When you travel, you want to make sure that you have the best luggage for the trip. But what should you choose? If you’re like most people, you probably have no idea what the difference is between a Hardside and a Softside suitcase. In the debate of Hardside vs Softside luggage, you will learn some important tips and information that will help you make an informed decision. This article is all about hardshell and softshell luggage and hopefully, you will get everything you wanted to know once you read it all. So I would suggest you read the whole article.
However, most people choose between Hardside and Softside luggage for their next trip. But what is the difference? Are Hardside or Softside better? What are the pros and cons of each? And why should you choose one over the other? Let’s take a look at the differences between these two types of luggage, and find out if you should choose one over the other.
Hardside vs Softside Luggage
Choosing between a soft-sided or hard-sided suitcase is a personal choice that depends on what you plan to use the suitcase for. If you plan to carry your laptop, tablet, or camera then a hard-sided case will be the best option for you. If you’re planning to travel with a briefcase and only need something to carry your passport, then a soft-sided bag will work just fine. Either way, we will here discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each type of luggage so you can make the right decision for you. If you choose to have luggage set, you can have a carry-on bag with those.
Hardside Luggage
One of the most important decisions you will make when buying luggage for your next trip is choosing between Hardside or Softside luggage. Choosing the right type of luggage can make or break your next business trip. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a month-long business trip, just read the pros and cons of hardshell luggage and you will be able to make a decision about which type of luggage is best for you.
To be truthful, Hardside luggage has become popular in recent years because it is much easier to carry and stores items in a more organized fashion. If you have ever carried a suitcase on your back, then you know what I mean. Hardside luggage is also generally more durable than Softside luggage. It can withstand bumps and falls better than Softside luggage. When you purchase Hardside luggage, you will need to invest in a sturdy case that will last you a lifetime. Hardside luggage has several pros and cons.
Some Hardcase luggage in case you like it.
What is a Hardside Luggage?
Hardside luggage is a type of luggage that has a hard exterior shell. It is made up of plastic, metal, or other materials to protect the contents inside from scratches and dents. In addition, Hardside luggage is a type of luggage that is designed to protect your belongings from the elements. They are usually made of a combination of leather and fabric and have a hard exterior shell to protect the contents from the outside environment.
Hardside luggage is the best type of luggage for those who are traveling for a long period of time. The main difference between soft and hardside luggage is the way in which the suitcase is held together. Moreover, if you want to travel with more than just a carry-on bag, then you’ll need a hardside luggage because it is durable, has a long life, and will last you for years.
What is a Hardside Luggage Made of?
These days, travel bags are often made from lightweight, tough, and high-tech plastics that are stronger and more durable than those of the past. All hard-shell luggage is made with polycarbonate plastic. Polycarbonate is lightweight and strong, so it holds up well over time.
Simply, ABS is lighter, but polycarbonate is more durable.
Aluminum is the most durable material in terms of weight. However, it’s also the most expensive to produce.
Speaking of handy use, hard-shell luggage is ideal for storing your belongings and stabilizing your stuff in one container. A hard-shell suitcase is useful because it allows you to pack two sides equally and stabilize the contents with a middle divider or strap.
The clamshell design requires double the surface space to spread it open. Most hard-shell containers are made so they have lids that can be opened and closed. Some are also made with openings.
The Pros of Hardshell Luggage
- Hard shell and well-protected
- Waterproof (depending on the bag)
- Sturdy – can protect fragile items
- Most hardside luggage has 360°- rotating wheels
- Unable to be compressed to squeeze into tight spaces
- Easy to stack
- Easy to clean
- Shock absorbent material stands up to rough airport handling
- Variety colors
- Organized and shiny
The Cons of Hardshell Luggage
- Can’t be expanded if necessary
- Hard cases are not as comfortable as softshell suitcase
- Takes up more space
- No exterior pockets
Now, let’s see some different sizes of Hardshell luggage in case you like it. Besides, you will have some knowledge of it.
Hardsided Suitcases
Name | Size (inches) | Weight (lbs) | Price (US$) |
DELSEY Paris Chatelet Hardside Luggage | 9.5 x 20.25 x 14.25 | 9.3 | Check Latest Price on Amazon |
Delsey Belfort Plus | 26 x 17.5 x 11 | 10 | Check Latest Price on Amazon |
Delsey Helium Colours | 27 x 10 x 18.5 | 10.5 | Check Latest Price on Amazon |
Delsey Honore | 23 x 18 x 11.5 | 10.9 | Check Latest Price on Amazon |
Heys Crown Edition M Elite | 26 x 17 x 10.5 | 9 | Check Latest Price on Amazon |
Lojel Octa | 25 x 17 x 10.6 | 9.8 | Check Latest Price on Amazon |
Roncato UNO SL | 28 x 19 x 10 | 9.5 | Check Latest Price on Amazon |
Samsonite Cruisair Bold | 26 x 18.5 x 11 | 12.4 | Check Latest Price on Amazon |
Samsonite F’Lite | 29.5 x 12 x 20 | 11.2 | Check Latest Price on Amazon |
Samsonite S’Cure | 28.5 x 18 x 11 | 11.5 | Check Latest Price on Amazon |
Hardshell luggage is pricey but they are worth it. There are many advantages of it to use. If you have a physical store near your home, you can go there, and then you will understand the real differences between hardside and softside luggage. So, pick the one you think is best.
Softside Luggage
For the past 50 years, Softside luggage has been the standard luggage choice for travelers. But now, Hardside luggage has been gaining momentum with its many advantages. And, in the last decade, the trend has been changing, as more and more people have started to realize that Softside luggage is a better option for them.
Softside luggage is always favorite for most people. You will love it once you start to use softside luggage. This luggage can back up, especially if you need to expand it.
Some Softcase luggage in case you like it.
What is a Softside Luggage?
Do you know what Softside luggage is? Softside luggage is a suitcase that has a soft interior lining. This is a type of luggage that is much more comfortable to carry around. It has been designed with a soft lining that makes it more comfortable to carry around. Softshell luggage has been made popular by airlines like Delta and United Airlines. However, they are not only made for airlines. They are also made for travelers who are looking for a more comfortable way to travel.
In addition, Softside luggage is a type of luggage that is made of soft materials. It is usually used by travelers who like to have comfortable and durable luggage for traveling. Softside luggage is usually made of a material like canvas, cotton, or leather. The main advantage of using softshell luggage is that it is very light and easy to carry. One of the disadvantages of using Softside luggage is that it is not as durable as Hardside luggage.
What is a Softside Luggage Made of?
Soft-sided luggage should have woven nylon, such as Cordura, ballistic or ripstop fabric.
This is a lightweight ripstop material that’s more textured than ballistic, a little softer, and more abrasion-resistant. Cordura is made from a high-tech weave that’s about 10 times stronger than standard military fabrics, and also more durable.
In addition, Cordura is a lighter material that provides a good balance of softness and durability.
Over time, Ballistic can abrade the fabric, but that won’t compromise the fabric’s strength. You don’t have to go into much detail about this one; it’s obvious. Ballistic is smoother and shinier than the original Teflon.
A ripstop nylon bag is a very lightweight fabric commonly known as “parachute material,” often used in unstructured or semi-structured bags.
The fabric will remain soft and comfortable over time.
All three come in a wide range of deniers, which are used to indicate the thickness of the material.
When it comes to ripstop nylon, a higher denier is better for keeping your belongings secure and light enough to carry.
The Pros of Softshell Luggage
- Flexible and comfortable
- Takes up less space
- Extra storage
- Handy and easy to use
- Expandable if necessary
- Collapses for easy storage
- Often has exterior pockets
- Less visible wear and tear
- Easier fit in overhead compartments
The Cons of Softshell Luggage
- Less protective than hardshell luggage
- Insects can damage the suitcase
- Can be torn
- Delicate stuff can be broken
Now, let’s see some different sizes of Softshell luggage in case you like it.
Softsided Suitcases
Name | Size (inches) | Weight (lbs) | Price (US$) |
Ambassador Vintage | 25 x 18 x 10.2 | 10.5 | Check Latest Price on Amazon |
Delsey Helium Breeze | 25 x 18 x 11 | 10.8 | Check Latest Price on Amazon |
Delsey Dauphine | 27 x 19.8 x 12 | 7.0 | Check Latest Price on Amazon |
Delsey Chatelet | 24 x 18 x 11 | 11 | Check Latest Price on Amazon |
Heys America Air-Lite II | 26 x 17.5 x 11 | 10.3 | Check Latest Price on Amazon |
Roncato Venice | 27.5 x 17 x 12 | 6.7 | Check Latest Price on Amazon |
Tommy Hilfiger | 28 x 15 x 9.5 | 13.2 | Check Latest Price on Amazon |
Samsonite H-Lite | 24 x 16 x 10 | 11.8 | Check Latest Price on Amazon |
American Tourister Ilite Xtreme | 25 x 18 x 10 | 9.5 | Check Latest Price on Amazon |
Briggs & Riley Explore | 26 x 17 x 10.9 | 8.4 | Check Latest Price on Amazon |
If you don’t like any of them you should check more softshell luggage on Amazon or another online marketplace. Some of them are big while others are small. It would be great if you go to the store physically and check those with your hands.
Softside vs Hardside Luggage: Which one is more expensive?
When it comes to buying new luggage, price is definitely going to be an important factor that will influence the choices you make. If you want to buy something, make sure to look at the quality of the products so you’re not disappointed later on. However, when it comes to luggage, you definitely don’t want to just get the cheapest option you can find. There’s a lot more to consider than just price.
Now the question remains –
So which one is more expensive, softside or hardside?
Fortunately, you shouldn’t have any trouble finding great-quality, inexpensive options in either style.
There are so many different sizes, brands, and types of headphones that the price difference between them is usually pretty small.
At the end of the year, you’ll find the best deals on travel bags and backpacks for men and women here. There are hardside and softside luggage sets available at steep discounts.
However, if you travel frequently and want to buy your suitcase at a discount, check out this selection of luggage, which includes bags for both hard- and soft-sided luggage. Shop for both hardside and softside luggage from these collections featuring multiple bags at deep discounts compared to buying them individually.
Hardshell vs Softshell Luggage: Which is better for packing?
If price isn’t really the big deciding factor when choosing which type of luggage to buy, then you should think about how easy or hard it is to pack.
You’re probably not the only person who hates packing. Packing is an absolute chore for me, but it’s worth the effort. When you’re done packing, you’re ready to go!
I still pack my bag the day before I leave, even as an adult. So the baggage handlers at the airport also value luggage that’s easy to pack and deals with, and they seem to feel the same way I do.
Then the question is – which type of luggage is better for packing; Softside or Hardside?
A hardside suitcase can be a pain in the neck to pack because “you have to put things on both sides of the suitcase.” A softside roller bag basically acts as a deep drawer and helps keep your suitcase organized.
In addition, the quality of your suitcase should reflect the value you place on your possessions. If you want a suitcase that’s sturdy, but not bulky or heavy, a hard-sided bag might be what you’re looking for.
Because I have to make sure my computer is well packed so it doesn’t get damaged.
Moreover, Soft-sided luggage is easier to pack into the overhead bin than hard-sided luggage. That makes it especially worth considering if you’re using it as a carry-on bag instead of checking it.
Hardside vs. Softside Luggage: Which is more durable?
Luggage makes traveling easier, by storing your clothes, electronics, accessories, and more.
A big caveat of this kind of hardside luggage is you don’t just want all your stuff to arrive, you want everything you arrive in one piece without any damage. That’s really where hardside luggage excels compared to softside.
Due simply to the fact that the hardshell suitcase is constructed in such a way as to offer more protection, “the hardside suitcase has less damage,” according to our flight attendant source. This makes sense because everything in the suitcase is protected from damage by the hard shell that surrounds it.
Hard-sided bags are more prone to scratches, dents, and damage than soft-sided bags. They also cost more to make and often need to be shipped in custom-sized boxes, which adds extra fees to their shipping costs.
Hardshell suitcases are the best for traveling, but if you’re flying, you may want to consider softshell luggage. It’s much more comfortable.
Softside vs. Hardside Luggage: Which is easier to move around the airport?
It all depends on which side your suitcase has. If it has wheels and is hardside, then yes, it’s easier. If it doesn’t have wheels or is softside, it will be much harder to move.
Most luggage companies specialize in different types of luggage. When we talk about duffel bags, rollaboard cases, spinner suitcases, and more, we could be talking about the differences between a duffel bag and a Rollaboard case, or a spinner suitcase and a wheelie suitcase.
In general, according to our flight attendant source, “hard cases with 360° spinner wheels are easier to move.”
This bag isn’t as heavy as it looks because the wheels allow it to spin in any direction. It’s easy to move and you can just walk through the airport and the bag will follow.
Hardside vs Softside Luggage – Which one is better?
I’ve been to many places around the world and traveled quite a bit. In my experience, it doesn’t matter what type of luggage you use — all that matters is what works best for you and your lifestyle.
In addition, I don’t know which type of luggage is best for you but you’ll definitely want to choose one based on your budget, your needs, and your personal preference.
To be honest, there is no straight answer to this question because it involves a lot of factors that you cannot ignore.
Well, if you ask me between hardshell and softshell luggage, which one do I prefer for my trips? In my case, I prefer Softside luggage. I feel comfortable with it. Even when I put my hands on it, it feels better. Though there are some disadvantages to softshell suitcases, I, nevertheless, like it much. Besides, putting the luggage in the overhead bin seems easier to me. Apart from this, I think soft-sided luggage suits me best.
On the other hand, I truly don’t like the 50/50 split to hold stuff. It can’t be expanded as well.
So, I like Softside luggage for my trips.
To feel and understand, if you go to the store physically it would be great and I think you can make a perfect decision.
Final Words
When you’re deciding between Hardside or Softside luggage, you’ll want to consider several factors before you make your final decision. Some of these factors include the amount of space you’ll need, the number of times you’ll be traveling, the size of the bag, the weight of the bag, the type of packing you’ll be doing, and the price of the bag. These factors will help you decide which type of luggage you are going to buy. Besides, you cannot ignore your personal opinion and recommendations. So, depending on all the criteria you should have the one you like most for your next trip.
Happy Travels.
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