Howdie travelers and welcome to my post where we will check out my three best hard side suitcases cases to check in with this year. Whether travelling for business or pleasure, a good, solid hard side suitcase can make all the difference when it comes to ease of travel – especially if you are navigating a busy airport.
However of course there are quite a number of options out there to choose from so to help you out, I have had a good look around and come up with three decent choices below.
Let’s check them out…
My Three Recommended Hard side Suitcases
I will review these in more detail below however if you just want to get travelling without all the carry-on (no pun intended haha), my recommended products are listed here for your convenience:
What are Hard side Suitcases?
Essentially, when it comes to suitcases, there are two options – hardshell and softshell. And as you may have guessed, a hard side (also call hardshell suitcases) case simply means that it is made with a rigid, hard plastic outer for extra protection of internal contents as well as the rigors of travel.
Check out these: Soft Side Suitcases
What Should You Be Looking For?
The following factors should be considered as you look around for a good hardside suitcase for your travel needs.
- Dimensions
- Weight
- Hard case durability
- Internal pockets
- Additions
Check out my: Hard Side Vs. Soft Side Suitcase Showdown
Dimensions
Let’s get real here. If your suitcase does not match the check in dimensions set out by most airlines around the world, then its usefulness as a suitable option is moot. So as part of this post, I took the time to look up allowable check in bag dimensions for 20 odd of the highest profile airlines around the world and they all outline a check in limit of around 62 linear inches (roughly 158cm).
This does not mean your case can be 62 inches high rather it is the sum total of your bag’s length, width and depth. For example, if your bag measures 28 inches high, 13 inches wide and 10 inches deep, its linear measurement or linear dimensions would be 28 + 13 + 10 = 51 linear inches.
Put simply, if your case does not meet these dimensions, then you are taking the risk of being sent to the oversized items counter and all those extra luggage fees. Oh, and don’t forget the wheels – In my experience some airlines include then in the size and some don’t.
Weight
The second most important factor when it comes to luggage is weight. As more and more airlines start to police the weight of all luggage, the heaviness of your suitcase can severely reduce the amount of gear you can take – especially if you are travelling on a budget.
Many airlines here in Australia restrict check in luggage to 25 – 32kg (55 – 70lb) meaning then that the lighter the case, the more you can take with you again without those excess luggage fees.
Hard case durability
As we all know, travel can be especially tough on luggage, especially as it is bumped and bashed around the plane, car, hotel and airport.
To counteract this, look for a case with lightweight ABS plastic or polycarbonate that is strong, dent proof and scratch resistant as well.
Internal pockets
For added packing convenience, many cases come with internal pockets and cross straps for better packing ability and roominess. Some also include padded pockets and satchels for tablets and laptops as well.
Additions
Other potential additions include:
- Wheels: Some like them, some don’t, but wheeled bags make it a lot easier to move it around. Just be aware of their influence on bag size.
- Telescoping handle: To be honest, you will hard pressed to find a bag without it but a telescoping handle assists in pushing it along on the wheels
- TSA locks: TSA locks are used in the United States to allow the TSA to check inside bags without the need to damage the padlock. Some carry on luggage options have these built in.
- Expandable zips: These allow the bag to carry more via an internal extension panel. This will however increase the dimensions.
Check out these: 3 Best TSA Locks
FAQ
What is the best hard side carry on suitcase?
The best hardshell luggage is light in weight, durable and easy to move around. Most importantly, it fits within the dimension limitations of the major airlines. Look for something around 45 – 50 linear inch size with a scratch resistant ABS or polycarbonate cover.
My three recommendations broken down
So based on the information above and my own experience, I recommend the following options:
1. Coolife Luggage Suitcase
This first option is light weight and durable with dimensions that meet airline dimension requirements even with the wheels. See its specifications below:
- Brand: Coolife
- Dimensions: 28 x 30.5 x12″” – 62 linear inches
- Weight: 9.7lb
- Construction: Lightweight ABS and PC with brushed finish
- Internal pockets: Interior mesh zip pocket and elasticated cross ribbons
Other inclusions:
- Multi-directional double spinner wheels
- Telescoping handle
- TSA Lock on side
- Available in over 5 colors
- Medium and carry on options also available
Why have I chosen it?
With this first option, the multi-directional double spinner wheels rotate 360 degrees for easy maneuverability with strong zippers and an internal aluminum telescoping handle. It will fit all airline dimension limitations and allows for maximum packing for little weight. A great option for intermittent and frequent travelers alike.
Check out these: 3 Best TSA Approve Luggage Sets
2. Amazon Basics Hardside Spinner Suitcase
This second option is another super durable option that can handle anything thrown at it with smooth wheels and fantastic internal organization as well. See its specifications below:
- Brand: Amazon Basics
- Dimensions: 19.2 x 12 x 27.5 (58.7 linear inches)
- Weight: 12.6 lbs
- Construction: Lightweight ABS and PC
- Internal pockets: Interior organizer with divider, 3 zippered pockets and elasticized strap
Other inclusions:
- Multi-directional double spinner wheels
- Telescoping handle
- Expandable via internal zipper (extra 15″ width)
- Available in 6 colors
- Available in carry on and medium sizes as well
Why have I chosen it?
This is another great lightweight option with a scratch resistant hard shell with durable zippers. It comes with great internal options for ease of packing as well as double spinner wheels for added maneuverability. It also comes with an expandable zipper setup providing for an extra 15% in internal space as well.
Check out my: Amazon Basics Hardside Spinner Suitcase Review
3. Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels
My last option comes from a well known and trusted luggage brand with everything needed for long lasting use trip after trip. See its specifications below:
- Brand: Samsonite
- Dimensions: 28.5″ x 20.5″ x 13.5″ (62 Linear inches)
- Weight: 10.35lb
- Construction: Lightweight Micro-Diamond Polycarbonate
- Internal pockets: Mesh divider and cross straps in main compartment with a zipped modesty pocket
Other inclusions:
- Multi-directional double spinner wheels
- Telescoping handle
- Side mounted TSA locks
- Available in 14 colors
Why have I chosen it?
This case is light weight and built to last with a polycarbonate case that is strong and scratch resistant with a TSA lock bult in. The oversized spinner wheels make for excellent mobility at a size that meets all airline limitations. This is a fantastic option for frequent travelers who need quality in their luggage needs.
Check out my: Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Luggage Review
Conclusion
There you have it, my three best hard side luggage options to meet your check in travel needs. I would be pleased to know how this article helped you, and as usual, let me know of your experiences with them.
Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, or corrections or would like me to check anything else out for you.
Until next time.
Have fun
Paul
