Which hardside luggage brands are the most reliable?
By 4TRAVELTIPS
Which hardside luggage is most reliable?
A fellow Hubber asked me to write a hub addressing their question. The question was which hardside luggage is the most reliable? First, I would like to provide an understandable definition or distinction in product, so that my response is qualified. I’m not a chemical engineer or a science buff, so the fact of the matter is my descriptions will always be in layman’s terms. Polycarbonate is relatively new to the luggage industry. The most attractive properties of polycarbonate are the lightweight, flexibility, and durability characteristics. However, not all polycarbonate products are the same. The distinction is pure polycarbonate vs. polycarbonate composite. Although, most luggage vendors make a decision to produce one or the other, I know of some vendors that offer both varieties. The polycarbonate composite is far more prevalent, primarily because it is much more affordable. A polycarbonate composite is a layered plastic that generally has a ‘cap sheet’ of polycarbonate plastic on the surface layer. Although, a composite can actually have multiple layers, by definition a composite must have at least one layer other than the polycarbonate.
An amazing demonstration of the polycarbonate strength is to have an average sized adult stand up on top of the suitcase and watch the suitcase flex all the way to the floor. Once the person gets off the suitcase, you will miraculously see the suitcase return to the original shape. The outer surface color of a pure polycarbonate is fully penetrated or immersed into the material. Consequently, if there is a stress crease due to excessive weight or an excessive blow, you will notice the color of the crease is the same as the surface color. By comparison a polycarbonate composite will generally show a white crease or perhaps crack under the same degree of impact. Having said this, even the polycarbonate composites perform amazingly well especially considering their lightweight properties.
I would like to start with Rimowa®, the high quality German manufacturer, who was the first vendor in our luggage industry to offer pure polycarbonate in the year 2000. They have actually had their polycarbonate product tested by the German institute TUV. This institute is renowned for the endurance tests they conduct on vehicles for road safety. The outer material is not where Rimowa® stops, in fact they have a patented Multiwheel® system that is designed to roll in any direction on either two or four wheels. Additionally, the wheels are engineered to withstand the wear and tear you can expect from a substantial amount of weight and impact. Rimowa® offers collections with top-of-the-line zipper closures or with aluminum and magnesium frames. This frame adds a little more weight to the suitcase but offers more rigidity and durability. When you buy a Rolls Royce you expect to pay top dollar, well this is no exception. Rimowa® sets the standards in polycarbonate luggage, but they are also among the most expensive. The good news is that you absolutely get what you pay for, if you are a world-class traveler, I recommend that you pay more when you make your initial investment. Chances are you won’t ever have to replace this suitcase….until they come out with more bells and whistles that make your 2011 model look outdated. This pure polycarbonate ranges in price based on collection and size from $475 for their Salsa Air Cabin Multi Wheel Carry-On to $970 for their most deluxe Limbo 32” oversized Mulitwheel Trolley with aluminum frame.
New for Fall 2011 is the Victorinox Spectra™ Collection. The colors featured in North America are Red, Blue, and Black. What I like best about this collection is the bright iridescent finish that is also iconic on their Victorinox Swiss Army Knife collection. The Victorinox shield is clearly one of the most recognized logos throughout the world, so if you are looking for brand recognition, this should be your first choice! This collection is constructed of pure polycarbonate and not composite, as found on many competing lines. This line is an import product like most other polycarbonate brands, and unlike Rimowa® is not made in North America. Consequently, the prices are quite competitive among luggage brands made of pure polycarbonate. The Carry-On Upright is 299.99 and the collection graduates in price all the way up to the $369.99 for the 32" 8-Wheel Travel Case. The quality to price ratio makes this collection a serious contender! A highlight of the key features include a one-touch dual-trolley telescoping aluminum handle system; 8-Wheel Spinner for ease of maneuverability; Zippered closure with Travel Sentry Approved 3-dial combination lock, allowing U.S. TSA screeners to inspect your contents without breaking lock; Features both top and side mounted handles for quick/
Heys USA has had a meteoric growth in our industry. Here is a vendor who offers collections of Polycarbonate that are pure and other collections that are polycarbonate composite. What makes them so attractive is their high fashion philosophy and wide-range of colors and finishes. In my retail stores, we carry four collections: the zCase Collection, the Velocity Collection, the Britto Collection, and our newest Fazzino Collection. All four are polycarbonate composites with extremely high quality components such as the spinner wheels and telescoping handles. Best of all the prices on these collections are more affordable than the more expensive pure polycarbonates. The polycarbonate composite collections by Heys USA range from $180-$350 based on selected size. The Britto Collection actually has unique pop-art designs by the world renowned artist Romero Britto. Besides being durable and light weight, you can now ‘travel with your art’. New for Holiday 2011 is the collaboration with famed artist Charles Fazzino with the introduction of a very attractive Pop Art Collection named after the artist.
Tumi has a very appealing collection of polycarbonate called Vapor. They describe their product as triple-layered with a combination of polycarbonate and ABS Plastic. What I like best about this collection are the raised bumpers that are integrated into the product design. The bumpers are strategically placed at all the obvious stress points to contribute to the strength and durability of this exquisite looking case. This product has a brushed metallic finish that is something you expect to see on an exotic Italian sports car. The $425 through $595 price range on this collection is right in line for the quality they provide. It’s not pure polycarbonate, but you can expect substantial durability as a result of their quality components, bumper protection, and high quality polycarbonate composite. Exactly as you would expect from any Tumi product, this is an eye catching collection.
Landor & Hawa also has a wide array of polycarbonate composites. Their prices are razor sharp, and this has to be my top recommendation for affordable polycarbonate suitcases. Although this is a composite, I have never had one returned with any issues related to durability. My favorite collection is the Augusta, which offers a 4-wheel spinner collection, and a textured finish that is quite resistant to scratches. We carry both the Black and the Beige/Silver colors, and we hope they add a few brighter colors to the collection. The nice aspect about L&H is that they are constantly moving forward, and just when you get attached to one collection….they move on with something new and improved. For a price of $110 for the 4-Wheeled Carry-on to $170 for the 4-Wheeled 28”, this is an easy decision.
My final comment regarding polycarbonate suitcases is to give consideration to the 4-Wheel Spinner system especially on the larger sizes. The extra weight for the additional two wheels is marginal, yet the benefit of the added maneuverability is well worth the added feature.
Comments
Thanks for your good question Jason, in our US Market we unquestionably see an upswing in both the pure Polycarbonate and the Polycarbonate Composite products. This trend may have started even earlier in the International Market.
Most of the Polycarbonate composites also include ABS, with Polycarbonate Cap Sheets. I will check with the TGA (Travel Goods Association) to see if they have conducted any recent research with regard to recent statistics. It seems that this recent growth has been driven my the light weight characteristics of Polycarbonate. Consequently, Aluminum luggage hasn't quite seen the comparable growth as that of Polycarbonate.
Finally, the 4-Wheels Spinner concept has surpassed the 2-Wheel Cartwheel on this hardside category.
Dear Sir,
I really appreciated your help and will be waiting for yoru comments in regards to world hardside luggage market forecast.
Thanks again
Dear Sir,
i would like to know if you have any update regarding my inquires.
i am looking forward to hearing from you soon.
Dear Jason,
I attempted to reply directly to your email a couple of weeks ago. It doesn't sound like you received my response. Although, the TGA conducted a recent survey, the parameters were specifically for hardside luggage that was imported into the United States. This category has doubled from last year, and now represents 12% of all luggage imported into the U.S. We all expect this category to show substantial growth once again in 2011!
Dear Sir,
Thanks for your cooperation indeed.
i would like to know if you have world hardside luggage forecast in 2011.
This is what i really need as i am working in luggage manufacturer in charge of TUMI now.
I have checked but all reseach report was not free costing over $2,000 which is too burdon.
Below is my E-mail.
jasonhlee21@hotmail.com
Warm regards
Jason
Hi Jason,
I responded directly to your email. Please let me know if I can be of futher help!
Hello Eileen,
I like your 2-Piece Set. Thank you for including all of the images and specifications. The Polycarbonate Composite, is generally a composition that includes ABS plastic (Acrylonitr????ile Butadiene Styrene). The corners are more vulnerable to cracking than that of a pure Polycarbonate. Hence, the price differential. Consequently, the corner reinforcements on this particular set gives you some added protection. In the attached image, it also appears that the wheel housing is somewhat recessed, which will also offer added protection. The further the wheels protrude, the easier they are to damage in travel. Thanks for your question, I hope I have addressed your concerns. Enjoy your travels!
Hi 4TravelTips:
Wondering if you are available to talk offline about your expertise in the luggage industry...we are just starting a study of the market and looking for some very high level insights, and your comments here indicate you are well informed! Are you available for a a quick phone call in the next few days?
Happy to give you a bit more background offline if that's possible.
My email is president@airlineintl.com you are welcome to contact me direct
Hi,
I'm wondering if you can compare the following three models for carry-on:
Rimowa, Salsa Air Carry-on
Titan, 5th Element 19" Carry-on
Tumi, Vapor Carry-on
Thanks,
cyan219@hotmail.com
Dear Cyan,
Thank you for your question. I applaud you for your careful research. You've picked out a Mercedes, BMW, and Lexus. In other words, all great choices. The Rimowa Salsa Air and the Titan 5th Element are both pure 100% Polycarbonate and are manufactured in Germany while the Tumi Vapor is Polycarbonate Composite and made in China. The components, lining, design element are magnificent in all three styles. Keep in mind the Rimowa Salsa Air has a single telescoping handle system, while the other two have the conventional double telescoping handle system. This will make a difference in the weight and packing capacity of the case. Consequently, the Rimowa is the lightest of the three. All three are priced similarly, since the Titan is frequently advertised on sale. Also keep in mind that all three of these suitcases are sized to comply with airline carry-on standards. This means that measurements are generally from the bottom of wheels to the top of handle. In some reviews people complain that the cases are too small. However, if you truly want to carry the bag on, without having the airlines surprise you with a last minute 'gate-check', than I recommend sticking with brands that comply with these standards. All three of your choices present no problem in this regard. At the end of the day, it may be all about your personal preference. Such as the color choices, design element or features. I hope I have addressed all of your concerns, and wish you enjoyable travels!
What about Samsonite?
Hi Juan,
Samsonite has a variety of hard-sided luggage collections. Their range is quite diverse, as they have everything from Polycarbonate composite to pure Polycarbonate. There is a difference in quality and price depending on the collection. Additionally, they work with two other hard-side compositions that I haven't addressed in this article. I will gladly comment, if you care to provide the collection name of the Samsonite you reference.
Hello and thanks for the information in your hub--I just posted something about wheeled bags but I have never used a hard-sided bag: Are they heavy?
Happy Travels
Thanks for your comment. The beauty of the new generation polycarbonate hard-side cases is that they are so light, and yet so durable! In years past all of the hard-sided suitcases were generally ABS (Acrylonitrile, Butadiene, and Styrene) Polypropylene (Injection molded), or Aluminum. These were durable, yet not so light. Whether you choose a suitcase in pure polycarbonate or a polycarbonate composite, you will be pleased with both the light weight properties and the durability. Enjoy your travels!
hi, do you have information if the victorinox spectra collectoin scratch resistant or scratch proof?
Hi Veecee,
This is a very good question. The most attractive feature benefits of pure polycarbonate luggage is the fact that it is lightweight, yet extremely durable. The Spectra by Victorinox does have a protective coating, which offers scratch resistance. Yet, this and other glossy finishes are not 'scratch-proof'. You will see fewer scratches with textured polycarbonate. However, visually the glossy looks so much more eye catching. I have to admit, I own the glossy finish Rimowa, and after every trip I use a polishing cloth to rub out any scratches. It still looks great, and has traveled the world!
hi just want to ask which is much more Durable and a better material a POLYCarbonate or PolyPropylene??
Both are great, yet the polypropylene plastic, also referred to as injected molded plastic. This and ABS Plastic were the first two plastic's used in the luggage industry. Although, Polypropylene is especially durable, it will generally be heavier than a Polycarbonate, and is quite easily scratched. I personally favor the Polycarbonate for luggage because of the lightweight properties. Thanks for your good question!
Hi there, came across your site searching for reviews on 2 sets. I was considering this Heys Poly composite case:
http://shop.heys.ca/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode (30" Sketchpedition case)
vs. this Samsonite Poly/ABS:
https://www.samsonite.ca/detail/110 (28" Winfield)
I thought the Samsonite would have been a better purchase as it seemed like sturdier plastic, and had a longer warranty, but I've started reading Samsonite's quality has gone down over the years... From your experience can you advise which would be the more durable case? I travel a lot, and through ports like YYZ which seem to manhandle everything 10x worse than everywhere else.
Thanks in advance!
Hi Veesmika,
You have done your homework. Both are Polycarbonate Composite, which means both have a mixture of plastics. Most likely ABS Plastic and Polycarbonate. In fact, in the Samsonite link that you sent me, Samsonite indicates this fact. The Samsonite and Heys products you reference are both fine products and priced competitively. However, reading between the lines I see that you travel a lot. Any time a business traveler asks me for advise on Polycarbonate Luggage I suggest they consider the 100% Pure Polycarbonate as opposed to a Polycarbonate Composite. Therefore, I would strongly suggest researching the Victorinox Spectra or the new Hartmann PC4 which are the starting price points in 100% pure Polycarbonate. If your budget permits, I would recommend the Rimowa, which is the more expensive, yet well worth the investment. Most of the seasoned business travelers would agree that Rimowa is the 'best in class'. Thanks for your question. Enjoy your travels!
Thanks so much for such a prompt response! While I do travel a lot... I'm actually a lowly student, not quite a seasoned business traveller ;) I will def. invest in the Rimowa when I am older, but I was worried about the rumours of Samsonite's quality deteriorating over the years. So in your opinion either of these cases are par for par on sturdiness? The Heys felt "thinner" (more flexible) but I don't know if that was necessarily a bad thing.
Essentially, I want the Heys for the look of it. But if the Samsonite has any edge in durability, I will go with the more logical choice.
The nice aspect of Polycarbonate, is that it doesn't have to be thick to offer durability. It is a very flexible material and quite light weight as I'm sure you discovered. If you like the pattern of the Heys, which I have to agree is quite eye catching, I would buy it without reservations. It is my belief that both of the products that you are comparing with perform quite similarly. I noticed that Heys is driven by fashion, and their colors and patterns are constantly changing. That is a good thing, as you should spot your luggage on the conveyer quite rapidly when every other bag on the belt looks exactly the same in the 'sea of black'.
Thank you!
What is the difference between single telescoping and double telescoping handle system? Also which is better...ABS or ABS/Polycarbonate Laminate?
Hi Kim,
Great questions. Generally, all telescoping handles are at least two-stages. A larger upright suitcase 30" or 32" generally has the telescoping stage that you see, and the other stage is hidden within the construction of the suitcase. By comparison, a wheeled briefcase telescoping handle needs to be roughly 38-42" in height when fully extended. Consequently, this normally requires a 5-stage telescoping handle for adequate height. The general rule of thumb, is shorter cases require more stages on the telescoping handle.
Regarding your second question, the ABS/Polycarbonate Laminate is a fancy name for Polycarbonate Composite. Which simply means it is not a pure polycarbonate. The Polycarbonate Composites or ABS/Polycarbonate Laminates are more popular today than pure ABS. Normally, the pure ABS luggage products require a metal frame, and other components that add to the weight. Where as the Polycarbonate and Polycarbonate composites frequently incorporate a zipper closure, which translates to less weight. Therefore, my first preference is pure polycarbonate, which generally is more expensive and my second choice is polycarbonate composite. Thanks for your great questions. Please let me know if I can help with any other questions or concerns.
I was wondering if you had any opinion or information on the Hartmann PC4 and the Samsonite Gravtec collections. I believe they are both 100% polycarbonate. Is the Hartmann worth the price? The Samsonite costs much less, what is the quality like?
Thanks so much in advance for your help.
Jason Lee 16 months ago
Thanks for your information.
I am currently working for luggage manufacturer in Vietnam. I would like to know hardside luggage market forecast in terms of ABS, poly cabonate, aluminum luggage. If you could provide me of the information it will be really appreciated or please let me know how to find the market outlook with free of charge.
jasonhlee21@hotmail.com