Hard vs. soft-shell luggage: Shop our top picks

Hardshell or softshell? How to pick the best luggage for your trip
Calpak, Travel Pro, Away, Solgaard
ByGMA Team
April 29, 2025, 6:42 AM

Hard-shell or soft-shell? That is the question.

When it comes to our luggage, we are particular about having durable, spacious, stylish bags that can travel anywhere we want to go. But one thing we can't fully align on: hard-shell luggage versus soft-shell luggage.

The reality is, you can't go wrong with either option. Away's carry-on hard-shell luggage boasts a durable, "rigorously tested" lightweight shell with interior compression and 360-degree wheels, available in multiple colors to best suit your style. There's also Solgaard's Carry-On Closet Original, among other hard-shell options.

Soft-shell lovers should note CALPAK's 4.9-star Luka Soft-Sided Carry-On Luggage with a soft, durable exterior, a TSA-approved lock, multiple interior pockets and compression straps, among other picks, all listed below.

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Hard-shell luggage

73% off
Walmart

Zimtown 3 Piece Nested Spinner Suitcase Luggage Set

We love a great deal, and this Zimtown three-piece suitcase set at Walmart is one of them. For 72% off, you'll get luggage with a "protective hard shell, fully lined interior, and compression pad for organization."
  • $79.99
  • $299.99
  • Walmart
22% off
Solgaard

Carry-On Closet Original

Pack your suitcase like you would your closet. This Solgaard carry-on has a five-shelf shelving system inside to keep you super organized. It also has a USB port so you can charge devices on the go and "frictionless wheels that barely make a sound." 
  • $269
  • $345
  • Solgaard
Away

The Bigger Carry-On

This 4.6-star Away suitcase has more than 32,000 reviews. It has interior compression, 360-degree wheels and a "durable hard shell that's been rigorously tested."
  • $295
  • Away

Soft-shell luggage

Travelpro

Maxlite 5 25" Medium Check-In Spinner

Travelpro boasts that its Maxlight medium check-in spinner bag is "extremely lightweight, yet incredibly strong." It's water and stain-resistant, has a contoured grip on its handle and has multiple pockets for all of your packing needs. 
  • $219.99
  • Travelpro
15% off
CALPAK

Luka Soft-Sided Carry-On Luggage in Sage

This CALPAK carry-on features a soft and durable exterior, 360-degree spinner wheels, two front pockets and a padded compartment that's great for laptops. Plus, it has a TSA-approved lock and comes in multiple colors. 
  • $165.75
  • $195
  • CALPAK

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