5 Benefits of Hard Shell Luggage vs Soft Shell

Choosing the best travel suitcase is a personal decision that depends on needs, wants, and practicality. While there are several benefits of soft luggage such as internal and external pockets, resilience, flexible space allowance, and many organization options, we’d like to set the record straight about hard shell luggage because it sometimes gets a bad rap.

Rest assured, today’s models are nothing like your grandpa’s hard suitcase from days past. So, when contemplating hard shell luggage vs. softside luggage, here are five reasons to consider going the hardshell route.

1. It’s Incredibly Durable

Back in the day, hardside luggage was known to crack and deteriorate more quickly than soft-sided luggage, but luckily, companies like Briggs & Riley have changed all that. Our hard shell luggage is made out of 3-layer, 100% virgin Makrolon® polycarbonate material. It’s high-strength, lightweight, and provides elasticity and resiliency. Not only is it some of the most durable luggage around, but it also can handle anything from rain puddles to being thrown onto the baggage drop, which is good news for all of your belongings inside.

2. Getting Around is a Breeze

One noticeable difference when comparing hard shell vs soft shell luggage is that it’s notoriously easier to handle, a desirable feature that comes in handy when you’re trying to navigate a bustling airport or train station — especially if you’re rushing to make a connection. The reason for such effortless maneuvering is the fact that hardside luggage is equipped with four wheels instead of two, so it will stay balanced no matter how much you’ve crammed into it. Bonus points for being able to push the bag in front of you, which makes walking down the narrow airplane aisle a little bit easier.

3. Upkeep is Effortless

Unlike soft-sided bags, hardshell luggage is easy to clean. You don’t have to worry about stains from weather-related incidents, a leaky toiletry bag, the coffee you were drinking while running to catch your flight, or anything else life throws your way. Simply wipe it down with a damp cloth, and it’s as good as new.

4. Safety and Security

Thanks to the built-in TSA-friendly combination locks on all of our hard shell luggage, agents can safely access your bag without having to cut the lock off. It’s also added peace of mind knowing that whether your gear is in the hotel room, the overhead compartment, or on the luggage carousel, nobody can snoop through or steal your things. Locking up is always a good idea!

5. There’s Plenty of Space

A common complaint about hardsided luggage is that it doesn’t have as much flexibility to jam-back extra items as with softsided models. However, our hard sided expandable spinners are designed with the Briggs & Riley CX™ system, which means they expand for 25% more space, then compresses to its original size. Innovative yet stylish to boot.

Again, hardshell luggage isn’t necessarily better than softsided luggage. There are definitely pros and cons to each. However, before choosing the best travel suitcase for you, consider your plans and needs. You never know. You may wind up needing both!