Hardshell suitcases, brand comparison and a guide to choosing the best travel luggage

Do you want to travel in style, safely, and with a suitcase that can take a beating? Then you've come to the right place! Hardshell suitcases are synonymous with a modern and smart choice for every traveler. Lately, they have become a popular alternative to traditional fabric luggage, and for good reason. Their hard surface protects the contents from damage, whether you're traveling by plane, train, or car. However, the market is flooded with a plethora of brands and models, and choosing the right travel suitcase on wheels can be quite a challenge.

In this article, we will look at the best and most interesting brands of hardshell suitcases available in our offer. We will examine and compare in detail the brands Titan, Travelite, Heys, American Tourister, IMPACKT, Skyline, Enrico Benetti, Beagles, Charm London, Zebra Trends, and SuitSuit. We will guide you through the world of hardshell travel suitcases, reveal their strengths and weaknesses, and advise you on how to choose the best travel suitcase for your specific needs.

Contents:

• Why Choose a Hardshell Travel Suitcase? Key Parameters
• Hardshell Suitcases, Brand Comparison
  • Titan
  • Travelite
  • Heys
  • American Tourister
  • IMPACKT
  • Other Brands
• Comparison Table of Hardshell Travel Suitcase Brands
• Frequently Asked Questions about Hardshell Suitcases and Luggage (FAQ)
• Summary and Our Recommendation

Why Choose a Hardshell Travel Suitcase? Key Parameters

While a textile suitcase has its place in the world of travel, when it comes to durability and protection, hardshell suitcases are clear leaders. Their solid construction offers uncompromising protection for fragile items, whether it's electronics, cosmetics, or souvenirs. In addition, hardshell suitcases are usually easy to wash. Modern materials also ensure that they are lightweight, so you don't have to worry about excess weight at the airport.

When choosing, focus on a few key parameters:

• Material: Polycarbonate is flexible and durable, ABS is harder and cheaper, and polypropylene is affordable and very durable.
  Tip: Find out more about travel suitcase materials in our guide article. All materials are discussed in detail there, including the pros and cons of each. We also don't forget about textile suitcases; maybe they will be the right choice for you.
• Wheels: Suitcases on four spinner wheels make maneuvering easier, while suitcases with two wheels are more stable on uneven terrain.
• Lock: An integrated TSA lock is key for travel to the USA and other countries, as it allows security to open the suitcase without damaging it.
• Size: Carefully consider what size of travel suitcase you need – a smaller cabin suitcase, a medium-sized travel suitcase for a week's holiday, or a large suitcase for long trips.
• Other features: Focus on internal straps to stabilize the load; a quality telescopic handle with a lock is also useful. A textured surface will prevent scuffs and scratches.

Tip: Need help choosing a suitcase? Take a look at our guide. We believe it will help you navigate the multitude of different types of luggage and figure out which suitcase is right for you.

Hardshell Suitcases, Brand Comparison

Titan Travel Suitcase: German Quality and Durable Design

The German brand Titan is renowned for its precision, durability, and timeless design. It is a premium brand and a clear choice for those looking for the best hardshell suitcase without compromise. The Titan travel suitcase is made directly in Germany from polycarbonate, which is not only extremely lightweight but also incredibly strong and flexible. This ensures that in the event of a strong impact, the suitcase will dent but not crack, and will return to its original shape.

Pros:

• top quality and durable design
• use of high-quality materials
• sophisticated design and functionality
• long warranty and reliable service
• quiet and stable wheels
• precision manufacturing in Germany

Cons:

• higher purchase price

Travelite: Quality Luggage for Reliability on the Go

Another major German brand, Travelite, focuses on practicality and reliability. Their hardshell suitcases are designed for frequent travelers who need a quality suitcase they can rely on. You will often find suitcases made of durable polypropylene, which combines low weight and high strength, but Travelite also offers hardshell suitcases made of polycarbonate, ABS, and aluminum. In short, something for everyone. Reviews of Travelite suitcases often praise their excellent ergonomics and cleverly designed interiors.

Pros:

• excellent price/performance ratio
• durable materials and robust construction
• wide range of models and sizes
• practical layout

Cons:

• the design of the suitcases is rather conservative

Heys: The World of Travel Suitcases with a Unique Design

The Canadian brand Heys has made a name for itself primarily through its unique and bold design. If a suitcase is not just a practical item for you, but also a fashion accessory, Heys is the right choice. Their collections boast vibrant colors and original patterns that will ensure your suitcase doesn't go unnoticed on the baggage carousel. In addition to their striking design, they also offer quality materials and craftsmanship.

Pros:

• original and stylish design
• top-quality materials
• high-quality craftsmanship

Cons:

• the focus on design can sometimes come at the expense of higher weight

American Tourister: Trendy and Affordable Travel Luggage

American Tourister is a globally recognized brand, known for its youthful, modern, and colorful design. It offers quality suitcases at affordable prices. Their hardshell suitcases are popular for their lightness, durability, and design that appeals to a wide range of travelers. A great choice for those looking for a travel suitcase that is reliable, stylish, and at the same time, affordable.

Pros:

• modern and colorful design
• good quality at an affordable price
• lightness and functionality

Cons:

• may not match the durability of premium brands
• sometimes less sophisticated interior

Tip: We've written extensively about American Tourister on our blog! Learn more about the history of this iconic brand and fall in love with their unmissable models with us.

IMPACKT: Sustainability and Unique Design in Every Suitcase

The IMPACKT brand stands out from the rest with its strong focus on sustainability and eco-friendly travel. Their suitcases are not only practical but also environmentally friendly. They are made from recycled materials, which reduces their carbon footprint, and you can also purchase and easily replace spare wheels, the most stressed components of suitcases. The fact that the wheels can be easily detached helps to prevent damage during transport or to better comply with strict cabin luggage size limits. In addition, IMPACKT suitcases are characterized by a clean, minimalist design and a transparent supply chain.

Pros:

• sustainability and recycled materials
• lightweight and durable construction
• modern, minimalist design
• available spare parts

Cons:

• smaller selection of models

Tip: We've also covered the IMPACKT brand from all angles on our blog! See how their suitcases are made, how quality is checked, and what the entire collection looks like.

Other Brands: Skyline, Enrico Benetti, Beagles, Charm London, Zebra Trends, SuitSuit – the best travel suitcases for everyone

• SuitSuit: An iconic brand for anyone who wants their travel suitcase to be unmissable. SuitSuit offers unique designs and practical features.
• Enrico Benetti: This Dutch brand offers a wide range of suitcases that combine functionality and attractive design. Their travel suitcases are affordable and reliable.
• Beagles: Reviews of Beagles suitcases often mention their modern look and great price.
• Charm London: A brand with a focus on stylish and elegant travel luggage. Their suitcases are perfect for lovers of fashion and current trends.
• Zebra Trends: The suitcases of this brand are popular for their playful patterns and colors.
• Skyline: Their models offer modern design, simplicity, and reliability at a good price.

Comparison Table of Hardshell Travel Suitcase Brands

Frequently Asked Questions about Hardshell Suitcases and Luggage (FAQ)

1. What is the difference between a polycarbonate and an ABS suitcase?
   Polycarbonate is more flexible and resistant to cracking. Even with a strong impact, it usually returns to its original shape. ABS is harder and more brittle, so it can crack under a strong impact. On the other hand, ABS is cheaper, and suitcases made from it are more affordable.
2. Is a 2-wheel or 4-wheel suitcase better?
   A 4-wheel suitcase is much easier to maneuver, and you can push it alongside you with little effort. A 2-wheel suitcase is more stable on uneven surfaces, and the wheels are less exposed to damage. For airport halls and smooth surfaces, we recommend 4 wheels.
3. How can I recognize a quality hardshell suitcase?
   You can recognize a quality suitcase by the material it is made of (polycarbonate and polypropylene are better choices), the quality of the wheels (ideally with a silent glide), a sturdy telescopic handle, and quality zippers. The warranty and reviews from other travelers are also important.
4. How does a TSA lock work?
   A TSA lock is a special lock that airport security personnel in the USA and other countries can open with a special universal key without damaging it.
   Tip: If your suitcase does not have a TSA lock, you can buy one separately and travel without worry.
5. How do I care for a hardshell suitcase?
   It's enough to wipe the suitcase with a damp cloth after a trip. To remove more stubborn dirt, you can use a mild cleaning agent. After cleaning, let it dry well. Avoid sharp objects that could scratch the surface.
6. How do I choose the right size of suitcase?
   Choose the size based on the length of your trip and the type of transport. For a weekend trip, a cabin-sized travel suitcase (approx. 30-45 liters) is sufficient; for a week-long holiday, a medium size (approx. 60-80 liters) is suitable; and for longer trips or traveling as a couple, a large travel suitcase (over 90 liters) is ideal.
7. Can I take a hardshell suitcase on a plane as carry-on luggage?
   Yes, if it meets the size and weight limits of the specific airline. Most airlines have a limit of about 55x40x20 cm for cabin suitcases. Before your trip, check the exact conditions in our table of permitted dimensions and with your airline.
8. How does the warranty differ between brands?
   The warranty varies between brands and model lines, and it's a good idea to check it when you buy. Premium brands like Titan often offer an extended warranty (e.g., up to 10 years), while with more affordable brands, you'll find a standard two-year warranty.
9. What are the most common problems with hardshell suitcases?
   The most common problems relate to damage to the wheels and telescopic handle, cracks in the plastic (especially with cheaper ABS suitcases), and broken locks. Therefore, always choose proven brands with quality craftsmanship.

How to choose a travel suitcase? Summary and Our Recommendation

So, how do you choose a travel suitcase? The choice depends on your priorities. If quality, durability, and long life are most important to you, we recommend choosing travel suitcases from the Titan brand. If you are looking for a reliable travel companion with an excellent price/performance ratio, Travelite is a safe bet. For those who want to stand out and for whom a suitcase is a fashion accessory, Heys or SuitSuit is the ideal choice, and if your priority is sustainability, recycled materials, and fair production, you can't go wrong with the IMPACKT brand.

We believe that this comprehensive guide to hardshell suitcase brands will help you choose the right travel companion. Remember that a well-chosen suitcase can make traveling significantly easier and more enjoyable. Check out our complete range of hardshell suitcases and choose the one that's right for you!