Traveling is one of my favorite hobbies, and I like to think I’m versed on what makes a great piece of luggage. Of course we all have our own individual preferences, but I’m sure we can all agree that functionality and durability are two of the most important tenants when looking for the right suitcase.
In a normal year, catch me at the airport traveling every other month (check out my latest travel guide here). I often check my bag, so it’s important to me to have a suitcase that can withstand being thrown around, and tolerate ample uses.
Spinner suitcases are super popular now, and for good reason. They’re so much easier to maneuver! So when my friends at Vera Bradley sent me this , I put them to immediate use and have been super impressed. Read on for my hardside spinner luggage review.
Vera Bradley Hardside Spinner Luggage Review
Durability
Hardside luggage is definitely much more durable than their fabric counterparts. I’ve pretty much made the complete switch to hardside suitcases in the last four or five years, because they look like new much longer. They’re also slower to stain or show wear from use.
I’ve owned a few different hardside suitcases by a variety of brands, but to be honest, they really haven’t held up very well. One brand, on its first use came out of the luggage carousel completely dinged up and with a huge gash in the side. Another simply cracked after a handful of uses.
With that being said, I’ve been really impressed with the Vera Bradley hardside spinner luggage. They’re lightweight; the carry-on size is around 7 lbs. and the large suitcase is about 9.5 lbs unpacked.
I’ve now used both suitcases for road trips along with checking them on my flights, and I’ve been really impressed with how each has stood up to use. Knowing how hard airlines are on checked suitcases, it’s somewhat of a miracle when bags come out on the carousel unscathed. Both of my Vera hardside suitcases are super durable and still look like new after a handful of uses.
FUnctionality
How did we previously travel without spinner wheel luggage? They’re one of those small, yet substantial inventions that make maneuvering luggage that much easier.
On the Vera Bradley hardside spinner luggage, the easy-rolling swivel wheels make it easy to get through tight aisles on airplanes or around crowds at the airport. Instead of being restricted to simply pulling the suitcase behind me, I can roll it next to me when walking. I know this seems simple, but there’s something about having access great maneuverability on a suitcase – it makes all the difference!
Most recently I used the and brought it with me on my flight. It’s a small, yet mighty little suitcase. It traverses down the narrow airplane aisles easily, without bumping into any fellow passengers. Plus, it rolls smoothly alongside when walking through the airport. The telescoping handle drops down easily and comes up smoothly, too.
Interior Capacity
I’ve been pleasantly surprised with the interior capacity of these suitcases. The lay flat style features two easily accessible sides. The left side has a zip-close mesh overlay and a zip-closure pocket, and the right side features a zip-close mesh overlay. It lays over a set of compression straps that fasten to hold your items securely.
I like to use the compression strap side to pack my clothing and packing cubes. Whereas the opposite side I use for toiletries and shoes. Plus, I readily admit I can be an overpacker, but both the large suitcase and small carry-on suitcases fit a ton. Both also have a expandable option to allow for additional space.
Do you have a suitcase you love? Tell me in the comments below!
