Hard Case Luggage Vs Softside

Softside bags are also easier to fit into the overhead bins.

Hard case luggage vs softside. Softside luggage is definitely preferred for carry on luggage. Hardside materials are more often than not easy to clean simple by wiping the surface. Plus it s easier to set a soft case on a luggage rack. The polycarbonate shells required for making hard side luggage while the ballistic nylon weave for soft side luggage has revolutionized the production of luggage in the recent years.

Although many hard cases especially those made from polycarbonate are expandable soft luggage can still stretch more around the edges. Be prepared to increase your luggage budget when looking for hard sided bags. However you should also look beyond the material of bag and pay closer attention to quality and the craftsmanship. Luggage comes as either hard shell plastic cases or soft sided fabric baggage.

The molded exterior of a hardside bag does not allow for this extra space. Soft luggage is also easier to manipulate into small spaces such as overhead bins or luggage racks on buses whereas hard cases really compete with other bags. Some of the stylish hard cases will run you a lot more than a soft side case of the same dimensions. Softside luggage on the other hand absorb water and are more prone to retaining stains and smells.

Soft side soft side flexibility is the winner for many as mentioned above most travellers prefer a soft side suitcase which is typically made of nylon or similar softer materials. Yes the hard style luggage is usually the trendier of the two which also makes for a bigger price tag. They re not as flexible. The only downside is you might need to pay more for a really lightweight piece of luggage.

Softside bags often have some pockets on the outside of the bag that ensure your travel items are easy to access as you pass through airports. They re great for protecting delicate things and long term storage. Also if you need to be frequently moving or lifting your luggage around a soft side luggage is a great choice since they are lighter. Plus they don t slide around and stack easier i hate packing the two halves of a hard side suitcase.

You may want to buy hard sided luggage if you ll be packing breakable items. It may offer better security than soft sided baggage because it can t be ripped open as easily and usually has.