Here's why you need a zipperless suitcase

Have you ever noticed while travelling that zipping up your suitcase can be strangely difficult?

My last big holiday was a fast-moving trip through Europe, and I got very tired of sitting on my suitcase every few days to get it to close. Zippers are notoriously unreliable – often breaking, sticking, or slipping off their runners. And if you're travelling in bad weather, heavy rain can do some damage to their effectiveness.

With this realisation, we're taking a closer look at zipperless luggage. Trunk-style suitcases look old-fashioned, but they're often a lot more durable than zip-up options. We've picked out seven options you might want to choose from when it comes time for your next luggage upgrade.

It's worth noting that these options are pricey, but many of them come with a warranty. And if you're an avid traveller, you'll want to get years and years out of your suitcase with no broken-zip interruptions.

NOTE: Prices are accurate at time of publishing.

Samsonite Essens Suitcase

Was $649, now $389.40

Our top pick is the Samsonite Essens Suitcase, which makes for a great zipper-free option. It's lightweight at just 3.8kg but still offers an 88-litre capacity. It has a three-point locking system for seamless opening and closing, plus a durable exterior made from recycled materials. The Essens has a 10-year global warranty, which means you can take it to a Samsonite store anywhere in the world if you're travelling and discover you have an issue with the case.

You can get it today for 40 per cent off!

Monos Hybrid Check-In Large Suitcase

$557 here

Marrying the best parts of aluminium and polycarbonate luggage, the Hybrid Check-In Bag from Monos is ultra-tough. Made from an aerospace-grade, water-resistant polycarbonate hard shell, it has an anodised aluminium frame and corner guards. The traditional outer zipper is replaced with two latches with integrated TSA-accepted locks, so you don't have to zip around the exterior to access the contents.

While it's pricey for a suitcase, Monos gives a lifetime warranty so you can be sure you won't run into any issues.

American Tourister Lockation Suitcase

$419 | The Iconic

Lockation from American Tourister is another sleek, zipperless option that offers a stable frame and a simple, four-wheel glide. It's made from the brand's trademarked Xtrasecure frame technology, which keeps it super light (4.1kg), and Optimov shock-absorbing wheels that add to its durable nature. Best of all, it has just a one-click lock.

Like the Samsonite case, customers can also enjoy a 10-year global warranty on their American Tourister case.

July Checked Plus Trunk

$645 | July

This July case is ideal for anyone who travels a lot, with a 110-litre capacity. The trunk-style design has a 50/50 lid opening, so you can split your packing however you like. It's made from a crush-proof glazed German polycarbonate shell and has a telescopic handle with 20 multi-stop height options.

As for the access, it has two integrated one-click TSA latch locks and a rivetless anodised aluminium frame for durability.

July also offers a lifetime warranty, making the case worth the price.

Away Travel The Large: Aluminium Edition

Buy yours for $745

The Large: Aluminium Edition from Away is ultra-durable, with an aluminium hard shell designed to withstand rough baggage handlers. It also has internal compression to help you save space, a laundry bag for your dirty, worn clothes, 360° spinner wheels and dual TSA combination locks.

Samsonite Lite-Box Alu Suitcase

$689.40 | Samsonite

The Lite-Box Alu from Samsonite is another sleek, zipperless option. It has the same anodised aluminium exterior as many options on this list, plus corner reinforcements to avoid damage. It also features a spacious interior, silent dual wheels and twin clasps for simple access.

READ MORE: Shop the suitcases recommended by travel experts