Monday, May 20, 2024

 Be prepared,

homeless in less than 20 minutes is not science fiction.

Hard-shell vs. Soft-shell Suitcases


Hard-shell Suitcases


Strengths:

  • Contents are more protected than in bags and soft-shell suitcases – also from thieves using a knife.
  • Washable surfaces.
  • Often more rain-resistant than soft-shell suitcases in tests.
  • Easy to push on smooth surfaces thanks to four wheels.
  • Very variable: Usually three to four telescopic handle settings.
  • Two shells, can be packed separately.

Weaknesses:

  • More prone to breakage and larger damage when dropped with heavy weight in tests compared to soft-shell suitcases.
  • Usually no expansion options.
  • Rigid case, harder to stow in cars.
  • Often a bit louder than soft-shell suitcases.
  • Harder to maneuver on cobblestones compared to rolling travel bags.



Soft-shell Suitcases


Strengths:

  • More robust in drop tests and handle durability tests than hard-shell suitcases, due to more flexible material.
  • Expansion options for more volume.
  • Four wheels, especially easy to push on smooth surfaces with little effort.
  • Variable: Usually two telescopic handle settings.
  • Flexible surface makes stowing easier, such as in a car.
  • Practical external pockets.
  • Often a bit lighter than hard-shell suitcases.

Weaknesses:

  • Usually less rain-resistant than hard-shell suitcases in tests.
  • Harder to clean than hard-shell suitcases.
  • Harder to maneuver on cobblestones compared to rolling travel bags.

Here is what "TEST" magazine says:

TypeProductPrice (EUR)Price (USD)
Hardshell Suitcases with Four WheelsRimowa "Essential Trunk Plus"880955
Samsonite "Magnum"229248
Travelite "Air Base"130141
Rolling Travel Bags with Two WheelsVaude "Rotuma 90"200217
The North Face "Rolling Thunder 30"250272
Jack Wolfskin "TRT Freight Train"140152

*Note: Conversion rate used is 1 EUR = 1.085 USD (approximate rate as of May 2024).






Our favourite brand over the years when it comes to hard-shell: SAMSONITE

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