No more hesitation when choosing a suitcase!
～Hard Case vs. Soft Case: A Thorough Comparison～

  • New Trip

Updated: 2025.03.04
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When preparing for a trip, one thing that always causes a headache is the suitcase, isn't it?

 

Have you ever spent a whole night researching online, wondering, "I hear hard cases are good, but they seem heavy..." or "Soft cases are light, but are they fragile?"

 

This time, for you, we will thoroughly compare the differences between hard cases and soft cases! We'll give you tips on how to find the perfect one for you.

Table of Contents

  • What is a hard case?

  • What is a soft case?

  • See at a glance! Comparison chart

  • Tips for Choosing the Right One!

  • Lastly

  • FAQs

1. What is a hard case?

Materials

・ABS:Lightweight and low cost.

                  Has impact resistance, but is somewhat brittle compared to other materials.

　　　　The surface is easily scratched.

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・Polycarbonate (PC): Extremely lightweight and highly impact-resistant.

　　　　　　　　　　　　　 Flexible and crack-resistant.

　　　　　　　　　　　　　 Transparent finish with a high design aesthetic.

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・ABS+PC: A material that combines ABS and PC, blending the advantages of both.
                          More durable than ABS alone and less expensive than polycarbonate alone.

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・Polypropylene (PP):Extremely lightweight, with excellent durability and water resistance.
                                                       It is flexible and resistant to cracking from impact.
                                                       It is also resistant to chemicals and temperature changes.

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・Aluminum Alloy: A metal with very high strength and durability.
                                             Has a luxurious appearance.
                                             It is heavy and expensive.

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Benefits

Impact-resistant: Your belongings stay safe even when handled roughly on an airplane. Ideal for protecting cameras and laptops.


Excellent waterproofing: No worries even in sudden rain. For example, the "New Trip 1101" repels water effectively.


Luxurious feel: The shiny design allows you to show off a little at the airport.

Disadvantages

Weight: Heavier than soft-sided cases. Can be difficult to lift.


Scratches are noticeable: Glossy types show scratches easily, so those who are concerned should opt for a matte finish.


Fixed capacity: No flexibility to fit "just a little more" when packed tightly.

Recommended for
Overseas travel, business trips with many valuables, stylish trips where appearance is important.

 

Recommended model: New Trip1101
Considering these points, the "New Trip1101" is an ideal example.

 

・Material:

　The middle frame is made of aluminum alloy with a thickness of1.35~1.5mm, which is thicker than conventional 0.7~1mm frames, providing exceptional strength and hardness.

　It useshigh-toughness and high-strengthpolycarbonate (PC) material.

　Highly resistant to impacts, and the matte finish makes scratches less noticeable.

・Trolley handle:

　High-strengthaluminumtrolley handle withmulti-stage adjustment.

・Features:

　Equipped with a Yifeng brandTSA lock that meets international standards.

　Aluminum alloy protective design on all four corners, making it resistant to deformation even if bumped.

　Side design with a smallhook is convenient for hanging small items.

　The interior is made of soft and pleasant-to-the-touchpeach skin velvet material.

Check on the official website

Check on Amazon
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2. What is a soft case?

Materials

・PVC (polyvinyl chloride): A durable plastic material with high water resistance.

                                                          It is relatively hard and has a glossy finish.

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・PU (Polyurethane): Used as synthetic leather, it has a leather-like texture.

　　　　　　　　　　　  It offers both softness and waterproofing.

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・Nylon: A synthetic fiber that is lightweight and strong.
                          It is also abrasion-resistant and flexible.

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・Polyester: A synthetic fiber similar to nylon, but slightly cheaper and lighter.
                                    Offers a good balance of durability and cost.

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・Leather (genuine leather): A natural material with a luxurious feel and unique texture.
                               Develops character with age.
                               Heavy and expensive.

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Benefits

Lightweight: Most weigh 2-3 kg.


Packable: Thanks to their flexibility, even if you buy more souvenirs, just pull the zipper shut.


Convenient exterior pockets: Easily access tickets or water bottles for a stress-free experience.

Disadvantages

Weak waterproofing: Tends to soak through when exposed to rain. A rain cover might be essential.


Poor durability: Easily torn if snagged by sharp objects.


Contents at risk: Fragile items may be damaged by impact.

Recommended for:
Domestic train travel, casual weekend trips, and when you need to flexibly increase luggage capacity.


Model:ace. Rockpaint SS 35701-01

Let's delve into the specific example of the "ace. Rockpaint SS 35701-01."

 

・Material:

It uses polyester 840dn 2-tone oxford.
This lightweight material offers both lightness and durability.

・Interior:

The main compartment utilizes the full depth for bulky items.
The large pocket on the lid is convenient for storing small items.

・Organizer Pocket:

Equipped with multiple pockets for organizing various tools such as pens, notebooks, and guidebooks.

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3.Comparison Chart: See the Differences at a Glance!

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4. Tips for choosing the right one!

If you're wondering which one is better, consider the following:

 

・Purpose of Travel
　For business, a hard case protects valuables.
　If your luggage increases during sightseeing, a soft case offers flexibility.


・Mode of Transportation
　For checked airplane luggage, choose a hard case (check size, within 158cm!).
　For cars or bullet trains, a soft case for lightness.


・Type of Contents
　Fragile items (camera, PC) → Hard case.
　Clothing and soft items → Soft case.

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5. In Closing

There's no single "best" option when it comes to hard cases or soft cases. What matters most is what suits your trip.

 

For example, I prefer hard cases when traveling abroad, but for a weekend hot spring trip, I opt for a soft case for lighter travel. I hope this comparison helps you find the perfect suitcase and start your enjoyable journey!

FAQ

1. Why do you recommend "New Trip"?

New Trip is a brand that provides high-quality travel goods for all those who love to travel. From suitcases to canvas backpacks and practical items, New Trip offers a wide range of travel essentials.

2. What is the size of a carry-on suitcase?

Carry-on suitcase sizes for major airlines are generally H55cm x W40cm x D25cm, with a total of the three sides not exceeding 115cm, and a weight limit of 10kg.

3. Do I need a cover for my suitcase?

While special packing or covers for suitcases are not mandatory, please be aware that the suitcase itself is considered a packing material, and therefore, it may acquire scratches or dirt.

Additionally, in case of rain, there are also waterproof suitcase covers available.

4. Can I repair the wheels of my suitcase myself?

While it's possible to repair suitcase casters yourself, it's often difficult to find replacement parts that are the exact same size and design as the original casters. Therefore, it's recommended to have the manufacturer or a professional suitcase repair shop handle the repairs.

5. Do I need a luggage strap?

A suitcase strap is a travel essential for anyone who wants to easily spot their luggage.

It also serves as an effective marker to prevent mix-ups on the baggage carousel, especially when many suitcases look alike.

Recommended Suitcases

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・100% PC body

・Aluminum TSA frame lock

・360° rotating silent casters

・Multi-stage adjustable aluminum telescopic handle

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