materials
Modern hard-sided luggage typically features shells made of lightweight plastics such as polycarbonate or polypropylene, which provide excellent durability without added weight. Consider the material when making your choice to ensure it meets your travel needs.
Wheels and Handles
Wheel design is essential for manoeuvrability. Most luggage comes with either two wheels (roller) or four wheels (spinner). Spinners allow for 360-degree movement, making them easier to navigate through crowded spaces.
Locks and Security
Look for luggage that includes built-in TSA-approved locks for added security during travel. This will ensure your belongings are safe while allowing airport security access when needed.
Additional Features
Consider pockets, compartments, and expandability. More pockets enhance organisation, while expandability can provide extra space when needed. Always check for convenient features that suit your travel style.
Tips for Care and Use
- Keep your luggage clean by wiping it down regularly.
- Use an eraser sponge to remove scuffs without damaging the surface.
- Verify your airline’s baggage fees ahead of your trip.
- Invest in packing cubes for better organisation.
- Replace broken wheels rather than discarding the entire suitcase.
FAQ
Q. How much does hard-sided luggage cost?
Prices vary widely based on size and material, with budget options starting around £30 and premium models reaching £500 or more.
Q. Which lasts longer: hard or soft luggage?
While it may seem counterintuitive, hard-sided luggage can have a shorter lifespan than soft-sided options due to damage susceptibility. However, high-quality hard-sided pieces from reputable brands can last just as long as their soft-sided counterparts.