Suit Cases

[granny grump]

I'm looking to buy a new suitcase. The one that we have is getting old and the wheels have a mind of their own. It is a fairly soft shell and it 'gives' when fully packed. Most of the case we have seen are hard rigid shells. What are the benefits - if any - of the rigid type. We only travel in the UK.

[mallyh]

i have IT cases ,very light and easy to pull

[Paigntonian]

Go to a shop, or look on the internet.

[barry1010]

My suitcases are soft bodied, too, so I know exactly what you mean.
If I were in the market for a new case I would definitely buy a hard case with four or preferably eight wheels on the short side, so it trundles along totally upright. You don't support the weight.
Watch the weight of the case, though. If you are on a budget flight with very restrictive luggage weight allowances you don't want a case that weight a lot before you start to pack it.

[gingejbee]

The main benefit of hard shell cases is that they damage less easily and protect the contents better...really only important when you fly.

[anneasquith]

Can the hard / rigid cases hold as much as the soft top?

[jno]

depends what you want it for. If you're putting something in the hold of an aeroplane, rigid is best. Luggage gets thrown around a lot. If you're keeping it with you in plane, train or car, lightweight and soft sides are fine. (IT is a good brand).

[Buenchico]

Possibly worth a read:
https://www.which.co.uk/reviews/suitcases/article/choosing-and-buying-the-best-luggage/hard-or-soft-sided-suitcase-a6lAb3O05UHa

However, rather than worrying too much about the hard-v-soft dilemma, I'd suggest that you pay more attention to the wheels.

Having helped many hundreds of passengers with their luggage in the days when I was in charge with a railway station, I can tell you that luggage where the wheels are close together is a real pain in the posterior. As you try to pull it along, it keeps twisting from side to side, twisting your wrist at the same time too! Luggage that's got a lot of width between the wheels though can be a joy to pull along.

[jno]

good point about the wheels. I find two wheels are okay for cabin-size luggage but for big or heavy bags, four is best.

[davebro]

does anyone these days actually pack a suit into a "suit" case?

[davebro]

I don't own a suit & haven't worn one since a funeral in 1996!

[barry1010]

Buen, that's why I like the cases that travel upright, with just a gentle push.

[granny grump]

Thank you all for your help Sorry Paigntonian if I touched a nerve