Are high-priced carry-on suitcases a sound investment?

In a recent study conducted by CHOICE, more than 30 carry-on and check-in suitcases from popular brands like Antler, Samsonite, American Tourister, and Kmart were put to the test. The key differences between cheap and expensive carry-on suitcases were found to mainly involve weight, style, features, and durability.

For those who value a hassle-free travel experience, choosing a suitcase that is easy to maneuver and durable is of utmost importance. CHOICE experts assessed the suitcases based on factors like ease of movement, resistance to damage, and performance in rainy conditions.

Weight

Expensive carry-ons tend to be lighter due to high-quality materials like polycarbonate, which is both durable and lightweight. For instance, Rimowa carry-ons weigh about 4.9 lbs. Cheap suitcases may be heavier or use less advanced lightweight materials.

Style

Expensive luggage often boasts sleek, minimalist, and stylish designs with luxury finishes and iconic brand looks. On the other hand, cheaper options may prioritize function over aesthetics but can still offer decent style at lower price points.

Features

Expensive suitcases usually include luxurious linings, extra pockets, good-quality zippers, integrated locking systems, smooth-rolling wheels, and well-designed internal compartments to improve organization and convenience. Cheaper bags may have fewer compartments or less refined features but sometimes still offer useful extras like external pockets for laptops at a lower cost.

Durability

While many cheap suitcases pass basic durability tests, expensive suitcases benefit from better build quality, reinforced corners, advanced materials, and longer warranties (up to 10 years). Premium brands invest in better technology and materials to withstand frequent travel wear and tear better than budget luggage.

Some high-end suitcases even use recycled materials for linings. In the durability test that involved dropping the suitcases 300 times, the majority of the suitcases, including the $39 Kmart carry-on case, scored a perfect 100%.

Value for Money

Pricier suitcases often come with additional features like TSA locks that allow for locking while permitting security inspections without damage. However, cheaper options can still be functional and durable enough for casual or occasional travel, often coming in sets for saving money.

For those who want to justify the higher price of more expensive carry-ons, they often offer lighter weight, superior styling, enhanced features, and longer-term durability backed by warranties and quality materials. However, expensive suitcases are often on sale, so there's rarely a need to pay full price.

In a test conducted by CHOICE, a $39 Kmart carry-on suitcase, along with return flights from Sydney to Melbourne, costs less than the most expensive suitcases. This highlights that it's possible to find a good balance between cost and quality.

When traveling with a budget airline like Jetstar, every gram of weight matters, especially for carry-on bags. Therefore, it's essential to consider both the weight and durability of the suitcase to ensure a smooth travel experience.

In conclusion, the review aimed to answer whether paying more for a suitcase guarantees a better one. While more expensive suitcases offer additional features and durability, cheaper options can still provide a functional and durable solution for casual or occasional travelers. It's all about finding the right balance that suits your needs and budget.

Sources:

Level8 Suitcases Review: Are They Worth It?
Rimowa Suitcases Review: Are They Worth the Price?
The Best Suitcases of 2021
Samsonite Suitcases Review: Are They Worth the Price?

Based on the study by CHOICE, while pricier suitcases offer additional features, lighter weight, superior styling, and enhanced durability, cheaper options can still be a functional and durable choice, especially for those traveling casually or occasionally. It is possible to find a balance between cost and quality, as shown in the $39 Kmart carry-on suitcase, which when paired with return flights from Sydney to Melbourne, costs less than the most expensive suitcases.

When selecting a suitcase for travel with budget airlines like Jetstar, considering both the weight and durability is vital to ensure a smooth travel experience, especially for carry-on bags, as every gram of weight matters. It's essential to find the right balance that suits your needs and budget.