Hardside Luggage Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Suitcase

Choosing a new suitcase can be a daunting task. Your luggage needs to protect its contents, be easy to manoeuvre, and withstand the rigours of airport handling. A hardside suitcase is the top choice for many travellers when it comes to durability and security. However, the differences in material, size, and features are significant.

This guide is designed to give you clear direction. As your Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, I have analysed the key features and models to provide an objective basis for your decision. The goal is to help you find a trolley that perfectly matches your travel needs.

What to Look for When Buying a Hardside Suitcase

To make the right choice, a few technical aspects are crucial. These three criteria will help you objectively evaluate a suitcase's functionality.

1. The Material: Polycarbonate, ABS, or Polypropylene?

Not all hardside shells are created equal. The material used directly impacts weight, durability, and price.

• Polycarbonate (PC): This material is known for its flexibility and low weight. PC suitcases can absorb impacts well by flexing slightly and then returning to their original shape. This makes them highly resistant to cracking.
• ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene): ABS is a more rigid and often more affordable material. It offers solid baseline stability but tends to be heavier and less flexible than polycarbonate. Many models combine ABS with a PC outer layer to enhance scratch resistance.
• Polypropylene (PP): This material is extremely impact-resistant, even at low temperatures, and is one of the lightest plastics available for luggage. A lightweight suitcase made from PP is therefore an excellent choice for anyone looking to make the most of airline weight allowances.

2. Wheels and Security: Spinner Suitcases and TSA Locks

Handling at the airport is largely determined by the wheels and the locking system.

• Wheels: A spinner suitcase with four 360-degree double wheels offers maximum manoeuvrability. It can be pushed effortlessly alongside you and navigated through narrow aisles. Models with two wheels must be tilted and pulled, which can be more tiring over long distances.
• Lock: An integrated suitcase with a TSA lock is essential for travel to the USA and several other countries. The U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) can open these locks with a master key for inspection purposes without damaging the lock or the suitcase.

3. Size and Weight: From Carry-On to Large Check-in Suitcase

The right size depends on the duration of your trip and airline regulations.

• Carry-on: Most airlines accept suitcases with dimensions of 55 x 40 x 20 cm. A lightweight carry-on trolley is ideal for short trips and business travel, as it saves time at the baggage carousel.
• Medium Size (approx. 65-70 cm): These suitcases are well-suited for trips of one to two weeks. They offer ample space while remaining manageable.
• Large Size (over 70 cm): For long holidays or family trips, a large suitcase is the right solution. Pay close attention to its unladen weight to avoid hefty excess baggage fees.

Our Recommended Hardside Suitcases

Based on the criteria mentioned, we have compiled a selection of models that stand out for their functional features and materials.

1. British Traveller Medium PC Hard Shell Check-in Suitcase (64 cm)

Why This Model Stands Out: This medium-sized suitcase combines the advantages of two materials. The shell, made from an ABS and PC blend, strikes a great balance between lightness and durability. The thoughtfully designed interior with a divider and cross-straps makes organised packing easy.

Advantages:

• Material: Lightweight and scratch-resistant hardshell made of ABS and PC.
• Security: Integrated 3-digit TSA lock and YKK zipper.
• Manoeuvrability: Four quiet 360-degree spinner wheels made of TPE.
• Interior: Flexible zippered divider and cross-straps for tidy storage.
• Dimensions: At 64 x 43 x 26.5 cm with a 57-litre volume, it's ideal for trips of 1-2 weeks.

Who is this model for? Travellers looking for a reliable and well-organised check-in suitcase for medium-length holidays or business trips.

2. kono Large Check-in Luggage 28-inch (76 cm)

Why This Model Stands Out: This large suitcase is made entirely from 100% polypropylene (PP). This material makes it extremely impact-resistant and remarkably lightweight for its size. With a 100-litre capacity, it offers maximum storage space for long journeys.

Advantages:

• Material: Very durable and lightweight hardshell made of 100% polypropylene.
• Capacity: A generous 100-litre volume for extended trips.
• Manoeuvrability: Four quiet 360-degree TPE spinner wheels.
• Security: Integrated TSA-approved lock and a durable YKK zipper.
• Organisation: Interior compartments with mesh pockets, zippered dividers, and cross-straps.

Who is this model for? Ideal for long-term travellers, families, or anyone who needs to transport a lot of luggage and values an exceptionally durable shell.

3. kono Lightweight Polypropylene Hard Shell Carry On (55 cm)

Why This Model Stands Out: This carry-on trolley meets the requirements of most airlines with its 55 x 40 x 20 cm dimensions. It is also made from 100% polypropylene, which makes it an exceptionally lightweight suitcase at just 2.41 kg, without compromising on stability.

Advantages:

• Material: Extremely lightweight and impact-resistant suitcase made of 100% polypropylene.
• Dimensions: Compliant with the carry-on regulations of many airlines.
• Weight: At only 2.41 kg, it leaves more weight allowance for your belongings.
• Security: Equipped with a TSA lock and a high-quality YKK zipper.
• Manoeuvrability: Four quiet and smooth-gliding spinner wheels.

Who is this model for? Perfect for business travellers and weekenders who need a lightweight, durable, and compliant carry-on trolley for hassle-free travel.

Discover More Options and Accessories

The right gear is the key to a stress-free journey. If you are looking for additional security accessories like separate locks or want to compare other travel items, you can find a wider selection in our Luggage Locks category.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between hardside suitcases made of ABS, PC, and polypropylene?

In short: Polypropylene (PP) is the lightest and most impact-resistant material. Polycarbonate (PC) is very flexible and resistant to cracking. ABS is more rigid, often more affordable, and is frequently used in material blends to optimise performance.

Is a hardside suitcase more durable than a softside suitcase?

A hardside suitcase offers better protection against impacts and more effectively shields fragile items inside. It is also more water-resistant and easier to clean. Softside suitcases, on the other hand, are more flexible, which can make packing easier, and often feature convenient exterior pockets. The choice depends on your personal priorities.

What is a TSA lock for, and how does it work?

A TSA lock is a special lock that can be opened by the U.S. security authority (Transportation Security Administration) with a master key. This allows for luggage inspections without the need to break the lock. You can set your own numerical combination, while security officers can gain access if necessary.