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

Do you want to travel stylishly, 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 are traveling by plane, train or car. However, the market is overflowing with countless brands and models, and choosing the right travel suitcase on wheels can be a tough nut to crack.

In this article, we'll take a look at the best and most interesting hardshell luggage brands that you'll find in our offer. We will thoroughly explore and compare 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 precisely for your needs.

Table of 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 luggage brands
• Frequently asked questions about hardshell luggage (FAQ)
• Summary and our recommendations

Why choose a hardshell travel suitcase? Key parameters

A textile suitcase has its place in the world of travel, but when it comes to durability and protection, hardshell suitcases clearly lead the way. Their rigid construction offers uncompromising protection for fragile items, whether it's electronics, cosmetics or souvenirs. In addition, hardshell suitcases are usually easy to clean. 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.
• Wheels: Suitcases with four swivel wheels (spinners) will make maneuvering easier, while suitcases with two wheels are more stable on uneven terrain.
• Lock: An integrated TSA lock is crucial 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 suitcase for the airplane cabin, a medium-sized travel suitcase for a week-long vacation, or a large suitcase for long trips.
• Other equipment: Focus on internal straps to stabilize the load, a quality telescopic handle with a lock is also useful. A structured surface will prevent abrasion and scratching.

Tip: Do you need help with choosing a suitcase? Take a look at our guide. We believe it will help you navigate the variety of different types of luggage and clarify what kind of suitcase is right for you.

Hardshell suitcases, brand comparison

Titan Travel Suitcase: German quality and durable design

The German brand Titan is famous for its precision, durability and timeless design. It belongs to the premium brands and is a clear choice for those who are looking for the best hardshell suitcase without compromises. A Titan travel suitcase is made directly in Germany from polycarbonate, which is not only extremely lightweight, but also incredibly strong and flexible. This guarantees 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
• elaborate design and functionality
• long warranty and reliable service
• quiet and stable wheels
• precise production in Germany

Cons:

• higher purchase price

Travelite: Quality luggage for reliability on the road

Another significant 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 encounter suitcases made of durable polypropylene, which combines low weight and high strength, but Travelite also offers hardshell suitcases made of polycarbonate, ABS and aluminum suitcases. In short, something for everyone. Reviews of Travelite suitcases often highlight their great ergonomics and smartly designed interiors.

Pros:

• excellent price/performance ratio
• durable materials and robust construction
• large selection 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 made a name for itself primarily thanks to its unique and bold design. If a suitcase is not only a practical item for you, but also a fashion accessory, Heys is the right choice. Their collections boast vibrant colors and unusual patterns that will ensure you don't miss your suitcase on the baggage carousel. In addition to the effective design, they also offer quality material and workmanship.

Pros:

• original and stylish design
• top materials
• quality workmanship

Cons:

• the focus on design can sometimes come at the cost 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 favorable prices. Their hardshell suitcases are popular for their lightness, durability and design that appeals to a wide range of travelers. An excellent choice for those who are looking for a travel suitcase that is reliable, stylish and at the same time affordable.

Pros:

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

Cons:

• may not achieve the durability of premium brands
• sometimes less elaborate interior

Tip: We wrote about American Tourister on our blog! Find out 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 brand IMPACKT differs from others with its strong focus on sustainability and ecological travel. Their suitcases are not only practical, but also environmentally friendly. They are made of recycled materials, which reduces their carbon footprint, and it is also possible to easily purchase and replace spare wheels, the most stressed components of the suitcases. Thanks to the fact that the wheels can be easily detached, it is possible to eliminate their damage during transport or to better fit into the strict dimension limits for cabin luggage. In addition, IMPACKT suitcases are characterized by a clean, minimalist design and a transparent supply chain

Pros:

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

Cons:

• smaller selection of models

Tip: We discussed the IMPACKT brand from all sides on our blog too! See how their suitcases are created, how quality is controlled and what the whole 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 everyone 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 made 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 luggage brands

Frequently asked questions about hardshell luggage (FAQ)

1. What is the difference between a polycarbonate and an ABS suitcase?
   Polycarbonate is more flexible and more 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 with a strong impact. On the other hand, ABS is cheaper and suitcases made from it are more affordable.
2. Is a suitcase with 2 or 4 wheels better?
   A suitcase with 4 wheels is much easier to operate and you can pull it next to you without much effort. A suitcase with 2 wheels 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 to recognize a quality hardshell suitcase?
   You can recognize a quality suitcase by the material it is made of (polycarbonate and polypropylene are better options), the quality of the wheels (ideally with silent operation), a sturdy telescopic handle and quality zippers. The warranty and reviews of 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 it separately and travel without worries.
5. How to take care of a hardshell suitcase?
   It is enough to wipe the suitcase with a damp cloth after the 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 to choose the right suitcase size?
   Choose the size according to the length of your trip and the type of transport. A cabin travel suitcase (approx. 30-45 liters) is sufficient for a weekend trip, a medium size (approx. 60-80 liters) is suitable for a week-long vacation, and a large travel suitcase (over 90 liters) is ideal for longer trips or traveling in pairs.
7. Can I take a hardshell suitcase on the plane as carry-on luggage?
   Yes, if it meets the size and weight limits of the given airline. Most airlines have a limit for cabin luggage of approx. 55x40x20 cm. Before traveling, check the exact conditions in our table of permitted dimensions and with your airline.
8. How does the warranty differ for individual brands?
   The warranty differs for individual brands and model lines and it is good to check it when buying. Premium brands like Titan often offer an extended warranty (e.g. up to 10 years), while with more affordable brands you will find a classic two-year warranty.
9. What are the most common problems with hardshell suitcases?
   The most common problems concern damage to the wheels and the telescopic handle, cracks in the plastic (especially with cheaper ABS suitcases) and broken locks. Therefore, always choose verified brands with quality workmanship.

How to choose a travel suitcase? Summary and our recommendations

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

We believe that this comprehensive guide to hardshell suitcase brands will help you choose the right companion for your travels. Don't forget that a properly chosen suitcase can significantly make traveling easier and more pleasant. Check out our complete offer of hardshell suitcases and choose the one that suits you!