Best Hard-Sided Luggage

Updated August 2019
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BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.
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BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We may earn a commission if you purchase a product through our links.
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.
We may earn a commission if you purchase a product through our links.
Bottom Line
Pros
Cons
Best of the Best
Samsonite
Omni
Check Price
Quality & Style
Bottom Line

A 3-piece set from a reputable brand, these best-selling cases are a solid investment.

Pros

The micro-diamond polycarbonate cases resist dents and scratches to keep them looking good through many trips. They come with durable, expandable zippers and ultra glide wheels. Super light yet sturdy. They also sport TSA-compliant locks and a 10-year warranty. Comes in a choice of 9 colors.

Cons

You may have issues picking it out on the carousel – especially if black. This is a more costly set of luggage.

Coolife
3 Piece Set
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Bargain-priced Set
Bottom Line

These affordable, lightweight cases come with 360° spinner wheels, TSA locks, and retractable handle.

Pros

The 20", 24" and 28" cases can nestle inside each other for storage. Roomy, lined interior. Lots of color choices, and also available in sky blue as a set of 4 (adds a 16") for a small upcharge.

Cons

The TSA-compliant lock threw out some glitches and needed to be reset. The zippers are not expandable, and it's not entirely dent-proof. Only has a 2-year warranty.

American Tourister
Moonlight
Check Price
Stands Out from the Crowd
Bottom Line

Available in separate pieces or as a set of 2 or 3, this sturdy, expandable zipper spinner luggage is backed with a 10-year warranty.

Pros

Good looking luggage that comes in some fun and stylish designs and colors, and features stylish interior fabrics. The rollers are easily maneuverable and tough. Inside zippers and compartments work well in keeping items from shifting.

Cons

Some users noted a chemical smell when the case is first opened. A few scratches on the exterior were noted. No TSA-compliant locks.

Best Bang for the Buck
AmazonBasics
Hardside Spinner
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Affordable Carry On
Bottom Line

Fully lined and with an expandable zipper, this thrifty 20" case is roomy and dependable.

Pros

Customers are amazed at the toughness of this case, and say it compares well to name brands. The wheels are smooth and the interior layout is practical.

Cons

Some felt that the handle has a little too much wiggle. It only has a 3-year warranty. No TSA-compliant lock, should you need to use for check-in.

Kenneth Cole Reaction
Out of Bounds
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Flaunts Style
Bottom Line

Elegant set with a recognizable logo comes in a range of colors, including muted shades like rose gold, and can be purchased separately or as a set.

Pros

Molded case design is aimed at deflecting shock and offering impact resistance when in transit. The thoughtful interior design means you can pack a lot inside. It has the full 10-year warranty.

Cons

There's no TSA-compliant lock. This case comes at a higher price point.

How we decided

We purchase every product we review with our own funds — we never accept anything from product manufacturers.

34 Models Considered
7 Hours Researched
1 Experts Interviewed
425 Consumers Consulted
Zero products received from manufacturers.

We purchase every product we review with our own funds — we never accept anything from product manufacturers.

Why trust BestReviews?
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.
We may earn a commission if you purchase a product through our links.
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We may earn a commission if you purchase a product through our links.
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.
We may earn a commission if you purchase a product through our links.

Yogi Berra once famously said: “Why buy good luggage? You only use it when you travel.” But anyone who’s dragged a case with a wobbly wheel through a concourse may beg to differ. Many travelers opt for hard-sided wheeling cases, especially for airline travel where they may have a tough journey through the hold. Hard shells offer the best protection for the contents, since they are crushless, though they may dent and scratch. For the most versatility, look for expandable zippers, and for ease of use, 360° spinning wheels. TSA-compliant locks are also a plus. Frequent travelers should also look for a long warranty – and here’s a tip: Tuck the receipt and paperwork inside the lining of the case, where you’ll find it if you ever need it.

The team that worked on this review
  • Enid
    Enid
    Editor
  • Melinda
    Melinda
    Web Producer
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Coolife

3 Piece Set

Coolife

3 Piece Set

These affordable, lightweight cases come with 360° spinner wheels, TSA locks, and retractable handle.
$139
×

American Tourister

Moonlight

American Tourister

Moonlight

Available in separate pieces or as a set of 2 or 3, this sturdy, expandable zipper spinner luggage is backed with a 10-year warranty.
$59
×

AmazonBasics

Hardside Spinner

AmazonBasics

Hardside Spinner

Fully lined and with an expandable zipper, this thrifty 20" case is roomy and dependable.
$49
×

Kenneth Cole Reaction

Out of Bounds

Kenneth Cole Reaction

Out of Bounds

Elegant set with a recognizable logo comes in a range of colors, including muted shades like rose gold, and can be purchased separately or as a set.
$163
×

Samsonite

Omni

Samsonite

Omni

A 3-piece set from a reputable brand, these best-selling cases are a solid investment.
$299

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