Are you facing a dilemma on whether to choose a hard or soft suitcase for your travels? Look no further! In this article, we will dive deep into the debate of hard vs soft suitcase and help you uncover the better travel companion for your adventures.

With a myriad of options available, it’s important to understand the key differences, advantages, and disadvantages of each type. Whether you prioritize durability, flexibility, or other features, we’ll provide you with the insights you need to make an informed decision.

So, let’s unravel the mystery of hard vs soft suitcases and discover the one that perfectly suits your travel style and needs.

About Hard vs Soft Suitcase

Choosing the best travel suitcase is a personal choice based on needs, desires, and practicality. The first question for those of you looking for a new suitcase is whether you want a soft or hard suitcase. Suitcases are a fairly large investment in terms of your travel plans and budget.

It is also common that you will not buy the suitcase for just one trip, so check which one is best for your trip before buying the suitcase. Each type of suitcase has its merits and demerits.

You may have always carried a soft, fabric-style suitcase but prefer the sleek appearance of a hard-sided bag. But maybe you’re carrying a bag with a hard shell but want an outside pocket like most soft-sided bags offer. Maybe you don’t know what kind of suitcase you want.

So, make the decision about which type of suitcase is best for you. Here is details about hard vs soft suitcase.

Hard Suitcase

1. High-tech plastics like ABS and poly carbonate, which are strong and lightweight, are used to make hard-shell suitcases. The least durable material is ABS, although poly carbonate is more robust. The most durable but heaviest metal is aluminum.
2. Hard suitcases rarely have an expandable section. But it is lightweight and has a strong construction. The strength-to-weight ratio is generally good in the latest ultra-lightweight hard suitcases.
3. Hard-shell suitcases are better for security because hard-shell cases reduce theft rates by slitting.
4. Hard shells provide excellent protection for your belongings as they are incredibly strong and sturdy. If your case is dropped, it will provide higher impact resistance and better cushioning between fragile products.
5. The thin plastic shell construction gives you maximum packing space inside, as folds of fabric and the lining are not accommodated.
6. 4 Wheels – Good for you! But if you’re traveling somewhere where you have to drag your suitcase over rough terrain or cobblestones, sturdy 4-wheeled suitcases can be more difficult to handle.
7. Hard suitcases can be less car-friendly.

Soft Suitcase

1. The soft-sided suitcase is made of fabric that moves—usually woven nylon, such as Corduroy, ballistic, or rip stop. Corduroy is more textured, slightly softer, and more abrasion-resistant than ballistic. Ballistic is the smoother and shinier of the two. Over time, ballistics may degrade, but this will not compromise the strength of the fabric. Rip stop nylon is a lightweight fabric that is widely used in unstructured or semi-structured bags.
2. Soft suitcases are not easy to clean.
3. Soft suitcases take up less space when they’re open – simply lean your case against the wall and open the lid to avoid having to unpack in a short position, partially pack, or toss yours. The mess is concealed, and your hotel room is kept spotless by dirty clothing boxes and lids.
4. Soft suitcases often have expandable compartments that make them versatile for different trips.
5. Soft suitcases can easily be carried in car boots.
6. Soft suitcases are less secure, thieves are able to cut through the fabric to break into a case, and outside pockets can also contain items without your knowledge.
7. Soft suitcases are less protective for the items inside, a hard suitcase will absorb the impact from bumps and knocks, and a soft suitcase is not so much.

What Kind of Suitcase Material Do You Need?

Poly Carbonate: A poly carbonate case has many advantages, just like the Curve. The unique thing about poly carbonate is that it is very strong and flexible in addition to being light. Easy when packing, the material will dent. It’s unfortunately a bit more scratch-sensitive than ABS, but that material is less robust.

Polypropylene: Polypropylene is one of the strongest materials, and hence is also used in making Curve. The hard shell can also withstand a strong impact. It is a good option for travelers who find bags made of poly carbonate or Curve too expensive. Another disadvantage of polypropylene is that it is often heavier than any other material.

Ballistic Nylon: A thick synthetic nylon fabric is called ballistic nylon. Ballistic nylon is durable and simple to clean. Its ability to resist abrasion and tearing makes ballistic nylon a popular material for suitcases that can withstand considerable impact.

On the downside, ballistic nylon is difficult to dye, so there are fewer color choices. Typically, a ballistic nylon suitcase is available in dark colors like black.

Curve: A suitcase made from Curve material is one of the very best materials. Therefore, this is a good choice when you are looking for a suitcase that will last a long time. Curve material was previously used to make bulletproof vests. It is composed of a woven layer of polypropylene.

This makes the case very tough and scratch-resistant. The material is lightweight, which means you can carry more kilos of luggage. This material can also retain its shape, even from +125 degrees to -100 degrees.

This is important during flight, as the suitcase can be deformed due to extreme temperatures in the flight space if you fly at a high altitude.

Cordura Nylon: Another excellent soft bag material is Cordura nylon. The main advantages of Cordura are its toughness and resilience to tears, scuffs, and abrasion. Cordura weighs slightly less than ballistic nylon and dyes easily, meaning you have a lot more color choices. Ballistic nylon has a stronger tear strength while Cordura is more abrasion-resistant.

ABS: The most durable material for the bottom of a suitcase is ABS. The material ensures that the case is scratch-resistant. Additionally, ABS cases quickly regain their original shape after being dented. The lighter weight of most ABS cases makes your suitcase heavier. ABS cases are not the lightest or strongest. However, this material is generally less expensive than poly carbonate or Curve.

Conclusion

By now, you have gained valuable insights into the debate of hard vs soft suitcases. Remember, there is no “one size fits all” answer to this question. The better travel companion between a hard and soft suitcase depends on your specific preferences, needs, and travel style.

If durability and protection are your top priorities, a hard suitcase might be the way to go. On the other hand, if flexibility and versatility are what you seek, a soft suitcase could be your ideal choice. Consider factors like travel destination, transportation mode, and luggage capacity while making your decision.

Ultimately, it’s crucial to opt for a suitcase that aligns with your unique requirements. So, weigh the pros and cons, carefully evaluate your options, and select the perfect travel companion that will accompany you on countless memorable adventures. Safe travels!