07-05-2025
The 6 best hard-side luggage pieces of 2025, tested by a travel-obsessed shopping editor
Whether you're a frequent flyer or not, chances are you don't think about upgrading your luggage until you're packing your suitcase the day before a trip. So why not get ahead of your next vacay with a little bit of research? Trust us — investing in a good hard-side luggage piece can save you some headaches on your next trip.
There are many reasons travelers may prefer hard-side luggage over soft-side options. High on the list: their durable, rugged build. Hard-side luggage can be ideal for checked bags because, unlike carry-ons, we can't baby them — once they're handed over, they're at the mercy of the airlines. The hard outer shell helps keep contents secure, no matter how aggressively your bag is tossed around. Today tons of brands make hard-side checked luggage with practically indestructible shells.
Of course, there are also security considerations. According to Consumer Reports, hard-side luggage "could offer better security than soft-side baggage because it can't be ripped open as easily and usually has integrated locks." That's valuable peace of mind for any traveler.
We've taken the guessing game out of your luggage shopping by rounding up the best hard-side checked luggage options on today's market. For instance, if you're looking for a tried-and-true option that's not overly huge, the Away Medium is super-lightweight and has a built-in compression system to give you ample room. If you don't want to spend more than $100 but still need a hard-side suitcase that lasts, the iFly Hardside Spectre Versus is one of my personal faves.
From the best overall hard-side checked luggage to the best expandable pick, we've got you covered below.
Update, May 7, 2025: We checked all product prices and availability.
Best hard-side checked luggage for travel
Amazon Best Overall Hard-Side Suitcase Delsey Paris Helium Aero Hardside Expandable Luggage
If you're looking for an option that has it all, this is the one to buy. Delsey's Paris Helium 29-inch Aero Hardside Expandable Luggage is expandable and extremely lightweight. In addition to a sleek exterior, it has an interior that's as roomy as it gets for a checked suitcase. However, you won't be able to tell unless you expand it with the hidden zipper.
The interior is fully lined and features two compartments with multiple pockets for easy access and organization. There is also a TSA-compliant lock and multidirectional spinner wheels.
I've owned this Delsey suitcase for over six years and have used it more times than I can count. I recently gave it to a family member, and after all these years, it still looks brand new with barely a scratch.
Pros Affordable
Expands up to 2 extra inches
Rugged build
Cons Glossy finish may scratch $220 at Amazon
Walmart Most Affordable Hard-Side Checked Suitcase iFly Hardside Spectre Versus Checked Luggage
One of the biggest misconceptions about hard-side luggage is that it's extremely pricey. That doesn't have to be true though: Walmart's customer-favorite iFly Spectre Versus Hardside Checked Luggage is among the best under-$100 options that's still built to last.
This was one of my first budget hard-side suitcases, and it lasted me at least two years before I decided to donate it and upgrade to a more premium expandable option (the July pick below). Still, if you're looking for an entry-level hard-side suitcase that won't break the bank but still checks all the boxes — ample protection, long warranty, sturdiness — this is a solid pick. Choose from 24- or 28-inch options for checked bags. A 20-inch carry-on is also available.
Pros Affordable
20-year warranty
Cons Handles made of less-durable rubber $57 at Walmart
Amazon Most Popular Hard-Side Suitcase Samsonite Winfield 2 Hard-Side Expandable Luggage
Samsonite is one of the most established luggage brands out there, so it should be no surprise that its Winfield 2 28-inch Hardside Luggage with Spinner Wheels has nearly 16,000 five-star reviews on Amazon. I used this cult-favorite suitcase on a last-minute trip after borrowing it from a family member. Before then, I didn't get the hype surrounding Samsonite — but after that single use, I instantly got it. Made from durable polycarbonate for tough handling and longer trips, this hard-side suitcase has everything buyers want in a more premium piece of luggage, including multidirectional spinner wheels, a retractable pull handle and a TSA-compatible lock. Just note that it clocks in at 11.5 pounds, which makes it heavier than many competing suitcases.
Pros Over 15,000 five-star reviews on Amazon
Established brand
Durable polycarbonate shell
Cons On the heavy side
On the expensive side
No extras included $165 at Amazon
AWAY Best Medium Checked Suitcase The Away Medium
Away is one of the buzziest brands when it comes to hard-side luggage, and if you're looking for a suitcase that isn't too big for a shorter trip, the Away Medium is my top recommendation. It's become my go-to hard-side suitcase for trips that require more space than a carry-on but less than a larger checked bag. If you're willing to spend a little more, this is one you definitely need in your arsenal.
This bag has a lightweight, durable shell that the brand says has been tested to withstand rough baggage handling. It also comes with Away's signature interior compression system that's designed to help you stay organized and pack more. Its recently updated design has thoughtful elements including top and underside handles. This feature is one of my personal favorites, since it takes away the strain of pulling a suitcase off the conveyor belt at baggage claim.
Pros Extremely lightweight
Enough space for one to two weeks of clothes
Top and underside handle for easy carrying
Comes with luggage tag
Cons Expensive
No duster bag $345 at Away
July Best Expandable Checked Suitcase July Checked Plus Expandable
Today, there are many smaller brands that focus more on luggage quality and less on retail presence. July is one of those brands, and it has exceeded my expectations in both craftsmanship and design. I've tried its Checked Plus Expandable suitcase, and it looks and feels just as luxe as it does in the photo.
If you're taking a long-haul trip and need a suitcase that easily expands, this is the one to buy. Just unzip the additional zipper and you'll gain an extra 10 liters of space — not too shabby. I took this on a recent trip when I had a lot to pack, and I had so much room to work with thanks to the expandability. This would a great option even on trips where you need weeks of clothing.
I also love that this hard-side suitcase is crush-proof with aluminum bumpers to protect it from hard drops. I got it in this stunning chocolate brown color, but it comes in eight additional hues.
Pros Comes in a protective duster bag
Expansion adds 10 liters of space
Aluminum corner bumpers protect suitcase from hard drops
Large enough for smaller suitcases to nest inside
Cons Expensive $395 at July
