This page details the specific criteria we use when reviewing rolling suitcases. Each criterion has a weight that contributes to the overall score. Learn more about how our scoring system works.

Scoring Overview

Each criterion below is weighted as a percentage of the total score. We evaluate each product on a scale of 1 to 5 for every criterion, then multiply by the weight to calculate the final rating.

Maneuverability & handling (14%)

This is the number one determinant of suitcase quality. I’m evaluating wheel performance across different surfaces like airport tile, pavement and carpet. I’m checking straight-line tracking to see if the bag drifts when you’re walking. I’m testing cornering stability because poorly balanced bags fall over in turns. I’m assessing tip-over resistance when the bag is fully packed versus lightly packed. I’m also listening to noise level since cheap wheels are loud and annoying in quiet airport terminals.

Organization & access speed (13%)

How fast can I reach what I packed? I’m checking front pocket utility, especially for carry-ons. I’m evaluating internal divider design, comparing mesh versus solid dividers and full versus half dividers. I’m testing wet and dry separation options for laundry and toiletries. I’m assessing compression system quality, looking at straps versus panels. Some suitcases include laptop access in front pockets, so I’ll score that when it exists. Most suitcases don’t include laptop space, so this is optional rather than expected.

Materials & build quality (13%)

Suitcases fail harder and faster than backpacks, so build quality matters more here. I’m evaluating shell durability, comparing polycarbonate versus ABS versus aluminum. I’m checking flex versus crack behavior, especially for hardshells. I’m assessing reinforced corners because those take the most abuse. I’m testing zipper gauge and strength, comparing YKK versus generic zippers. I’m evaluating frame integrity since cheap frames warp on flights. This is the you know when you feel it category, but for suitcases the stakes are higher.

Weather resistance (9%)

Suitcases aren’t expected to be waterproof, but weather resistance still matters. I’m checking zipper water resistance, which is important for front pockets. I’m evaluating shell water behavior, comparing how polycarbonate versus fabric handles moisture. I’m testing base and wheel-well protection when rolling through puddles or wet airport floors. This is about confidence that your gear stays dry during normal travel conditions.

Tech pocket & external access (9%)

Most rolling suitcases don’t include laptop storage, so this category only applies when present. I’m checking if there’s a front laptop pocket. I’m evaluating whether it’s padded enough for real protection. I’m testing if it’s travel-friendly with TSA-style access. If the suitcase doesn’t have tech storage, I’ll skip this category or score it as not applicable. This shouldn’t be a core scoring category unless you’re reviewing hybrid carry-on suitcases that specifically advertise laptop storage.

Handle & wheel quality (11%)

This is the second most important category in all luggage reviews. I’m evaluating telescoping handle sturdiness, checking for wobble and flex. I’m testing handle height options since taller travelers need more adjustment range. I’m assessing wheel size and material because larger wheels mean better durability. I’m checking wheel housing protection. I’m comparing pull comfort for two-wheel bags versus push comfort for spinner bags. The handle and wheel system determines whether you enjoy using the bag or fight with it every time you travel.

Capacity & packing efficiency (11%)

The old description about nesting inside a suitcase doesn’t apply to rolling luggage. Instead, I’m evaluating internal volume efficiency, looking at the ratio of usable space to external size. I’m checking flat versus curved interior design since hardshells lose space to wheel wells. I’m testing compression effectiveness. I’m assessing suiter or garment storage performance when included. For checked bags, I’m evaluating long-trip capacity and overstuff protection to see if zippers split when you pack too much.

Versatility for different trip types (10%)

I’m evaluating weekend versus week-long suitability. I’m checking compatibility with backpacks and totes, looking at whether handles hold bag handles securely. I’m testing business versus leisure versatility. I’m comparing two-wheel versus four-wheel suitability for different destination types. This is about how well the suitcase adapts to your actual travel patterns, not theoretical use cases.

Overall value for price (9%)

Where does this suitcase land on price versus what you’re actually getting? Build quality, wheel performance, handle durability and warranty coverage all factor into whether it’s worth the cost. Suitcases take real abuse, so I’m weighing whether the price matches the expected lifespan and repair costs.

Here are our reviews of rolling suitcases that use these scoring criteria:

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