I have reviewed the current bestsellers in various suitcase categories. Below, I present a detailed analysis of the 10 best suitcases, outlining their advantages and disadvantages.
Best Suitcases to Buy in the UK for 2024
Top 10 Best Suitcases: Comprehensive Ranking
Author: Sebastian | Last updated: 04/12/2024
Best in Test: Samsonite Neopulse
The Samsonite Neopulse tops my suitcase test, offering the best overall concept with very good components. Its construction from high-quality polycarbonate ensures it is not only lightweight but also exceptionally durable. Particularly commendable are the large rubberised double wheels that enhance smooth rolling and maneuverability. The telescopic handle is notably stable with minimal wobble. Of all the suitcases I tested, I found its interior furnishings to be the best.
In the long-term test, I found little to criticise about the Samsonite Neopulse. However, its smooth polycarbonate surface does make it somewhat prone to scratches.
Available sizes:
S / M / L / XL
S / M / L / XL
approx. ÂŁ 255 – 315
(depending on color & size)
(depending on color & size)
Runner-Up: Samsonite Lite Shock
In the test, the standout feature of the Samsonite Lite Shock was its high-tech CURV material, which not only makes it one of the lightest suitcases available but also nearly indestructible. It scored top marks for handling; despite its small rollers, it moves exceptionally smoothly. The telescopic handle adjusts with ease and is remarkably stable.
The Lite Shock narrowly missed the top spot in our test, primarily due to its slightly lower capacity and the small size of its one-wheel castors. Additionally, the interior lacks fabric lining, which could be a downside for some users. The price point is also a bit higher, attributed to its advanced material.
Available sizes:
S / M / L / XL
S / M / L / XL
approx. ÂŁ 260 – 330
(depending on color & size)
(depending on color & size)
3rd Best: Samsonite Spark SNG
The Samsonite Spark SNG is the best softside suitcase according to the test. It offers the highest storage volume of all travel suitcases that were tested. The features are also commendable: 2 lockable front pockets, large double wheels and robust material.
I could not find any real disadvantages with the Spark SNG. Only the telescopic rod is a bit shakier than usual with Samsonite. When filling the front pockets, you have to pay attention to weight distribution, otherwise the suitcase does tend to tilt.
Available sizes:
S / M / L / XL
S / M / L / XL
approx. ÂŁ 155 – 190
(depending on color & size)
(depending on color & size)
4th Best: American Tourister Soundbox
The American Tourister Soundbox stands out as the best value for money in my tests, thanks to its impressive storage capacity and robust design. This suitcase also impresses with its vibrant color options and is pleasant to handle, courtesy of its good wheels and stable telescopic rod. Made from high-quality polypropylene, the shell is both highly flexible and shatterproof.
When comparing weights, the Soundbox Spinner is only in the middle of the pack. In size S, the suitcase has only one handle. Furthermore, the case does not have an integrated name plate in all sizes.
Available sizes:
S / M / L
S / M / L
approx. ÂŁ 105 – 135
(depending on color & size)
(depending on color & size)
5th Best: Samsonite Base Boost
The Samsonite Base Boost was impressive when put to the test thanks to its low weight (2nd place). It also has an excellent storage capacity (4th place). The exterior pocket provides additional luggage space for any baggage which must be quickly accessible while travelling. All this is available for a comparatively low price.
The biggest downside is the relatively small single-wheel rollers, which causes the suitcase to tilt somewhat. The telescopic rod is also a bit shaky when compared to the other suitcases.
Available sizes:
S / M / L
S / M / L
approx. ÂŁ 90 – 160
(depending on color & size)
(depending on color & size)
6th Best: Samsonite S’Cure Spinner
The Samsonite S’Cure primarily scores points in the test thanks to its stable construction. The suitcase is very sturdy and doesn’t have a zip. It is closed with 3 buckles. The hard shell is made from high-quality polypropylene. This makes the shell flexible and shock resistant. The large double-wheel rollers mean the suitcase rolls well and comfortably.
Its stable construction is noticeable in its weight: this suitcase is a little heavier than most suitcases in the test. The fact that the interior is not lined with fabric is also a negative.
Available sizes:
S / M / L / XL
S / M / L / XL
approx. ÂŁ 135 – 165
(depending on color & size)
(depending on color & size)
7th Best: Hauptstadtkoffer Mitte
The Hauptstadtkoffer Mitte offers an impressive capacity: its volume can be expanded by a full 8 cm across all sizes, providing as much storage space as few other suitcases. The features are also good for this price range. The rubberized double wheels and thoughtful interior layout are particularly commendable. The suitcase offers excellent value for money and is especially suitable for occasional travelers.
The main drawback is its weight. Due to the ABS plastic used, it is heavier than suitcases made from polycarbonate or polypropylene. You also have to make some compromises in handling due to the affordable price. For instance, the telescopic handle is a bit wobbly, and in the carry-on size S, the wheels are slightly smaller.
Available sizes:
S / M / L / Set
S / M / L / Set
approx. ÂŁ 100 – 130
(depending on color & size)
(depending on color & size)
8th Best: American Tourister Bon Air
The American Tourister Bon Air was impressive when put to the test thanks primarily to its design and the wide selection of colours. High-quality polypropylene is used, and the case handles very comfortably. It also scores top values for its internal equipment. The price is comparatively low for a suitcase of this quality. The Bon Air offers excellent value for money.
The Bon Air Spinner also has a relatively small storage capacity. Furthermore, the single-wheel rollers are relatively small, which makes the case somewhat wobbly. The high-gloss areas on the hard shell look good visually, but are susceptible to scratches when under high stress.
Available sizes:
S / M / L
S / M / L
approx. ÂŁ 65 – 170
(depending on color & size)
(depending on color & size)
9th Best: Suitline Suitcase
The Suitline Suitcase scores points in the test primarily because of its low price. This suitcase is also relatively light. Also worthy of praise in this price range are the rubberised double-wheel rollers, which are very quiet. The interior design is really well thought out and offers a number of additional storage options.
The comparatively low storage capacity is a downside. Points also need to be deducted for handling: this suitcase rolls in a somewhat wobbly manner and the telescopic rod rattles more than with pricier suitcases.
Available sizes:
S / M / L / Set
S / M / L / Set
approx. ÂŁ 80 – 110
(depending on color & size)
(depending on color & size)
10th Best: Hauptstadtkoffer Alex
The Hauptstadtkoffer Alex was impressive when put to the test thanks primarily to its large storage capacity. All sizes can be easily expanded in volume by opening an additional zip. I also liked the well-thought-out interior design. Due to the ABS plastic, the shell isn’t particularly susceptible to scratches.
Points have to be deducted for the Hauptstadtkoffer Alex due to its weight. This model is comparatively heavy. The way it rolls is also not very impressive due to its slightly smaller wheels. Furthermore, the telescopic rod is a little shaky and sometimes snags when adjusting it.
Available sizes:
S / M / L / Set
S / M / L / Set
approx. ÂŁ 90 – 110
(depending on color & size)
(depending on color & size)
The Best Suitcases in Comparison
Roll with the best: Find your perfect suitcase!
Last update on 2024-12-09 at 11:15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Partnernet
Purchase advice
How to find the best suitcase
Which Suitcase Size?
Size S is ideal for short trips with hand luggage. It is usually suitable for a maximum of 3-5 days. For carry-on luggage, the permitted dimensions vary depending on the airline and are around 55x40x20 cm.
Size M and L are check-in baggage. For most airlines, the maximum size is 158 cm or 62 inches (the sum of width X + height Y + depth Z). Size M is intended for a week’s trip and size L for 2 weeks. The choice also depends on whether you want to take a lot of luggage with you or travel in a more minimalist way.
Size XL is intended for longer journeys of more than 2 weeks or for families with a lot of luggage. When traveling by air, it should be noted that many suitcases of this size exceed the 158cm rule and therefore cannot be checked in, or additional fees for excess baggage are incurred. It is therefore essential to find out about the maximum permitted size before the flight.
Which Suitcase is better: Hard or Soft?
The decision between hard-sided and soft-sided luggage is not easy and often depends on personal preferences. Both types of cases have advantages and disadvantages:
Hard-sided suitcases are considered very robust and they protect the luggage better. This is particularly useful for checked baggage. In addition, most models are waterproof and easy to clean. The best results in my suitcase test were achieved by models with a hard shell.
Soft-sided suitcases are very flexible and stretchable. This is practical if a little more luggage has to fit in the suitcase. Another advantage are the additional outer pockets that many models have.
You can read my very personal opinion in the article: Which Suitcase is better: Hard or Soft?
Benefits of hard-sided cases
Benefits of soft-sided cases
Which Suitcase Material is the Best?
CURV
Curv material is extremely shatterproof and exceptionally light. Thin polypropylene threads are combined into a fabric and then pressed into layers under heat and pressure. The material is considered almost indestructible. Even after extreme force has been applied, the suitcase can be easily pressed back into its original shape. However, the material is relatively expensive due to the complex manufacturing process.
The lightest suitcase in the test consists of CURV: Samsonite Lite Shock
Polycarbonate
Polycarbonate is also a relatively expensive plastic that is also used for the production of CDs and DVDs, for example. It is extremely impact-resistant and is characterized by high rigidity, even at very low or high temperatures. Polycarbonate suitcases are very light and the shell is flexible. As a result, shocks are well cushioned, which makes the shell very break-proof.
The Samsonite Neopulse is my favorite polycarbonate case.
Polypropylene
Polypropylene is the second most important plastic in terms of usage. It has a very low density and is the lightest of all plastics. At the same time it is very hard and rigid. Suitcases made of this material are light and can absorb shocks well due to the thin shell. The disadvantage of polypropylene is that its breaking strength decreases at temperatures below freezing. Due to the low density of the material, the surface is more prone to scratches.
The American Tourister Soundbox is the best suitcase in the my test made from polypropylene.
ABS Plastic
ABS is a very strong plastic, which is also used, for example, to make Lego bricks. Although the material is relatively shatter-proof, it is not as flexible as the plastics mentioned above. This has the disadvantage that shocks cannot be absorbed as well and the shell can break more quickly in comparison. In addition, the weight of ABS cases is slightly higher. The advantage of the high material strength is the fact that scratches do not appear on the shell so quickly. Depending on the price, there are very large differences in quality with this material.
The Hauptstadtkoffer Alex, for example, is made of high-quality ABS plastic.
Aluminium
Aluminum suitcases are extremely stable. This makes these cases very durable. The biggest disadvantage of aluminum cases is the comparatively high weight. The price is also higher than most other suitcase materials.
Polyester & Nylon
These two materials are the first choice when manufacturing soft shell suitcases. Both are made of fully synthetic fibers that are characterized by their lightness, stability and tear resistance. Polyester and nylon are highly elastic, waterproof and dirt-repellent. Polyester is slightly more water-repellent and keeps colors longer.
The best soft-shell suitcase in my test is made of polyester: Samsonite Spark SNG
2-Wheel or 4-Wheel Suitcase? Which is Better?
Both types of suitcases have advantages and disadvantages. The decisive factor is how you want to use the case and what you value more:
In suitcases with 2 wheels, the casters are usually larger and more stable. They are easier to move on rough terrain. In addition, they can be parked better and do not roll away.
Suitcases with 4 wheels, on the other hand, are much more manoeuvrable. They don’t need to be tipped and the casters rotate 360 degrees. This is particularly useful in narrow aisles and in crowds.
However, most models are only available in hand luggage size S with 2 wheels. Larger suitcases are simply too heavy and cannot be moved easily when tilted.
You can read my personal opinion in the article: 2 or 4 Wheels?
Comments
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