Picking the right hard-shell suitcase for your type of travel takes a lot of trial and error. As a firm believer in the superiority of hard-shell suitcases—though always open to having my mind changed—navigating the crowded market of travel gear can be a daunting task. Luckily, the Condé Nast Traveler editors have done the heavy lifting, testing dozens of the best hard-shell suitcases over the years to curate a definitive list of top picks.
Over the course of extensive road-testing, editors have taken these suitcases everywhere from United States national park trips and African safaris to European train excursions, putting them through their paces across a diverse variety of terrains, climates, trip lengths, and modes of transit. From packing them to the brim and lifting them into overhead bins to rolling them down rough cobblestone streets and trudging through bustling cities, the evaluation process looked closely at each bag’s weight, capacity, design features, price, and durability.
What sets the best suitcases apart from the rest are the small details: sturdy closures, lightweight materials, intuitive interior pocket sizes, and exceptional maneuverability. Whether you are headed on a short weekend jaunt up the East Coast or looking for a bigger-ticket item to take you from California to Tokyo, there is a clear reason why so many travelers reach for hard-shell luggage to keep their belongings safe.
With easy-to-clean materials and rugged surfaces like ultra-durable polycarbonate or sleek aluminum, hard-shell bags protect items securely between Point A and Point B. Beyond structural integrity, modern designs incorporate plenty of practical features and clever bonuses, including built-in luggage tracking devices, USB charging ports, phone stands, TSA-approved locks, exterior laptop pockets, built-in shelving, and versatile spinner wheels capable of conquering airport terminals and historic streets alike.
After months and years of real-world testing across planes, trains, cars, buses, and cruises, the results bring together innovative newcomers and reliable, long-time favorites from top luggage brands.
Hard-shell checked luggage
For longer adventures lasting anywhere from a week to nearly a month, a dependable checked bag is essential. Editors found that medium and large checked suitcases excel when they balance internal organization with durable, dent-resistant exteriors.
For travelers who value efficient packing without needing an oversized trunk, Away’s The Medium checked luggage has proven to be a reliable companion. While larger options like The Large or The Large Flex exist, associate editor Charlie Hobbs found that The Medium comfortably got him through two weeks of travel without needing to do laundry. Weighing 10.4 pounds empty with a capacity of 68.8 liters, Hobbs describes the bag as perfectly light, featuring an unassuming interior where one compartment closes completely while the other is secured by compression straps. Though he noted he might expect a smidgeon more durability at the price point, the bag rolls exceptionally well, is easy to haul up and down stairs thanks to a convenient underside grab handle, and comes equipped with both a dust bag and a laundry bag. For owners of smaller Away bags, the medium size also accommodates nesting for compact home storage.
For those looking for extra breathing room, Monos offers the Expandable Check-In Medium, a go-to checked suitcase for commerce editor Meaghan Kenny. The bag features an expandable wraparound zipper that adds 1.6 inches of depth, increasing capacity from 80 liters to 90 liters and giving travelers enough space to easily pack for over a week or bring back extra souvenirs. One side features a zippered compartment with a large mesh section to keep items organized and separated—ideal for dirty clothes or shoes—while the other side utilizes a divider and compression straps to secure bulky garments, a feature Kenny found particularly helpful during a trip to Banff National Park. Supported by 360-degree spinner wheels and an adjustable telescopic handle with four height settings, the dent-resistant shell glides smoothly across uneven sidewalks and cobblestone streets, though it does show minor scuffing around the corners after multiple check-ins.
Organized travelers who prefer to unpack immediately will find a unique solution in the Solgaard Check-In Closet Original. Senior features editor Megan Spurrell praises the bag’s built-in accordion clothing organizer, which can be packed full, condensed to fit inside the suitcase, and then hung directly from the handlebar or a closet rod upon arrival. Available in medium and large sizes, the check-in bag also features two shoe pouches and a mesh closure, comfortably fitting up to three weeks of clothing and shoes with a secure latch closure system.
At the luxury end of the spectrum, the Rimowa Essential Check-In Medium represents a long-term investment. Features director Rebecca Misner has traveled with hers for close to a decade, noting that the high upfront cost pays off over time in unmatched quality, looks, and customer service. Weighing just 9 pounds with a 60-liter capacity, it offers a lightweight polycarbonate shell, spacious interiors, and effortless maneuverability that outlasts cheaper alternatives.
For even longer trips or group travel, the Béis Large Check-In Roller offers massive capacity. During a bachelorette trip to Rosemary Beach, Florida, Meaghan Kenny found that the expansive 111-liter capacity (expandable to 132 liters) easily fit bulky hair tools, destination wedding gowns, and group beach accessories. Featuring a sleek ribbed design, smooth-rolling wheels, and two included laundry bags, it handles long journeys effortlessly, though lighter colorways tend to show visible scuff marks.
Tumi’s 19 Degree Medium Expandable Checked bag offers a discreetly sophisticated option. Global digital director Arati Menon praises its quiet luxury, noting that the bag stands out on the luggage carousel without needing to scream for attention. Featuring an expandable zipper, exceptionally smooth and quiet wheels, and a sturdy construction, it balances high fashion with enduring utility.
For travelers seeking a blend of classic aesthetics and rugged protection, the Carl Friedrik Hybrid The Check-in pairs an aluminum frame with a polycarbonate shell. Former executive commerce director Patrick Gray utilized the bag on a weeklong trip to Montreal, praising its Japanese wheels for effortlessly handling curbs and metro stairways, as well as its signature leather band that adds a glamorous touch and makes it easy to spot on the carousel.
July’s Checked Expandable Suitcase offers built-in luggage tracking, removing the need for separate tracking tags. Commerce writer Jessica Chapel has tested the bag across Puerto Rico, Las Vegas, and New Orleans, highlighting its smooth-gliding wheels, multi-stop telescopic handle, Y-strap compression system, and water-resistant lining.
Antler’s Icon Stripe Large Suitcase provides a lightweight yet sturdy option for extended trips. Research associate Anna Gladwin notes that despite its 10.8-pound weight and generous 122.3-liter capacity, the case rolls quietly and smoothly on 360-degree spinner wheels, featuring a discreetly nesting side handle that creates a seamless exterior silhouette.
For those prioritizing a lifetime guarantee, the Briggs & Riley Sympatico Medium Expandable Spinner has stood the test of time for Jessica Chapel across Florence and Montauk. Though expensive, the brand’s true repair guarantee, one-touch expansion system that increases capacity by up to 25 percent, and effective adjustable garment compression panels make it a resilient long-term investment.
Rounding out the checked options, the Arlo Skye Expandable Check-In Medium delivers a metallic look at a lighter weight and more affordable price point. Senior commerce editor Hannah Chubb praises its resilience against buses, trains, and planes, noting that its champagne sheen, removable interior divider panel, and expandable capacity combine style and practicality seamlessly.
Hard-shell carry-on luggage
For shorter getaways or travelers who prefer to bypass baggage claim entirely, hard-shell carry-ons offer protection and mobility within standard airline dimension limits.
Away’s The Bigger Carry-On stretches the traditional limits of cabin luggage. Commerce director Madison Flager and Jessica Chapel praise its durable wheels, underside grab handle, and interior compression straps, noting that it functions as a dependable staple bag that can handle trips lasting up to 11 days.
Arlo Skye’s The Expandable Carry-On Max offers an integrated front pocket for easy laptop access, a feature that eliminates the need to dig through the main compartment at security checkpoints. Charlie Hobbs compares its sidewalk glide to an Olympic ice skater, while Megan Spurrell praises its surprising packing capacity and chic champagne coloration.
For travelers seeking industrial strength, the Tumi 19 Degree Aluminum Carry-On features a practically indestructible aluminum shell, built-in organizational shelves, and push-button locks. While heavier at 13 pounds, commerce writer Jessica Sulima highlights its robust construction and striking appearance.
Samsonite’s Freeform Hard-Side Carry-On offers an accessible, lightweight option at just 6.5 pounds. Contributor Cley Lassale found that its expandable design, comfortable handle, and smooth-rolling ergonomic wheels provide a reliable travel experience without breaking the budget.
Carl Friedrik’s Aluminium The Carry-On provides an elegant, latch-closed alternative to traditional zippered bags, featuring a clamshell interior with a fully zipped compartment and clip locks.
Monos expands its lineup with the Hybrid Carry-On, featuring an aluminum shell that protects delicate items like hair dryers and makeup while maintaining a compact, stylish profile.
For budget-conscious shoppers, the Amazon Basics Hard-Shell Carry-On Luggage remains a sleeper favorite. Meaghan Kenny notes that after nearly five years of use, it stands out as one of the most durable and affordable bags she has tested, showing minimal wear on its zippers and wheels.
Delsey Paris brings vintage-inspired elegance to the market with the Chatelet 2.0 Carry-On Plus Spinner. News editor Hannah Towey took the bag to Paris, praising its rich vermillion interior, dual compartments, zippered divider, and included shoe and laundry bags.
Finally, the Roam Expandable Carry-On features an accessible front laptop pocket and vibrant customizable color options. Global associate director of social Mercedes Bleth found that it accommodates a surprising amount of clothing and essentials, supported by smooth-rolling wheels and responsive customer service for minor repairs.
This article is part of Condé Nast Traveler’s fourth annual Luggage Week, for which dozens of suitcases, backpacks, and weekender bags were road-tested by editors. Additional reporting by Madison Flager.
