Before buying luggage, travelers often check user reviews of brands in major communities to guide their purchases. This is a great shopping strategy but is easily overlooked by many travelers. The quality of a durable suitcase is largely related to the material it’s made of.
Among familiar luggage materials, four categories are the most durable: aluminum, polycarbonate, ballistic nylon, and toughened ABS. Aluminum luggage is exceptionally durable due to its hardness and wear resistance, making it top the list of durable luggage. Below, we’ll compare the characteristics of these four types of materials using test data.
Aluminum luggage
Made from high-grade aluminum, this material is extremely tough and resistant to impacts, scratches, and harsh handling. It often features reinforced corners and robust locking mechanisms, making it ideal for frequent travelers and those who need maximum protection for their belongings.
Aluminum luggage has been tested to withstand significant force without deforming. A study by Consumer Reports showed that aluminum suitcases had the least amount of damage when dropped from a height of 6 feet. Tests by Travel + Leisure indicated that aluminum cases maintained their structural integrity and appearance better than other materials when subjected to rough handling.
Polycarbonate Luggage
Made from a type of thermoplastic polymer, this material is lightweight yet highly impact-resistant. It can absorb and diffuse shocks, making it ideal for air travel. It’s flexible and resistant to cracking, even under high stress. This makes it perfect for business travelers and those who need a balance between strength and weight.
A study published in the Journal of Materials Science found that polycarbonate has high impact strength, around 70-80 kJ/m², making it highly resistant to cracks and fractures. Testing by the International Luggage Association (ILA) showed that polycarbonate luggage can absorb significant impact without permanent deformation, maintaining its shape even after severe stress.
Ballistic Nylon Luggage
This dense, woven nylon fabric was originally developed for military body armor. It’s extremely resistant to abrasions, tears, and punctures. Typically lighter than hard-shell options, it often includes reinforced stitching and strong zippers. It’s ideal for frequent travelers who prefer soft-sided luggage.
Ballistic nylon is a dense, woven fabric originally developed for military body armor. It’s extremely resistant to abrasions, tears, and punctures. Typically lighter than hard-shell options, it often includes reinforced stitching and strong zippers. This makes it ideal for frequent travelers who prefer soft-sided luggage.
Toughened ABS Luggage
This tough plastic is known for its strength and impact resistance. While not as strong as polycarbonate or aluminum, it offers good durability at a lower price point. Often used in mid-range hard-shell luggage, it’s ideal for casual travelers looking for a balance of durability and affordability.
Research from the Polymer Testing journal indicates that ABS has moderate impact resistance, with an impact strength of around 15-20 kJ/m². While not as high as polycarbonate, it provides reasonable protection at a lower cost. ABS luggage offers a balance of durability and affordability, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers. Tests by consumer advocacy groups highlight its decent performance in drop and impact tests relative to its price point.
Luggage Parts
In addition to the impact of the luggage’s materials on durability, the quality of accessories also plays a big role in its lifespan. For instance, luggage with replaceable wheels is better for high-frequency travelers since they can simply replace old wheels and continue using the luggage. On the other hand, luggage with fixed wheels becomes unusable if the wheels are damaged. The same goes for handles. Therefore, when you looking for durable luggage, consider these factors from all angles to avoid blindly worshiping brands.
Luggage Types
Luggage comes in two sizes: carry-on and check-in. The size not only affects storage capacity but also impacts its durability. Carry-on luggage doesn’t need to be checked in with other goods, so it’s less likely to be damaged by external forces. In contrast, check-in luggage is often checked with other items due to its weight and volume, increasing its chances of being damaged over time.
Last but not least, many factors affect the life of luggage, such as frequency of use, daily maintenance, and material. Finding a reliable brand and choosing high-quality materials should be top priorities.
