Suitcases

Derkster

I have had the same suitcases for about 8 years and they have now been sent to the tip.

I went to Cheshire Oaks yesterday and had a look at the samsonite cases, they looked really good and felt the part. I also went to local market near me and saw some cases that was lighter and half the price. My initial thoughts are that the lighter cases will damage easier as the materials won't be as robust and you also get what you pay for. Is this right though.?

Are Samsonite cases that good?

rousetafarian

I've had a hard plastic Samsonite case for a decade that has been through mill never mind airport handling, only this year did the main locking clasp snap, so they are excellent and durable IMO.

If weight is a concern you should try the Tripp brand of suitcases (Debenhams frequently have them on sale) or if budgets are much higher look out for Tumi.

I'd never go for a fabric material type case, plastic every time.

Derkster

Thanks for this.

Interesting you say plastic though, I thought fabric was the way to go. Does the plastic add much too the weight?

adam-burnley

I borrowed a samsonite case last year and was impressed enough to buy two, from the Cheshire oaks store funnily enough.

Got fed up with cheaper brand cases splitting at the corners, you know, where the baggage handlers probably drop them!  The Samsonite ones seem more sturdy in the corners, so hoping they will last a bit longer.

Only used them on one holiday so far, so can't vouch for longevity, although the integrated lock on one of them refused to unlock when we got back home.  Managed to get it open after about 30 minutes though.  Shame as the locks with the cable seem a good design.

rousetafarian

Not really tbh, it's the other half's shoes that does that

Derkster

To be honest the cases I had a look at had integrated locks and the first thing I thought was what happens when they refuse to open.

They did look good cases though and I could see why they are highly rated but I wasn't sure if I was paying for a name

Derkster

Hahaha....

I know the feeling, I will have a look at the plastic ones as well then. Thanks for the heads up.

adam-burnley

I've always thought that too, but must of spent three times as much on cheaper brands over the years, so though I'd try the so called market leader.  Time will tell I guess.

Oh and I prefer fabric to plastic, I've seen too many cracked ones on the conveyor belt.  They seem to be a little heavier too, and hold less volume I think.  Never owned one though, so not talking from personal experience, just what I've seen in the store.

adam-burnley

I probably should have said that one of the cases was just for the wife's shoes, most of which go unworn.

Derkster

Thanks pal.

I will weigh it up against roustefarian has mentioned. But Samsonite looks the way to go. It's just the lock that worries me.