The Best Hardshell Carry On Luggage For 2024

Sarah Combs By, Sarah Combs
Updated
Best Hardshell Carry On Luggage
Best Hardshell Carry On Luggage

Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall: Rockland Melbourne Hardside Wheel Luggage

The Rockland Melbourne Hardside Wheel Luggage is lightweight yet extremely durable and has multi-directional double spinner wheels. It's also carry-on compliant, so it can be taken on a trip without any hassle. Other features include an interior mesh zip pocket and elasticated pocket, as well as a sturdy ergonomic aluminum telescoping handle. Read Review

2. Best Bang For The Buck: Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage

Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage, Carry-On 20-Inch is a spacious carry-on that's designed with four, multidirectional spinner wheels and expanded to accommodate more items. It also features micro-diamond polycarbonate texture that is extremely scratch-resistant, keeping your cases looking great on every trip. Read Review

3. Best Style: Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Expandable Luggage

This Samsonite Carry-On is a must-have for your next trip. The Winfield 2 Luggage features four, multi-directional spinner wheels for effortless mobility and re-engineered lightweight materials that make it easy to carry. Side-mounted TSA locks deter theft and ensure only you or a TSA agent have easy access to your belongings when traveling. Read Review

4. Best Reliable: Kenneth Cole Reaction Renegade Carry-On Luggage

The Kenneth Cole Reaction Renegade Carry-On Luggage Lightweight Hardside is a sleek and stylish hardside carry-on luggage that features corner guard reinforcements for protection with a stylish exterior and an expanding 2 inch front pocket. It also has an ergonomically designed retractable trolley handle and 8-wheel multi-directional spinners for effortless handling and weighs only 7.35 pounds. Read Review

Keeping your luggage safe and secure is essential. Sometimes smaller suitcases don’t offer the same amount of protection as a larger, harder case would. This is why many travelers prefer to have a hard shell suitcase that offers extra protection for their belongings.

These types of suitcases are becoming more and more popular with travelers, but it can be difficult finding the right one. There are so many different options out there and they all have different features which make them stand out from the rest. Even though they are all essentially the same thing, some suitcases stand out because of the additional features they come with. Depending on what you’re looking for, there may be several different options to choose from.

After 16 hours of product research and analysis, We are able to identify the best hardshell carry on luggage is Rockland Melbourne Hardside Wheel Luggage. The performance of this product is of an excellent standard, and it offers a complete set of features that can satisfy your requirements.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Rockland Melbourne Hardside Wheel Luggage
Our Score:
9.9
Rockland

Carry-On meets these airlines' size restrictions: United, American, Delta, Southwest, Allegiant

Sturdy ergonomic aluminum telescoping handle

Interior mesh zip pocket and elasticated pocket

Multi-directional double spinner wheels

Lightweight yet extremely durable ABS material

22"X13. 5"x9" (with wheels)

TOP Choice #2 Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage
Our Score:
9.7
Samsonite

FOUR, MULTI-DIRECTIONAL OVERSIZED SPINNER WHEELS for effortless mobility, re-engineered lightweight

EXPANSION to allow you to pack more items and compression keeps clothing neatly pressed

MICRO-DIAMOND POLYCARBONATE texture is extremely scratch-resistant, keeping cases beautiful trip after trip

BOOK OPENING CASE with mesh divider and cross straps in main compartment with a zipped modesty pocket

SIDE-MOUNTED TSA LOCKS act to deter theft, ensuring that only you or a TSA agent have easy access to your belongings when traveling

PACKING Dimensions: 19" x 14.5" x 9.5", Overall Dimensions: 22" x 15" x 9.5", Weight: 6.81 lbs.

20" SPINNER LUGGAGE maximizes your packing power and meets most carry-on size restrictions for those traveling domestically and looking to stay light

10 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY: Samsonite products are rigorously tested to ensure our products meet stringent standards. This bag comes with a 10-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.

PUSH-BUTTON locking handles provides easy maneuverability when extended out from the suitcase, and stores neatly inside when not in use

TOP Choice #3 Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Expandable Luggage
Our Score:
9.6
Samsonite

UNIFIED BRUSHED PATTERN CUSTOM DESIGN on front and back shells hide any potential scratches or scuffs from your journey

FOUR, MULTI-DIRECTIONAL SPINNER WHEELS for effortless mobility, re-engineered lightweight

SIDE-MOUNTED TSA LOCKS act to deter theft, ensuring that only you or a TSA agent have easy access to your belongings when traveling

HANDSOME SLIDER in squared full-capacity design featuring oversized 10 zipper and interior divider with organization pockets

10 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY: Samsonite products are rigorously tested to ensure our products meet stringent standards. This bag comes with a 10-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.

FULL-ZIP INTERIOR DIVIDER and cross straps for increased packing organization

LIGHTWEIGHT locking telescopic handle

20" SPINNER LUGGAGE maximizes your packing power and meets most carry-on size restrictions for those traveling domestically and looking to stay light

Carry-On meets these airlines' size restrictions: United, American, Delta, Southwest, Allegiant

PACKING Dimensions: 20.0" x 13.5" x 9.5", OVERALL Dimensions: 23.0" x 14.5" x 9.5", Weight: 6.7 lbs.

4 Kenneth Cole Reaction Renegade Carry-On Luggage
Our Score:
9.4
Kenneth Cole REACTION

Packing Dimensions - 20" H x 13.5" L x 8.5-10.5" D.

8-wheel multi-directional spinners for effortless handling

Overall Dimensions - 22" H x 14" L x 9-11" D.

Weight - 7.35 lbs.

Sleek and stylish exterior with corner guard reinforcements helps protect your bag from damage

Main compartment interior features several zippered organization pockets elastic shoe pockets and a garment restraint panel

Expands an additional 2 inches

Ergonomically designed retractable trolley handle

Four spinner wheels assuring a stable base with multi-directional rolling with zero weight on your hand for easy travel; manufactured with a scratch resistant matte finish

Fully lined interior offers two packing compartments with tie-down straps on one side and a zippered divider on the other side to minimize shifting of contents zippered pocket holds delicate items and accessories

Recessed TSA-accepted combination lock provides secure travel and allows only TSA agents to open and inspect your bag without damaging the lock worldwide limited 10 year warranty

Perfect roll double spinner wheels assure smooth maneuverability and keep zero weight on your arm off-center wheel axles provide a wider and more stable base

Modern design with scratch-resistant matt finish and external, fully integrated handle system soft touch top and side carry handles provide maximum comfort

Keeps items secure and wrinkle free with two large fully-lined compartments and web straps; zippered pocket for delicate items and accessories

Lightweight and durable polycarbonate shell that is extremely resilient to cracking or breaking; with an integrated padded sleeve for up to a 15.6 inch laptop

Integrated 3-dial TSA approved combination lock for security; suitcase expands up to 2 inches for additional packing space

Titanium models backed with a 10 year limited warranty

Recessed "one-button" locking handle system for great maneuverability; 19 inch carry on size is perfect for weekend getaways and short business trips

SELF RETRACTING carry handles that maintain a low profile when not in use

10 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY: Samsonite products are rigorously tested to ensure our products meet stringent standards. This bag comes with a 10-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.

100% POLYCARBONATE that’s tough and scratch resistant

PACKING Dimensions: 20.0" x 14.25" x 9.5", OVERALL Dimensions: 22.5" x 14.5" x 9.5", Weight: 6.97 lbs.

NEW FOUR POCKET REVERSIBLE panel that maximizes organization without extra bulk or weight

20" SPINNER LUGGAGE maximizes your packing power and meets most carry-on size restrictions for those traveling domestically and looking to stay light

FOUR, MULTI-DIRECTIONAL OVERSIZED SPINNER WHEELS for effortless mobility, re-engineered lightweight

Easy-to-use large pull handle with a rubber-enclosed protected push button.

SIDE-MOUNTED TSA LOCKs act to deter theft, ensuring that only you or a TSA agent have easy access to your belongings when traveling

1.5" EXPANSION to allow you to pack more items and compression keeps clothing neatly pressed

7 DELSEY Paris Chatelet Hardside Luggage
Our Score:
8.9
DELSEY Paris

Deluxe interior featuring removable hanger and laundry and shoe bags; two large lined compartments with web straps to keep items secure and wrinkle free

Lightweight and durable 100% polycarbonate shell that is extremely resilient to cracking or breaking; designed with stylish faux leather accents

Recessed "one-button" locking handle system for great maneuverability; 21 inch carry on size is perfect for weekend getaways and short business trips

Recessed 3-dial TSA approved combination lock for security; unique brake system locks two front wheels to prevent bag from rolling away

Four spinner wheels assuring a stable base with multi-directional rolling with zero weight on your hand for easy travel

8 Kenneth Cole Reaction Hardside Luggage
Our Score:
8.8
Kenneth Cole REACTION

Packing Dimensions - 20" H x 13" L x 8-10" D

Weight - 6.5 lbs

Overall Dimensions - 22" H x 14" L x 9-11" D

8-wheel spinners provide effortless 360 degrees navigation allowing you to get to where you’re going faster

Expands an additional 2-inches for greater carrying capacity

Main compartment interior features a hanging side zipper pocket, and a divider panel with a zippered mesh pocket and clips to hold belongings in place

Under-the-lid section features a divider panel consisting of shoe pockets and a zippered mesh pocket for smaller items

Durable, textured ABS exterior and fully lined, tear-resistant interior

9 Traveler Hardshell Expandable Spinner Luggage
Our Score:
8.7
Traveler's Choice

Spinner wheels provide 360° rolling maneuverability through crowds and airports. Multi-stage telescoping handle with push button mechanism. Top and side rubber carry handles provide easy lifting and carrying.

Large interior compartment features multiple zippered pockets. Self-mending #10 zippers provide great durability. Interior compression straps keep clothes in place.

Indestructible polypropylene hardshell that’s abrasion-, scratch-, and water-resistant. Expansion gusset provide up to 2" to make packing a breeze.

22” Spinner’s Exterior & Interior Dimensions: 22”H x 14. 25”W x 9. 25”D + 2” Expansion (6. 3 lbs. ) & 19. 5”H x 13. 75”W x 8. 7. 5”D.

22” Carry-On Spinner features a built-in USB port, Type C port, and an interior power bank compartment that provide quick connection to your portable electronic device for a quick charge. Power bank compartment dimensions: 9” W x 3. 5” L x 1” D. Power bank is not included.

FULL-ZIP INTERIOR DIVIDER and cross straps for increased packing organization

STAY POWERED UP Enjoy the luxury of a charging system that travels with you, designed to connect with your preferred battery

FOUR, MULTI-DIRECTIONAL OVERSIZED SPINNER WHEELS for effortless mobility, re-engineered lightweight

PACKING Dimensions: 19.6”x 14.75” x 9.5”, OVERALL DIMENSIONS: 22.5” x 15.5”x 9.5”, Weight: 7.5 lbs.

20" SPINNER LUGGAGE maximizes your packing power and meets most carry-on size restrictions for those traveling domestically and looking to stay light

10 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY: Samsonite products are rigorously tested to ensure our products meet stringent standards. This bag comes with a 10-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.

What Does Our Expert Advice You To Consider For Selecting best hardshell carry on luggage?

best hardshell carry on luggage is chosen based on a number of parameters. Depending on the product category, the learning process differs. And so, we're here to consult, guide, and address your product-related problems.

Please keep in mind the following points before selecting best hardshell carry on luggage:

Storage

There are many internal pockets that you can find in both hard-shell and soft-sided luggages. These include small pockets with integrated zippers and large pouched pockets that will hold a laptop. You can also have removable laundry bags or garment sections to keep your suit jackets from tearing. Soft-sided suitcases are often equipped with external pockets that can be used to store easy-access items.

Security

Traveling with your padlock is important. However, it is recommended that you have one with Transport Security Administration (TSA).
The locks are branded with the TSA red logo and include a universal masterkey.
The TSA is the only one that has this copy. This key allows American airlines security personnel to access your luggage and inspect its contents, without risk.
They can open the lock if they are unable to do so.

Weight

Checked luggage: Full-size bags are allowed, but the weight limits vary by airline (see below). Excess baggage fees can be very high so make sure your bag isn't too heavy. Regular flyers might find it useful to purchase luggage scales. Keep in mind, however that you will need to pack more outfits if your suitcase is empty. We found that the best suitcases were as light as 2.3kg empty. Bulkier options weighed in at around 6.2kg.
Hand luggage: Some airlines may have restrictions on the weight of cabin cases. You don't have to give up books, souvenirs and gifts if you choose a lighter cabin bag or fly with an airline that is more flexible.

Wheels

Four-wheelers are the most common type of suitcase. Sometimes called spinners. This means that you don’t need to tip your bag before you tow it. It can also be wheeled along with you. Two-wheeled suitcases tend to be slightly larger and are easier to lift over kerbs. However, spinners offer more versatility.

Handles

Practicality is enhanced by suitcases that have handles at the top and sides. This extra handle along with the towing handle makes it much simpler to lift your suitcase onto and off luggage racks, check-in scales, and baggage carousels.
Top handles can extend into several positions to provide maximum comfort. When not in use, they can be retracted for easy pushing down.

Expandability

A lot of suitcases have an expandable panel that can be removed to give you at least 10% more packing space. If you're looking for last-minute souvenirs and gifts, some of our top-scoring full-size and cabin suitcases can be expanded.

Size

Cases up to full-size: How easy will your suitcase fit into the car's boot if you plan to drive to the airport? It will it be possible to carry the bag around in crowds? There's also the baggage rack at the airport bus. You could hoist it onto the top. You might consider a lighter option if your travels are less than two weeks. A piece of luggage should be durable enough to endure rough transit conditions, yet not cause you pain.
Hand luggage is allowed on most airlines. Some allow for a second hand bag, such as a backpack, or sling bag. A suitcase that is "cabin-size" does not necessarily mean that it can fit into a cabin. Although there are restrictions on size, many airlines will accept suitcases up to 56x45x25 cm.

FAQs

What Size Suitcase Is Considered Oversized?

While baggage size regulations vary from one airline to the next, most airlines allow luggage to be checked up to 62 inches in length. These airlines would consider bags exceeding these limits to be excessive.

What Is The Importance Of Luggage?

Because you need to travel a lot, you can also take the bag with you. A well-designed luggage bag will make an impression on other people. Bags are more than just bags. They can also be a fashion statement.

Is Hard Or Soft Luggage Better?

Because it is lighter than heavy luggage, soft luggage is more popular. Because of the use of lighter materials in hard luggage, this has been changed. It really depends on personal choice as to which option is better. Many soft luggage has expandable and external pockets. Hard luggage, on the other hand offers greater protection and durability.

Is The Rolling Handle Double Barred?

You may prefer to carry a rolling bag, but the main part of a suitcase is its handle. Some brands still make luggage that has a single pull handle. Single bar bags are less sturdy than double-bar rolling bags. This feature can fail to work when you're rushing through an airport. You will be in the middle of an arm workout while carrying your bag. This can be avoided by purchasing a bag that has a double-bar handle.

Are The Inside Pockets Useful?

Your clothing and personal belongings should be contained in your luggage. Bags with too many pockets end up being useless. Think about what you prefer to pack before you go ahead and click the buy button. You may not want a large zippered lid, so make sure you have a bag that has a great design. Look for suitcases with shoe compartments. Your bag should maximize its space. If your features aren't clear, it won't work.

How Much Does It Weigh?

You should look beyond the features and attributes of the bag's pockets when you search for a travel suitcase. Check out the weight of the bag without any contents. This is a mistake I've made more times than once. A bag too heavy to carry around is a temptation that I make love to. You will need to ensure that your bag is light, especially for travelers who want to save baggage fees. Look for bags that claim to be lightweight, or give you an accurate weight. It will not be possible to carry a heavy bag on an airplane from Hawaii, or at train stations across Europe.

What Is The Most Durable Luggage?

Polycarbonate and ABS are the most reliable luggage materials on the market. While the former is more sturdy, it's usually lighter. Both durable and lightweight luggage can be constructed from both.

Because we are product consulting professionals with much expertise, we believe the data is credible. Aside from that, the best hardshell carry on luggage data is kept up to date, and you may feel confident that the information is up to date and correct.

We can help you in addition to best hardshell carry on luggage. If you want to support, please don't hesitate to contact us. Thanks for reading!


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About Sarah Combs

Sarah Combs
Sarah Combs is a visual editor who loves to travel and hike. She enjoys taking photographs of her journeys, which help her to remember the beautiful places she's been to. Sarah is grateful for the opportunities that she has had to see the world and looks forward to continuing to explore new places in the future. Sarah is the editor of CampfireHQ since 2021 and has written on a variety of topics, from camping, and hiking to other outdoor guides.

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