Last Updated: March 3, 2023
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Most Durable Luggage Brands in 2023 (Hard to Break!)

If you are fed up with dealing with broken suitcases and trying to repair them yourself, then it is time to invest in some of the most durable luggage. Yes, some suitcases are more durable than others and can handle all the wear and tear of travel. And often it is not that difficult to spot them, especially when they don’t look like rolling backpacks!

In this review, I’ll tell you everything you need to know about the features of a strong, heavy-duty suitcase. And I’ll show you some of the best choices you can get for your money. Some of the most durable luggage brands include Samsonite, Delsey, Rimowa, Tumi and Pelican. However, there are some surprising luggage options here as well.


At A Glance: Our Top Picks for Most Durable Luggage


Keep in mind that we’ll only check out hard shell luggage in this review, since softshells don’t really compare, in terms of durability, even if they are made of materials like ballistic nylon. If you’re ready to change the way you travel completely, scroll down to find out which durable suitcase is the best luggage for you!

Who Needs A Really Durable Suitcase And Why?

Not everyone needs extremely durable luggage. Frequent flyers who fly at least once or twice a year will get plenty of use out of an affordable suitcase. And people who mostly travel by land will get even more use out of them.

However, if you are a frequent flyer, and by frequent, I mean at least once every couple of months, then you definitely need a tough suitcase brand. For one thing, it is just a better investment in the long run – you will pay more for it now, but you won’t have to replace it for a really long time.

As opposed to getting a cheap suitcase that you have to replace on a yearly basis, and even earlier if you get on a plane several times a month. A really durable suitcase is built to withstand the “gentle” treatment of baggage handlers. Check out this video to see what I mean:

This happens to your luggage pretty much every time you board a plane. And do you really think a non-name brand, $50 suitcase is going to pass this durability test each time? Of course not! And that is exactly why you need to buy yourself something that was built with this kind of checked luggage handling in mind. Not to mention all the wear and tear general travel throws at your luggage.

So, let’s talk about how to spot a really heavy-duty suitcase.

Top Product Overview

Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Luggage with Spinner Wheels, Carry-On 20-Inch, Charcoal
  • Lightweight and affordable
  • Lots of color variety
SEE ON AMAZON →SEE ON SAMSONITE →
TOPAS CABIN MULTIWHL
Best High-End
  • Exceptionally durable
  • Height adjustable internal dividers
SEE ON RIMOWA →SEE ON AMAZON →
Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels, 3-Piece Set (20/24/28), Caribbean Blue
Great Budget Option
  • Affordable and lightweight
  • Micro-diamond texture improves scratch-resistance
SEE ON AMAZON →SEE ON SAMSONITE →
Samsonite 111170-1432 Framelock Hardside Carry On Luggage with Spinner Wheels 20 Inch Ice Blue Bundle w/Deco Gear Luggage Accessory Kit (10 Item)
  • Lightweight for the strength
  • Made of Polycarbonate
SEE ON SAMSONITE →SEE ON AMAZON →
Pelican Air 1615 Case with Foam - Black
  • Extremely sturdy
  • Watertight closure
SEE ON PELICAN →SEE ON AMAZON →
Luggage X - Set of 3 Lightweight Hard Shell Black Trolley Suitcases 30' + 26' + 22'
  • Very sturdy and durable
  • Lightweight
SEE ON AMAZON →
Travelpro Maxlite 5 Hardside Spinner Wheel Luggage (Black, Carry-On 21-Inch)
Airline Staff Favorite
  • Very lightweight and durable
  • Expandable capacity
SEE ON TRAVELPRO →SEE ON AMAZON →
  • Very lightweight and strong
  • Tumi Tracer reunites you with lost luggage
ONLY ON TUMI →
Merax Luggage 3 Piece Sets Spinner Suitcase with TSA Lock, Lightweight 20 24 28 in (Deep Blue)
  • Durable PET material (unique)
  • Great internal organization system
SEE ON AMAZON →
Kenneth Cole REACTION Out of Bounds Lightweight Hardshell 4-Wheel Spinner Luggage, Charcoal, 3-Piece Set (20', 24', & 28')
  • Reinforced corners
  • Lightweight and affordable
SEE ON KENNETH COLE →SEE ON AMAZON →
DELSEY PARIS Helium Aero Hardside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels, Titanium, Checked-Medium 25 Inch
  • Very affordable
  • Super efficient spinner wheels
SEE ON AMAZON →
Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable with Double Spinner Wheels, Checked-Large 28-Inch, Tangerine
  • Super efficient spinner wheels
  • Lightweight and robust shell
SEE ON SAMSONITE →SEE ON AMAZON →

Most Strong & Durable Luggage Brands & Models


Best Value

Samsonite Winfield 2

Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Luggage with Spinner Wheels, Carry-On 20-Inch, Charcoal

You probably guessed that we wouldn’t go through this review without at least 2-3 Samsonites. And you’re right – but only because Samsonite luggage is one of the best options out there. The Winfield suitcase in particular is a perfect combination of durability, functionality, and affordability. It is available in three classic sizes and a variety of colors, so there’s plenty of variety to choose from.

The luggage is made of Polycarbonate, which speaks volumes about its durability and sturdiness. But, I do have to point out that this suitcase will not look brand new for a while – the nearly smooth shell is like a magnet for scratches. And it does nothing to make them less visible.

You also get four single spinner wheels on this suitcase, which means you will have great maneuverability of your luggage. Plus, the wheels are pretty small and low profile, and that really helps their durability.

In addition to that, the TSA lock will protect your stuff at all times, while the two packing compartments with one full zippered divider will allow you to organize everything neatly. Overall, if you are looking for the best ratio of durability vs. price, this is your top choice.

Check the links below to see the SamsoniteWinfield 2 suitcases on Amazon:

Pros

  • Lightweight and affordable
  • Lots of color variety
  • Expandable capacity

Cons

  • Not a lot of pockets inside
  • Smooth shell means visible scratches

Product Information

  • Samsonite Winfield 20”
  • Dimensions:
  • 20” x 13.5” x 9”
  • Weight: 6.7 lbs
  • Samsonite Winfield 24”
  • Dimensions:
  • 24” x 16.5” x 11”
  • Weight: 9.3 lbs
  • Samsonite Winfield 28”
  • Dimensions: 28” x 19” x 12”
  • Weight: 11.5 lbs
SEE ON AMAZON
SEE ON SAMSONITE

Best High-End

Rimowa Topas

TOPAS CABIN MULTIWHL

The Topas is the Original from Rimowa and a luxurious, heavy-duty suitcase. Yes, it is really pricey, but it’s also a once-in-a-lifetime purchase. Meaning that if you actually decide to splurge on this suitcase, you won’t need to buy a different one in your lifetime.

This Rimowa hardside spinner is made of aluminum, which is an exceptionally sturdy and durable material. And the Topas collection in particular is famous for this ribbed design, which was actually inspired by the Junkers 52 aircraft.

Inside this sturdy suitcase, you get two fully lined packing spaces, with pretty unique dividers. That’s because the Topas features dividers that are height-adjustable – meaning that, even if you don’t fully pack your suitcase, nothing will get jumbled around. One downside of this design is the lack of internal pockets, though.

There are two TSA latches on this suitcase, for maximum security of your items. And the double spinner wheels will give you excellent maneuverability of your luggage, while their recessed design will protect them at all times.

Plus, the wheel handle is smooth, lightweight, and quite sturdy. However, there is one more downside to these awesome suitcases, and that’s their weight. With their carry-on luggage weighing in at 10 lbs, you won’t really be able to travel light. But for checked luggage, it is obviously less of a problem, unless you often carry lots of stuff.

SEE THE ORIGINAL RIMOWA COLLECTION

Pros

  • Exceptionally durable
  • Height adjustable internal dividers
  • Sturdy and smooth-rolling wheels

Cons

  • Pretty heavy
  • Lacks internal pockets

Product Information

  • Rimowa Topas 21"
  • Dimensions: 21.7" x 7.9" x 15.7"
  • Capacity: 32 liters
  • Weight: 10.1 lbs
SEE ON RIMOWA
SEE ON AMAZON

Great Budget Option

Samsonite Omni

Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels, 3-Piece Set (20/24/28), Caribbean Blue

Omni is a collection of pure Polycarbonate spinner luggage from Samsonite that is seriously rugged. The benefits of this material are obvious from the weight of these suitcases since they are among the lightest ones in this review. And not to mention that they also have an extremely durable and impact-resistant shell.

However, their exterior is not that scratch-resistant. Sure, the micro-diamond texture will do a good job at protecting your suitcase from any nasty scratches, but that is just a general flaw of Polycarbonate. But at least it is not completely smooth – the ribbed parts will make the scratches less noticeable overall, and help your suitcase look like new for a longer time.

The Omni suitcases all have an expandable capacity, two packing compartments, a TSA-approved lock, and a sturdy telescopic wheel handle. They also have four single spinner wheels, which aren’t the best wheels you’ll see on a Samsonite. But they will do a good job at transporting your suitcase from one place to another, and they are easy to replace if one of them breaks.

Overall, if you want Samsonite quality at a pretty low price tag, then the Omni might just be the right piece of luggage for you. Just keep in mind that these don’t offer great organization since they only have one internal pocket. But it is high-quality luggage at an affordable price!

Check the links below to see the Samsonite Omni suitcases on Amazon:

Pros

  • Affordable and lightweight
  • Micro-diamond texture improves scratch-resistance

Cons

  • Not great for an organization
  • Wheels are not too sturdy

Product Information

  • Samsonite Omni 20”
  • Dimensions: 19.0" x 14.5" x 9.5"
  • Weight: 6.81 lbs
  • Samsonite Omni 24”
  • Dimensions: 24” x 17.5” x 11.5”
  • Weight: 8.34 lbs
  • Samsonite Omni 28”
  • Dimensions: 28.5” x 20.5” x 13.5”
  • Weight: 10.35 lbs
SEE ON AMAZON
SEE ON SAMSONITE

Samsonite Framelock

Samsonite 111170-1432 Framelock Hardside Carry On Luggage with Spinner Wheels 20 Inch Ice Blue Bundle w/Deco Gear Luggage Accessory Kit (10 Item)

The Framelock is one of my all-time favorite Samsonites ever. I am just in love with the interior of this luggage – the double pockets on the zippered divider and the double-cross straps in the bottom compartment are reasons alone to get this suitcase if you love to travel organized. But it will not disappoint you in terms of durability either, since that’s our main concern here.

The luggage is made of pure Polycarbonate, which is pretty much the best material for checked luggage. It is not only really durable, but also reasonably lightweight – in fact, the 22” Framelock weighs in at just a little over 8 lbs, which is awesome, and also means it makes a great carry-on luggage option.

And, even though this suitcase is equipped with spinner wheels, you don’t really need to worry about their durability because they are reinforced with steel bearings. The design of the PC shell is something else you’ll really like.

Since the shell is not completely smooth, but rather ribbed with a unique design, the scratches won’t be that noticeable. And you won’t get those nasty scratches that run the entire length of your suitcase, which is a bonus. Plus, the TSA lock will keep all your belongings safe, and the expandable capacity allows for a shopping spree (or two) on your trips.

Check the links below to see the Framelock suitcases on Amazon:

Pros

  • Lightweight for the strength
  • Made of Polycarbonate
  • Simple interior

Cons

  • No divider panel pockets

Product Information

  • Framelock Carry On
  • Dimensions: 22.25 x 15.5 x 9.5 "
  • Weight: 8.1 lbs
  • Framelock 26 Inch
  • Dimensions: 26.75" x 18.25" x 11.4"
  • Weight: 10.8 lbs
  • Framelock 28 Inch
  • Dimensions: 30.5" x 21.4" x 13.4"
  • Weight: 12.2 lbs
SEE ON SAMSONITE
SEE ON AMAZON

Most Durable

Pelican Air Luggage

Pelican Air 1615 Case with Foam - Black

Just from the images alone, you can tell that this is a really durable suitcase. It is available in three sizes, a 22” carry-on and larger, 27″ and 30” checked bags. The suitcase is made of Pelican’s Super-light proprietary HPX²™ Polymer, which is around 40% lighter than comparable cases.

Pelican is renowned for their durability and waterproof cases. So much so, pros typically use them to transport very expensive technical equipment.

Oh and there’s something really interesting about it – unlike most other hardshells, this suitcase has a single packing space. That does not mean you can’t pack things well as they sell separate foam inserts to help with all sorts of gear.

On top of that, This Pelican Air case has skate wheels, which make transport super easy, especially with a heavy load… And there is also the really wide wheel handle, which makes the luggage feel lighter than it actually is.

That’s a really useful feature, considering how heavy this suitcase is – the carry-on weighs nearly 10 lbs, while the larger case almost hits the 20 lbs mark. This also means that its weight alone is going to take up a lot of baggage allowance. And that would be one big downside to this Pelican case.

This sturdy suitcase has their own Pelican latches, two are press and pull, while the one in the middle also features a TSA combination lock. So, this is not just a durable case, but also a really secure one.

In addition to that, the body of the Pelican Air is watertight, meaning that you could completely submerge it underwater, and your clothes would still be as dry as a desert. Overall, it is definitely one of the most durable suitcases your money can buy.

Pros

  • Extremely sturdy
  • Watertight closure
  • Very wide wheel handle

Cons

  • No two packing compartments
  • Really heavy and bulky
  • Locking mechanism has some issues

Product Information

  • Pelican Elite 22”
  • Dimensions: 21.64" x 13.87" x 9"
  • Weight: 9.96 lbs
  • Pelican Elite 27”
  • Dimensions: 10.8” x 16.9” x 24.6”
  • Weight: 12.2 lbs
  • Pelican Elite 30”
  • Dimensions: 28.49" x 19.75" x 12.57"
  • Weight: 19.6 lbs
SEE ON PELICAN
SEE ON AMAZON

Luggage X Suitcase

Luggage X - Set of 3 Lightweight Hard Shell Black Trolley Suitcases 30' + 26' + 22'

This luggage is supposedly indestructible – at least that’s what the manufacturer claims. And, looking at all the different durability tests that people performed on this particular suitcase, I can tell you that they’re not even lying. At least regarding the exterior of the suitcase.

It’s made of durable and lightweight polypropylene, which has great impact resistance. Great for those luggage handlers throwing your checked luggage, right?

But the sad thing is that the inside of this suitcase is not nearly as durable as its outside. The lining is kind of awkward and crooked, and the zipper pullers are flimsy and thin. But if you can live with that, you will see that this suitcase will last you longer than some other, more expensive ones. Even the single-spinner wheels are pretty sturdy – their low profile really helps.

This hardside spinner is available in a few different sizes, as well as a value set. I recommend you get that last one if you are looking for the best value for money. All of the suitcases have a zipper closure and a TSA lock – and the external zippers are actually very sturdy.

I think that it’s a shame that the capacity of these is not expandable, but you do get plenty of space in the two packing compartments. Overall, these might not look that good, but they are without a doubt some of the most durable suitcases out there.

Check the links below to see the Luggage X suitcases on Amazon:

Pros

  • Very sturdy and durable
  • Lightweight

Cons

  • No expandable capacity
  • Flimsy on the inside

Product Information

  • Luggage X 26”
  • Dimensions: 26” x 18.5” x 12.2”
  • Capacity: 78.7 liters
  • Weight:
  • 8.2 lbs
  • Luggage X 30”
  • Dimensions: 30” x 22” x 14.17”
  • Capacity: 126.7 liters
  • Weight: 10.8 lbs
SEE ON AMAZON

Airline Staff Favorite

Travelpro Maxlite 5

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Hardside Spinner Wheel Luggage (Black, Carry-On 21-Inch)

Travelpro is a luggage brand that was created with airline personnel and international travel in mind. Their suitcases are designed for pilots and flight attendants, with a focus on durability and weight. So, I think that if a suitcase is durable enough for a stewardess, then it has to be durable enough for you.

The shell of these suitcases is made from polycarbonate, a super-strong material that is known for its impact and scratch resistance. Plus, the color of the shell changes, depending on how the light hits it. This means that this luggage looks pretty good. in addition to being really durable and sturdy.

I think the only downside to them is the spinner wheels – these are not as impact-resistant as you would want them to be. What I really like about these suitcases is the aluminum telescoping handle. It has several top positions, which means that travelers of different heights will be able to adjust it to fit them.

This luggage also has an expandable capacity, plenty of internal pockets, and a TSA-approved lock on the top. Overall, if you are looking for durability at an affordable price tag, I would definitely recommend these.

*Note: There is also a newer collection of this luggage – the Maxlite 5. However, it hasn’t been as extensively tested as the Maxlite 4, so it remains a mystery whether or not they are as durable as this particular collection. I will update the post in due time if they turn out to be the better choice.

Check the links below to see the Travelpro Maxlite 5 suitcases on Amazon:

Pros

  • Very lightweight and durable
  • Expandable capacity

Cons

  • Wheels could be sturdier
  • Pretty smooth shell means visible scratches

Product Information

  • Travelpro Maxlite 5 Carry-On 21"
  • Dimensions: 21" x 14" x 9"
  • Weight: 6.7 lbs
  • Travelpro Maxlite 5 25"
  • Dimensions: 11.5 x 17.2 x 27 "
  • Weight: 7.3 lbs
  • Travelpro Maxlite 5 29"
  • Dimensions: 29" x 19" x 11.75
  • Weight: 10.2 lbs
SEE ON TRAVELPRO
SEE ON AMAZON

Tumi Continental Expandable

Tumi makes high-end luggage, made only out of premium materials. This means that their TEGRA-LITE® lightweight, hardside Continental suitcase will not only be exceptionally durable but also lightweight, easy to maneuver around, and stunning to look at.

This Tegris material you will only find in Tumi suitcases and is one of the reasons it is a premium brand. It is a unique material developed for armor, protective gear and sports cars. On top of that, the handles are aircraft quality Aluminum and feature a sort of handle padding system that protects them from damage.

Pullers were built to break away from the bag if they get caught, meaning that you would only have to replace them and not the entire zipper. In addition to that, this piece of luggage is also equipped with smooth-rolling spinner wheels and two very spacious packing compartments with expandable capacity.

Oh, and what sets this luggage apart is the inclusion of the Tumi Tracer system – in case you lose your suitcase (which is a real possibility if you frequently fly), Tumi is able to Trace it and reunite you with it. 

But not in a big-brother is watching kind of way; there is a serial code on the suitcase which is tied to your personal information so that they can contact you in case airline personnel reports a lost Tumi suitcase. Some people don’t worry about the tracking of suitcases at all, so it is personal preference.

And if you are interested in packing features, there are lots of them:

  • Zip garment compartment (fits 1 suit) & Hanger bracket
  • Large mesh zip pocket
  • Mesh zip pocket with removable USB cable
  • 3 zip pockets
  • Split case zip entry to main compartment with security zipper
  • Large front U-zip pocket with security zipper
  • Front U-zip pocket

And that is not everything, but I will let you explore it more closely on their site!

If you want something a little small, you can also check out their incredible carry-on with all the same top-notch quality and materials.

Pros

  • Very lightweight and strong
  • Tumi Tracer reunites you with lost luggage
  • Loads of packing space and features

Cons

  • Not a lot of pockets inside

Product Information

  • Tumi Carry On
  • Dimensions: 14” x 8.5” x 21”
  • Weight: 6.98 lbs
  • Tumi Continental (Large)
  • Dimensions: 16" W X 22" H X 9" D
  • Weight: 11 lbs
ONLY ON TUMI

Merax Expandable Luggage Set

Merax Luggage 3 Piece Sets Spinner Suitcase with TSA Lock, Lightweight 20 24 28 in (Deep Blue)

The Merax suitcases are kind of unique, in terms of the materials used in its shell – they make use of a light, yet durable PET, whereas most use ABS or polycarbonate. In a test, Merax has driven over their suitcase with a truck (we haven’t confirmed this ourselves) and claims it is super strong and durable.

This Merax suitcase is equipped with double spinner wheels that will give you great maneuverability of your suitcase. And with steel bearings holding them in place, they should be as durable as the shell.

Now, you also notice the TSA latch locks and the interior of the suitcase is well lined and easy to pack and organize. And they have pockets, which is great, as well as a zippable divider.

Overall, this luggage is a great choice if you want to try something new but can’t really afford the Topas. You’ll be surprised by the durability of the material used. And at around a couple of hundred for three suitcases, you can’t beat it for the price!

Pros

  • Durable PET material (unique)
  • Great internal organization system
  • Light for durable luggage

Cons

  • Not as known a brand as Samsonite or Rimowa

Product Information

  • Merax Flieks 20”
  • Dimensions: 22" x 13" x 9"
  • Weight: 6 lbs
  • Merax Flieks 24”
  • Dimensions: 26" x 16" x 11"
  • Weight: 8 lbs
  • Merax Flieks 28”
  • Dimensions: 30" x 19" x 13
  • Weight: 10 lbs
SEE ON AMAZON

Kenneth Cole Reaction Out Of Bounds

Kenneth Cole REACTION Out of Bounds Lightweight Hardshell 4-Wheel Spinner Luggage, Charcoal, 3-Piece Set (20', 24', & 28')

The Out Of Bounds suitcase collection is the only luggage that we’ll check out which is made of ABS. These suitcases are lightweight, rugged, affordable, and stand up to the test of time surprisingly well. They have reinforced corners, which significantly increase their overall durability and sturdiness, and which is why these ABS suitcases are a good choice even for frequent flyers.

These also feature self-repairing zippers, similar to the ones in the Tumi cases. Additionally, this luggage is equipped with two spacious packing compartments, with a full zippered divider on one side and elastic cross straps on the other.

The spinner wheels are sturdy, and they will give you good maneuverability of your luggage. The wheel handle is lightweight and can be locked into position with the push button. Unfortunately, it can’t be locked into multiple height positions.

The way I see it, this suitcase has two major downsides – it does not have a TSA lock or any lock for that matter. And its capacity is not expandable. But the latter also means that it will be virtually impossible to overpack it, so it’s not a deal-breaker.

Check the links below to see the Kenneth Cole Reaction Out Of Bounds suitcases:

Pros

  • Reinforced corners
  • Lightweight and affordable

Cons

  • No TSA lock
  • Capacity is not expandable

Product Information

  • Kenneth Cole Reaction Out Of Bounds 20"
  • Dimensions: 21.75” x 14.5” x 8.5”
  • Weight: 6.25 lbs
  • Kenneth Cole Reaction Out Of Bounds 28"
  • Dimensions: 11.8” x 20.5” x 29.5”
  • Weight: 9.6 lbs
SEE ON KENNETH COLE
SEE ON AMAZON

Delsey Helium Aero

DELSEY PARIS Helium Aero Hardside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels, Titanium, Checked-Medium 25 Inch

The Delsey Helium Aero is one of those crowd favorites that you see all over. In fact, I think the guy in front of me yesterday at the train station had one.

They are made of super-lightweight polycarbonate (you can read all about that here) which means it’s robust, durable, and strong right out of the shop. In fact, the crazy team at Skyscanner hit it repeatedly with a sledgehammer and didn’t make a dent! It’s a great option for checked luggage.

They also claim to have one of the most unbreakable zippers, which is a relief, because zipperless suitcases are coming back in right now. And who can blame people, after all, it is super easy to open many a zipper with just a ballpoint pen.

Delsey has also added handy dual-spinners which you normally only see on more expensive suitcases or higher-end models from the likes of Samsonite. But for the average consumer, what it means is smoother travel, less pushing, and just an easier time with your suitcase while on the go!

Of course, you also get both a zippered/lined section on one side and elastic straps on the other. This makes for super easy packing and unpacking of a clamshell case like this.

And last of all, it comes in a range of colors and sizes which you can see below.

Pros

  • Very affordable
  • Super efficient spinner wheels
  • Lightweight and robust shell

Cons

  • TSA lock now always reliable
  • Scuffs and marks easily
SEE ON AMAZON

Samsonite Freeform

Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable with Double Spinner Wheels, Checked-Large 28-Inch, Tangerine

Samsonite makes an insanely wide range of luggage, but what I have been noticing lately is that they are also focusing (back) on hardshells with super-durable cases. You know the type. Like your Mom and Dad used to take on vacation back in the 70s. Thick, solid, and strong-looking plastic cases that don’t look like they will collapse if you look at them the wrong way.

This particular model from Samsonite is just one of those babies.

It also comes with all the bells and whistles you would expect from Samsonite with dual spinners, a TSA-approved lock, and a collapsable handle. And of course, a range of colors and sizes, so everyone can choose their favorite.

Pros

  • Super efficient spinner wheels
  • Lightweight and robust shell

Cons

  • Scuffs and marks easily
SEE ON SAMSONITE
SEE ON AMAZON

What Makes A Durable Suitcase?

What Are The Most Durable Luggage Wheels? (Spinner Vs. Skate Wheels)

Skate wheels are far more durable than spinner wheels. They are made of hard plastic with simple bearings and are often more protected by the case itself.

Spinner wheels are more prone to breaking. For one thing, there are four of them, so the chances that one of them will break is twice as large. And they actually protrude from your suitcase, which means that they are more exposed to damaging elements. And they are often made of weaker materials and break more easily.

Sure, spinner wheels pretty much revolutionized the ease of travel. And I love suitcases that have them – since I tend to overpack, my luggage is always heavy. Spinner wheels make it so much easier to move around with a heavy suitcase.

Think about that video above, and imagine your precious suitcase landing on one of its spinner wheels. What do you think would happen to them? So, if you are really gunning for durability, you should get luggage with skate wheels. They are not as convenient as spinner wheels, but they are more durable.

They break off less easily, and they are pretty much hidden in the body of the luggage so it’s much harder to damage them. The worst thing that can happen to a rubber skate wheel is that a piece of the rubber will break off, and you can easily fix that with some duct tape.

However, most high-quality hardshell suitcases today are equipped with spinner wheels, so we will check out a lot of suitcases with them. But I will do my best to find luggage that has steel rods in the wheels since this helps their overall sturdiness.

Zipper Vs. Latch Closure

Latches are much more secure than zippers. And they are slightly more durable, but the difference isn’t shocking.

With zippers, there are several things that can go wrong with them. They can get stuck, a puller can break off, or the teeth of the zipper will get crooked. But, these are all pretty easy to fix – you can repair the damage yourself, or you can ask a professional to do it for you. And the worst-case scenario is you need to replace the entire zipper on your suitcase, which is quick and inexpensive.

With latches, things are a bit different. A latch is more durable and is less likely to break or get stuck. However, it is more difficult fixing a broken latch than a broken zipper. You can always try to superglue it together, and if you use some really strong super glue, it will probably work. But you will eventually need to replace the entire latch, and that is going to get expensive.

You need to get a TSA latch and one that is the exact same dimensions as the broken one. So, you will probably need to ask the manufacturer to send it to you, and that can get expensive. And then you need to get someone to replace the latch, which means you need to spend more money.

Yes, you could just send the suitcase to the manufacturer, but keep in mind that luggage warranties never cover damage caused by airline staff, so it won’t be a free repair. And count in the shipping.

This one is really up to you; both zippers and latches have their advantages and disadvantages. I would say that zipperless luggage is more durable in the long run, but it is a nightmare to fix it when something goes wrong.

Outer Shell Materials

Obviously, we’re sticking to hard shells in this review. Softshell suitcases are great, but they are just not built to endure the treatment of baggage handlers. One nasty landing and your softside luggage is going to come out looking like a squished cake. Even if it is made with ballistic nylon.

Hardshell suitcases are usually made of two types of plastic – ABS, and Polycarbonate. ABS is more scratch-resistant, and your luggage will look brand new for longer. However, that’s about the only advantage it has – there’s a good reason you don’t see pure ABS suitcases from trusted luggage brands like Samsonite or Rimowa.

And that is because Polycarbonate is the sturdier material. Yes, it is more prone to scratches, but that issue is much easier to fix than a hole in your suitcase. Polycarbonate has better impact resistance, and it is overall a more durable material. So, for ultimate durability, you are going to want to pick up a PC suitcase.

You will also see some suitcases made of Polypropylene – this material is not as tough as Polycarbonate, but it comes pretty close. And it is definitely tougher and more impact-resistant than ABS, so it is a strong contender.

Finally, don’t be surprised to also see aluminum suitcases. This is basically the toughest and strongest hardshell material, and these suitcases will last you for years.

But, the reason you don’t see too many aluminum suitcases, in general, is because their manufacturing process tends to be pricey. Additionally, they are not really lightweight – especially not as light as Polycarbonate luggage.

Most Durable Luggage: My Top Picks

Out of all of these durable suitcases, three stood out the most for me.

If you are looking for value, then look no further than Samsonite’s Winfield. It is made of pure Polycarbonate, so you know it has a really durable and impact-resistant shell.

Plus, the suitcase has everything else you want out of any suitcase – two spacious packing compartments, a TSA lock, expandable capacity, and a full zippered divider inside. It is the perfect example of durability, functionality, and affordability combined.

Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Luggage with Spinner Wheels, Navy, Checked-Large 28-Inch
  • 28" SPINNER LUGGAGE maximizes your packing power and is the ideal checked bag for longer trips
  • PACKING Dimensions: 28.0" x 19.75" x 12.5", OVERALL Dimensions: 31.0" x 20.0" x 12.75", Weight: 11.5 lbs.

The Rimowa Topas is without a doubt one of the best suitcases that money can buy. Therefore, it is my top recommendation if you are willing to splurge on a high-end suitcase. It’s not just exceptionally sturdy and durable, but it also has everything you need out of a suitcase for worry-free travel.

The spinner wheels will make it easy to move with it, and the TSA latch closure will keep all of your stuff safe. If you want lifelong quality, this is the luggage you should invest in.

TOPAS CABIN MULTIWHL
  • The Rimowa Topas Cabin Multiwheel 21" inch is made of lightweight yet extremely durable Aluminium-magnesium Alloy Material
  • The height-adjustable Flex-Divider system on the interior can also be set to accomodate the exact volume of your luggage and keeps your belongings in the greatest possible order

And if you just want the toughest, most indestructible suitcase money can buy, then go for the Pelican Elite. Yes, it is heavy, and you will probably wind up paying some extra charges for it. But it is virtually indestructible – the shell is made of sturdy Polypropylene and the skate wheels are really hard to break.

Plus, the entire suitcase is watertight – even if it somehow winds up on the bottom of a river, your stuff inside it will stay dry.

Pelican Elite Luggage | Weekender (BA27-27 inch) - Grey/Black
  • Pelican is dedicated to growing globally by providing quality products and services that add value to our customers
  • Pelican's Vision: Protecting all that you value

You can check out the prices of all of the suitcases in this review on Amazon. And you can also see what colors they come in, as well as a few more pics of each suitcase. Head over there if you figured out which durable suitcase is the right choice for you!

READ: WHAT COLOR IS BEST FOR LUGGAGE? 

Frequently Asked Questions

The following are some of the most common questions about durable luggage

What Material Is The Most Durable For Suitcases?

Hardside suitcases are usually made of three main materials: Aluminium, Polycarbonate, and ABS. Aluminum is the strongest as it is metal, however, it is usually expensive and heavy. The best compromise is Polycarbonate which you will find on most top-end suitcases. ABS is also a good material and will last a while, but it comes last when selecting the most durable material.

Is A Softside Or Hardside Suitcase More Durable?

Softside luggage are more likely to wear over time or get ripped through rough handling. They are also more likely to stain, get wet, or otherwise succumb to the hardships of travel. Hardside cases will stand up to the tests of travel and baggage handling far better.

Do Spinner Wheels Break Easily?

Of course, spinner wheels look quite exposed and prone to breaking, however they do not break as easily as you would think. Most manufacturers recess them partially in the base of the case, which helps protect them. They also use strong materials to attach them to the case.

Of course, when compared to simple skate wheels, they are more likely to break in the long run. However, the increased mobility they bring is usually worth it. After 100+ flights, I have yet to break a spinner wheel on any of my cases!