When soft-shell luggage on two wheels came around, our aching backs were thankful. Then, when styles with multi-directional spinner wheels popped onto the scene, it was hard to believe that we’d ever lived with the hard-to-maneuver dual-wheeled models. Now hard-shell four-wheelers dominate—seriously, look around next time you’re at the airport and try to find a softie—giving us the most lightweight, durable, easy-to-pull options we’ve ever seen. Let’s roll!
Classic Choice
This utilitarian trio of cases includes baby bear, mama bear and papa bear sizes! The micro-diamond polycarbonate outside is scratch-resistant, and a quartet of multidirectional tires make moving around manageable. Samsonite
Consider what you’ll be toting and therefore what sort of functionality you might need. For example, do you travel with valuables? You’ll want side-mounted, theft-deterring TSA locks. Do you tend to come home with more than you left with? Make sure to buy an expandable style that’ll fit whatever goodies you purchase.
Secure Option
The textured sheen of this style will catch your eye, but don’t let its looks fool you. The brushed design magically conceals any wear and tear, it comes with a TSA-approved lock built-in and these durable cases are rigorously tested. Samsonite
One nice perk of a hard-shell case is that you get two uniform compartments, one on each side. Most styles come with an interior divider (so things stay in place during turbulence or any other movement), organizational pockets and sometimes even a laundry bag.
Super Durable
This option is made of thick ABS plastic for enhanced strength, and it increases its space by 15% when unzipped to full capacity. A telescoping handle lets you pull these along easily. AmazonBasics
Get to know your dimensions. Hard-shell cases typically come in 20-, 24- and 28-inch dimensions, with the smallest being carry-on-compliant for air travel. Investing in a three-piece set means you’ll never worry about running out of room, and conversely, you can stop yourself from overpacking if you want to!
Also Consider:
Keeps Items in Place
Who said your bag needs to be basic black? A vibrant shade will do more than just brighten your day, it’ll make your baggage impossible to miss on the airport conveyor belt. Rockland
Works Vertically and Horizontally
Leave it to the fashion designer to consider every last detail. Four molded side feet allow each case to stand upright in multiple directions, and handles at the top and sides make for easy maneuvering. Kenneth Cole Reaction