Hard-shell luggage has grown in popularity, thanks in part to marketing by premium brands such as Away and Rimowa. Typically made of high-tech plastic, the bags are a good option for protecting valuables. Some models expand in the middle like soft-sided luggage, offering added flexibility when you need more space.
As a group, the hard-shell carry-on bags we tested performed capably, with nearly every bag getting a very good Overall Score. However, they differ in how easy they are to open, pack, close, and maneuver, and in how well they withstand our rigorous simulations of the wear and abuse a travel bag must endure.
“You’re going to be pulling the luggage, picking it up, going up and down curbs,” Kollontai says. “You want it to not only serve in its intended use but also survive if it has to be checked—or you have to sit on it during a long layover.”
On the whole, hard-shell luggage is pretty durable. However, the models we tested didn’t score as high as soft-shell cases in our carrying and pulling evaluation. Soft shells also tend to have exterior pockets, which are great for easy access to things you need. Still, you may want to buy hard-shell luggage if you often travel with breakable items like glass. It can also offer better security than soft-sided baggage because it’s somewhat harder to rip open. Soft shells are less likely to have integrated locks in their design, though more manufacturers are adding this feature.
If you’re still unsure which option to go with, read our article on choosing between hard-shell and soft-sided luggage. (And if you’re interested in duffel bags and travel backpacks, we’ve evaluated those, too.)
