How to Choose a Laptop Suitcase: A Complete Guide

Whether you're traveling for work, going on a business trip, or just need to safely transport your electronics, the right business suitcase is the key to carefree travel. However, choosing the right suitcase from the vast array of options can be quite a challenging task. In this detailed guide, you'll learn everything you need to know to choose the ideal laptop suitcase that will meet your needs and protect your valuable device.

Why is it so important to choose the right laptop suitcase? Your electronics, such as your laptop and other devices, are not only expensive but often contain important work and personal data. A quality suitcase provides not only protection from impacts and moisture but also facilitates organization and quick access to your belongings, which is priceless when traveling. Let's take a look at what to focus on when choosing a laptop suitcase.

Contents

• Hardshell vs. Softside Wheeled Travel Suitcase: Which is Better?
• How to Properly Choose a Laptop Suitcase
• Overview of Key Parameters
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
• Choose Your Laptop Luggage According to Your Preferences

Hardshell vs. Softside Wheeled Travel Suitcase: Which is Better?

One of the first decisions you have to make when choosing a laptop suitcase is the choice of material. The market offers hardshell and softside suitcases, each with its own specific properties.

Hardshell Laptop Suitcase

• Advantages: These hard suitcases provide excellent protection for the laptop and other electronics from impacts, moisture, and mechanical damage. They are ideal if you are traveling by plane or in harsh conditions.
• Disadvantages: They are less flexible and do not have additional external pockets, which you will appreciate for quick access to small items. Their surface can be more easily scratched.
• Materials: The suitcases are most often made of ABS plastic, which is affordable and sufficiently durable, and polycarbonate, which is lightweight, extremely durable, and flexible. Some hardshell suitcases can also be made of extremely durable polypropylene.

Softside Laptop Suitcase

• Advantages: Fabric suitcases are lighter, more flexible, and usually offer a number of external pockets for easy organization. Thanks to their flexibility, they can be "stuffed" into tight spaces.
• Disadvantages: They provide less protection from impacts and moisture than hardshell suitcases.
• Materials: Softside suitcases are most often made of polyester or nylon, which are resistant to tearing and abrasion.

Hybrid Suitcases: the best of both worlds

• Advantages: They combine the durability of a hardshell suitcase with the practicality of textile external zippered pockets, while also allowing for easy and quick access to the laptop and documents during security checks. They are a practical solution for those who want to have everything at hand.
• Disadvantages: The textile front pocket provides less protection from impacts than a hardshell surface and can be slightly heavier compared to purely softside suitcases.
• Materials: The body of the suitcase is usually made of polycarbonate, polypropylene, or ABS. The front pocket is made of a textile material, such as polyester or nylon.

Tip: We have prepared a practical guide on the materials used in the production of suitcases. Find out which one is right for you!

How to Properly Choose a Laptop Suitcase

When choosing a suitcase for a laptop, it is important to focus on several key features that will ensure you travel with luggage that meets your needs.

Tip: If you don't specifically need a cabin suitcase for a laptop, but a suitcase in general, you will certainly find the guide to choosing a suitcase useful, which you can find in our guides section. You can then complement a large suitcase with a practical laptop bag, which will easily fit within the limits for carry-on luggage!

Dimensions and Size of the Suitcase and Laptop Pocket

The most important factor when traveling by plane is the correct size of the suitcase. Most airlines have strict limits for carry-on luggage, most often 55 x 40 x 20 cm. When choosing, also consider the size of your laptop. The padded pocket should be large enough, but at the same time, the laptop should be firmly seated in it to prevent it from moving.

Tip: To avoid problems at check-in, always check the rules of your airline! For easier orientation, we have prepared a table with carry-on luggage limits for the most commonly used companies. We sort carry-on luggage by dimensions, so you can easily choose the one you will be able to take on board.

Wheels and Handle – Easy Handling and Smooth Rolling

Movement with the suitcase is facilitated by wheels and a handle.

• Two wheels: Suitcases with 2 wheels need to be pulled behind you, which can be tiring on longer journeys. But they are more robust and better at overcoming uneven surfaces.
• Four wheels: Most modern suitcases offer 4 wheels, which allows the suitcase to be guided alongside you, in any direction. Wheeled suitcases are thus easier to control in narrow aisles and crowded airport halls. Choosing this type is ideal if you know you will be moving on smooth surfaces.
• The handle should be sturdy, with a locking mechanism, and comfortable to grip.

Security: TSA Lock for Hassle-Free Travel

For the protection of valuables and the suitcase itself, a quality lock is key. An integrated TSA lock allows for the secure locking of the zippers and at the same time gives security control staff the ability to open the suitcase with a special key without damaging it.

Tip: We have prepared a whole article in our guides section about TSA locks, their importance and necessity not only on transatlantic flights!

Internal Layout and Compartments – Clear Organization Always and Everywhere

A good internal layout is essential for a business suitcase. In addition to a padded laptop compartment, the suitcase should offer other compartments and pockets for documents, cables, chargers, and other small items. Straps for securing clothes help keep things in place and prevent wrinkling.

Overview of Key Parameters

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the difference between a hardshell and a softside laptop suitcase?
   Hardshell suitcases provide better protection against impacts and moisture, they are more durable. Softside suitcases, on the other hand, are lighter, more flexible, and have more external pockets for better organization. The choice depends on preferences and the mode of travel.
2. What size laptop suitcase should I choose as carry-on luggage for a plane?
   Most airlines have a limit of 55 × 40 × 20 cm for cabin luggage. Before choosing a suitcase, always check the exact dimensions and weights with your specific airline.
3. Is a suitcase with 2 or 4 wheels better?
   A 4-wheeled suitcase is usually more comfortable to handle on a flat surface because you can guide it alongside you. A 2-wheeled suitcase, on the other hand, is more stable and better suited for uneven terrain.
4. Which materials are the most durable?
   The most durable is polycarbonate, which is also lightweight and flexible. Suitcases made of polypropylene also offer good durability and flexibility.
5. How do I care for the wheels and handle?
   After returning from a trip, it is recommended to wipe them with a damp cloth and check that they are not stuck. It is a good idea to lubricate the handles occasionally so that they extend easily.
6. Why is it good to have a padded pocket in the suitcase?
   A padded pocket protects the laptop from impacts and scratches. At the same time, it allows easy access to electronics, which you will appreciate during security checks.
7. What is the ideal weight for carry-on luggage?
   The weight varies with each airline. It usually ranges between 7 and 10 kg.
8. Are suitcases with an integrated USB port practical?
   Yes, USB ports are a very practical addition. They allow you to charge your phone or tablet without having to take out the power bank. An integrated USB port is a great solution for those who actively use their electronics while traveling.

Choose Your Laptop Luggage According to Your Preferences

Choosing a laptop suitcase does not have to be complicated if you know what to focus on. The key is to consider the type of travel, its frequency, and your personal preferences. As we have shown, you can choose a durable hardshell suitcase for maximum protection or a lightweight softside suitcase for greater flexibility. Some suitcases then perfectly combine the advantages of both materials. However, if you don't need to take as many things with you on your travels and prefer lightness, laptop bags and travel backpacks can also be a great alternative.

Remember that the right luggage is an important investment in your comfort and the safety of your electronic device. Carefully browse our wide selection and choose a laptop suitcase that will bring you joy on every journey!