Hard shell suitcases made to last trip after trip

Tired of your suitcase getting squashed in transit with everything inside disorganised and banged up? It’s time to invest in a durable suitcase that will withstand rough handling and crowded baggage carousels.

Hard-shell carry-on and check-in suitcases have become the preferred option for seasoned travellers thanks to their sturdy build, enhanced security and ability to remain waterproof, no matter what your adventures throw at you.

If you’re looking to upgrade, these are the best options on the market.

Carry on suitcases

July Capsule Carry On Pro

$495 | July

The July Capsule Carry On Pro is a new, sleek and modern carry-on case. It’s the perfect travel companion for those who prioritise packing efficiency. It features top-down packing, a built-in tracking lock compatible with Apple and Google networks, a magnetic quick-access front pocket for large personal items like laptops, a stain-proof laundry bag, and a hidden pocket for passports and more.

Samsonite Upscape Carry-On 55cm Suitcase

$225 | Strandbags$225 | Myer

Samsonite knows how to manufacture great suitcases. This carry-on is designed with smooth, stress-free travel in mind. It can expand from 39 to 45L for those times when you accidentally overpack; it has suspension wheels for a smooth glide over surfaces and features an integrated USB-A and USB-C port.

Samsonite Paralux 55cm Expandable Small Carry-On

$499 | David Jones$299.40 | Samsonite

The best feature of the Samsonite Paralux 55cm Expandable Small Carry-On is its dual-access design. You can open it from the middle like a traditional suitcase, but it also has a convenient front door, which is useful when you’re in a rush to grab something or if you’re tight on space.

July Carry On Essential

$295 | July

The July Carry On Essential is a highly regarded entry-level carry-on option. Despite its simple design, you can trust it to get you through your travels unscathed, thanks to its aerospace-grade, crush-resistant German polycarbonate shell. It has a spacious 42L capacity, smooth rolling wheels, and an integrated, TSA-approved combination lock.

Samsonite Essens Suitcase 55cm/39L

$549 | David Jones$329.40 | Samsonite

The Samsonite Essens Suitcase 55cm/39L is a zipperless cabin suitcase that has been designed using an eco-conscious recycled polypropylene. It has a three-point locking system and includes removable packing cubes instead of typical compartments.

Antler Expandable Carry-on Luggage

Was $299, now $179.40

Antler is one of the best brands for quiet travel. With its Silent Glide 360 spinner wheels, you’ll be sure to breeze your way through airport security. Inside, there are three interior zip pockets: two mesh and one ‘essentials’ pocket to ensure you can organise your packing just the way you like it.

Antler Carry-on Luggage Heritage Stripe

$480 | Antler$480 | Strandbags

Level up your carry-on luggage with the premium Antler Heritage Stripe. Blending style with functionality, this carry-on has an aluminium frame to keep it lightweight, with leather detailing to add a touch of refinement.

To make your life easier, it also comes with a compression pocket and garment holder to keep clothes wrinkle-free, as well as a laundry bag to separate dirty clothing.

Samsonsite OC2LITE Carry-On Expandable-S

$201 | Samsonite$335 | David Jones

The Oc2Lite prides itself on being lightweight, durable, and manoeuvrable. To help give you peace of mind when travelling, it also features an integrated ID tag, anti-theft zippers and a TSA-approved lock.

Kadi Carry-on Business Suitcase

$199.50 | Myer

The Kadi Carry-on Business Suitcase is designed for those who prioritise organisation. With clever features like a separate laundry bag, a toiletries pocket and a zipped compartment, packing for a short trip has never been easier.

Amazon Basics Hardside Expandable Spinner Suitcase

$79.88 | Amazon

If you’re in the market for a slightly cheaper option, this Amazon Basics suitcase is great. It has competitive features like a protective extra-thick ABS hard shell, three zippered compartments and a scratch-resistant finish. A bold colour finish also makes it easier to spot your belongings.

Checked suitcases

Antler Large Luggage Stamford 2.0

$269.40 | Antler$257.40 | Myer

This lightweight but robust suitcase from Antler is designed for long trips of two or more weeks. It has a generous capacity of 121L, which can be expanded to 150L when needed. It features three zippered compartments, a small side-zip for valuables, zip-around expansion, and double spinner wheels.

Amazon Basics 68cm Hardshell Check-in Size Suitcase

$145.28 | Amazon

Here, Amazon gives a cheaper option for a check-in suitcase upgrade. This suitcase has a fully lined interior with a divider, a polyester interior organiser with three zippered pockets for optimal organisation.

American Tourister Light Max 69cm Spinner Suitcase

$207 | Myer

The American Tourister Light Max is one of the brand’s lightest cases that doesn’t sacrifice space. It has premium features like interior organisation, an expandable zipper, and a TSA combination lock. It also comes with fun personalisation stickers, so it’s easier to spot your suitcase when it hits the luggage belt.

Antler Medium Luggage Single Stripe

$241.50 | Antler

If you’re big on personalisation and bringing a bit of fun to your travels, this Antler suitcase could be a suitable option for you. Not only are there 11 different colour cases to choose from, but you can also mix and match colours by wrapping an Antler luggage strap around the central stripe.

Samsonite Hard Side Spinner Suitcase Oc2Lite 75cm

$279 | Myer

Continuing with the popular Oc2Lite shell, Samsonite’s lightweight and durable case includes expanders so you can fit more (up to 113L) inside. It also features anti-theft zippers, dual spinner wheels, and a built-in TSA lock.

Samsonite Oc2Lite Expandable Extra Large Suitcase 81cm

$499 | David Jones$299.40 | Samsonite

And if you’re a fan of the Oc2Lite design but always need more space, consider the 81cm version as it holds up to 141L.

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What’s best, hard-shell or a soft suitcase?

The choice completely depends on the type of packer and traveller you are. While hard shells are the better option for protection, water resistance, and security, soft-shell luggage offers more flexibility, quick-access pockets, and is easier to squeeze into the tight overhead compartments.

Do hard-shell suitcases crack easily?

High-quality hard-shell suitcases don’t crack easily, and if it does, they often have a warranty to fall back on.