The Specific Durable Type Of Luggage That's Considered Best For International Travel

Choosing the right type of luggage for your vacation can easily make or break your travel experience. This is especially true when you consider the fact that different types of trips and different destinations usually require their own set of specific luggage solutions. For example, while a backpacking adventure through Southeast Asia might require a more lightweight, versatile backpack, a business trip to Europe might call for something a little more sleek and professional-looking.

That said, choosing the best type of luggage isn't always that easy — and it can feel especially overwhelming when you take into account all of the different options out there. So, with so many brands and styles promising durability and quality, how do you know what's actually worth the investment? Enter: polycarbonate suitcases.

These hardside suitcases are a popular choice for travelers looking for both durability and style — two of the most important things to look for when buying quality luggage. They have also become a go-to for frequent flyers and casual travelers alike. Ranging from inexpensive to luxury models with prices spanning from around $100 to over $1,000, there's one for pretty much every taste and every budget. Made from strong, lightweight thermoplastic, polycarbonate suitcases typically offer travelers a more robust, hard-wearing solution that can withstand all of the bumps and tumbles of modern travel while keeping your belongings safe and organized.

In terms of durability, polycarbonate stands out as one of the most resilient materials used in modern luggage manufacturing. Designed to handle a significant amount of impact without cracking or breaking, most polycarbonate suitcases can withstand a reasonable amount of getting dropped, bumped, or tossed around without necessarily compromising their structural integrity.

Beyond that, the material's composition also allows it to perform two seemingly contradictory functions at once: It remains incredibly lightweight while providing top-level protection. In fact, most polycarbonate suitcases weigh significantly less than their aluminum counterparts — and can easily handle the same level of wear and tear. This is particularly helpful when you're trying to avoid getting stuck with overweight baggage fees (which often feel like a massive rip-off), without leaving your belongings' protection to pure chance.

Even with regular use, polycarbonate can maintain its structural integrity for much longer than other materials. And while the surface might start to show some cosmetic scratches over time, most of these are purely superficial scuffs that can be easily removed anyway. Plus, they generally won't affect the suitcase's level of protection — or the way you and your trusty suitcase look while you're jetting off to your next destination.