New Trip Editorial Department Last Updated: 2026.06.26

Suitcase Material Guide and Selection Tips | Choosing the Right Material for Your Travel Style

Title

When choosing a suitcase, it's easy to focus on size and design,

but a major factor that actually influences usability and lifespan is the "material."

 

Even suitcases of the same capacity will vary in weight, durability, price, security, and how easily scratches show, depending on the material.

For short domestic trips, an affordable material is sufficient, but for international travel or long business trips, it's safer to choose a material that is shock-resistant and better protects the contents.

 

Even at the New Trip editorial department, when asked for advice on choosing a suitcase, we first confirm "how often it will be used," "whether it's for domestic or international travel," and "whether lightness or durability is more important."

 

This article clearly explains the characteristics of typical suitcase materials and how to choose one based on your travel style.

Title

Table of Contents

1. If in doubt, polycarbonate or ABS+PC is recommended.

2. Comparing Suitcase Material Types

3. Characteristics of Standard Suitcase Materials

4. Recommended Suitcase Materials by Travel Style

5. Precautions When Choosing Suitcase Materials

6. Summary

7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

＼500 yen OFF for Readers Only／

Sign up for the New Trip newsletter and receive a 500 yen OFF coupon valid on all products!

Coupon Code: NT500

Simply enter the code at checkout and get your new travel companion at a discount.  

Thank you for registering!

一、迷ったらポリカーボネートまたはABS＋PCがおすすめ

Title

In conclusion,

if you're undecided for general travel use, polycarbonate or ABS+PC hybrid materials are recommended.

 

Polycarbonate is a material that strikes a good balance between lightness and durability, making it suitable for a wide range of trips, from domestic to international. It has the characteristic of being resistant to cracking because it flexes upon impact, dispersing the force.

 

ABS+PC is a material that combines the affordability of ABS resin with the crack resistance of polycarbonate.

It is suitable for those who want a certain level of durability while keeping costs down.

 

It's not about choosing the most expensive material.

What's important is to choose a material that suits your travel frequency, travel distance, and luggage volume.

Title

二、スーツケース素材の種類を比較

Title

Suitcase materials are broadly divided into "hard cases" and "soft cases."

 

Hard cases use materials such as ABS resin, polycarbonate, and aluminum. They are characterized by their hard exterior, which is effective at protecting the contents.

 

Soft cases use fabric materials such as nylon and polyester. While they are lightweight and have many exterior pockets, making it easy to access items, they may be inferior to hard cases in terms of waterproofing and security.

 

A comparison of representative materials is as follows:

素材 軽さ 耐久性 価格 防犯性 向いている人
ABS樹脂 ○ △ ◎ ○ 短期旅行・低予算重視
ポリカーボネート ◎ ◎ ○ ○ 海外旅行・長く使いたい人
ABS＋PC ○ ○ ○ ○ コスパ重視
アルミニウム △ ◎ △ ◎ 防犯性・高級感重視
ソフトケース ◎ △〜○ ○ △ 出張・国内移動中心

Generally, polycarbonate is the easiest material to handle if you're looking for a balance of lightness, durability, and price.

If you want to keep costs down, ABS + PC is a good option, while aluminum is a candidate if security is a priority.

Title

三、定番スーツケース素材の特徴

Title

ABS樹脂

ABS resin is a plastic material commonly used in affordable suitcases.

It is also used in home appliances and car parts, making it a familiar material in daily life.

Its biggest appeal is its low price.

 

It is often used in suitcases costing around 10,000 yen,

making it suitable for first-time suitcase buyers or those who travel occasionally for short trips.

 

On the other hand, compared to polycarbonate, it is less flexible and tends to crack when subjected to strong impact.

If you plan to check your luggage frequently for international travel or want to use it for a long time, its durability might be a concern.

Recommended for

  • Those who mainly travel domestically
  • Infrequent users
  • Those on a budget
  • Those looking for a secondary suitcase

ABS resin is a practical material if its use is limited to specific purposes.

For weekend trips or visits home, it is a cost-effective option.

ポリカーボネート

Polycarbonate is one of the most popular materials for suitcases today.

Lightweight and impact-resistant, it can be used for everything from domestic to international travel.

 

Its key feature is that it absorbs impacts not just through hardness, but also by flexing and dissipating the force.

This makes it resistant to cracking even when handled as checked baggage at the airport, making it suitable for frequent travelers.

 

Here at the New Trip editorial department, we recommend that anyone unsure about material selection first consider polycarbonate models.

Recommended for:

  • People traveling abroad
  • People who use a suitcase several times a year or more
  • People who want both lightness and durability
  • People who want a material that will last a long time

Because polycarbonate is flexible, it may temporarily dent when subjected to strong force.

However, this can also be seen as a way of dissipating impact, so it's not necessarily a major drawback in practical terms.

If you're concerned about scratches, choosing a matte finish or embossed model over a glossy finish will make scuffs less noticeable.

アルミニウム合金

Aluminum alloy is a metal material often used in high-end suitcases.

It has a substantial feel and a luxurious appearance.

 

Its major attractions are durability and security. Aluminum suitcases are often frame-type models, which are less likely to be pried open compared to zipper types. They are suitable for situations where you want to protect valuable luggage, such as on overseas business trips or long stays.

 

On the other hand, they are heavier and more expensive than other materials. Also, they can get scratches and dents with use. This can be appealing to those who enjoy the "patina" of wear, but it might be a concern for those who want to keep them in pristine condition.

Recommended for:

  • Frequent overseas business travelers
  • Those who prioritize security
  • Those looking for a luxurious suitcase
  • Those seeking a durable suitcase for long-term use

Aluminum is not a necessary material for all travelers. However, for those who value peace of mind and appearance, it is a very satisfying material.

ABS＋ポリカーボネート

ABS + polycarbonate is a hybrid material that combines ABS resin and polycarbonate.

 

It balances the affordability of ABS and the crack resistance of polycarbonate, making it popular among those who prioritize cost performance.

 

It's easier to keep costs down compared to 100% polycarbonate models, and you can expect better durability than ABS-only models, making it an easy choice for a first suitcase.

Recommended for:

  • Those who prioritize a balance of price and durability
  • Those who want to use it for both domestic and international travel
  • Those who travel several times a year
  • First-time suitcase buyers

When purchasing, look for notations such as "ABS + PC" or "polycarbonate blend." It's also important to check the quality of not only the material, but also the casters, handle, and lock components.

ソフトケース

Soft-sided suitcases are made from fabric materials such as nylon or polyester.

They are lightweight, and many models have numerous external pockets, making it easy to access and store your belongings.

 

They are convenient for those who need quick access to documents, laptops, and chargers on business trips.

Additionally, even if your luggage increases slightly, the flexible fabric makes it easier to pack more items.

 

On the other hand, they are inferior to hardside cases in terms of security and water resistance.

There's a possibility of water seeping inside if it gets wet in the rain, and there's also a risk of it being cut with a blade.

Recommended for:

  • Those who primarily travel domestically
  • Frequent business travelers
  • Those who need quick access to documents and laptops
  • Those who prioritize lightness

While convenient for regions with good public safety and domestic travel, hardside cases offer more peace of mind for international travel or situations where security is a priority.

Title

四、旅行スタイル別｜おすすめスーツケース素材

Title

国内旅行：1泊〜3泊程度

Recommended materials are: ABS resin, ABS + PC, and polycarbonate.

 

For short domestic trips, the balance between lightness and price is important.

Since the travel distance is relatively short and there is less luggage, less expensive materials may be perfectly adequate.

 

ABS resin is sufficient for weekend trips or visiting family.

If you travel a few times a year or want to use it for a little longer, ABS + PC or polycarbonate is a reassuring choice.

海外旅行：4泊〜7泊程度

Recommended materials are: polycarbonate, ABS+PC, and aluminum.

 

When traveling internationally, luggage is often checked at the airport, putting a lot of strain on suitcases.

 

Polycarbonate is particularly easy to use. It's lightweight, resistant to cracking, and well-suited for long journeys.

If you want to keep costs down, ABS+PC is an option, and if security is a priority, aluminum is also a good choice.

長期滞在・旅行：8泊以上

Recommended materials are: polycarbonate and aluminum.

 

For long trips, not only storage capacity but also the durability of the body and its ability to protect the contents are important.

The more frequently you travel, the greater the stress on your suitcase.

 

When traveling for an extended period with a lot of luggage, the weight of the suitcase itself is also important.

If you prioritize lightness, polycarbonate is a good choice; if you prioritize security and robustness, aluminum is better.

ビジネス出張

Recommended materials are: polycarbonate, aluminum, and soft cases.

 

For business trips, in addition to ease of transport, the appearance and ease of retrieving luggage are also important.

For those who travel frequently, lightweight and easy-to-handle polycarbonate is suitable.

 

For important business meetings and overseas business trips, aluminum suitcases also offer a sense of luxury and are appropriate for business settings.

If you need to quickly access your PC or documents, check not only the material but also whether it has a front-opening structure or external pockets.

Title

五、スーツケース素材を選ぶときの注意点

Title

耐久性は「硬さ」だけで判断しない

Suitcases are not necessarily durable just because they are hard.

While ABS resin is a hard material, it can crack under strong impact. Polycarbonate is flexible and absorbs impact by bending. Aluminum is sturdy, but once dented, it can be difficult to restore.

When choosing a durable suitcase, it is important to consider resistance to cracking and denting, security, and the situations in which it will be used.

本体重量を確認する

The material directly impacts the suitcase's weight.

Aluminum is sturdy but heavy, while polycarbonate offers an excellent balance of lightness and strength. Soft cases are lightweight but less secure than hard cases.

If you're flying, pay attention to airline weight restrictions. A heavier case means you can pack less.

価格と使用頻度のバランスを考える

If you travel infrequently, one to two short trips a year, ABS resin or ABS+PC is sufficient.

On the other hand, if you travel overseas or go on business trips frequently, you will likely be more satisfied in the long run if you choose polycarbonate or aluminum. Instead of just choosing based on price, considering how often you will use it will help you avoid making a poor choice.

傷の目立ちやすさも見る

Suitcases inevitably get scratched when used at airports and train stations.

Gloss finishes look beautiful but tend to show scuffs easily. Matte finishes and embossed designs are less prone to showing scratches and are more practical for everyday use.

If you want your luggage to look good for a long time, check not only the material but also the surface finish.

キャスターやハンドルの品質も重要

The usability of a suitcase isn't solely determined by its material.

When using a suitcase, you're more likely to experience inconvenience with the movement of the wheels, the stability of the handle, and the ease of use of the zippers and locks.

When purchasing, also check the following points:

  • Do the wheels move smoothly?
  • Are they double casters?
  • Is there a stopper function?
  • Is the handle stable and not wobbly?
  • Are the zippers and frame sturdy?
  • Is a TSA lock installed?

Even if the material is good, if the quality of the parts is poor, it won't be comfortable to use. It's important to choose by considering the overall balance.

Title

六、まとめ：自分の旅行スタイルに合った素材を選ぼう

Title

Choosing the right material for your suitcase significantly impacts the comfort and peace of mind of your trip.

 

If you're unsure, polycarbonate is recommended for its good balance of lightness, durability, and price.

ABS+PC is suitable for those looking to save money, while aluminum is ideal for those prioritizing security and a premium feel.

 

New Trip offers a variety of suitcases to match different travel styles.

Consider not only the material but also features like casters, storage capacity, locks, and expansion functions,

to find the perfect one for you.

Title

よくある質問：FAQ

Q1. スーツケースの素材で一番おすすめはどれですか？

A. 多くの方におすすめしやすいのはポリカーボネートです。軽量性、耐久性、価格のバランスがよく、国内旅行から海外旅行まで幅広く使えます。

Q2. ABSとポリカーボネートの違いは何ですか？

A. ABSは価格が安く、短期旅行や使用頻度が少ない方に向いています。ポリカーボネートはABSより価格は高めですが、軽くて割れにくく、海外旅行や長期利用に向いています。

Q3. スーツケースはポリカーボネートとアルミニウムのどちらがいいですか？

A. 軽さと扱いやすさを重視するならポリカーボネート、防犯性と高級感を重視するならアルミニウムがおすすめです。一般的な旅行ではポリカーボネートのほうが使いやすいでしょう。

Q4. キャリーケースの丈夫な素材はどれですか？

A. 割れにくさを重視するならポリカーボネート、防犯性や堅牢性を重視するならアルミニウムがおすすめです。一般的な旅行用途では、軽さと耐久性のバランスがよいポリカーボネートが選びやすい素材です。

Q5. ポリカーボネートのデメリットは何ですか？

A. ABS樹脂より価格が高いこと、表面に細かな傷がつきやすいこと、薄いモデルではへこみやすい場合があることです。ただし、軽くて割れにくいため、総合的には使いやすい素材です。

Q6. ソフトケースは海外旅行に向いていますか？

A. 荷物の出し入れがしやすく軽量な点は便利ですが、防犯性や防水性ではハードケースに劣ります。治安が心配な地域や長期の海外旅行では、ポリカーボネートやアルミニウムのハードケースがおすすめです。

執筆・監修

New Trip編集部
本記事は、スーツケース・旅行用品ブランド「New Trip」の編集部により制作されました。
製品開発やユーザーの声を活かしながら、ユーザーに合ったスーツケースや、旅行・出張をより快適にするアイテムを発信しています。

Store Events

Related Articles

Free shipping for orders over 2000 yen

All items from our store are shipped free of charge for purchases over 2,000 yen.

Customer Service

Our top priority is to provide high quality after-sales service.

Product warranty

All products are made with great attention to detail.

Secure Shopping

We integrate secure payment methods to ensure your payments are safe.