Suitcase Selection Guide: Hard vs. Soft Suitcases, Which is Best for You?

  • New Trip

Update date: 2025.12.08
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One of the most difficult things when preparing for a trip is choosing a suitcase.

You may find yourself unsure of which suitcase is best for you and which one to choose.

Both hard and soft cases have their own characteristics and advantages, and the way you choose them will depend on the situation in which you will use them.

This guide will help you find the perfect suitcase for your travel style.

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table of contents

1. How to avoid confusion when choosing a suitcase

2. Features and benefits of hard cases

3. Features and benefits of soft cases

4. Criteria for choosing between hard and soft cases

5. Which case is best? Recommendations for different types of travel

summary

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

スーツケース選びで迷わないために

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To successfully choose a suitcase, it is important to first understand the difference between hard and soft cases. Understanding the characteristics of each and choosing the one that best suits your travel style and needs is the first step to making the best choice.

  • Hard cases <br>Hard cases are shock-resistant and recommended for those who want to protect their belongings securely.
    This is especially convenient when traveling with fragile items or precision equipment.
    It is also characterized by its waterproofness and durability.
    It has a stylish appearance and the surface is also stain-resistant.
  • Soft cases <br>Soft cases are lightweight, have a large storage capacity, and are flexible, making them easy to pack with your belongings.
    There are many pockets on the outside, which is convenient as it allows you to expand the storage space.
    It is also easy to handle and does not take up much space when stored, making it excellent for storage.
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ハードケースの特徴とメリット

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Hard cases are a very popular choice when choosing a suitcase due to their sturdy appearance.

Next, we will explain in detail the features and advantages of hard cases, as well as the disadvantages that you should be aware of.

The advantages of hard cases: durability and protection

The biggest advantage of a hard case is its durability and protection .

Especially when traveling, suitcases are often handled together with other luggage, so materials that are resistant to impacts and pressure are required.

Hard cases protect the contents from external impacts, allowing you to safely store important luggage and fragile items.

Typical materials include polycarbonate (PC), ABS , and aluminum alloy , each with its own characteristics.

Polycarbonate is extremely impact resistant and is lightweight yet sturdy.

ABS is relatively inexpensive and has good impact resistance.

Aluminum alloys are even stronger and have a more luxurious feel, and they can withstand long-term use.

Disadvantages and points to note about hard cases

However, hard cases also have some drawbacks.

  • Weight :
    Compared to other suitcases, hard cases can be heavier depending on the material they are made of.
    Aluminum alloys are particularly strong, but they are also heavy.
    If you move around a lot while traveling, it can feel a bit overwhelming.
  • Storage Flexibility :
    Hard cases have a rigid interior, so if you need flexibility (for example, if you end up buying more souvenirs from your shopping trip), you may find that you don't have enough storage space.
    In this regard, soft cases have the advantage of having a large opening and allowing for flexible capacity adjustment.
  • Scratches are easily visible :
    While ABS suitcases are shock-resistant, they are also prone to scratches.
    Especially after long-term use, scratches on the surface can become noticeable and can be a concern.
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ソフトケースの特徴とメリット

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Soft cases are a popular type of suitcase for many travelers due to their flexibility and light weight.

The appeal of these bags is that they are easy to choose based on your travel style and the contents of your luggage, and they can easily be accommodated even when your luggage increases, but you should pay attention to their durability and water resistance.

We will now explain in detail the features and advantages of soft cases, as well as the disadvantages you should be aware of.

The advantages of soft cases: flexibility and lightness

Soft cases are flexible and lightweight suitcases, and their capacity can be adjusted to fit the amount and shape of your luggage. They can accommodate sudden shopping trips or an increase in souvenirs, and they have plenty of room to store even if your luggage increases while traveling.

Lightness is especially important when traveling. Nylon and polyester are common materials used for soft cases. Furthermore, some high-end models use Cordura nylon or polycarbonate , which offer a good balance of durability and lightness. Soft cases are lighter than hard cases and are easy to carry. Another advantage is that the flexible material allows them to easily deform to fit the way you pack your luggage.

Disadvantages and points to note about soft cases

On the other hand, there are some things to keep in mind when using soft cases.

  • May be less durable <br>Soft cases may be more vulnerable to impact and friction than hard cases.
    Materials such as cloth and nylon have low ability to protect the inside from external impacts.
    It may not be suitable for long-term use.
  • Lack of waterproofing <br>Many soft cases have limited waterproofing capabilities.
    The contents may get wet in sudden rain or in humid places.
    To protect against moisture, you will need to use a separate waterproof cover or bag.
  • Appearance tends to deteriorate easily <br>Cloth soft cases are easily worn and soiled during use, so their appearance tends to deteriorate easily.
    Since it does not have a shock-absorbing structure, the corners are easily scratched and damaged.
    Long-term use can make the appearance more noticeable.
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ハードケースとソフトケースを選ぶための基準

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Choosing the perfect suitcase to suit your destination and travel style is the first step to making your trip comfortable.

Hard cases and soft cases each have their own advantages and disadvantages.

It is important to understand the selection criteria.

In this chapter, we will explain the criteria for choosing the suitcase that is best for you.

Choose based on the amount of luggage and ease of storage

  • Hard Cases <br>Hard cases are sturdy and provide excellent protection for items that are particularly fragile.
    The interior is a fixed space, so it lacks flexibility.
    Storage can be a little difficult.
    It's great for carrying large luggage or fragile items.
  • Soft cases <br>Soft cases are flexible and have expandable capacity, making them convenient for trips where you will be carrying a lot of luggage.
    The zipper allows for expansion, making it easy to accommodate extra luggage, and is especially useful when bringing back souvenirs.

Choose for durability and impact resistance

  • Hard case <br>Hard cases are highly durable and resistant to external impacts.
    Hard cases are safer, especially if you are checking your luggage into the cargo hold of an aircraft, as the luggage may be handled roughly.
  • Soft case <br>Soft cases are not shock-resistant,
    Some materials are light, soft, and easy to move in.
    When carrying delicate items, a soft case will encase and protect the contents,
    It can withstand some impacts.

Choose based on storage function and ease of use

  • Hard Cases <br>Hard cases usually have a simple interior with few compartments,
    Organizing your clothes and belongings can be a little tricky.
    Choosing a case with lots of storage features will greatly improve usability.
  • Soft cases <br>Soft cases often have pockets and dividers inside, making it easy to organize small items and clothing.
    They may also have additional pockets on the outside, making it easier to access your belongings.

Choose based on travel style and distance

  • Hard cases <br>Hard cases are generally heavy, which can make them a bit inconvenient for short trips or travel.
    If you are planning on traveling for a long time, we recommend choosing a lightweight bag.
  • Soft cases <br>Soft cases are often lightweight, making them easy to carry even on long trips.
    It is especially suitable for travelling on foot or by public transport.
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どちらのケースが最適？旅行のタイプ別おすすめ

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Choosing the best suitcase to suit your travel style will have a big impact on the comfort and efficiency of your trip.
In this chapter, we will introduce how to use hard and soft cases depending on the type of trip you are taking.
Choose the case that best suits your travel style and make your journey more comfortable and smooth.

Short business trips and business trips

  • Recommendation: Hard case
    For short business trips, we recommend a hard case that is durable and provides excellent protection for your luggage. The excellent shock absorption of a hard case is especially useful when carrying important documents or precision equipment for work. Another important point for business travel is that it allows you to organize your luggage so that it doesn't get scattered inside the suitcase.
  • Reasons why we recommend it:
    High durability and security. Protects contents from impact and pressure. Simple and easy to organize inside the suitcase.

Recommended suitcases:

New Trip 0501 Front-Opening Suitcase

View product details

Luxury travel and cruises

  • Recommendation: Hard case
    For luxury travel or luxury cruises, a sturdy and durable hard case is the best choice. Hard cases are especially useful for protecting fashionable or expensive items, as they offer excellent protection from external shocks. Their sophisticated design also complements your travel style.
  • Reasons why we recommend it:
    Luxurious and stylish. Protects against impact and pressure. Suitable for storing precision equipment and expensive items.

Recommended suitcases:

New Trip 1302 Aluminum Alloy Suitcase

View product details

Domestic trips and weekend getaways

  • Recommendation: Soft case
    For short domestic trips or weekend getaways, a lightweight, easy-to-carry soft case is ideal. Lightweight, flexible soft cases are also convenient for trips that require frequent movement or frequent access to accommodations. They are easy to handle for everyday use, allowing for flexible use.
  • Reasons why we recommend it:
    Lightweight and highly maneuverable, it has ample storage capacity and is designed to be easy to access even when your luggage increases.
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まとめ

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The most important thing when choosing a suitcase is to choose one that suits your travel style. Understanding the characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages of both hard and soft suitcases, and choosing the best case for your trip's purpose and duration, will reduce travel stress and make your trip more comfortable. Choose the suitcase that best suits your travel style and enjoy a more comfortable and safe trip.

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FAQ（よくある質問）

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Q1. ハードケースとソフトケース、どちらが軽いですか？

A1：一般的に、ソフトケースはハードケースよりも軽量ですが、耐久性や保護性ではハードケースが優れています。
軽さを重視する場合はソフトケースを選ぶと良いですが、耐久性も考慮したい場合はハードケースがオススメです。

Q2. ソフトケースとハードケース、旅行時にどちらが収納しやすいですか？

A2：ソフトケースは柔軟性があり、旅行中の荷物の増減に対応しやすいです。
ハードケースはその形状が固定されているため、収納には限界がありますが、整理整頓しやすいという利点があります。

Q3. ハードケースは衝撃に強いですが、重いものを入れた場合、転がりやすくなりませんか？

A3：ハードケースは安定感があり、内部に衝撃を与えることなく保護しますが、重い荷物を入れると、キャスターやハンドルに負担がかかります。
重い荷物を運ぶ際は、キャスターが大きいものや、4輪式のハードケースを選ぶと転がりやすくなり、移動が快適になります。

Q4. ソフトケースは防水性がない場合が多いですが、雨の日にどうすれば良いですか？

A4：ソフトケースは防水性がない場合が多いですが、防水カバーを使うことで雨の日でも安心して旅行ができます。
防水カバーや防水バッグを使えば、ソフトケースでもしっかりと荷物を守ることができます。

Q5. 長期旅行にはソフトケースとハードケース、どちらが適していますか？

A5：長期旅行の場合、荷物の量が増えることが多いので、拡張機能があるソフトケースの方が便利です。
ただし、ハードケースも耐久性に優れているため、大切なアイテムを守るには適しています。状況に応じて使い分けが大切です。

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