Comparison of zipper and frame suitcase types and recommended models

  • New Trip

Update date: 2025.12.11
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A suitcase is an essential item when traveling, but the right choice can make a big difference in the comfort or stress of your trip. There are two main types of suitcases: " zipper type " and " frame type, " and each has its own characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages.

In this article, we'll compare these two types and give you some tips on choosing the perfect suitcase for your travel style. Learn which type is best for you and enjoy comfort on your next trip!

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table of contents

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1. Features of zipper-type suitcases

2. Features of frame-type suitcases

3. Comparison table of zipper type and frame type

4. Which is best: zipper type or frame type?

5. Summary

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Features of zipper suitcases

Related article: " How to Use a Suitcase TSA Lock (Part 1) - Zipper Lock "

Zipper-type suitcases use fabric or resin zippers and are often found in soft and hard cases. They have the advantages of being lightweight, expandable, and have high storage capacity, but you need to be careful about security and waterproofing.

1. Benefits

·lightweight :
It is significantly lighter than the frame type. For example, for the same size S, the zipper type New Trip 0201 weighs 2.8 kg, while the frame type New Trip 1101 weighs 3.85 kg. This makes it easier to comply with airline weight restrictions and makes it very easy to carry.

Flexible opening and closing :
Zippered suitcases can be partially opened, making it easy to access your belongings even in tight spaces. Two-way zippers allow for greater freedom of opening and closing, making it easier to organize your belongings.

・Extensions :
Many models feature an expandable gusset, increasing capacity by approximately 20% ( New Trip 0201 ), allowing you to accommodate souvenirs or additional luggage.

・Shock absorption :
The zipper type uses a flexible material that absorbs external shocks and reduces vibrations during transport, reducing the risk of damage to your luggage.
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2. Disadvantages

Low security: Zippers pose a risk of being forcibly opened, making them particularly unsuitable for protecting valuables. For enhanced security, it is recommended to choose a model with a YKK zipper or a TSA lock.

Low waterproofing : Water can easily seep in through the zippers of suitcases, and your luggage may get wet during heavy rain. Even silicone-coated zippers are difficult to completely waterproof, so you need to be careful when traveling to rainy areas.

- Transmission of impacts to the interior <br>Zipper types have a flexible structure, so external impacts are easily transmitted to the interior, so care must be taken with fragile items.
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3. Recommended zipper type

スーツケースおすすめ 特徴 おすすめシーン
New Trip 0201
New Trip 0201 		軽量で40L、短期旅行やビジネス出張に最適。 国内旅行や出張
New Trip 0702plus
New Trip 0702plus 		フロントオープン設計でノートパソコンや書類の取り出しが簡単。 ビジネス旅行や出張
New Trip 0502
New Trip 0502 		大容量+拡張機能付きで家族旅行や長期滞在に便利。 家族旅行や長期旅行

Recommended zipper suitcases
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2. Features of frame-type suitcases

Related article: " The appeal of TSA locks and frame types - choosing the best suitcases! "

Frame-type carry-on cases are hard cases that primarily use an aluminum frame and are designed with durability and security in mind, providing strong protection especially for long trips or when carrying valuables.

1. Benefits

High durability and security <br>The aluminum frame is resistant to deformation and impacts, making it ideal for protecting valuables and fragile items. Its airtight seal protects your luggage from external damage ( New Trip 1101 ). The robustness of the frame is particularly emphasized in terms of security, allowing you to enjoy your trip with peace of mind.

Excellent waterproofing <br>The frame case features a sealed design that protects your belongings from rain and dust. The interior remains resistant to moisture even in heavy rain, making it especially useful in rainy or humid areas. (Compared to zippered cases, the waterproofing is even more superior.)

- Internal protection and organization <br>The interior is protected from external pressure by a sturdy frame, making it ideal for storing particularly fragile items (such as glassware or precision instruments). In addition, some models feature shelf-style storage, allowing you to organize your belongings efficiently.

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2. Disadvantages

Weight: Frame types tend to be heavier than zipper types because they use materials such as aluminum frames. This can be inconvenient on airplanes with strict weight restrictions.

・Need for space to open and close <br>Many luggage have double doors, so they require a large space to handle. It can be inconvenient to open and close in small spaces, so you need to be careful when opening and closing them in hotel rooms, airplanes, etc.

Low flexibility <br>Frame-type bags are difficult to open and close partially, which limits how much you can put in and take out your luggage. This can be inconvenient if you need to take out your luggage in a hurry.

Risks when opening and closing: Many frame-type models use a lift lever, so there is a risk that the contents may fly out if the bag is handled forcefully at an airport, etc. To mitigate this issue, it is recommended that you securely lock the bag with a combination lock or TSA lock.

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3. Recommended frame types

スーツケース画像 特徴 おすすめシーン
New Trip 1101
New Trip 1101 		アルミフレームを使用し、強度と防水性に優れています。貴重品の保護にも最適。 長期旅行や高価な荷物の持ち運びに最適。
New Trip 1302
New Trip 1302 		フロントオープン設計で荷物の取り出しが簡単。内部保護がしっかりしています。 ビジネス旅行や高価な機材を持ち運ぶ際に最適。

Recommended frame-type suitcases
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3. Comparison table of zipper type and frame type

Zipper and frame types each have their own characteristics, and the type you should choose will depend on your purpose and travel style. In this chapter, we'll compare each type of suitcase in the table below to see what situations they're suited to.

特徴 ファスナータイプ フレームタイプ
重量 軽量 重い
耐久性 柔軟な素材で衝撃吸収、内部に衝撃伝達 頑丈なフレームで高い耐久性、内部保護
防水性 中程度、ファスナーから水が浸入しやすい 高い、密閉設計で防水性抜群
開閉の容易さ 柔軟、部分開閉可能、フロントポケット 両開き式、フロントオープン機能（一部モデル）
収納力 拡張機能で容量増加、フロントポケット 棚式収納で整理しやすい
セキュリティ 低め、YKKファスナーやTSAロックで改善可能 高め、フレーム構造で強固
適した用途 軽量重視、短期旅行、ビジネス用途 貴重品保護、長期旅行、壊れやすい荷物
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Which is best: zipper type or frame type?

It's important to choose the zipper type or frame type based on their respective features to determine which is best suited to your travel style. The key to choosing will depend on the purpose of your trip and the points you prioritize.

・Zipper type

Zippered bags are ideal for travelers who prioritize lightweight and easy portability . They're flexible and easy to use, making them ideal for short trips and business trips . Many models also come with expandable features , allowing you to adjust the capacity as your luggage grows.

However, you should be careful about security when it comes to valuables or fragile items . This service is not suitable for items that require strong protection, so valuables will require separate security measures.

Frame type

Frame-type luggage is ideal for travelers who prioritize security and water resistance . The metal frame provides extra strength and excellent protection for valuables and fragile items. It is especially suitable for long-term travel, business use, and transporting fragile items.

However, frame-type lockers are heavier than zipper-type lockers and require a larger space to open and close. They can be difficult to use in tight spaces, so care must be taken depending on the situation.
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summary

The suitcase you choose will directly affect the comfort of your trip.

Zippered bags are lightweight and easy to handle, making them ideal for short trips or business trips, but they have some concerns about security and waterproofing. On the other hand, framed bags are extremely durable and offer high security, making them very convenient for long trips or when carrying fragile items. However, they can be inconvenient in terms of weight and storage.

Choose the perfect suitcase to suit your travel style and make your next trip more comfortable.

For details on recommended suitcases, please check the New Trip official website.

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FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q1. ファスナータイプとフレームタイプ、どちらが長持ちしますか？

A1：フレームタイプはアルミフレームなどで構造が頑丈で、長期的な耐久性が高いです。
一方、ファスナータイプは軽量で取り回しやすいですが、頻繁に使うとジッパー部分が摩耗しやすいので、長持ちさせたい場合はフレームタイプが適しています。

Q2. スーツケースの防水性はどれくらい必要ですか？

A2：防水性が高いスーツケースは、雨や湿気から荷物を守り、特に雪や雨が多い季節に役立ちます。
ファスナータイプではジッパー部分から水が浸入しやすいため、フレームタイプのように密閉性の高いモデルが防水性では優れています。フレームタイプを選ぶ際は、防水性が高い素材を選ぶことをおすすめします。

Q3. 旅行の目的に応じて、スーツケースのタイプをどう選ぶべきですか？

A3：短期旅行やビジネス用途には、軽量で取り回しやすいファスナータイプが最適です。
長期旅行や貴重品を持ち運ぶ場合には、フレームタイプの方が頑丈でセキュリティ面でも安心です。目的に合わせて、サイズや機能も考慮して選びましょう。

Q4. スーツケースのキャスターはどのタイプが安定していますか？

A4：キャスターのサイズが大きい方が安定性が増します。
特に凹凸のある地面や不安定な場所では、大径キャスター（直径5cm以上）が推奨されます。また、ダブルキャスターは安定性が高く、重い荷物でも楽に移動できます。

Q5. TSAロックは必ずついているべきですか？

A5：特に海外旅行の場合、TSAロックは非常に重要です。
TSAロック付きのスーツケースは、アメリカの空港などでセキュリティチェック時に開けられても、中身が壊れないように設計されています。海外旅行を多くする予定なら、TSAロックは必ずついているものを選びましょう。

Q6. スーツケースに使える保証はありますか？

A6：多くのスーツケースブランドでは、製品に対して一定の保証がついています。
保証内容はメーカーやモデルによって異なりますが、基本的に製造不良や初期不良に対応するものが一般的です。購入前に保証内容を確認しておくと、万が一のトラブルにも安心です。

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