Hardside suitcases

Looking for a suitcase that looks sleek and offers amazing protection? Our hardside collection is exactly that—it combines durability with modern style. A hardside suitcase is the top pick for travellers who love a structured case that really protects what’s inside. Whether you need a small case for a quick weekend away or a large one for a big holiday, you'll find plenty of options that are easy to move and packed with practical features. And don't think 'hard' means 'heavy'! We have lots of surprisingly lightweight hard shell designs, so you’ll find plenty of choices that won't weigh you down.

Why Choose a Hardside Suitcase?

A hardside suitcase is more than just tough on the outside. Inside, you will find organised compartments and packing straps to keep everything in place. The solid shell helps protect against bumps and knocks, making these cases a go-to for flights and longer journeys. From classic colours to bold patterns, there is a style for everyone. Travellers who want timeless simplicity often choose a black version, while others go for vibrant colours that stand out on the carousel. Whichever you pick, an American Tourister hard shell suitcase guarantees trusted quality and fun design.

Built to Last: What Makes Them So Durable?

The strength of a hardside case comes from its high-tech materials. Many of our designs are made using polypropylene or ABS, known for being lightweight yet incredibly resistant to impact. Polycarbonate is also popular for its balance of flexibility and toughness, helping the case absorb knocks without breaking. Reinforced corners, strong zips and protective finishes all add to the reliability, giving you peace of mind when checking in your luggage.

Surviving the Journey

One of the biggest advantages of a solid suitcase is how well it handles the wear and tear of travel. Airports, transfers and long-haul trips can be tough on luggage, but our hardside designs are created to absorb shocks and bounce back. They are especially popular with travellers who carry fragile items, since the sturdy shell provides a layer of defence that softer luggage cannot always offer. Despite their strength, these cases remain impressively light and easy to manoeuvre, so you never have to compromise on comfort.

Are Hardside Suitcases Waterproof?

The shells of our hardside suitcases are crafted from high-performance materials like 100% Polypropylene, which is inherently waterproof. Because this material is non-porous and hydrophobic (water-repelling), rain, snow, and spills bead up and roll right off. With an extremely low moisture absorption rate (less than 0.01%), the shell provides excellent defence against the elements. Plus, many models feature water-resistant zipper protection, ensuring your belongings stay dry even if you get caught in a shower.

Myth Buster: Are Hard Shell Suitcases Heavy?

This is one of the biggest myths in travel. Thanks to advanced manufacturing, many of our hardside cases are actually as light—or sometimes even lighter—than their softside cousins. Modern hardside cases are designed with weight in mind, so you get all the protection without worrying about airline weight limits. Four-wheel spinner systems ensure your case glides effortlessly through terminals, so even a packed large suitcase feels manageable. Collections like Airconic show just how far suitcase design has come, offering a strong hard shell that is one of the lightest in its class.

Sizes for Every Trip

Hard shell luggage is available in every size. For short breaks, a hard shell cabin suitcase is the perfect carry-on companion. If you need something versatile, a medium suitcase is ideal for week-long trips, while a large suitcase offers plenty of capacity for extended holidays or family travel. You can also explore small suitcases if you prefer compact luggage for light packing. All sizes are designed with smooth wheels and expandable options, making them easy to adapt to any journey.

Hardside vs Softside: Which is Better?

There's no single 'better' option—only what's better for you. Hardside luggage is the clear winner for ultimate protection and a sleek, easy-to-clean shell. It is especially popular with travellers who check in fragile items or want a modern look. Here are the key advantages of going hard:

  
• Strong protection: Keeps belongings safe from knocks and bumps.
  
• Structured shape: Always looks sleek and doesn't bulge.
  
• Easy maintenance: Simple to clean and wipe down after travel.
  
• Bold style: Often available in brighter colours and glossy finishes.

However, if you prefer flexibility, lighter weight and external pockets for your passport or book, softside suitcases might be your perfect match.

Colours and Styles to Suit You

Choosing a hardside suitcase is not only about strength, but also about personality. With so many colour options available, you can go as bold or as subtle as you like. A black hard shell suitcase is a timeless choice for those who prefer a classic look, while colourful models help you spot your luggage instantly on the baggage carousel. From glossy finishes to matte textures, our range makes sure you never have to settle for boring luggage again.

Our Bestselling Hard Shell Collections

When it comes to choosing a solid suitcase, many travellers turn to our signature collections. Each one is designed with its own character, so you can find the look and features that suit you best. Explore some of our most popular ranges below:

  
• Soundbox – playful colours and iconic design, with expandable options for extra packing space.
  
• Airconic – an ultra-lightweight hard shell suitcase range, perfect if you want strong protection without extra weight.
  
• FastForward – bold looks and practical features, built for everyday adventures.
  
• Soundbox Alu – a premium twist on the Soundbox favourite, with an aluminium finish for extra style and durability.
  
• Dashpop – lightweight and fun, a great choice for playful travellers who love colour.
  
• Starvibe – classic design meets modern features, with sizes to cover every kind of trip.