Hardshell luggage protects your belongings better while also offering greater durability in a lightweight form. Typically, the best hardshell luggage will have several things in common.
First, it should be constructed from strong, sturdy materials that won't dent or show immediate signs of wear-and-tear. For the most durable suitcases, look for materials such as polycarbonate, ABS, or a blend of the two. As for the handle, look for robust aluminum or other similarly strong materials, as well as a mechanism to lock it in place while in use.
Next, you'll want to consider the wheels. With hardshell luggage, spinner wheels work better than roller wheels, and they offer a full 360 degrees of rotation. This makes movement more fluid, so it'll be easier to navigate crowded airports or train stations. If you're in a hurry (which, let's be honest, is me every time), these will come in extra handy.
Apart from that, other great features to have include organizational compartments, compression straps or cross-straps, zippered mesh sleeves, privacy windows, laundry compartments, and TSA-friendly locks.
To help get your vacation off to the right start, I've created a list of the best hardshell luggage pieces in every size. Check out the selections below to find the best fit for your needs.