When buying luggage, one of the first — and perhaps one of the most overwhelming — decisions you need to make is whether you want a hard-sided or soft-sided suitcase.
To make the choice easier, we’ve compiled the advantages and disadvantages of hard-sided and soft-sided suitcases. We’ve also answered some of your most frequently asked questions about luggage and provided some bag recommendations in both categories.
Are hard or soft suitcases better?
It depends who you ask, as the choice is really a matter of personal preference. Many people gravitate toward hard-shell luggage because its solid exterior is resistant to liquids (from rain to spilled coffee) and better at protecting belongings from the rigors of airport baggage handling as well as theft. It’s also easy to clean.
If you consider yourself an overpacker, soft-sided luggage may be your best choice since its pliable shape allows for expandability (and makes it easier to stuff into overhead bins). Soft-sided luggage also offers exterior pockets — convenient for accessing essentials on the go, including your laptop. Some hard-sided bags, such as the Monos Carry-On Pro, offer a single front pocket, but it’s less common.
The pros and cons of hard-sided luggage
Pros
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Fully protects belongings
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Easy to maintain and clean
Cons
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Can dent, scratch or crack
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Can’t be expanded to fit more
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Less options with exterior pockets
Does hard luggage crack?
Yes, hard luggage can crack. The best way to avoid this issue is by purchasing a hard-sided suitcase that is made of polycarbonate, a strong yet lightweight type of plastic. Aluminum is also a good choice, albeit heavier. Luggage brands that make polycarbonate and aluminum suitcases include Away and Monos.
What is the best material for a hard suitcase?
Polycarbonate is the best material for a hard suitcase that’s also lightweight. Many hard-sided suitcases are constructed of polypropylene and/or ABS, which are less durable but yield more affordable luggage (think Samsonite and American Tourister).
The pros and cons of soft-sided luggage
Cons
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Can puncture, tear or rip
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Hard to clean and remove stains
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Contents are susceptible to damage
What is the best material for soft-sided luggage?
Ballistic nylon, which is thicker and heavier than standard nylon, is commonly used in soft-sided luggage. Top-rated brands like Travelpro and Briggs & Riley use it in their products. Cordura is another durable nylon product that’s used in soft luggage.
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What to look for when buying luggage
Whether you choose hard-sided or soft-sided luggage, pay close attention to the following details when shopping and reading reviews:
- Handles: Look for a sturdy handle that quickly and easily adjusts without getting stuck.
- Wheels: Both two- and four-wheeled luggage works well, and the bigger the wheels, the better maneuverability.
- Zippers: YKK zippers are considered the best in the industry. Standard coil zippers are a good alternative.
- Size: Consider carry-on luggage size restrictions — 22 x 14 x 9 inches (inclusive of the handle and wheels) is a good rule of thumb.
- Stitching: Look closely to make sure the seams are reinforced.
Hard-sided luggage picks
Based on our luggage testing as well as consumer reviews, these are some of the best hard-sided suitcases on the market.
Soft-sided luggage picks
When it comes to soft-sided luggage, these brands and bags are the best of the best.
Why Trust U.S. News Travel
Rachael Hood is luggage obsessed. Since she got her first suitcase at age 5, she’s been experimenting with which suitcase works best for every type of trip. Her go-to travel bags include the CALPAK Mini Hue and a Heys Leopard Spinner carry-on suitcase. Hood used her retail merchandising background, research expertise, and personal experience with a variety of hard-sided and soft-sided luggage pieces to write this article.