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Opting to purchase a luggage set rather than individual pieces has a myriad of benefits. Not only will you likely get better value for money, but you’ll also have the convenience of choosing the piece or pieces that best meet your packing needs on every journey.
However, choosing the right luggage set is a task that should be undertaken with care since if you don’t like the luggage you’ve purchased, you’ll be stuck with up to four bags that don’t meet your needs. We’ve made this decision a little easier for you by researching the top hardside luggage sets on the market today and comparing various features that will help you find the set that exceeds your expectations.
Top-Rated Hardside Luggage Sets
- Best overall: [amazon link=”B072L7YVSM” title=”Samsonite Omni PC 3-Piece Set”]
- Most rigorously tested: [amazon link=”B09H7N1KC2″ title=”Samsonite Freeform 2-Piece Set”]
- Best for utility: [amazon link=”B099NY9HGZ” title=”Travelpro Platinum Elite 2-Piece Set”]
- Most durable: [amazon link=”B09Z5GQWZY” title=”Ricardo Beverly Hills Mojave 2-Piece Set”]
- Most design options: [amazon link=”B01ETNJI6A” title=”Delsey Paris Helium Aero 3-Piece Set”]
- Most affordable: [amazon link=”B07RPBNY8X” title=”American Tourister Stratum XLT 3-Piece Set”]
- Best packing capabilities: [amazon link=”B07FDHHDVF” title=”Samsonite Winfield 3 DLX 3-Piece Set”]
- Most environmentally friendly: [amazon link=”B0B724VXDN” title=”Travelpro Maxlite Air 3-Piece Set”]
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Tips Buying Hardside Luggage Sets (Guide)
Understanding What Size Hardside Luggage Set You Should Get
Some luggage sets are available as a two-piece, while others may come in a three or four-piece. The set you select will depend largely on your packing habits and travel needs. Most sets include a carry-on piece together with one or two checked pieces – all in different sizes. Four-piece luggage sets often include a tote or underseat bag as well for added convenience.
If you’re someone who mostly travels with a carry-on, but would like to have a larger suitcase available to you if the need arises, then a two-piece set will more than suffice. On the other hand, if you’re a heavy packer who prefers to have as much space available to you as possible, you may want to opt for a larger set. Be sure to take a close look at the pockets, compartments, and expandability of each unit in the set before making your final decision.
Other Things to Look out for Before Buying Hardside Luggage Sets
Materials
The materials a piece of luggage is made from is closely tied to its durability and quality. Hardside luggage has become the option of choice for frequent travelers as it is incredibly durable. These types of suitcases are also easy on the eyes as they are manufactured in a variety of stunning colors and designs.
Hardside luggage is available in a variety of materials, the most common of which are polycarbonate and ABS. ABS is a low-priced, hard material, which makes it popular among those who are on a budget. It is, however, more prone to scratches and cracks because of how inflexible it is. Polycarbonate has greater impact resistance and is more durable than ABS while also remaining quite lightweight. The most durable of the hardside luggage materials is aluminum, but it is not as lightweight and may be much more expensive.
Maneuverability
Moving around quickly and easily in airports is crucial to making your trip more enjoyable, so having a suitcase set that’s easy to maneuver is non-negotiable. Fortunately, all hardside luggage is fitted with spinner wheels, which rotate in every direction, making it easy to maneuver your bags in the way that best suits you. If you frequently travel through large airports, be sure to look out for ergonomically-designed handles that reduce strain on your wrists as you move your luggage.
Although we haven’t listed any here, some 4-piece luggage sets include a small carry-on piece that straps onto the handle of a large checked suitcase. Be sure to look out for this feature when purchasing larger sets, as it will make it easier to handle multiple pieces of luggage on longer journeys.
Packing Capabilities
Even if you’re buying an entire set of luggage, it’s unlikely that you will use every piece in the set on every trip. Because of this, it’s important to ensure that each individual unit meets your packing needs. Expandability is also an important factor that comes into play when considering a bag’s packing abilities.
Look for good compartmentalization, compression straps, pocket separators, or any other feature that will make it easy to organize your items. Some luggage is fitted with mesh pockets, waterproof sections, and even packing cubes. Unfortunately, hardside luggage rarely offers exterior compartments, so you likely won’t have easy access to your carry-on piece’s contents in flight.
Special Features
A luggage set that offers good value for money will always be preferable over one that comes with stock standard features. Some sets make your check-in process a lot easier by including TSA-approved locks – keeping your luggage secure and ensuring that your carry-on isn’t compromised when being checked by the agents.
Other sets may include nifty USB-charging ports that help keep you connected on long journeys. While most airports have charging stations, they are often occupied on busy flights, so having easy access to a power bank during a long layover can be a game changer. Some luggage sets offer incorporated tracking functionality, so you can easily locate your bags if they are lost in transit.
Warranty
If you travel often, purchasing high-quality luggage is a worthy investment. But, it’s not always possible to control how your luggage will be handled, and if it ends up being damaged by airline staff, you’ll be out hundreds of dollars.
Most luggage brands extend limited warranties that cover you for manufacturing or workmanship defects for a certain period from the date of purchase. Aside from looking at the terms of the warranty itself, it’s also advisable to take note of how long the warranty is valid, as this is a good indication of how long the manufacturer expects the set to last without issue. You should also scrutinize the process involved with claiming against the warranty, as many manufacturers may expect you to jump through hoops before your bag is even assessed.
High-end luggage brands often extend unlimited lifetime warranties on their products, so while you may pay a hefty price for a set, it’s unlikely that you’ll ever need to replace it. You’ll be covered for any form of damage, whether it be accidental or negligence from airline staff.
Best Hardside Luggage Sets in 2023 Compared
1. Best Overall: Samsonite Omni PC 3-Piece Set
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Samsonite prides itself on manufacturing top-quality luggage to suit a variety of tastes and needs, and the brand continues this trend with the Samsonite Omni PC 3-Piece Set. Built to withstand most of the usual travel knocks, this luggage set can survive poor handling at airports, rough floor surfaces, and even harsh elements. The tough micro-diamond polycarbonate texture is scratch-resistant and will give you peace of mind that your bags will remain in great condition after years of use. The best part is that you do not need to sacrifice style to enjoy these benefits. Available in seven stylish colors, most options of this set are bright and easy to spot in a sea of luggage.
The set includes three conveniently-sized bags that meet different travel needs. Measuring 19 x 14.5 x 9.75 inches (48.3 x 36.8 x 24.8 cm) and weighing 6.81 lbs (3.1 kg), the 20-inch carry-on bag is suitable for quick, short trips as it’s small and lightweight enough to meet most airline restrictions. There are also two larger checked pieces that are suitable for longer trips when extra luggage is needed. The 24-inch piece measures 24 x 17.5 x 11.5 inches (61 x 44.5 x 29.2 cm) and weighs 8.34 lbs (3.8 kg), while the 28-inch measures 28.5 x 20.5 x 13.5 inches (72.4 x 52.1 x 34.3 cm) and weighs 11.68 lbs (5.3 kg). Despite the tough materials used in this set, the suitcases are extremely lightweight, so you don’t have to stress about exceeding airline weight restrictions.
If lugging your suitcase around busy airports gets you down, then you will love the Omni. Fitted with 360-degree spinner wheels, these bags will roll effortlessly at your side. Of course, if you are taking all three pieces with you, you may need to grab a trolley until you get your larger pieces checked in. When you are rolling them, the retractable handles lock into place at two heights, giving you flexibility when you need it. You can also make use of the carry handles on the sides and tops to lift or lug the bags when rolling isn’t possible.
Packing these bags is a pleasure as they are fitted with mesh dividers and compression straps in the main compartments. This makes it easy to arrange your belongings in the way that best suits you and keep things as organized as possible during your trip. The design also helps ensure that your clothing will remain in place and stay wrinkle-free. If you’re a heavy packer, or you’re hoping to buy a few more things to bring home while you are away, the bags expand to give you the additional room you need.
Boarding is a breeze with the TSA-approved locks that are stock standard with each suitcase in the set. Surprise suitcase inspections won’t damage your bag or locks in any way, and you’ll still rest assured that your belongings are completely safe. You’ll also have peace of mind with the quality you’ll get with Samsonite products. They undergo rigorous testing and back up the promise with a 10-year limited warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship.
Overall, if you’d like to invest in a luggage set that will exceed your travel needs and stand the test of time, the Samsonite Omni PC 3-Piece Set is the way to go.
Pros
- Extremely tough exterior that will provide long-lasting use
- Spacious yet lightweight
- TSA-approved locks for added convenience
Cons
- Warranty only extends to manufacturing defects
2. Most rigorously tested: Samsonite Freeform 2-Piece Set
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Similar to the quality of the Omni PC set, the Freeform 2-Piece Set is the best choice if you’re looking for luggage from a brand that puts quality first. This set gives you the option of opting for just two pieces rather than three, though. Products from Samsonite are put through numerous testing stages to ensure they meet the highest standards, which guarantees the extreme durability of the set. On the off-chance that you do find a manufacturing flaw when your set arrives, Samsonite will, at its discretion, repair or replace your luggage.
Made from Polypropylene, a sturdy, textured material, the Freeform set is light in structure yet resists dents and scratches. It’s also waterproof, crack-resistant, and extremely flexible, helping you maintain the aesthetic appeal of the set for far longer. You can choose between four minimalist colors that complement the hardside suitcase’s streamlined and polished appearance. No matter which color you prefer—black, navy, grey, tangerine, sage, or mint green—you’ll be sure to find a design that matches your tastes. Each model’s inside straps, and zippers have also been matched to the exterior’s hue, giving the bag an upscale appearance. The stylish, futuristic style of the Freeform set is emphasized by the special new shape that accompanies its cutting-edge components.
If you enjoy simplistic packing, the Freeform set gives you the benefit of two aptly-sized pieces that you can utilize according to the length and circumstances of your trip. The 21-inch carry-on measures 21.25 x 15.25 x 10 inches (54 x 38.7 x 25.4 cm) and weighs just 6.5 lbs (2.9 kg). The 28-inch checked piece, on the other hand, comes in at 31.1 x 20.95 x 13.78 inches (79 x 53.2 x 35 cm) and 19.96 lbs (9 kg). The bags are also expandable, giving you the option to pack in a little extra when needed.
Packing is effortless with the Freeform set, as the bags are spacious and offer decent compartmentalization. The suitcases have many pockets to keep things organized, as well as a cross ribbon and divider to make packing simple. Like most hardside luggage, the suitcases zip open down the middle to reveal two equally-sized large cavities. One of these can be zipped closed, while the other features compression straps to secure the items underneath. There is also a smaller zipped section that can be used to hold accessories, electronics, or any small item you see fit.
The Freeform Set’s four multi-directional double spinner wheels enable 360-degree upright rolling with no weight on your arm or shoulder, making traveling seamless, especially when you are juggling carry-on and overhead baggage. Also, the suitcases’ bigger push-button handles offer a grip that is incredibly comfortable, integrated from multi-stage aluminum for a more lightweight feel. The bags even have top and side carry handles that retract while checking luggage. This, combined with the recessed side-mounted TSA-approved locks on the set, makes boarding a breeze.
Overall, the Samsonite Freeform 2-Piece Set is ideal if you’re looking for a high-quality luggage set that won’t break the bank.
Pros
- Expertly designed handles make maneuverability a breeze
- Made from polypropylene for excellent durability
- Simplistic, minimalist design to suit every occasion
Cons
- Not many compartments to pack optimally
- Checked-piece exceeds 62 linear inch airline restriction
3. Best for utility: Travelpro Platinum Elite 2-Piece Set
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If you’re someone who enjoys features in a suitcase that add convenience during your trip, the Travelpro Platinum Elite 2-Piece Set is perfect for you. The carry-on piece features fast-charging external USB A & C ports that let you power your electronics while you’re on the go. Your power bank will remain concealed inside the expansion feature for convenience and FAA compliance. Additionally, you’ll enjoy the ease provided by the TSA-approved locks during boarding.
The set features a 21-inch carry-on suitcase that is sized to fit in the overhead bins of most domestic airlines. Similarly, the 25-inch checked piece satisfies the size requirements for almost all major domestic carriers. The smaller suitcase measures 23 x 14.5 x 9.5 inches (58.4 x 36.8 x 24.1 cm) and weighs 8.1 lbs (3.7 kg). The checked case is medium-sized with dimensions of 27.25 x 18 x 13 inches (69.2 x 45.7 x 33 cm) and a weight of 11.1 lbs (5 kg). This makes traveling seamless as you don’t have to worry about whether your luggage is going to meet travel sizing requirements.
To add to your smooth flying experience, the set features Travelpro’s PrecisionGlide System, eight MagnaTrac self-aligning spinner wheels, and a four-stop adjustable PowerScope Lite handle with a comfortable Contour Grip that delivers precise and effortless control when rolling the suitcases. These features make maneuvering your luggage nothing but a breeze, which comes in handy, especially when traveling long distances.
Organization is easy with this set, as both the carry-on and checked pieces have a zippered 2-inch expansion option providing you with increased packing space if needed. Your contents can be kept arranged, divided, and safe with the help of interior zipped divider panels and movable hold-down straps. You’ll benefit from multiple accessory pockets for built-in organization and a water-resistant pocket that offers a handy location to store damp goods or toiletries.
Choose between five metallic colors to match your personal taste and travel in style with the sleek, luxurious aesthetic of this set. The carry-on bag’s attractive, textured appearance helps to hide any scuffs or scratches, while its extremely durable 100% polycarbonate hard shell and aluminum corner guards protect the contents. For added value, a genuine leather trim detail decorates the front of each suitcase. Although damage is unlikely with this set, Travelpro’s warranty covers the cost of repair for damage caused by airlines, or another common carrier, for the first five years following registration under the brand’s Trusted Companion Promise, offering the ultimate peace of mind when traveling.
Overall, if you look for high-quality materials and components in a set that has been thoughtfully-designed, look no further than the Travelpro Platinum Elite 2-Piece Set.
Pros
- Corners reinforced with aluminum for excellent shock-resistance
- Self-aligning spinner wheels make the suitcases effortless to move
- Comprehensive warranty for ultimate peace of mind
Cons
- Not a wide variety of color options
4. Most durable: Ricardo Beverly Hills Mojave 2-Piece Set
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When it comes to the durability of any given piece of luggage, the pattern of the exterior shell makes a huge difference in how resistant the bag is to shock, wear, and scuffs. For this reason, the diagonally ribbed design combined with polycarbonate alloy makes the Ricardo Beverly Hills Mojave 2-Piece Set incredibly durable. As an added bonus, the unique aesthetic makes your luggage stand out from the crowd, especially with the pop of the twilight blue option.
This 2-piece luggage set includes 20 and 25-inch pieces, each of which is spacious and expandable by two inches to meet your needs. The carry-on measures 22 x 14.5 x 9.5 inches (56 x 37 x 24 cm) and weighs 7.3 lbs (3.3 kg). Although the checked piece is medium-sized, it measures 26 x 18 x 12 inches (66 x 45.7 x 30.4 cm) and weighs just 10 lbs (4.5 kg). This ensures that you have ample room to fit in everything you need while still remaining within the restrictions of most airlines.
This set is unique in its packing features, offering a packing cube to keep certain items separate within the two main cavities if need be. You’ll also have the benefit of a waterproof pouch for any wet items and a hanger hook to take formal garments with you if the trip requires it. These thoughtfully designed elements certainly go a long way in giving you great value for money since the set is extremely reasonably priced.
Each unit in the set is fitted with double spinner wheels and an ergonomically designed telescoping handle with comfort grip to make moving the bags alongside you completely effortless. And, aside from the carry handles on the sides and tops of the bags, each suitcase also has a nook at the bottom that can be used to lift the luggage – a feature that is not commonly found in hardside luggage.
Your time spent in the airport will also be made easier by the USB-charging port in your carry-on piece, ensuring that you are always connected. The suitcase is equipped with an internal pouch specifically designed to hold your power bank, so you have peace of mind that your cable remains secured and fitted throughout the trip.
Overall, if you are looking for a suitcase set that offers excellent value at a low price, Ricardo Beverly Hills Mojave 2-Piece Set fits the bill.
Pros
- Exterior designed for durability
- Excellent packing features and capabilities
- Affordably priced for those on a budget
Cons
- No TSA-approved locks
5. Most design options: Delsey Paris Helium Aero 3-Piece Set
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Whether you’re into bright and vibrant colors or cool and muted tones, the Delsey Paris Helium Aero 3-Piece Set has a design option that will suit your preferences. The set is available in twelve breathtaking color options in a gloss finish that will undoubtedly have you standing out from the crowd as you wheel it through the airport. The silver and black fittings and handles complete the look for a contemporary look that you won’t be able to take your eyes off.
With this set, you’ll receive 19, 25, and 29-inch pieces, ensuring that you have luggage to meet your needs no matter the duration of your trip. However, if you’d prefer a bigger carry-on case, [amazon link=”B00OYXJU8M” title=”this model from Delsey”] it is also available with a 21-inch bag. Additionally, all units in this range are made from a strong polycarbonate for durability and are backed by Delsey’s limited 10-year warranty should you encounter any manufacturing faults.
Perhaps the most unique feature of this set is the laptop compartment on the 19-inch piece – a rare find in hardside luggage. The pocket features a padded sleeve that is large enough to fit a device up to 15.6 inches, as well as two zippered mesh pockets that can be used to store easy-access items, such as passports, plane tickets, and cables. This will also help you minimize your packing, as you won’t need a separate bag to carry your device and its accessories.
Each suitcase in the set provides loads of room to pack everything you need for even fairly long trips, however, the bags don’t offer much by way of internal compartmentalization. You’ll have the two main large cavities to pack in, as well as single mesh pockets for anything you may want to keep separate. Once you’re done securing your belongings with the compression straps and zippered dividers, you can secure your bags using the TSA-approved combination locks that are fitted on each unit in the set.
Overall, if you’re in search of a set with a luxurious feel that offers quick access to your device, the Delsey Paris Helium Aero 3-Piece Set is ideal.
Pros
- 12 breathtaking glossy designs to choose from
- Device compartment for quick access in flight
- Expandable for extra packing space if you need it
Cons
- Very little internal compartmentalization
6. Most affordable: American Tourister Stratum XLT 3-Piece Set
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Although they offer great value for money, buying luggage sets can get costly, so it’s only natural to try to find a set that is of decent quality while still remaining affordable. That is exactly what the American Tourister Stratum XLT 3-Piece Set offers travelers. The low price can mainly be attributed to the fact that it is manufactured from ABS, so if you are hoping to get long-term use out of this set, it would be advisable to take extra care when handling it to prevent premature breakage.
The set includes 20, 24, and 28-inch pieces, all available in a variety of shades to meet every preference. It should be noted, though, that the colors may be slightly darker in real life when compared to the pictures available before purchase. Nonetheless, most customers have been extremely pleased with the aesthetic appeal of this set, as it offers a modern, sleek look that stands out. The patterned outer shell and complementary polyester interior lining both go a long way in contributing to this.
While having a 3-piece set offers you sufficient packing space when all units in the set are in use, it’s important to note that each individual bag may not be as deep as some offered by competitors. This means that you may have to be a bit smarter about packing only what is needed when taking along just one piece in the set. Each bag splits open into two large cavities, one of which zips closed. The open section includes compression straps to secure your belongings and a long, narrow pouch that can be used to store more fragile items.
The set features single spinner wheels on each suitcase that work effectively in offering a smooth rolling experience while you move the bag. With a retractable handle and comfortable carry handles, maneuvering the bag as needed is easily achievable. Overall, if you need a luggage set with high-end features that won’t break the bank, the American Tourister Stratum XLT 3-Piece Set was made for you.
Pros
- Extremely well-priced, offering great value for money
- Cute, aesthetically-pleasing design choices
- Expandable for extra packing space when needed
Cons
- ABS shell may not be resistant to wear
7. Best packing capabilities: Samsonite Winfield 3 DLX 3-Piece Set
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Samsonite always takes great care to exceed customer expectations when designing its products, and the Winfield 3 DLX 3-Piece Set follows this trend. Compartmentalization and organization of your belongings inside your bag is made easy with this set’s design. You’ll have two large cavities that have been separated by a divider which can be attached or detached from one side of the bag as needed. This divider features four mesh compartments on each side, so you can easily separate items as you see fit.
The tough polycarbonate exterior is available in eight gorgeous colors, leaving you spoilt for choice regardless of whether you are traveling for business or leisure. The fittings and handles complement the design of the suitcase extremely well, and these elements are of equally high quality to ensure that your luggage stands the test of time.
The set includes 20, 25, and 28-inch pieces, however, it would be wise to double-check whether the dimensions of the carry-on meet the size restrictions of your most frequented airline, as this has been a sore point for some customers who have purchased the set. If you do manage to get your smallest bag through as a carry-on, you’ll enjoy the convenience of TSA-approved locks.
Overall, if you’d like to enjoy the high-quality feel of a Samsonite set with great packing potential, the Winfield 3 DLX 3-Piece Set won’t disappoint you.
Pros
- Great packing features for easy compartmentalization
- Tough polycarbonate exterior for long-lasting durability
- 8 colors to fit both professional and leisure travel
Cons
- Carry-on piece may not fit airline requirements
8. Most environmentally friendly: Travelpro Maxlite Air 3-Piece Set
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Designed specifically with meticulous care for the environment, the Travelpro Maxlite Air 3-Piece Set features an interior liner with H2O protection that’s constructed entirely from post-consumer recycled plastic bottles to assist in reducing environmental waste. This way, you can rest assured knowing that your top-rated suitcase aids in not harming the environment.
Both checked pieces are manufactured to ensure they comply with the published check-in size requirements for almost all major domestic flights. The carry-on luggage is also tested to make sure they fit in the airline’s overhead bins while still providing excellent packing capacity. The suitcases provide ample room in their normal form yet offer an additional two inches of space when expanded, ensuring that you never have to leave anything behind. Made from tough polycarbonate, the set is extremely lightweight while remaining flexible and impact resistant.
The set is available in eight different colors to suit your individual tastes, and the luggage features a built-in TSA lock for easy check-in and boarding. To assist users of various heights, the PowerScope Lite’s lightweight but durable handle locks at two lengths, and the bags have a patented Contour Grip with rubberized touch points for a comfortable handhold and easy directional control.
Overall, if you’re looking for sustainable luggage that comes with all the benefits offered by Travelpro, the Maxlite Air 3-Piece Set is your best bet.
Pros
- Environmentally-friendly lining for sustainable buying
- Tough polycarbonate outer shell for longevity
- All pieces fit domestic airline specifications
Cons
- Handles may be difficult to use for some
