Samsonite Base Boost - Spinner L Expandable Suitcase, 78 cm, 105/112.5 Litre, Black

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The black looks amazing, though I would love to see more colour options available (maybe something brighter and bolder). I got the 55x35x20 variant and can confirm that it just fits the Flybe bag checker - you must take care not to stuff the bag so full that it bulges at all, since even a slight bulge would tip it over the limit. The pull out aluminium tow bar is reassuringly rigid and positive in action; the wheels simply glide effortlessly whether vertical or tilted; even the side carry handle is well thought out, being highly comfortable, yet distributing the strain to the frame, rather than the side of the case.

The Samsonite Base Boost Spinner was impressive when put to the test thanks to its low weight (2nd place). Just wish the wheels had some kind of brake system to stop the case rolling away when on an incline/decline or when travelling on the train. Compared to hard-shell cases, the fold-out main compartment takes up much less space when the case is open.The mesh of the inner top compartment has come slightly undone, but that's not a big problem and was probably my fault. With a soft carry handle on the side and a second one on the top, the suitcase can also be carried comfortably. In addition to the main compartment, there is additional storage space at the front and in a mesh pocket.

If the item comes direct from a manufacturer, it may be delivered in non-retail packaging, such as a plain or unprinted box or plastic bag. The difference in weight is fantastic and, as I'm now 20 years older, I'm finding it much easier to handle. It holds all the clothing needed for a few (4 nights) days away and, although I can't judge sturdiness yet, it seems as well made as the older one so I expect it will outlive me. This is a premium brand and the case is quite expensive but you do get a smart and well-designed bag for your money. An internal divider and two elasticated packing straps keep everything securely in place, and a padded front pocket offers easy access to your passport and boarding pass.

But my last family-size softshells - bought in 2004 - finally gave up the ghost this year after sterling service on all holidays across a number of continents, so a replacement set was needed. When not writing, Lauren can be found bargain hunting for pre-loved trinkets and clothes at various car boot sales across the capital.

I won't track you, but Google Analytics and some banner ads use cookies, so I had to install this annoying pop-up. If you have only ever pulled your cases along, then the ability to push them and navigate around crowded airports will be a game-changer. Finance is provided by PayPal Credit (a trading name of PayPal UK Ltd, Whittaker House, Whittaker Avenue, Richmond-Upon-Thames, Surrey, United Kingdom, TW9 1EH). Really, testers didn’t find much to dislike about this suitcase, although it did disappoint somewhat during our water-resistant tests, with some moisture leaking through the exterior pocket.

I have a hard shell carry-on and a suit carrier bought in 1996 that refuse to die and still look good.

The Samsonite Base Boost Spinner 78 cm is a practical all-rounder for private and longer business trips. Please do not feel any sense of urgency based on our data, we exist only to help you save money in a calm and well-thought out manner. Whether you’re jetting off on a holiday abroad or looking forward to a staycation in the countryside this year, you’ll need a quality suitcase for all your stuff. This site or third-party tools used by this make use of cookies necessary for the operation and useful for the purposes described in the cookie policy.

With a big inside compartment, you make the most of the packing space – though I do recommend packing cubes to keep things separate. They are instantly smart, with the clean lines and small touches making an elegant, almost playful impression. This is finished with a slick TSA-compliant lock that makes each zipper pull do double duty as locking tabs.