Is the investment in high-priced carry-on baggage justified?
Article: Choosing the Right Suitcase: Cheap vs. Expensive
When it comes to luggage, the price tag can often dictate the quality and features you get. Here's a breakdown of the key differences between cheap and expensive suitcases, focusing on weight, style, features, and durability.
Weight
Expensive suitcases often use advanced lightweight materials to reduce overall weight, making them easier to carry and maneuver. Cheaper suitcases may be heavier due to less sophisticated materials like standard plastics or fabrics.
Style
Expensive luggage tends to have more refined, minimalist, or luxury designs with attention to aesthetics and branding. Cheaper suitcases are functional but may lack sleek designs or premium finishes. However, some affordable brands like LEVEL8 still offer stylish minimalist design at a lower price point.
Features
Higher-priced suitcases usually include extra pockets, deluxe linings, high-quality zippers, built-in locking mechanisms, and handy compartments not always found in cheaper versions. Features like external laptop pockets or nesting capabilities for space-saving are less common in the cheapest luggage but more common in mid-range to premium bags.
Durability
Expensive suitcases are often made with reinforced materials such as polycarbonate shells combined with stronger corners, better-quality wheels, and robust zippers designed to last longer through extensive travel use. Cheaper options may be less sturdy and more prone to damage, although some budget brands provide surprising durability with features like reinforced aluminum corners.
In a recent test conducted by CHOICE, more than 30 carry-on and check-in suitcases from brands such as Antler, Samsonite, American Tourister, and Kmart were reviewed by experts. The vast majority of suitcases tested, including the $39 Kmart carry-on case, scored a perfect 100% in a durability test that involves dropping them 300 times.
However, premium luggage may last longer than cheaper brands due to investment in technology and design, and the use of higher quality materials. Two pricey Samsonite cases tested have in-built USB-A ports for on-the-go charging, a feature not usually found in cheaper luggage.
When trying to stay under the weight limit for a budget Jetstar flight, every gram counts. The two lightest carry-on suitcases tested were from Samsonite, with weights of 1.93kg and 1.91kg, but the $39 Kmart carry-on case weighs only 2.2kg.
If you're already a member and just want to see the best products, you can jump straight to the results. If you're unsure whether paying more for a suitcase results in a better one, the experts at CHOICE are well-positioned to answer that question. Keep an eye out for good deals during sales such as Black Friday, Boxing Day, or end-of-financial-year sales.
If your suitcase is old and in poor condition, it may be time for a replacement. Choosing a suitcase that is easy to maneuver and durable is important for a stress-free trip. Premium luggage may include features such as luxe linings, extra pockets, good-quality zippers, locking mechanisms, and handy compartments. Pricier suitcases often come with a TSA lock that allows for secure luggage inspection without damage.
Remember, expensive suitcases are often on sale, so there's rarely any reason to pay full price. The luggage taken on holiday can significantly impact the level of enjoyment and ease of travel. If you want to access all of CHOICE's expert, independent reviews, you can join CHOICE.
In summary, expensive suitcases generally offer lighter weight, more elegant style, advanced features for convenience and security, and greater durability, while cheap suitcases provide basic functionality with fewer features and potentially heavier and less durable construction. However, some affordable luggage sets like LEVEL8 offer good value by balancing durability and smart features at a lower cost.
- When selecting a new suitcase, one may need to consider not just the cost, but also the lifestyle associated with home-and-garden journeys, travel, or busy suite-case swapping in a hotel.
- To ensure the longevity of your choice in a suitcase, it's essential to consider the terms and conditions, such as durability, weight, and additional features like locking mechanisms and TSA-approved locks, particularly when opting for pricier options.
