Rimowa launched the first polycarbonite suitcase on the market in the year 2000. Since then, the popularity of hard-sided plastic luggage, such as these top options, has increased.
In comparison to leather and fabrics, polycarbonite, a kind of plastic, has significant benefits. polycarbonite baggage provides exceptional resistance to impact, durability, abrasion, and water resistance. Moreover, it is lightweight. This makes poly an ideal material for both checked and carry-on baggage. Additionally, polycarbonite baggage is suitable for road trips, since the bags are simple to remove from a vehicle trunk.
Aluminum baggage provides comparable advantages to polycarbonite luggage. However, polycarbonite has the benefit of being cheaper than metal.
Keep in mind that not all plastic baggage with a hard exterior is polycarbonite. ABS, a composite of three polymers, resembles poly in appearance but is less expensive. The greatest fraud? Durability is compromised by the alternative that is less costly.
Best way to find lost luggage: Apple AirTags
If you’re shopping for an expensive piece of luggage, you’ll want to take extra care protecting your pricey investment from loss or theft. One of the best ways to find lost or stolen luggage is with an Apple AirTag. (We recommend hiding the AirTag inside your luggage so thieves don’t know it’s there.)
Stolen or lost luggage is an increasingly common complaint for air travelers. Apple AirTags will keep track of your bag’s location as it makes its way through the airport, and can help you find a lost suitcase, or at least narrow its location to a specific lost-and-found or storage area.
(For more about how Apple AirTags work, check out our article Apple AirTags: How to find your lost or stolen luggage.)
You’ll get the best per-AirTag price when you buy a four pack. But if you only need one, single Apple AirTags are available.
The best polycarbonate luggage you can get online
We rounded up some of our top polycarbonate luggage picks from brands including Away, Monos, Rimowa and Samsonite, ranging from carry-ons to checked bags. All these picks are reviewer-loved, with four-star ratings or higher.
Rimowa Essential
The first polycarbonate to hit the market, the Rimowa Essential remains one of the most luxurious polycarbonate luggage pieces on the market. Available in different sizes and a bunch of glossy and matte color options, the sleek suitcase comes equipped with a TSA-approved lock, a telescopic handle and a smooth, multiwheel system. It weighs 6.8 pounds.