We reviewed Rockland luggage to find out the truth! Is it possible the budget travel companion you’ve always pined for, or is it merely a subpar extravagance? Continue reading for whether or not Rockland luggage subscribes to the hype!
Rockland: When it comes to inexpensive luggage, no other name shines quite as brightly as Rockland. But is affordable necessarily a sacrifice on quality? In this Rockland luggage review, I’ll investigate whether this brand can meet your travel needs.
Whether you fly frequently or are a one-time tourist, you know that the right luggage can make or break your travels. Rockland claims that its luggage is lightweight, stylish and functional, but does it hold up to the rigors of modern touring?
There are so many options on the market that you may be wondering if Rockland is right for you. By the end of this review, you will know if this luggage is a diamond in disguise or just another affordable option.
Brand overview
When I first discovered Rockland luggage, I noticed the price. As a bargain budget traveler, I’m always a little wary of low-end products, especially luggage. Cheap luggage can result in broken wheels or zippers halfway through a tour, a situation I wanted to avoid at all costs.
Rockland carries soft-sided sets, even durable hard-shell cases. What distinguishes them, in my experience, are their bright designs and buoyant construction. If you have ever had trouble finding your black luggage amid a busy baggage carousel, you will appreciate Rockland’s wide variety of colors and prints. It’s a brand that isn’t afraid of personality while prioritizing functionality.
Yet from my experience, despite all Rockland has going for it when it comes to looks and price point, it does come with a couple compromises. For example, the material isn’t the most durable for everyday explorers, though it is lightweight. If you’re heading to the airport a few times a year, Rockland could be great, but if you’re a frequent flier like I am, the wear and tear may start to show sooner than you would prefer.
Affordability
For price, it’s tough to beat Rockland. I’ve tried a range of other brands, but few punch as many ants for the same change. If you don’t want to splurge on luggage, Rockland is the top choice, perfect for casual travelers. Its distinguishing feature in a competitive space is its affordability.
That being said, affordability does sometimes come at a cost. Although I love saving money, I’ve found that Rockland luggage does not tend to hold up as well as finer brands. I would recommend them for light, occasional travel, to get the price savings, but if you’re a frequent flier, a lot of the cheaper materials may not last as long, which is a common point of reference in Rockland luggage review.
But if you’re like me and want a budget-friendly option that doesn’t look or feel cheap, Rockland is a good pick. It’s one of the few brands that combines both style and function at an affordable price. For value-conscious travelers who place as much importance on looks as price, I still think Rockland ranks among the best luggage out there.
Materials and Durability
In hard-shell cases, Rockland luggage typically uses ABS plastic, while polyester is common for soft-sided models. This diversity of materials is a double-edged sword. On the one hand, ABS makes the luggage light and easy to carry, ideal for navigating the airport. Still, I have noticed that it’s not as durable as pricier polycarbonate or aluminum options, so it may show signs of wear and tear at the gate sooner than if you were to travel often with it, as noted in this Rockland luggage review.
Soft-sided models: The polyester is durable for light travel, but it doesn’t protect as well as a hard case. In my experience, these bags do well on road trips or shorter flights, where bags are not roughly handled. If you’re an international traveler, or someone who checks in bags frequently, you might also discover that the materials used by Rockland aren’t up to the challenge of holding up to repeated abuse by airport baggage systems.
All of that said, for the price, Rockland’s durability is par for the course. It’s solid for occasional or casual tours, however I wouldn’t place bets on that thing standing as much physical abuse for non-infrequent use without taking some scuffs or dings in the process. If you do mind some cosmetic wear as the price drops, Rockland may still be worth a look, reflected in multiple Rockland luggage review.
Wheels and Maneuverability
As far as wheels go, Rockland luggage offers both spinner and roller options, although some models have only one. I like the spinner wheels on their hard-shell cases, personally. They slide easily over flat ground, which helps when navigating crowded airports. But around this price, the wheels tend to be rather stiff on uneven ground or bumpy surfaces. If you are the sort of person who walks through cobblestone streets or older airports, you might feel the difference than that of higher end luggage brands, which is something that shows up a lot in Rockland luggage review.
Rockland’s soft-sided models have decent roller wheels, but nothing special. Although they get the job done, they don’t have the same levels of maneuverability as spinners do. I’ve found them to be most useful for shorter trips or anything where you’re not traversing crowded areas.
In my experience, Rockland’s wheels will do the job for this price point but don’t always have the durability or smoothness you’d have with brands that specialize more in premium luggage. If you’re looking for fairly cheap luggage that is up to the task of light to moderate travel, the maneuverability is just fine, but if you travel often, you may want to consider investing in something more heavy-duty, as many Rockland luggage review noted.
Durable Zippers
The common opening system of Rockland bags is zippers: zippers work fine, but are not very stable. The zippers, to my own experience, held up perfectly fine on weekend trips but did not feel as heavy-duty as zippers on more expensive brands. For someone like me, who has been known to max out luggage bags, the zippers can feel a bit strained at times.
Although Rockland can’t match high-end zippers of the kind made by legendary manufacturer YKK, which are well known for their durability — as mentioned by numerous Rockland luggage reviews — the zippers they do have are sufficient for most travel environments. However, if you pack a lot or want a bag that can survive being zipped and unzipped multiple times, you may find that Rockland’s zippers wear out over time.
In my judgment: They’re perfectly adequate for recreational or light business travel, but regular flyers may want to spend their money on reinforced zipper systems, as many Rockland luggage reviews indicate.
Designs and Aesthetics
However, one thing that always stands out among any Rockland luggage reviews are the big and unique looks. Rockland is not afraid to be bold with bright colors and striking designs. Whether you want a basic solid color or a suitcase plastered with polka dots or wild prints, Rockland has choices that will make it easy to identify your luggage on a busy baggage carousel.
This variety is a major selling point, especially for nomadic souls who like to add a little personality to their travel gear. In contrast to many other brands, which favor classic, basic colors, Rockland goes more innovative, so their luggage is a popular option for families, kids and travelers who want to be different.
That said, though the aesthetics are certainly the main star, it’s worth wondering how some of these more eye-popping designs will age over the long run. Referring from my experience, the types of vibrant prints tend to fade out or get scratched quicker than you’d like (generally if you’re a constant traveler). But for the window shopper, Rockland’s playful, fashionable designs offer a bright alternative to the typically black and gray travel bags.
Storage and Organization
Storage and organization are cited as strong points in this Rockland luggage review — which is no small feat in luggage under $100. Rockland luggage’s typically include basic, yet useful features like zippered compartments and compression straps to help keep your clothing in place. In my experience, those features are delightful on short hauls when you don’t need an overly complicated packing system.
The internal layout is functional, though, one thing I’ve noticed is the more laundry, if you get tricked luggage there will be a little more organizing space. For instance, it has fewer compartments for shoes or toiletries or electronics. But for a no-fuss packer like me, Rockland’s system of internal storage is just fine.
For casual travelers or people who don’t need a ton of compartments, I think Rockland luggage is organized well enough. If you’re looking to pack for a longer trip, or if you want a very organized setup, the storage could be a little on the limited side. Yet for the price, Rockland offers a decent functioning product that covers the ground basics quite well.
Weight and Size Options
According to many Rockland luggage reviews, the brand also provides plenty of size choice, offering everything from a compact carry-on to a full-size checked bag. Whether you are throwing in some clothes for a weekend trip or taking a month-long excursion, Rockland has a size luggage to suit your needs. In my experience, this variety allows you to easily find something that works on any kind of trip, whether you’re flying or driving.
Something I personally love is that Rockland fashion luggage is street-light, even with the greater measurements. This is a huge bonus, especially if you’re looking to avoid additional baggage fees or carrying heavy luggage. But although a lightweight formulation is handy, it can sometimes lead to a lack of stability, particularly if you’re an over-packer.
I think: for a range of sizes without the extra weight, Rockland’s flexibility is outstanding. Bear in mind, for example, that lighter materials are often less sturdy, so they aren’t as good for frequent travellers as heavier more durable suitcases. For casual touring, however, the size and weight options are perfectly adequate.
Lock and security
One of the main things people mention in a lot of Rockland suitcase reviews is that there are no special security features. Unlike many mid- to high-range suitcase brands, most Rockland bags do not include TSA-approved locks. This is a big disadvantage, especially if you travel to the airports where you get TSA screening, which I do more often than not.
But just because it doesn’t have a lock built in doesn’t mean you can’t secure your accessories. Personally, I have found my own TSA lock to work remarkably well for me, but it is an extra step. The zippers themselves feel ample but don’t have the detachable anti-theft features you may expect from pricier luggage (think: double zippers or tamper-proof locks).
In my view: if security is a top concern to you, then Rockland could be lacking in this area. But for the casual wanderer who isn’t worried about high-tech locking systems, it’s an easy correction with an added external lock. Still, some indication as to whether you’re comparing Rockland to other brands that offer more integrated security features.
Warranty:
One differentiating factor that arises in Rockland luggage reviews is the company’s limited warranty. Rockland usually provides a 5-year limited warranty against defects in material or workmanship. This is respectable for a budget brand for the most part as this price point. But it’s important to specify that this warranty excludes basic wear and tear or damage due to mishandling, as is standard for most luggage warranty policies.
Based on my experience, a warranty is nice to have, but you might want to manage your expectations. It’s nice to know you’re covered for manufacturing defects, but frequent travelers may experience durability issues over time that won’t be covered. If you only go on a trip every now and again, the warranty should be good enough for casual use.
Overall, Rockland’s warranty is fair for the price range, but it might not offer as reliable a full warranty as more premium brands. For casual or recreational travelers, however, the 5-year warranty provides some assurance without Too much of a hit to the wallet.
Return policy
The brand’s return policy is described in Rockland luggage reviews as relatively simple yet not particularly remarkable. Most of the retailers selling their products such as Walmart or Amazon offer a standard return policy. Generally, you have 30 days from the date of purchase to return the luggage, provided it’s in unused, original condition. This is normal in the budget bag space in my experience, so nothing all that original here.”
One thing to note is that Rockland doesn’t have a dedicated return policy on their official website per se, so you’re generally at the mercy of the retailer’s policies.
If you are one that prefers a brand to offer more flexible or generous returns, then I think this would be a downside. I, myself, have it vital to read carefully each retail’s policy ahead of buying in order to avoid unwanted news.
It’s fine for the average traveler, or anyone seeking budget-friendly pieces, but if you’re someone who would love to get an extended, no-fuss return period, Rockland may not be the brand for you.
Pros and cons for Rockland luggage reviews
Below are the pros and cons of Rockland luggage considering general user experiences and review feedback:
Pros:
- Affordable Pricing: Rockland is known for its economical lines, so it’s a decent pick if you don’t want to pay a fortune for luggage.
- Variety of Designs: Available in a variety of colors and prints, this brand makes it easy to spot on the luggage carousel.
- Lightweight: Rockland luggage has most famously been designed to be lightweight, which classically works for fliers hoping to dodge excess baggage penalties.
- Multiple Size Options: Rockland provides a decent range of size options, from carry-ons to larger checked baggage, making them good for plenty of different kinds of trips.
- Basic Internal Organization: Compared to Rockland luggage, which offers zippered chambers, dividers, and compression straps for ample internal organization, it is a bit more on the casual side.
Cons:
- Durability Concerns: Lightweight materials, including polyester and ABS plastic used in its construction are not as durable as suitcases made with higher-end materials, making Rockland a less ideal option for frequent travelers.
- Limited Security Features: Built-in TSA-approved locks aren’t integrated into most models, so you’ll need to purchase outside locks to keep it attached.
- Mediocre Wheel Performance: Although the spinner wheels creatively tackle smooth grounds, on pitted terrain, they can more or less operate in vain, causing design complaints about how they deal with the pace.
- Basic Warranty: The Rockland comes with a 5-year limited warranty, but it only covers any material defects, not wear and tear, which, for frequent travelers, may not be enough of a guarantee.
- Simplistic Internal Storage: The interior organization is functional but does not have additional compartments for electronics, shoes, or small travel items.
Customer reviews
Analysis of different Rockland luggage reviews shows mixed responses from those who purchased it based on the individual traveler’s needs and expectations. The price tag and trendy designs are well received by users. Occasional travelers or those seeking lightweight, colorful luggage often sing Rockland’s praises for delivering perfect value for money. One continued highlight is that the luggage’s unique patterns and colors make it easy to find on the baggage carousel, which is a great perk for families and casual travelers.
On the downside, as Rockland luggage popularity has increased, some customers have reported durability concerns. Frequent travelers, however, report that while the suitcase is lightweight, it may not stand the test of time. Cracked hardshell cases, broken zippers and damaged wheels are all common complaints from customers who travel a lot or are hard on their luggage.
So: based on these reviews, I think Rockland would be just the ticket if you’re someone who only travels a few times a year — rather than a seasoned globetrotter.
In summary: Rockland reviews for luggage are generally consistent with the performance you get for the price. Rockland can be a decent bet for soft-sided, casual travel, but if you are going to be using it for more heavy-duty travel you might want something more stable for the price.
Price and value
One common point of praise in many a Rockland luggage review is the competitive price point of the brand, which makes for a good option for those who pack on a budget. Rockland’s suitcases typically run anywhere from about $50 to $150, which is impressively lower than many other brands on the market. That trick has been a huge selling point, especially for those looking to buy luggage with a high-end aesthetic on a budget.
The value for the price you get is, in my view, usually quite good — especially for casual wandering types who don’t need heavy-duty luggage. Vibrant designs and adequate functionality for short tours secure a perfect family or infrequent flyer mid-range option. But if you’re either someone who travels often or someone who gives their suitcase a workout, I would consider spending a little more for a brand that offers better features and durability.
Overall, Rockland has fantastic initial value for the price, but prospective buyers should consider how often they travel and whether or not they want resilient, long-lasting luggage. If you travel a few times a year, Rockland might make a great match, but for frequent travelers, the lower price may be accompanied by sacrifices in durability.
Frequently ask questions about Rockland luggage reviews:
1. Is Rockland luggage durable?
So just from what I notice using Rockland luggage personally, the stability should be average enough for vacation travelers. I’ve gone on a couple of trips with my Rockland suitcase and while it fared decently during lighter travel, I saw some scuffing after a few longer voyages. The materials, typically a blend of rugged polyester or ABS plastic, offer a decent light-and-tough-as-nails mix, but they aren’t as strong as those in pricier brands.
I’ve read other consumers who have mixed reviews. Many, though, love the low price and good looks, but some have complained about issues such as zippers and wheels wearing over time.
In conclusion, I believe Rockland luggage is the ideal option for someone who only travels occasionally or has a limited budget. But if you are one who plays with a heavy tour schedule, you might want to save for a more durable brand.
2. What materials are used in Rockland luggage?
Rockland luggage is specifically created from a combination of materials meant to offer a balance of weight and durability. Materials used include (most common):
Polyester:
Their soft-sided suitcase options come in heavy-duty polyester, commonly with a PVC backing for added stability and water resistance.
ABS Plastic:
For hardside models, Rockland frequently opts for ABS plastic. Known for its impact resistance, this lightweight material is great for keeping your accessories safe while on the road.
Polycarbonate:
Others come with polycarbonate; while lighter, polycarbonate offers better stability versus ABS. It’s built to handle tougher journey conditions, but nonetheless is straightforward to steer.
These are selected to ensure the luggage is also light and inexpensive, while still able to survive the most typical bruises and scratches of travel. You can read more about it, as well as reviews and specs, online.
3. Are Rockland luggage wheels sturdy?
Rockland luggage is available in different types and degrees of sturdiness. Generally, a lot of reviews note that the wheels work dandy, especially for smooth surfaces, as they typically have inline skate wheels or spinner wheels, which assist with straightforward routes.
But some consumers say the wheels may not stand up as well on rugged terrain or over a lot of touring. Cases of wheels getting wobbly or even breaking after a while. Ultimately, the wheels are good enough for light to medium use, but anyone planning on an extensive tour or tackling bumpy terrain may want to take this into consideration for future Rockland luggage purchases.
For more in-depth insight, check other reviews on luggage sites or consumer reviews sites.
4. Does Rockland luggage come with a TSA lock?
Luggage: Only Rockland luggages do NOT carry a built in TSA lock Instead, the brand especially highlights lockable zippers, which allow you to use your own lock to keep your suitcase secure. This is relatively safer but definitely not as convenient vs integrated TSA lock.
If you are worried about safety in your travels, then it is best to purchase a separate TSA accredited lock to place with Rockland travel luggage. This will allow TSA agents to unlock it if necessary, while also confirming that your accessories are secure during airport inspections.
5. Is Rockland luggage good for frequent travelers?
In my own experience, I wouldn’t advise purchasing Rockland luggage for regular use. Though the luggage are cheap and pretty to look at, they do not seem to have much durability and are not for daily use. I have used my Rockland luggage on many trips, and though it has served me well on casual weekend getaways, I have noticed wear and tear after only a few longer trips (scratches to the exterior and some wheel issues).
Frequent flyers might also be on the lookout for luggage that can withstand rougher handling in harsher conditions. Polyester and ABS plastic — materials used in Rockland’s bags — can be fairly Swiss-cheesed, make no mistake about it. And many reviews say the same thing, pointing out that while Rockland is spot-on for rare trips, those who find themselves at the airport on a regular basis should invest in something sturdier, from a brand made with frequent travel in mind.
6. How do Rockland spinners compare to rollers?
Here are the many differences between Rockland spinners and rollers:
Mobility:
- Spinners: With four wheels that rotate a full 360 degrees, spinners can be steered oh so easily in any direction and are ideal for moving through tight airport terminals.
- Rollers Normally two wheels where you will have to tilt baggage to roll This may make them less nimble in tight spaces, but at the same time could give them stability on uneven ground.
Weight Distribution:
- Weight distribution : The spinners distribute weight evenly which can help in reducing arm strain when pulling. They are self-standing without assistance, which makes it easy to stop during transit.
- Rollers : More weight on one side, harder to pull, usually if the bag is heavier.
Storage Space :
- Spinners : Generally constructed with a more vertical profile which can help increase internal packing space. They also often have more external pockets for quick access.
- Rollers: They can be large and in charge, but perhaps the design isn’t always as forgiving when it comes to even flashier external organization.
Durability:
- Spinners: Might not be as durable (but lots of Rockland’s styles are made to survive the rigors of tour) because they have an extra set of wheels and components.
- Rollers: Typically have fewer moving parts, which may make them slightly more stable as they age, though that depends on specific models.
5.Personal Preference:
- Spinners : Recommended for those that prioritize easy mobility and frequent adjustments while in transit.
- Rollers: Might appeal to anyone who prefers a more conventional suitcase style, or travels over rugged terrain in which two wheels might perform better.
Ultimately, whether Rockland rollers or spinners are right for you depends on your travel habits, how much you mind rolling them around as well as what kind of surfaces you will be rolling them on.
7. What are the most popular Rockland luggage designs?
Rockland offers various styles of their luggage designs to fill multiple travel needs and tastes. Here are some of the most mentionable designs:
Rockland Melrose Collection: Lightweight with fun patterns and colors. Soft-sided spinners tend to have more compartments, making them the more practical choice in terms of organization.
Rockland Safari Collection: Known for its eye-catching, vibrant prints, the Safari Collection offers hard-sided and soft-sided options. These bags are stylish and hardy as hell so they can stand out from the crowd on the suitcase carousel.
Rockland 2-Piece Luggage Set: Typically comprises a carry-on and one more bigger checked bag This set is a good choice for those on the go — especially if you want to make sure you’re covered for a variety of trips and want value with versatility.
Rockland Luggage Carry-On: Designed to be compact and easy to maneuver, these carry-ons often come equipped with organizational pockets and spinner wheels. These are great for short trips or as a second bag during longer journeys.
Rockland Fashion Luggage: This collection for the trend-setting traveler has stylish silhouettes and prints with performance and sleek flair.
Rockland Executive Collection : Perfect for business travelers with an wanderlust in mind, this collection features a suitcase with chic aesthetics plus additional go-getter features like laptop compartments to make it appropriate for both business and leisure travel.
All of these collections have their own unique designs and features and work for dozens of aesthetics and travel needs. Do want a luggage design from Rockland, you can decide on it based on its size, design & requirements based on which you can have one of the best matching ones for your travel trips.
8. Is Rockland carry-on luggage accepted by most airlines?
Yes, Rockland carry-on luggage usually is accepted by most airlines but check specific airline laws. Here are some things to know:
Size Specifications: Most airlines have maximum dimensions for carry-on luggage: Typically between 22 and 24 inches in height. Rockland offers a number of carry-ons that should fit within these guidelines, though you’ll want to confirm the specific bag’s dimensions.
Weight Restrictions: Some airlines have weight restrictions for carry-ons, typically between 15 and 20 pounds. Rockland bags are built for lightweight but you should pay close attention to the weight of what you pack.
Personal Item Guidelines: In Today’s Post: Most airlines allow a personal item (in addition to a carry-on), such as a handbag and. The Rockland carry-ons often leave room for a second bag for your needs.
Airline Variability: Different airlines have different rules, so it’s worth checking the specific carry-on laws of the airline you’re flying with before you travel.
In general, Rockland carry-on luggage is an ideal choice for travelers, but always check your bag to see if it complies with the requirements of your particular airline to avoid complications at the airport.
Additional tips
Other tips for effectively choosing and using Rockland luggage include:
Check Airline Restrictions: Always check your airline’s carry-on and checked baggage policies when you visit so that you won’t be in for a surprise when you get to the airport.
Pack Strategically: Pack clothes into cubes or compression bags to save space and help keep your belongings organized. This can help you fit more into your suitcase, while still making it easier to retrieve items.
Utilize All Compartments: Use all pockets and chambers in your Rockland luggage, including outside pockets for things you want quick access to, such as papers or snacks.
Weight Management: Check the weight of your suitcase before heading to the airport to make sure it complies with weight limits, especially for checked bags. A portable suitcase scale can also come handy for accurate reading.
Label Your Bags: You’ll need to attach a luggage tag with your contact details. This can also make it easier for airlines to return your luggage to you if it becomes lost.
Consider Color and Design: Choosing a bright color or unique pattern to ensure that your bag can easily be spotted on the baggage carousel, reducing the risk of people mistakenly taking your luggage.
Inspect Before Travel: Make sure your suitcase has no wear and tear or damages to avoid any inconvenience whilst on tours. Make sure zippers and wheels are operating properly.
Store Properly: Store your suitcase away from moisture and heat when you are not travelling to avoid degradation of materials. To maintain its shape, don’t stack heavy objects on top of it.
Use a Protective Cover: Luggage cover for additional on-the-bag protection (typically for checked carriers). This can help protect your bags from scratches and scuffing.
Follow Care Instructions: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to clean your luggage to care for its longevity and aesthetic. Spot clean as needed, and eschew harsh chemicals.
These tips can help make your journey much more enjoyable and extract as much as possible from your Rockland luggage!
Conclusion
Rockland luggage reviews show that this brand offers plenty of stylish, inexpensive options for the casual traveler on a budget. A lot of people enjoy the lightweight and organizational features, as well as the different styles available. However, although Rockland luggage is generally well rated for light to moderate use, reviews indicate that it may not hold up as well with heavy wear-and-tear—which makes it potentially less suited for a traveler who wanders often.
If you are considering purchasing Rockland luggage, you need to determine your own travel needs and style. Think about the pros and cons from customer reviews and decide if Rockland luggage is good for you on your travels.