There are usually 2 types of suitcases – hard and soft.
Hard provides a hard exterior that is usually rigid rather than flexible. Whilst soft luggage is made of fabric and has a more flexible exterior.
Historically hard sided cases were considered more durable than soft-sided cases. However testing has proven that this is not necessarily the case.
Ultimately it depends on your individual needs, below is a quick list of some pro’s and con’s per style.
Hard-sided Luggage
Pro’s
- Offers greater protection to fragile items
- Tends to be more water resistant
- Increased number of lightweight options
- Colours and shine finish considered to be more fashion led.
Con’s
- Shiny finish may scratch more easily
- Expandable option not available on most designs
- Rigid cases make some less flexible for storage purposes
- On the whole still more expensive than soft-sided options
Soft-sided Luggage
Pro’s
- Generally lighter than hard-sided alternatives
- Most ranges now have an expanding option giving additional capacity
- Often better value than hard-sided alternatives.
- Easier to store due to soft sided nature
Con’s
- Fabric can be less water resistant than hard sided alternatives.
- Fragile items may have less protection
- Has perception of being less stylish and fashionable.