Aluminum Vs Polycarbonate Luggage (2024) – Which Is Better?
Choosing the right luggage is crucial as it can significantly impact the safety of your belongings and the overall convenience of your journeys. With so many options available, we find ourselves caught between the classic choice of aluminium and the modern alternative of polycarbonate suitcases.
This review will explore the ongoing debate between aluminium and polycarbonate luggage. We will discuss the benefits of aluminium and polycarbonate luggage and their disadvantages.
Whether you prioritise durability, weight, or style, we will provide you with the information to make an informed decision when investing in your next travel companion. So, let’s delve into the pros and cons of aluminium and polycarbonate suitcases to determine which material suits your needs best.
Aluminium Luggage Overview & Key Features
Aluminium luggage, made possible by modern technology, is renowned for its incredible robustness and is a great choice for regular fliers or those going on rough adventures. Aluminium suitcases are popular because of their lightweight construction and sleek, sophisticated design complementing any outfit.
Are aluminum suitcases worth it? Aluminium suitcases are a worthwhile investment despite being more expensive than other types of luggage. These luggage are made from durable materials that will keep your valuables safe while you’re on the road. Therefore, it is clear that people who place a premium on durability, style, and time efficiency while travelling would benefit from purchasing aluminium bags.
Polycarbonate Luggage Overview & Key Features
Polycarbonate suitcases, or polycarbonate luggage, are built from a kind of thermoplastic that forms a hard shell over its contents to protect them from knocks and scrapes. Many vacationers favour this baggage since it is lightweight yet sturdy and reliable. Polycarbonate bags are more malleable than those made of Aluminium.
Polycarbonate luggage has become a preferred choice for many frequent travellers who seek a balance between durability and weight. Engineered to be lightweight yet impact-resistant, polycarbonate suitcases offer the convenience of easy mobility without compromising on the protection of your belongings.
What Are The Main Differences in Polycarbonate Luggage & Aluminium Luggage? Pros & Cons
Pros
| Advantages of Polycarbonate Luggage | Advantages of Aluminium Luggage |
| Durability: Polycarbonate luggage is durable, ensuring the luggage remains intact and protecting your belongings from damage. | Durability: Aluminium suitcases offer superior strength and protection for your belongings. With their robust construction and durable aluminium shell, these suitcases are designed to withstand even the most rigorous travel conditions. |
| Feather Lightweight: Polycarbonate luggage offers a lightweight solution without compromising on durability, making it a popular choice for those seeking a hassle-free travel experience. Polycarbonate suitcases are significantly lighter than aluminium suitcases, making handling cargo at airports and on railroads more straightforward. | Robust Construction: The robust construction of aluminium ensures that your belongings receive optimal protection, safeguarding them from potential damage. |
| Sturdy: Polycarbonate suitcases enhance the overall sturdiness, ensuring that your valuable possessions remain safe and secure throughout your journey | Sturdy and Impact Resistant: One key advantage of aluminium suitcases is their ability to withstand rough handling and harsh environments. Aluminium suitcases are known for their exceptional strength. |
| Flexibility: Another quality of polycarbonate luggage is its adaptability. You can carry a few more items with less effort. Due to the flexibility of polycarbonate material, it is possible to carry an additional pair of shoes or jumper without overstuffing your luggage. Because it is flexible, your luggage will not readily shatter or fracture. | Impact Resistant: Aluminum luggage is highly impact-resistant and can withstand rough handling during travel, ensuring the luggage remains intact. |
| Sleek and Good Looking: When it comes to style and appearance, Polycarbonate luggage provides a sleek, modern look that is ideal for both business and pleasure. polycarbonate suitcases have a more casual look. | Sleek and Good Looking: Aluminium suitcases boast a sleek and stylish appearance that exudes elegance and sophistication. The timeless design, often featuring sleek lines and polished finishes, adds a touch of luxury to your travel ensemble. |
| Design and Colour Combinations: Polycarbonate suitcases often come in a variety of colours, patterns and design that complement your personality the most. Whatever your preferred aesthetic, you can find something to your satisfaction. | Scratch resistant: The scratch-resistant nature of Aluminium suitcases cannot be compared to its polycarbonate counterpart. There is an excellent choice for frequent travellers, as its hard-shell exterior is designed to withstand scratches and scuffs. |
| Water and Weather Resistant: Polycarbonate suitcases are sprinkle-resistant and water-resistant, helping to protect your belongings from the elements. | Water and Weather Resistant: Unlike traditional fabric, aluminium suitcases are built to withstand rough handling, extreme temperatures and even water damage. |
| Security: Most Polycarbonate suitcases offer an added level of security with additional features such as dual YKK zippers, TSA-approved lock combinations and luggage tags. | Security: When comparing aluminium suitcases to polycarbonate alternatives, it becomes clear that aluminium provides an added layer of security. With its robust frame and reinforced corners. |
| Easy to Clean: Since they are hard-side suitcases, they are easy to clean with a damp rag. | Easy to Clean: The same goes for the hard-shell aluminium suitcases. They do not need to be washed and can be cleaned with mild detergent and a damp rag. |
Cons
| Disadvantages of Polycarbonate Luggage | Disadvantages of Aluminium Luggage |
| Quality: Polycarbonate is less resilient than aluminium and cannot endure the same severe weather conditions. | Weight: Aluminum luggage tends to be heavier than polycarbonate luggage. This can be a significant factor for travellers who aim to maximise their luggage weight allowance or prefer lightweight options for easy transportation. |
| Impact Resistant: Polycarbonate suitcases have weaker impact resistance than aluminium luggage. While they provide protection for your belongings during international or domestic travel and will stand the test of time, they are still susceptible to breakage | Heavyweight Construction: Aluminum suitcases can pose weight challenges, being significantly heavier than their counterparts made of other materials. This heaviness can make them more cumbersome to transport, especially when navigating crowded airports or manoeuvring through cramped spaces |
| Scratch Resistant: Polycarbonate luggage may be more prone to scratches and scuff marks than aluminium, making it less aesthetically pleasing. | Design and Colour Combinations: Aluminium suitcases often come in boring colours of silver and grey. |
| Longevity: aluminium suitcases tend to have a longer lifespan compared to their polycarbonate counterparts, ensuring their value for money in the long run. While polycarbonate luggage may appeal to those seeking a lightweight option, individuals who prioritize durability and longevity should seriously consider investing in aluminium suitcases. | Potential Extra Luggage: The weight of aluminium suitcases may surpass the weight restrictions imposed by airlines, resulting in potential excess luggage fees. These fees can quickly add up and diminish any initial cost savings or perceived benefits of investing in an aluminium suitcase. |
| Cost: | Cost: Aluminium suitcases are relatively expensive |
Aluminum Vs Polycarbonate Luggage
Top Five Best Selling Aluminium Suitcases
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|---|---|---|---|
Best Checked In Luggage  |
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Best Value For Money  |
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DOMINOX All Aluminum Carry On Luggage
- Product Dimensions: 14.8 x 8.3 x 20.7 inches
- Weight: 9 pounds
- Department: unisex-adult
- Colour: Silver
- Model number: DMZ18
Overview
DOMINOX’s mission is to provide its clients with an exceptional experience. This aluminium case includes a height-adjustable handle that can be moved to one of three positions. The experience of utilising it is cutting-edge and refined with the DOMINOX Hard Shell Luggage.
Special Features
This checked Luggage has a TSA-approved 3-digit numeric password lock with 1,000 combinations for added security and hassle-free to carry the key.
This is an all-aluminium carry-on luggage with 100 percent aluminium construction and aluminium-magnesium alloy bumper corners for enhanced overall durability to protect your belongings.
The aluminium Case has a three-position height adjustment hand lever. The adjustment range is from 11.2” to 20.5”.
- The trolley bar of the Aluminum CarryOn Luggage stretches up and down very smoothly and without jams.
- This aluminium suitcase has four floor-friendly rubber wheels filled with high-quality swivel bearings to enable you to rotate 360 degrees smoothly, swiftly, and silently.
- This suitcase may not fit as a carry-on in all airlines.
TRAVELKING All Aluminum Luggage
- Product Dimensions: 19.1 x 10.4 x 29.1 inches
- Item Weight: 9.7 pounds
- Department: unisex-adult (luggage only)
- Colour: Silver
Overview:
With 100 percent aluminium construction and aluminium-magnesium alloy bumper corners for enhanced overall durability to protect your belongings, TRAVELKING provides a free three-year warranty.
Special Features
aluminium-magnesium alloy bumper corners.
Keyless and Zipperless.
Multi-directional wheels which are shock absorbing, silent, smooth and durable
TSA Approved Locks.
- Dual TSA Approved Combination Locks to ensure your belongings are safe and secure throughout your travels.
- This suitcase has a fully lined interior with multi-use organisational pockets, making it easy to pack and organise your belongings while offering extra protection for your items during long trips.
- The wheels are not 360 spinner wheels
YUEMAI Aluminum Alloy Luggage
- Product Dimensions: 14 x 9 x 22 inches
- Item Weight: 9 pounds
- Department: unisex-adult (luggage only)
- Colour: Silver
Overview
YUEMAI aluminium luggage is made of 5 series Aluminum-magnesium Alloy (aviation level).
The suitcase resists high temperatures up to 1800℉. Meet aviation requirements and it’s built to last for years to come.
Special Features
This suitcase is a 100 percent aluminium magnesium alloy hardshell
Thick aluminium frame and aluminium stepless shift lever
Double-bearing spinner wheels
TSA-approved locks that keep your belongings safe
The suitcase is oxidised and coloured, so it won’t fade.
- The suitcase has a minimalist design but it is spacious on the interior.
- The suitcase features double-sided packing and removable pockets for optimal organisation and ease-cleaning.
- The pull-out handle often gets stuck.
Bamboo Wolf 20-inch Aluminum
- Product Dimensions:13.78 x 9.06 x 21.26 inches
- Item Weight: 12.5 pounds
- Department: unisex-adult
- Colour: Silver
- Model number: BW-201
Overview
This hard shell case has a three-layer construction, including an aluminium-magnesium alloy frame made from Aero-Grade material with brushed finishing and a grinding process. The anti-ash layer protects the surface and extends the vehicle’s life, while the shading layer employs PCCM material for a brighter colour and is not easily deformed.
Special Features
This aluminium-magnesium alloy suitcase is made of Aero-Grade material and features a brushed finishing and grinding process, high strength and ultra-light.
Full Cover with Aluminum-Magnesium Alloy
Bumper Corner Design
360° Double Spinner Wheels
- The bumper corners added on the shell can avoid the case from damage caused by other hard items and enhance its durability.
- The premium wheel shaft of the Double Spinner Wheels has been upgraded with quiet technology.
- Whether you’re on a rocky dirt road or a smooth pavement, you have the option of randomly turning 360 degrees.
- The absence of a zippered closure makes this case ideal for vacations and business travels.
- It easily passes through customs thanks to the two metal locks that are TSA-approved for each luggage.
- You may rest easy knowing that only you and a TSA officer will be able to open your bags thanks to the dual-authorised combination locks.
- The suitcase might only serve for a short period.
Away Luggage The Medium
- Product Dimensions: Exterior measurements 26″ x 18.5″ x 11″Interior measurements 23.2″ x 17″
- Weight: 13.3 pounds
- Colour: Onyx Black
- Department: Unisex
- Model Number: N/A
Overview:
The Away Aluminium Medium Suitcase is the next evolution in airline luggage. With a stunning aluminium hard shell that can withstand the abuse of luggage handlers, and 360-degree spinning wheels that can glide effortlessly through airport floors, railway stations, and cobblestone streets, this suitcase is a must-have.
Special Features
Slow-release handles for easy carrying.
Interior compression system and clip-in pocketed panel to help pack more in
Hidden laundry bag to keep dirty clothing separate
- Durable aluminium shell
- Interior compression
- Does not meets all airline requirements as a carry-on luggage
Top Five Best Selling Polycarbonate Suitcases.
| Image | Product | Features | Price |
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Editor's Choice  |
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Best Carry On  |
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Coolife Luggage Aluminium Frame
- Product Dimensions: 28 x 11 x 28 inches
- Item Weight: 12 pounds
- Department: unisex-adult (luggage only)
- Colour: Silver
- Model number: YD000063D_M
Overview:
This Coolife aluminium luggage is constructed with a high-end aluminium frame and high-quality German Bayer PC material, and it is finished with a brushed finishing and grinding technique that makes it durable and aesthetically pleasing.
Special Features
Adding bumpers to the case’s corners increases the shell’s durability and protects it from damage by the contents you store.
The TSA-approved, deep-frame, double-locking mechanism keeps you safe and sound.
The multi-stage, push-button locking handle and 360-degree spinner wheels make this bag easy to use for people of varying heights.
- Having a TSA-approved combination lock built in gives you peace of mind while still enabling airport security inspections to be conducted.
- The suitcase has a well-equipped interior with ample packing space, mesh pockets and carrying bags built in to help organise essentials better and keep your contents in place and tidy during transit.
- The suitcase is difficult to latch.
American Tourister Moonlight Hardside
- Product Dimensions: 13 x 20 x 30 inches
- Weight: 11.5 pounds
- Colour: White, Black
- Department: unisex-adult
- Model Number: 92506-D773
Overview:
Colorful highlights meet the lightest ABS/PC construction in the American Tourister Moonlight. The lightweight marble suitcase makes quite an impression. The huge inside pocket on the front panel of the case’s expansion allows for more streamlined packing. The quality of this luggage is guaranteed to remain unchanged after one or one hundred uses.
Special Features
You can customise this marble to suit your personality as it comes in various colour assortments, including, Rose Gold, anthracite, and Iridescent Black/ White.
This lightweight luggage comes with four multi-directional wheels to easy movement and manoeuvring.
- The American Touristed Moonlight suitcase is ideal for long trips as it helps maximise your packing and organisation. With an additional 1.5 inch in expansion, all your extra accessories can fit it.
- The luggage opens like a book and the mesh divider and cross straps helps keep your clothing in place.
- The suitcase needs to be handle with extra care as it is neither scratch resistant and it can easily cave under pressure.
- American Tourister falls short regarding durability as some users have experienced issues with the quality of their products.
DELSEY Paris Helium Aero Hardside
- Product Dimensions: 25 x 17.5 x 11.5 inches
- Weight: 10.2 pounds
- Colour: Blue Cobalt
- Department: Unisex
- Model Number: 07647BD
Overview:
The secure and fashionable Helium Aero collection will make your next journey risk-free and feasible. This collection features two complete compartments for storage and is made entirely of polycarbonate. The TSA-approved lock provides utmost security and restricts access to your possessions during travel to TSA agents only. It is also considered as one the the best suitcases with compartments.
Special Features
Constructed from durable polycarbonate
Double spinner wheels
Deep metallic glossy finish
Expandable main compartment
Two full packing compartments
Soft touch top and side handles
TSA-Accepted lock
- Lightweight design
- Spacious interior with organised packing options
- Smooth mobility with four double-spinner wheels
- The zipper easily comes off the track.
Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Luggage
- Product Dimensions: 9.5 x 14.5 x 23 inches
- Weight: 6.7 pounds
- Colour: Purple
- Department: unisex-adult
- Model Number: 56844-2849
Overview
The Samsonite Winfield 2 hardside luggage set with spinner wheels is an extremely lightweight and durable spinner with 100 percentage polycarbonate construction with sharp moulded details.
The suitcase is made to absorb impact by flexing while under stress, then popping back to its original shape, eliminating dents and dings while protecting its contents. An elegant brushed pattern hides any potential scratches or scuffs from your journeys.
The fully-lined interior has cross-straps and a privacy curtain with zippered organisational pockets. TSA-approved combination lock for security and peace of mind. Beautiful brush-stroke colouration is great for hiding any potential scratches or scuffs from your journeys.
Special Features
20″ spinner luggage maximises your packing power and meets most carry-on size restrictions for those travelling domestically and looking to stay light.
side-mounted TSA locks act to deter theft, ensuring that only you or a TSA agent have easy access to your belongings when travelling.
- This lightweight line offers heavyweight protection riding on effortless 360-degree Spinner Wheels.
- 360 Spinner Wheels
- Side-mounted TSA lock ensures your belongings arrive safely to your destination.
- Quality and sturdiness are in question.
Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable
- Product Dimensions: packing dimensions: 19″ x 14.5″ x 9.5″
- Weight: 6.81 pounds
- Department: Unisex
- Model Number: N/A
Overview
The Omni PC combines scratch-resistant textures with the lightest 100% micro-diamond polycarbonate construction. This extremely lightweight and visually impactful luggage offers heavyweight protection riding on effortless 360 spinner wheels and comes with a 10-year limited warranty.
Special Features
It has four multi-directional oversized spinner wheels for effortless mobility and re-engineered lightweight.
It has a book-opening case with a mesh divider, cross straps in the main compartment, and a zipped modesty pocket.
It expands to allow for the packing of more items, and the compression keeps clothing neatly pressed.
The push-button locking handles provide easy manoeuvrability when extended from the suitcase and store neatly inside when not used.
- Extremely lightweight and visually impactful, this collection takes 100% polycarbonate design to the next level.
- Thanks to the hard-side polycarbonate exterior, the suitcase is scratch resistant.
- Its manoeuvrability is unaffected even when you stuff it to the brim; it rolls nicely and turns quickly.
- The suitcase lacks side handles, meaning you can only roll it or carry it in an upright position.
- The suitcase lacks pockets on the exterior, so travellers either have to hold their travel documents or open the whole box to retrieve them.
- Many customers have complained that the wheels are not durable.
Conclusion
As travel enthusiasts, we know how crucial it is to choose the right suitcase that will withstand the rigours of your adventures while providing optimal protection for your belongings. In terms of style, aluminium suitcases exude a sophisticated and timeless aura, appealing to travellers who value both functionality and aesthetics.
While polycarbonate luggage is known for its lightweight nature and flexibility, aluminium luggage reigns supreme regarding durability and protection. All the luggages mentioned in this article are hardside luggage, also check out these options of the best soft and hard luggage.
Finally, it is clear that when comparing Aluminum and Polycarbonate luggage in 2024, Aluminum wins out for its enhanced security features, such as strengthened corners and secure locks. You can rely on these features to guard against theft and damage and provide peace of mind during your travels.
As such, Aluminum luggage is the superior choice over Polycarbonate luggage in 2024.
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Chiamaka is a trained communication professional and a talented wordsmith with a knack for crafting captivating stories about people, products and services that add value . With pen in hand and a mind brimming with endless creativity, she has honed her skills as a skilled author. Her heart truly lies in the enchanting realm of travel. From alluring destinations and travel luggage to awe-inspiring adventures, she has had the pleasure of weaving words that transport people to far-flung destinations. She is passionate about traveling to new destinations and exploring fascinating cultures and landscapes.