Samsonite Octolite Review – Lightweight Hardside Luggage

Thinking about getting one of Samsonite’s Octolite suitcases? You’re in the right place if you want to learn more about the luggage before you actually spend any money on them!

In this detailed review, we will tell you absolutely everything worth knowing about the Octolite luggage – from the size variety of the collection to the exact weight of every suitcase available. We will also talk about the things we like and dislike about these bags so that you know exactly what you’re getting.

And if you come to the conclusion that Octolite is not good enough for you, we have plenty of other suggestions you might love.

But first, you should read our Samsonite Octolite review and find out if this luggage is a good fit for you!

Samsonite Octolite Overview

Octolite suitcases are Samsonite’s take on lightweight but durable luggage. They are made from polypropylene, which is one of the lightest and most durable suitcase materials.

These bags are great for frequent flyers, especially for those of you that are always trying to stay underweight restrictions for baggage. It’s much easier to stay within the limits when you have a very lightweight suitcase, which doesn’t account for half of that restriction.

These bags also have everything a frequent traveler needs – expandable capacity, double spinner wheels, a TSA lock, internal pockets, and a hidden luggage tag. They are very basic Samsonites, but in a good way; you’re getting the premium quality you would expect from the brand, as well as all the convenient features that will make your life a little bit easier.

However, that doesn’t come cheap; Octolite luggage is quite pricey, and it’s definitely not for people who are on a tight budget. But no worries – you’ll find plenty of more affordable alternatives in the later sections of the review!

About The Octolite Collection

The Octolite collection by Samsonite features three hard-side suitcases – a 20” carry-on, a 25” medium checked bag, and a 31” checked bag. It is really similar to Samsonite’s Flux and Freeform collections, but there are some key differences.

This particular luggage collection was primarily made for the Australian market, but it is still available for purchase worldwide. The suitcases also have all the key features that international travelers need, like a TSA-friendly lock and expandable capacity.

And another thing that sets apart the Octolite luggage is the weight – even though it is made from the same materials as the other similar Samsonite suitcase collections, these are by far the lightest bags you can get your hands on. If that is exactly what you need, then these suitcases are pretty much perfect for you.

Samsonite Octolite collection includes three suitcase sizes. The smallest one has a capacity of 40 liters, the medium one is an 80-liter bag, and the largest suitcase has a capacity of whooping 125 liters!

So, there are definitely options for everyone, whether you’re looking for a simple carry-on, or a bag that will help you move across the country. The great thing about these suitcases is that they are very lightweight, so you can fill them to the brim without worrying that you will go over the airline’s weight restriction for checked/carry-on luggage. If you don’t put bricks in your suitcase, that is.

However, I think the Octolite collection is lacking a true large suitcase. The 125-liter option is more of an extra-large than a large; a 28” spinner would have been the perfect middle option between the 25” and 32”.

The largest Octolite suitcase is actually really big, and I don’t recommend getting it unless you’re specifically looking for a giant suitcase. Keep in mind that 125 liters are the capacity of backpacks that are designed for a month in Europe or two-week expeditions during winter, when you need to pack rope, ice axes crampons, sleeping bags, and a bunch of other bulky items.

So, before you get yourself an Octolite suitcase, really think about which size is the best fit for you. Go with something that you know you will use frequently if you want to get your money’s worth.

Suitcase Materials And Durability

This Samsonite luggage is made from polypropylene, the lightest material suitcases can be made with. Polypropylene is very sturdy, but it is not quite as durable as polycarbonate. The main difference is flexibility – PC shells will bend inwards upon severe impact, while polypropylene is more likely to crack.

But, even though it is not durable as a PC, it is still much more durable than classic ABS plastic. And polypropylene is lighter than both those materials, which makes these suitcases great for packing when you have to stay within certain weight restrictions.

Another advantage polypropylene has over PC is scratch resistance. Polycarbonate is very prone to scuffs and scratches, so most PC luggage has some sort of textured shell. That’s not the case with polypropylene; it doesn’t get scuffed easily, so it’s fine that the Octolite luggage has a smooth shell.

In addition to that, it’s also worth mentioning that there are tiny feet on the side of this luggage. They will keep it slightly elevated so that the shell doesn’t touch the floor if you place the suitcase on its side. This protects the shell from scratches even more and helps keep your suitcase looking new.

Double Spinner Wheels

These suitcases are equipped with double spinner wheels, which roll smoothly and quietly. Each wheel can turn 360 degrees, so you are able to wheel the luggage alongside you or just push it in front of you – spinner wheels mean you never have to tilt the suitcase to get them rolling, which removes all strain from your arms and shoulders.

The wheels on these Samsonites are very sturdy and durable. They won’t fall off easily, and they are able to withstand frequent use. But you shouldn’t wheel your suitcase around on uneven or rocky terrain; spinner wheels were designed for smooth pavement and airport floors. Especially if you don’t want to damage them.

Another thing worth noting is that the Octolite luggage has low-profile wheels. They are quite short, which is actually really good – the height of the wheels doesn’t add too much to the overall dimensions of the luggage, so you’re less likely to have any issues due to the size of your bags.

Double Barrel Extendable Handle

The Octolite luggage is equipped with a telescopic wheel handle that locks into both stored and extended positions. It is mostly made from aluminum, so it is very lightweight but sturdy. There’s a push-button on the handle which allows you to lock into position so that it doesn’t move when you don’t want it to.

One thing worth noting is that the barrels of the handle protrudes inside the bottom packing compartment. You will need to pack strategically, in order to make the most of the space in your luggage. But, the good news is that they don’t protrude too much; the barrels are pretty thin, and they don’t take up a lot of space in the bottom compartment.

The downside of this wheel handle is that it is not height adjustable. That’s a shame because it’s a feature that’s found in most other Samsonite suitcases, so I’m not really sure why they didn’t include it in this one. It also means that you’re going to have to make do with the wheel handle of the Octolite, whether or not it is the right fit for you.

Top & Side Grab Handles

This Samsonite luggage features top and side grab handles that are the exact same color as the shell. They blend in nicely with the rest of the suitcase, and they are really sturdy. The handles are riveted onto the body of the bag, and it would take a lot of effort to rip them off.

They are not exactly ergonomic and they are made from plastic, so they’re definitely not the most comfortable grab handles you’ll see on a suitcase. But they are very tough and sturdy, which is much more important.

Unfortunately, the Octolite luggage does not have any sort of grab handle at the bottom. There’s nothing to hold onto at the bottom of the bag when you want to pick it up and place it somewhere high. But with both the top and side grab handles, that shouldn’t be a big issue.

Packing Compartments

The interior of this Samsonite luggage is divided into two fully lined packing compartments. The top one features a full panel divider with a large zippered pocket, while the bottom compartment has elastic cross straps and a small zippered pocket on the side.

Thanks to the two internal pockets, you will be able to organize all of the smaller items in the packing compartment. But, you will need to pack around the barrels of the wheel handle, since they do protrude a bit into the bottom packing compartment.

All three Octolite suitcases have an expandable capacity, which is a very convenient feature. The zipper for expansion is on the outside, and it lets you increase the basic capacity of your suitcase. This is going to come in handy for all of you that like to do some shopping while they are away.

TSA-Friendly Lock

These Samsonites are equipped with a TSA-friendly lock. It’s a classic three-digit combination lock, which is really easy to set up and use.

A TSA-friendly lock is a must for anyone who frequently travels to and from the US. It keeps your belongings protected, but TSA agents still have access to your luggage. With basic locks that are not TSA friendly, they have the right to forcefully open up your suitcase, which can damage it beyond repair.

But a lock is still not a guarantee that no one else will be able to break into your luggage. In fact, opening up a locked suitcase is as easy as placing a ballpoint pen between the teeth of the zipper. If you are traveling with some really valuable items, you should consider getting a zipperless suitcase instead.

These feature latch closure, which is much harder to break into. And the latches are usually TSA friendly, so the TSA agents can still access the contents of your luggage if they need to.

Integrated Luggage Tag

There is an integrated luggage tag at the back of the Octolite. It is the same color as the rest of the shell, and it is cleverly hidden which is pretty cool.

Let’s put it this way – airline personnel will be able to contact you in case your luggage gets lost, but that crazy person won’t be able to call you by your name just because they looked at your suitcase for 90 seconds straight.

The Octolite luggage is very high quality, and it will undoubtedly last you a long time. But it is actually quite expensive, so it makes perfect sense to wonder if it is actually worth that much money.

Yes and no. It’s worth it if you’re a frequent flyer who needs a durable, lightweight suitcase. These bags are great for business travel, thanks to their sleek and simple exterior. And if you can afford to get these suitcases without doing too much damage to your bank account, then they’re definitely an option worth considering.

On the other hand, if the Octolite luggage is outside of your price range, then you should consider some cheaper alternatives first. There are plenty of them within Samsonite’s own product range – the Flux and the Freeform are both excellent polypropylene suitcases, and they even look really similar to the Octolite. Plus, those two are a lot more affordable than this one.

The Winfield 2 is another suitcase worth considering – it is one of the best-selling Samsonite’s of all time, and it is very affordable at the moment. That’s because there’s actually a newer version of the luggage out there, but the second collection still remains an all-time champion.

You should also look at the Centric collection – that luggage is under $100, and it is still really good. And be sure to check out some American Tourister suitcases as well; the brand is owned by Samsonite, so you are still getting the same quality. Just at a much lower price point.

Samsonite Octolite Review: Final Thoughts

Samsonite Octolite is lightweight polypropylene luggage, available in some really standard sizes. The suitcases have everything a modern traveler needs, including spinner wheels, a sturdy wheel handle, expandable capacity, and a TSA-friendly lock.

If you’re looking for really durable but ultra-light luggage, then this is definitely an option worth considering. The premium materials will last you a long time, and the lifetime warranty will keep you protected in case you wind up dealing with a broken suitcase.

But, if you can’t really afford the high price point of the Octolite, then it’s worth it to consider other options. Starting with the Freeform, which is almost identical to the Octolite, but much cheaper. Check out our related reviews, to see some other really lightweight luggage, but with more affordable prices!

And if you loved Octolite so much you want to get it right now, head over to Amazon to see the exact price points and color options!

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