Why you should travel with a space-saving softside suitcase

Hardside suitcases seem to be the popular choice when it comes to luggage at the moment. Offering great construction, bright colours and usually four wheels for maneuverability, they're a great choice. However, softside suitcases come with their own benefits.

Softside suitcases are generally lighter, given they're made of materials like nylon or polyester, rather than aluminium or polycarbonate. There is a range of options that have a four-wheel design, or double as duffel bags for easy carrying.

Softside suitcases are also better suited to certain types of travel. If any part of your trip involves moving around by car, it's easier to stack a suitcase in the boot if its material has give to it. Tour companies will also often request that you pack a softside suitcase so that there's room in their bus storage for everyone's suitcase to fit.

Here are eight softside suitcase options that we love for easy travelling.

NOTE: Prices are accurate at time of publishing.

Samsonite City Rhythm Suitcase 71cm Expandable

Was $465, now $232.50Or get it on The Iconic

Dimensions: H71cm x W44cm x D28cm

A contender for one of the best luggage brands on the market, Samsonite makes trusty suitcases that'll last. The City Rhythm suitcase features a USB charging port so you can keep your phone battery going. It's also an expandable case with dual wheels, making it a simple process to pack all your things and move with ease.

Samsonite Ecodiver Wheeled Duffel 55cm

Get yours for $449

Dimensions: H55cm x W40cm x D20cm

This wheeled duffel makes an excellent carry-on case or a bag for a weekend trip. Featuring a bright yellow exterior, it'll be easy to keep an eye on in busy airports. It also has a convenient water-resistant coating in case you encounter any rain on your travels.

Antler Lightest Large Luggage

$379 on Antler

Dimensions: H81cm x W46.5cm x D31cm

Antler is known for its sturdy hardside cases, but they also create spacious softside luggage. The Lightest Large Luggage suitcase is very lightweight, weighing just 2.7kg. This will make it easy to stay below airport weight restrictions on your next trip.

Gap Trekker 62cm Medium Soft Shell Suitcase

Was $265, now $159

Dimensions: H62cm x W39cm x D28cm

The Gap Trekker features a front-opening flap to allow you to easily access your things. It has a water-repellent exterior and a tough polyester base. It has a two-wheel trolley system and four tie-down straps that'll keep your things securely in place.

Pierre Cardin Large 82cm Soft Trolley Bag

Was $239, now $143.40

Dimensions: H82cm (from base of wheel to top of carry handle) x W41cm x D42cm

Another duffel-style bag, this Pierre Cardin suitcase features 168L capacity and multiple compartments with zip dividers for storing all your things. It features two wheels for rolling, but can also be lifted via the top handle or twin duffel handles.

Samsonite B-Lite 5 Spinner 78cm Expandable

Buy it for $499

Dimensions: H78cm x W49cm x D30cm

Another great option from Samsonite, the B-Lite 5 Spinner features dual wheels and a dual tube handle to make the luggage easy to move. A very safe case to travel with, it features anti-theft zips and a TSA lock. It's also expandable in case you need extra space.

Echolac Japan Kola Soft Side 3pc Luggage Set

$600 for a set of three

Dimensions: small 51cm, 2.3kg, medium 61cm, 3.3kg, large 71cm, 3.8kg

This three-case offer has been discounted from $1000, meaning you can get a triple set for just $600. Each case stands 10cm higher than the one before it, but only goes up a tiny bit in weight, meaning you won't be overwhelmed by airport restrictions. The bright pink colour will also make it easy to spot at the airport.

Lipault Plume Medium Trip Suitcase

Buy it for $439

Dimensions: H63cm x W45cm x D25cm

Another bag you'll easily recognise on the carousel, the Lipault Plume Medium Trip Suitcase is available in both burgundy and khaki. It has a dual-wheel design, but can be lifted with both a top and side handle. It features easy access interior pockets and has a total volume of 63L.

READ MORE: The best duffel bags for your next travel adventure