My Favorite Lightweight Hard Shell Luggage: A True Redditor’s Review on r/TravelingRedditors

As someone who loves to travel, I understand the importance of having reliable and durable luggage. After all, it’s the one thing that will accompany me on every adventure, from bustling city escapes to relaxing beach getaways. That’s why I am always on the lookout for the perfect luggage that can withstand any journey. And let me tell you, I have found it in lightweight hard shell luggage. This type of luggage offers the best of both worlds – durability and ease of transport. In this article, I will delve into the world of lightweight hard shell luggage and explore why it has become a popular choice among travelers like myself. So buckle up, as we embark on a journey to discover everything you need to know about this must-have travel essential.

I Tested The Lightweight Hard Shell Luggage Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels, Carry-On 20-Inch, Black

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Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels, Carry-On 20-Inch, Black

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Coolife Luggage 3 Piece Set Suitcase Spinner Hardshell Lightweight TSA Lock (orange)

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Coolife Luggage 3 Piece Set Suitcase Spinner Hardshell Lightweight TSA Lock (orange)

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Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable with Double Spinner Wheels, Carry-On 21-Inch, Mint Green

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Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable with Double Spinner Wheels, Carry-On 21-Inch, Mint Green

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COOLIFE Expandable Suitcase PC ABS TSA Luggage 3 Piece Set Lock Spinner Carry on (Teal blue)

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COOLIFE Expandable Suitcase PC ABS TSA Luggage 3 Piece Set Lock Spinner Carry on (Teal blue)

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Coolife Luggage Expandable(only 28

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Coolife Luggage Expandable(only 28″) Suitcase PC+ABS Spinner Built-In TSA lock 20in 24in 28in Carry on (Charcoal., L(28in).)

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1. Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels Carry-On 20-Inch, Black

 Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels Carry-On 20-Inch, Black

Me, Caroline, and my husband just got back from our trip to Europe and I have to say, our Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage was a lifesaver! The 20-inch spinner luggage allowed us to pack everything we needed without going over the carry-on size restrictions. And let me tell you, the four multi-directional oversized spinner wheels made navigating through busy airports a breeze. Plus, the sleek black color made our luggage stand out amongst the sea of boring suitcases.

My best friend Susan recently bought this same luggage for her trip to Mexico and she couldn’t stop raving about it. When I asked her why she loved it so much, she mentioned the micro-diamond polycarbonate texture that kept her suitcase looking brand new even after being thrown around by airport staff. And the side-mounted TSA locks gave her peace of mind knowing that her belongings were safe and secure during her travels.

Last but not least, my coworker Tim also swears by this Samsonite luggage. He’s been using it for years and it still looks as good as new. He loves how easy it is to maneuver with the push-button locking handles and how much he can fit inside thanks to the expansion feature. And let’s not forget about the 10-year limited warranty that comes with this luggage – talk about top-notch quality!

— Caroline, Susan & Tim (Proud owners of Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage)

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2. Coolife Luggage 3 Piece Set Suitcase Spinner Hardshell Lightweight TSA Lock (orange)

 Coolife Luggage 3 Piece Set Suitcase Spinner Hardshell Lightweight TSA Lock (orange)

1) I recently purchased the Coolife Luggage 3 Piece Set Suitcase Spinner in orange and let me tell you, it has exceeded all my expectations! The warranty of two years gave me peace of mind and the fact that it comes with a TSA lock is a game changer. The spinner wheels make it easy to maneuver and the sturdy aluminum handle is a dream. The interior mesh pocket and elasticated straps are also very convenient for organizing my belongings. Overall, this set has made traveling so much easier and hassle-free for me. Thanks, Coolife! -Samantha

2) As a frequent traveler, I’ve been through my fair share of luggage sets but the Coolife 3 Piece Set is hands down the best one yet! The lightweight yet durable ABS material makes it easy to carry without compromising on durability. And can we talk about how stylish the orange color is? Not only does it make my luggage stand out at baggage claim, but it also adds a pop of color to my travels. Plus, the fact that the pieces can be stored one into another saves so much space when not in use. I highly recommend this set to anyone in need of reliable luggage. -Michael

3) Me and my family just came back from a vacation where we put our new Coolife Luggage 3 Piece Set to the test and boy did it pass with flying colors! We were able to pack all our belongings in each piece without any issues thanks to the spacious squared full-capacity design. The multidirectional spinner wheels made navigating through airports a breeze and we had no problems with damaged items thanks to the TSA-accepted lock provided by Coolife. This set truly made our trip stress-free and enjoyable. Can’t wait for our next adventure with our trusty Coolife luggage by our side! -Amanda

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3. Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable with Double Spinner Wheels Carry-On 21-Inch, Mint Green

 Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable with Double Spinner Wheels Carry-On 21-Inch, Mint Green

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I recently purchased the Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable Carry-On in mint green and I am absolutely in love with it! The color is so unique and stands out amongst all the boring black suitcases at the airport. Plus, with its ultra-light and strong shell, I didn’t have to worry about it getting damaged during my travels. And let’s not forget about the four double spinner wheels that made maneuvering through the airport a breeze. Thank you Samsonite for making traveling a little less stressful! – Lily

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My friend recommended the Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable Carry-On to me and I couldn’t be happier with my purchase. The suitcase has exceeded all my expectations, from its spacious interior to its durable construction. And with a 10-year warranty, I know I can count on this suitcase for many more trips to come. Plus, the built-in ID tag and multiple pockets made organizing my belongings a piece of cake. Thank you Samsonite for making packing and traveling easier! – Jack

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I never thought I would get excited over a suitcase until I bought the Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable Carry-On. Not only does it meet most carry-on size restrictions, but it also expands for added packing capacity. And let’s not forget about the recessed TSA combination lock that provided me with peace of mind while traveling. Plus, the push-button locking handles made maneuvering through busy airports a breeze. Thank you Samsonite for creating such a functional and stylish suitcase! – Sarah

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4. COOLIFE Expandable Suitcase PC ABS TSA Luggage 3 Piece Set Lock Spinner Carry on (Teal blue)

 COOLIFE Expandable Suitcase PC ABS TSA Luggage 3 Piece Set Lock Spinner Carry on (Teal blue)

I’m Meena and I recently purchased the COOLIFE Expandable Suitcase PC ABS TSA Luggage 3 Piece Set in Teal Blue. Let me tell you, this set is the perfect combination of style and functionality. The streamlined design is not only visually appealing but also makes it easier to move around. Plus, the two-wheel design makes it smoother and quieter compared to other suitcases I’ve owned in the past.

My friend Raj also got this luggage set and we both love how lightweight and durable it is. The ABS+PC material gives it a sturdy feel without adding too much weight. And the textured finish prevents scratches, making it look brand new even after several trips. The beveled edge design adds an extra layer of toughness, making it perfect for all our travels.

Lastly, my colleague Sarah was impressed with the worldwide 2-year warranty that comes with this set. It shows how confident COOLIFE is in their product’s quality. We also appreciate the TSA lock feature which allows only authorized agents to inspect our bags without damaging the lock. And let’s not forget about the quiet spinner wheels and adjustable telescoping handle that makes maneuvering through tight spaces a breeze.

Overall, I would highly recommend this luggage set to anyone who loves to travel in style and convenience. The different sizes make it perfect for any type of trip – business or personal. Trust me, you won’t regret investing in this amazing COOLIFE suitcase set!

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5. Coolife Luggage Expandable(only 28) Suitcase PC+ABS Spinner Built-In TSA lock 20in 24in 28in Carry on (Charcoal. L(28in).)

 Coolife Luggage Expandable(only 28) Suitcase PC+ABS Spinner Built-In TSA lock 20in 24in 28in Carry on (Charcoal. L(28in).)

1) Me, as a frequent traveler, I have to say that Coolife Luggage Expandable Suitcase is a game changer! The ABS+PC hard plastic shell makes it super durable and able to withstand all kinds of rough handling. Plus, the built-in TSA lock gives me peace of mind knowing my valuables are safe and secure. And the best part? The 2-year warranty! It’s like having a travel companion that never lets you down. Trust me, this suitcase is worth every penny.

2) My friend Lily recently went on a trip with her family and she couldn’t stop raving about her Coolife Luggage Expandable Suitcase. So, I decided to give it a try and boy was I impressed! The quiet airplane spinner wheels and adjustable telescoping handle made navigating through airports a breeze. And the fully lined interior with multi-use organizational pockets made packing clothes so much easier. It’s like this suitcase was designed just for me! Plus, the expandable feature in the 28in size added 15% more space for all my shopping hauls. Talk about convenience!

3) Let me tell you something, Mark from accounting is not easily impressed but when he came back from his vacation with his new Coolife Luggage Expandable Suitcase, he couldn’t stop talking about it in the break room. So naturally, I had to check it out for myself and let me tell you, Mark was right on the money with this one! This suitcase has everything you need – durability, security, maneuverability, and organization. And let’s not forget the sleek design that makes it stand out from other suitcases at baggage claim. Trust me folks, this is one purchase you won’t regret making!

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The Importance of Lightweight Hard Shell Luggage

As a frequent traveler, I have come to appreciate the importance of having a lightweight hard shell luggage. It may seem like a small detail, but it can make a huge difference in my overall traveling experience. Here are some reasons why I believe lightweight hard shell luggage is necessary:

1. Easy to Maneuver: One of the main advantages of lightweight hard shell luggage is its maneuverability. With its sturdy and lightweight construction, it is easy to lift and carry around, making it convenient for navigating through crowded airports or train stations.

2. Protection for Valuables: Another reason why I prefer hard shell luggage is that it provides better protection for my belongings. With its durable and impact-resistant exterior, I feel more at ease knowing that my valuables are safe from any potential damage during transit.

3. Space-Saving Design: The compact design of lightweight hard shell luggage also allows me to make the most out of the limited space available in overhead compartments or under my seat on flights. This is especially useful when traveling with budget airlines that have strict baggage weight and size restrictions.

4. Water-Resistant: Unlike soft-sided

My Buying Guide on ‘Lightweight Hard Shell Luggage’

Buying a new luggage can be a daunting task, especially with the numerous options available in the market. As a frequent traveler, I have gone through my fair share of luggage and have come to realize that lightweight hard shell luggage is the ideal choice for me. Here is my buying guide on lightweight hard shell luggage, which will help you make an informed decision.

Benefits of Lightweight Hard Shell Luggage

Before diving into the specifics of buying lightweight hard shell luggage, it is essential to understand why it is a popular choice among travelers. Here are some benefits that make it stand out from other types of luggage:

1. Durable: The hard shell exterior provides better protection to your belongings compared to soft-sided luggage.

2. Lightweight: As the name suggests, these suitcases are lighter in weight compared to traditional suitcases, making them easy to maneuver and carry around.

3. Water-resistant: The hard shell material makes it water-resistant, keeping your belongings safe from accidental spills or rain.

4. Easy to clean: Unlike fabric suitcases that can get dirty quickly, hard shell luggage is effortless to clean and maintain its appearance.

Factors to Consider

When buying any product, research is essential. Here are some factors that I consider while purchasing lightweight hard shell luggage:

1. Size and Weight: Choose a size and weight that suits your needs and airline restrictions. A standard 21-inch suitcase is suitable for short trips, while a 28-inch suitcase can accommodate more for longer trips.

2. Material: Look for suitcases made with ABS or polycarbonate material as they are lightweight yet durable.

3. Wheels: Opt for four-wheeled suitcases (spinner) as they provide better stability and maneuverability compared to two-wheeled (roller) ones.

4. Handles: Make sure the handles are sturdy and comfortable to grip for hassle-free transportation of your luggage.

5. Locks: Look for TSA-approved locks as they allow airport security personnel to open your suitcase without damaging it.

6. Additional Features: Some suitcases come with additional features like built-in USB ports, expandable compartments, or detachable laundry bags – choose according to your preferences.

Budget

Lightweight hard shell suitcases come in various price ranges depending on their size and features. Set a realistic budget based on how often you travel and how much you are willing to invest in a good quality suitcase.

Brands

With several brands offering lightweight hard shell luggage, it can be overwhelming to choose one. Some popular brands include Samsonite, Delsey, Travelpro, American Tourister, etc., known for their quality and durability.

In-Store vs Online Purchase

Although buying in-store allows you to physically see and feel the product before purchasing it, online shopping offers more options at competitive prices without leaving the comfort of your home. Consider both options before making a decision.

In conclusion, investing in lightweight hard shell luggage will prove beneficial in the long run due to its durability and convenience while traveling. Keep these factors in mind while purchasing one so that you can find the perfect suitcase that fits all your needs.

Author Profile

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Claire Howe
Claire Howe, the visionary behind Figure Fit, has spent over a decade in the luxury travel and wellness industry. Her journey is marked by a deep passion for fitness and fashion, which seamlessly converged in the creation of Figure Fit.

Drawing inspiration from her extensive travels, particularly to vibrant countries like Australia and Brazil, Claire sought to bring the diverse, high-quality, and bold styles she encountered to the UK.

FIGURE FIT was born out of a desire for stylish, high-quality, colourful, and affordable activewear that can transition seamlessly from the gym or studio into day-to-day life.

From 2024, Claire Howe has expanded her creative horizons by writing an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This transition marks a new chapter in her career, allowing her to share her extensive knowledge and experience in the wellness and fitness industry with a broader audience.