The best hard shell suitcases UK 2023

Pros: The price, the colour range

Cons: ABS can be prone to scuffing

Dimensions: 75cm x 47cm x 31cm

Weight: 4.8kg

Warranty: 10 year warranty

This is the largest suitcase from Nere’s bestselling Stori range, providing ample storage for two-week plus trips, and it’s further expandable to help you squeeze in all the souvenirs you’ve picked up throughout your travels. An ABS hard shell outer should keep belongings well-protected in the hold, and there are two additional pockets inside, as well as the roomy clothing compartments. It comes in the full array of the brand’s signature pastel colours, and there are matching smaller cases – including full sets – that can be stored neatly inside when not in use. A TSA lock provides extra peace of mind, as does the 10-year warranty – impressive given the very reasonable price point. If you’re looking for an inexpensive case that will see you through longer holidays, this one’s hard to beat.

Pros: The price, removable packing divider

Cons: Prone to scuffing and scratches

Dimensions: 81.5 cm x 54cm x 34.5cm

Weight: 5.1kg

Warranty: 10 year warranty

The largest of Antler’s popular Stamford range, the large case can store the brand’s medium and cabin bags inside, making buying the set an ideal option if you’re in need of multiple sizes. As with the whole Stamford range, the case is made from sturdy polycarbonate, and features high-quality 360 degree spinner wheels. There’s plenty of room in this generous size, but if you need more, the expandable zip offers 5 centimetres of extra space. Inside, there are three zip up compartments on one side, as well as a divider on the other that sits under the compression straps and is fully removable. For those that want even more organisation, the brand also has a range of packing cubes designed to fit perfectly.

Pros: Carbon-neutral, interior compression, unlikely to scuff, stylish design

Cons: None that we can see

Dimensions: 71.7cm x 46.3cm x 27.9cm

Weight: 4.6kg

Warranty: 10 year limited warranty

The look of Paravel’s Aviator luggage collection alone is enough to make it a winner – a textured shell available in five different shades with contrasting leather trim, plus the option to add a monogram to the trim as well. But in addition to the aesthetic, this case is also the world’s first carbon-neutral suitcase. Not only are most of the materials recycled, from the lightweight polycarbonate to the aluminium handles, the zippers and even the vegan leather, but the brand offsets all carbon emissions generated by creating and shipping the Aviator Grand to you, as well as the estimated emissions of its first trip with you.

Pros: Both sides can be fully zipped up

Cons: No compression straps, handle can be temperamental

Dimensions: 77.4cm x 49.5cm x 30.4cm

Weight: 4.5kg

Warranty: Lifetime limited warranty

A great value case, Travelpro Maxlite’s comes with all of the classic features (TSA-approved lock, 360 degree spinner wheels), but with a few extra impressive bells and whistles as well. One clever addition is the polycarbonate hard shell has an impact absorbing finish on it (essentially a 3D-stripe texture), designed to help reduce scuffs and scratches. We also love that the interior lining is made from 100% recycled plastic bottles.

Pros: Multiple colour options, comes with a wash bag and leather luggage tag

Cons: Prone to scuffing, colours sell out quickly, on the heavier side

Dimensions: 73.7cm x 52.1cm x 31.8cm

Weight: 5.6kg

Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty

Trendy brand Away is probably best known for its sleek carry-on case, but its large suitcase is equally impressive. One of our writers actually used this case when she moved countries and particularly loved the in-build compression pad, removable interior lining and the leather luggage tag that it comes with. Another clever feature worth noting is the addition of a handle underneath, allowing for easier grip when you need to lift it, plus the expandable zip that allows for an extra 4.45cm of space.

Pros: Secure compression panels, unlikely to scuff

Cons: On the heavier side

Dimensions: 68.5cm x 47cm x 29cm

Weight: 5.5kg

Warranty: Lifetime guarantee

With three jewel tone shades to choose from, this Briggs & Riley looks great on the outside. Inside it’s even better, particularly if you like to stay organised with multiple pockets. On one side there are three zip-up mesh pockets – one large and two small. On the other are very clever adjustable garment compression panels. Instead of the usual zip style, these open out into two flaps and are easily secured together with two buckles, so it’s easier to fit more while still neatly securing everything in place.

Pros: Lightweight, unlikely to scuff

Cons: Expensive price

Dimensions: 67cm x 45.2cm x 24.1cm

Weight: 4kg

Warranty: Lifetime guarantee

As part of the LVMH group, German designer luggage brand Rimowa has some of the slickest suitcases on the market. While they’re probably best known for their aluminium cases, the check-in medium case is made from an ultralight polycarbonate shell that comes in four different glossy shades and one matte. While not every traveller will be open to the high price tag, if you’re a frequent flyer looking for the best in looks and function, this is a worthy investment.

Pros: Classic look, three-position adjustable handle

Cons: Leather trim requires more maintenance to clean, no compression straps

Dimensions: 76cm x 53cm x 29cm

Weight: 4.6kg

If we had to pick our favourite luggage in terms of timeless looks, it would be Brics’ Bellagio range. The classic cream case with tan leather trim – even the enlarged spinner wheels are tan – is the epitome of Italian elegance. While the case looks timeless, it does feature a range of modern details such as a water repellant zip with TSA-approved lock and an adjustable handle.

Pros: Weight limit indicator, unique interior pocket design

Cons: None that we can see

Dimensions: 71.1cm x 40.6cm x 27.9cm

Weight: 5.4kg

Warranty: Lifetime limited warrant

Beis Travel has paired their sleek minimalist design with plenty of storage space for their 26” check-in roller. The case has an expandable zip that allows for 5 centimetres of extra room, as well as a very clever weight limit indicator to ensure you don’t overpack. To use it, simply lift the case up and if the indicator next to the handle goes red, the case is over the weight limit. Inside, the case has a great range of zip up compartments and pockets as well as compression flaps and straps, plus a built-in laundry bag labelled ‘dirt bag.’