Dual TSA approved combination locks ensure your belongings are safe and secure throughout your travels. Featuring an exterior of polycarbonate, aluminium, or durable ABS plastic, hardshell suitcases are the best option if you’re travelling with expensive items such as cameras or laptops. Like its larger sibling, this model uses zippered closure rather than latches, which may be a downgrade for those specifically seeking zipperless security. The interior lip at the opening can be slightly annoying when packing, and the textured surface on lighter colors tends to trap black rubber deposits from airport ramps. The bag is also sometimes flagged for forced checking on smaller regional aircraft despite meeting standard sizer dimensions.
Inside there are straps to keep things in place aluminium luggage and internal organisers. There is also a 69cm option if you are looking for a medium-sized hard-shell suitcase. Apart from aluminum, polycarbonate is the most durable luggage material. Polycarbonate is more popular because aluminum is easier to dent and more expensive.
The Underseater also has a cleverly designed notebook compartment at the front, positioned directly under the zip. This allows easy access to laptops during meetings or security checks without laying the bag flat or exposing our belongings. Overall, the cost of aluminium suitcases is a reflection of the high-quality materials, craftsmanship, and design that go into producing them. While they may be more expensive than other types of suitcases, they are often a worthwhile investment for frequent travellers or those who want to protect their belongings in style.
That weight directly reduces how much you can pack before hitting airline limits. The 45-liter interior divides into two main compartments with three pockets total. The dry-wet separation panel keeps damp items isolated, while the main compartment offers compression straps for clothing. The zippered divider creates a secondary section ideal for shoes, toiletries, or electronics. The 360-degree dual spinner wheels roll silently, and the TSA dual-lock system provides the same independent dual-side security as the Business Travel model.
However, that’s certainly not the case with this budget-friendly option from Wanderlite, which comes with all the bells and whistles needed in a sturdy and safe carry-on. For starters, it has a durable hard shell that’s tough enough to withstand any adventure. Among our top-performing softshells are the Travelpro Platinum Elite 21-Inch. With a 40L non-expanded volume, this bag offers an appealing array of extra compartments that can be expanded for greater capacities.
In short, they can be very useful if you tend to overpack or buy a lot of souvenirs while traveling. Aside from this, they also help keep your clothing organized and in place when your bag is jostled around. The best ones we have used feature internal cinch straps or full panels that buckle together. Some cases utilize their expansion zippers as a makeshift compression system.
Whether you’re headed overseas or on a weekend getaway, we’ve done research to try and help you find the best suitcase option for your travels. If your suitcase manoeuvres and sounds like a shopping trolley with a wonky wheel, or you are losing the battle with a sticky zipper, it’s time to think about an upgrade. Most aluminum luggage has a coating that slows this down, and an oxidation remover can clean off tarnish. Expect scratches, dents and dings, and the case will not wear evenly on all sides. Much of this comes from airport baggage handling, and there is little you can do to prevent it.
The luggage also has an elastic clip band that minimises movement and a large zipper pocket inside for organisation. The well-balanced wheels, smooth zipper operation, and robust handle show a durable build. The short-trip luggage has a 37-litre capacity, which is expandable to 41 litres, to pack all your essentials for a weekend getaway. In addition, its locks offer flexibility, allowing you to choose between the integrated lock or a traditional padlock.
Whether you need a lightweight spinner, premium business case, flexible softside suitcase, anti-theft backpack or family-friendly carry-on, there is an option to suit your travel style and budget. Its polycarbonate shell is paired with dual-density spinner wheels, a structured interior and Delsey's upgraded security zip. The case also includes a shoe or laundry bag and an integrated USB connection for a compatible power bank. Look for smooth-rolling, quiet wheels and a telescopic handle that locks at multiple heights. There are a few other less-popular brands that have recently started making aluminum luggage, like Level8, Aleon, Yuemai, Bamboo Wolf, Travelking, and Sindermore. However, all of them are fairly new brands and are mostly manufactured in Asia, so you won’t get the same amount of quality, warranty, and customer support.
Meanwhile, hard shell suitcases can be better at protecting fragile contents, and are considered somewhat more secure as they can’t easily be torn into. At the end of the day, it comes down to your preferences and needs — as well as the aesthetics and design features you prefer in your luggage. Another brand we love for soft bags ideal for a couple of days of travel, or to accompany larger suitcases, Longchamp is a classic. Their instantly recognisable Le Pliage bag comes in a range of sizes and colours to suit every need, and can be folded up when not in use — so they don’t take up space in your wardrobes. Designed with the intention of bringing elegance back to modern travel, SteamLine Luggage does just that.
The 78L capacity and two main compartments include a wet/dry separation pocket and mesh dividers for organized packing. The upgraded PU wheels are smoother and more durable than standard rubber, and the 3-level adjustable aluminum handle provides comfortable control. Unlike top-loading trunk-style bags, the Hanke Grace puts a 15.6-inch laptop within easy reach in its front pocket while keeping weight low at 7.9 lb.
But if you’re a business-class traveler who’s in and out of planes weekly, this could be the only carry-on you need. The dual-spinning recessed wheels and height-adjustable handle are built for frequent airport use. Frequent travelers who want tough-as-nails protection, but still appreciate a modern, design-forward suitcase that fits airline carry-on rules. Prices run from $220 (20″ carry-on) to $380 (30″ trunk), with a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects and 60-day free returns—well below the four-figure prices of heritage brands. This list of the 10 best aluminum suitcases that are actually worth your investment. A good compression system can make the difference between carrying your valuables safely aboard a flight and having to gate check your bag.