If you’re reading this you’re probably ready to purchase your next piece of hardshell luggage (or a luggage set, if you’re looking for multiple sizes). If that’s the case, it might have only taken you one online search to see the huge difference in price between different types of luggage. Taking the brand name out of the equation, hardshell luggage is priced based on the material that is used.
In this article, we’re going to compare ABS and polycarbonate material.
What is Polycarbonate?
Polycarbonate is used to make luggage because it is both lightweight and durable. If you travel a lot, you know that the luggage needs to be able to take a lot of wear and tear. Because polycarbonate is more flexible, it is able to return to its original shape quickly (and without cracking, like some other plastics). This is great because if your luggage gets dented, you are able to pop out the dent and your luggage will return to its original shape. We also know that polycarbonate is more durable because it is more impact resistant. Some tests even show that it is up to two times more impact resistant than ABS. Another great thing about polycarbonate is that it is lighter than ABS, although not by much. Unfortunately, ABS is the better material when it comes to availability and price.
Pros
- More Durable than ABS
- Flexible
Cons
- More expensive
- Not as easy to find
- Not as lightweight
What is ABS?
ABS is a mixture of three different types of plastics: Acrylonitrile, Butadiene, and Styrene. It is the most common form of plastic for hardshell luggage because it costs the least to make and is easy to find. Unfortunately, that also means that it isn’t as durable as polycarbonate. Another quality of ABS is that it wears out easily in the sun. Something to note is that you can find luggage made from ABS and another type of plastic. This is great because you can get it at a cheaper cost but with a little more durability.
Pros
- Best price
- Easy to find
- Lightweight
Cons
- Less durable
What’s the better material for luggage?
Polycarbonate is definitely the better option for your luggage because it is more durable and will last longer. But, ABS is lightweight, which is good if you’re looking to pack a lot in your suitcase without going over the airlines’ weight requirements.
Our Top Picks of Hardshell Luggage
Now that you know the pros and cons of each material. It’s important to know that because polycarbonate is more durable, it is also more expensive. We’ve chosen our top three cost-value luggage options.
Coolife Luggage 3 Piece Set
Description: Our first option is this 3-piece luggage set that comes in a variety of bright colors. This is great because it makes your luggage easy to spot at the baggage claim. They are made out of 100% ABS material, making them lightweight and great for when you don’t want to go over your airline’s weight limit. This luggage also has TSA-approved locks to help deter thieves from getting into your personal belongings. The small size is great as a carry on and can fit into most, if not all, overhead bins. Some customers have had some dents in their luggage but were able to get their luggage fixed with Coolife’s two-year limited time warranty.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Great easy glide wheel design
- TSA approved locks
Cons
- Not as durable as other options
Overall Rating: 4.5/5
This luggage may not be the most durable but it is extremely cheap for the number of great perks it has. This is the best bang for your buck item on our list.
Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Luggage
Description: This three-piece luggage set is the most expensive hardshell luggage on our list but it also has the greatest features of our three top picks. We think this luggage set is worth the money because it is the most durable and great if you’re going to be traveling a lot. Another reason why it is a little more expensive than the others is that it is made out of durable polycarbonate material. It comes with one 20-inch, one 24-inch, and one 28-inch hard shell luggage. Just like the others, the wheels on this luggage rotates 360 degrees. Another great thing about this luggage set is that you will get a 10-year warranty so you’ll be covered if there are any defects in the materials. Choose from a variety of sleek colors to make sure you get yourself luggage that you’re happy with for a long time. This luggage set comes with TSA-approved locks and a push-button handle so that your handle stays up while you’re rolling around in style. Just like the other options on our list, this hardshell luggage comes with mesh pockets for optimal organization.
Pros
- Most durable
- TSA approved lock
- 10-year warranty
Cons
- Most expensive
Overall Rating: 4/5
While this is the most durable option on our list, we are giving it aa 4/5 because of the price point.
AmazonBasics Hardside Spinner Luggage
Description: This 3-Piece set comes with a 21-inch, 26-inch and 30-inch hard case suitcase. The hardshell on these suitcases are made out of ABS material. Each suitcase has 4- 360-degree spin wheels that easily glide right through any airport. They each close with a standard double-zipper design that allows you to adjust the suitcase to have up to 15% more packing space. This is great for both big and small trips. While it’s great that this 3-piece set comes in a number of different sizes, the largest suitcase is so large that if you do decide to fill it, you’ll need to make sure you aren’t going over the airline’s weight requirements, which is likely with such a large suitcase. But, it’s great because it can be used to transport larger (but not as heavy) items. Another great feature of these suitcases is that they are lined with dividers for easy organization. One concern that some customers had is that the handle shakes a little as it rolls. We also like this item because you have the option to choose just one size if you’re not looking to get as much luggage.
Pros
- Great price for what you get
- Great inner organization for both smaller and larger items
- The double zipper allows you to have extra room when you need it and less room when you don’t
Cons
- The large suitcase is too big
- The handle doesn’t seem very sturdy
- No lock on any of the three bags
Overall Rating: 4/5
It doesn’t have as many cool features as our first option but is still great and we love the price to durability value.
Conclusion
So, if you’re looking to buy a new set of hardshell luggage, you’ll want to consider the price, weight, and durability of the plastic. While polycarbonate is more sturdy, it is also more expensive. Consider making the investment if you travel a lot.
Ultimately, ABS is the most common type of plastic used in suitcases and is also the cheapest. But, polycarbonate is more flexible than ABS and has a higher resistance to impact.