TLDR; Looking for a hardside carry on / medium check-in set for ~$300 to $600. TravelPro Platinum Elite and Maxlite caught my eye. Leaning towards Maxlite since I'm new to the TravelPro brand and it's cheaper, but what do you all think? Alternatively, is there another set I should look at (Away / Monos, Level8, etc.)?

Hi! My check-in bag finally tore last week after 10+ years of use, and it's long past overdue for me to get a new carry-on. I've only had softside bags my entire life, so want to explore a hardside (maybe I won't like it but I want to try it out).

This sub seems to be really high on TravelPro (and for good reason, their warranty sounds great), but haven't seen many reviews on the Maxlite set overall. Leaning towards it primarily because it's cheaper and I don't want to spend 2x as much for the Platinum for a brand I've never personally tried, but also don't want to be sacrifing for a large quality difference. Or, are there other brands for $300~$600 that are worth checking out (I unfortunately can't afford Briggs & Riley)?

For context, I plan on using the carry on maybe 1-2x a month and the check-in about 2-4x a year for domestic travel (mainly for work). I do overpack so would appreciate bags that are more forgiving, but not a requirement. I rarely fly internationally, so am okay with luggage that's a bit bigger than European size restrictions. Personally, I'd be happy if the luggage can last me a good 3 years (preferably 4-5).

TIA!

by nenanasainyam

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3 Comments

  1. Get a soft side TravelPro. Hard side luggage can’t absorb impacts the way soft sides can. You can’t go wrong with TravelPro, so choose one that suits your size requirements.

  2. Go with Platinum Elite soft side. I haven’t heard good things about their hard side.

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