Please see the article excerpt below regarding the great bag debate...Osprey comes out on top again!
Q. Should I choose a hard or soft bag?
A. Soft bags are more common than hard-shell luggage and are easier to squeeze into overhead compartments. These bags also absorb shock better than their molded counterparts. Soft bags are available in a wide variety of models; for example, you can purchase a carry-on with a zippered backpack attachment, or a duffel that can be either strapped to your back or wheeled through the airport.
Many ultra-lightweight luggage pieces are hard-sided and may help you meet weight requirements for checked luggage. If your tightly packed bag often weighs more than you do, look into purchasing a lightweight bag, which can save you a few pounds. Hard-sided bags also protect fragile items better than soft bags.
Whether you opt for a hard-sided suitcase or a soft one, be sure that you're paying for good quality. Flimsy hard-sided luggage can break or crack under pressure, while cheap soft luggage can tear.
Read more at :
http://www.independenttraveler.com/travel-tips/packing-and-accessories/choosing-the-right-travel-luggage
Q. Should I choose a hard or soft bag?
A. Soft bags are more common than hard-shell luggage and are easier to squeeze into overhead compartments. These bags also absorb shock better than their molded counterparts. Soft bags are available in a wide variety of models; for example, you can purchase a carry-on with a zippered backpack attachment, or a duffel that can be either strapped to your back or wheeled through the airport.
Many ultra-lightweight luggage pieces are hard-sided and may help you meet weight requirements for checked luggage. If your tightly packed bag often weighs more than you do, look into purchasing a lightweight bag, which can save you a few pounds. Hard-sided bags also protect fragile items better than soft bags.
Whether you opt for a hard-sided suitcase or a soft one, be sure that you're paying for good quality. Flimsy hard-sided luggage can break or crack under pressure, while cheap soft luggage can tear.
Read more at :
http://www.independenttraveler.com/travel-tips/packing-and-accessories/choosing-the-right-travel-luggage
