Last year I decided I really needed, okay, wanted new luggage. I mean, I’ve had mine for 15 years! I bought a really good set then because we traveled a lot and felt justified in getting them. But, the two wheels finally started to break and I really wanted some new spinners! And I loved and wanted a cool new color!
We always fly so choosing suitcases must meet flight restrictions and be easy for me to move around.
I bought two smaller carry on’s and one larger hard shell for our last couple of cruises.
I love how lightweight they are. My old soft side suitcases were pretty heavy. They took up quite a few pounds of my weight limit when flying. I understand that the new fabrics used now are very lightweight but mine was very heavy and durable.
I also love how easily they move! Instead of dragging, you push them. So easy! I remember thinking how great it was when they put a couple of wheels on suitcases!
I miss the outside pockets. I’m always stuffing one last thing in…
I don’t love the wheels that stick out when I’m packing/unpacking but no biggie.
Packing cubes work very well in them and keep everything really organized and neat.
I didn’t spend a lot of money on mine. I know their lifespan when flying is so short. And I didn’t want to be out a lot of money if I didn’t like them. I also left the plastic covering on mine and it’s held up quite well.
Here’s a practical breakdown of softside vs hardside luggage to help you choose the best one for your needs—especially for cruise travel, where flexibility and durability both matter:
Hardside Luggage
Pros:
- Better Protection: Hard shell protects fragile items and electronics from impact.
- Water-Resistant: Great if you’re cruising or dealing with wet conditions (rain, damp docks, etc.).
- Sleek & Secure: Often has integrated TSA locks and is more tamper-resistant.
Cons:
- Less Flexibility: Rigid shape makes it harder to squeeze into tight spaces or overstuff.
- Easier to Scuff or Crack: Especially lower-end models can scratch or crack with rough handling.
- Heavier: Generally weighs more than softside options of the same size.
Best For: Flights, checked luggage, and protecting valuables or liquids. It is also suited for cruising where bags may be stacked or stored in tight cabins.
Softside Luggage
Pros:
- More Flexible: Expands and fits more easily into tight cabin storage or car trunks.
- Lighter Weight: Often easier to lift into overhead bins or cruise ship cabins.
- Extra Pockets: Exterior compartments for easy access to essentials like documents, chargers, or a jacket.
Cons:
- Less Protection: Not ideal for fragile items; offers less resistance to water or crushing.
- Less Secure: Easier for thieves to cut into or tamper with.
- May Stain or Tear: Fabric can show wear more quickly.
Best For: Carry-on use, road trips, travelers who like to overpack or organize with lots of outside pockets.
Cruise-Specific Tips
On a cruise, you’ll usually check your luggage at port and it gets delivered to your cabin—meaning:
- Hardside is better for protecting your things in transit.
- Softside may be easier to store under the bed or in small cabin closets.
Always check the size requirements of your suitcases if flying. They are pretty rigid about this, especially with carry on bags. Some airlines make you put your carry on inside a frame/box to check that you are meeting the requirements. I’ve found my suitcases always fit under the bed in our cabin when following the airline restrictions.
I also have the best of both worlds for my personal, under-the-seat item! I purchased this Wrangler bag that has outside pockets and four spinner wheels. It holds a lot of stuff too!
Here’s a group just for new cruisers and others! No judgment with correct answers to your questions. Lots of in-depth information, tips and personal advice!
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