Wondering which is better polypropylene or polycarbonate luggage? Discover the pros and cons of both materials to help you make the best choice for your next trip.
I have flown thousands of miles both with polycarbonate and polypropylene suitcases, and slowly noticed the most important differences between these two types of luggage. If you need a lightweight, more flexible, and low-price suitcase for occasional trips, choose polypropylene. Polycarbonate luggage, on the other hand, has a sturdier feel to it than their hard-shell Better Bags relatives and is more resistant to scratches so you will definitely want a polycarbonate bag if you’re taking long-haul flights or going places where your bag may be treated with slightly less gentility. So is polycarbonate or polypropylene luggage better? Which really depends on your travel plans.
My Experience with Polypropylene and Polycarbonate Luggage
Everything when it comes to luggage is in part material, but not just a detail or an accessory to the whole. Think about it: you reach your destination and only then realize that your suitcase has been scratched or dented, or even worse — broken beyond repair. Deciding between polypropylene or polycarbonate luggage may seal the fate of whether your trip will be smooth or stressful.
Why Choosing the Right Luggage Material Matters for Travelers
Although more affordable than both of the above, polypropylene is light and pliable — it may not have the same impact resistance though as polycarbonate. Polycarbonate, on the other hand, is more durable and crack-resistant but a little heavier and usually costlier. The answer to what type of luggage is better, polypropylene or polycarbonate can be determined by weighing these aspects against your travel needs however. In this article, we will explore both materials in greater detail to help you make an educated decision.
Overview of Polypropylene and Polycarbonate: What to Expect
Polypropylene is a kind of thermoplastic polymer which can be one of the lightest materials available for luggage. Thanks to its flexibility and resistance to a variety of pressures, we often see this material used in luggage, most commonly as a lightweight option for the traveling community. Based on my use, polypropylene luggage offers certain advantages and disadvantages that I would like to highlight.
What is Polypropylene Luggage?
When I first traveled with luggage made of polypropylene, my first observation was how light it was compared to other materials. Even loaded, it felt so easy to lift, making it a good choice for walks or other trips where you have to do lots of walking/lifting. But after just a couple of outings, there was obvious wear, mostly in the form of scratches and scuffs. Although not ideal, I appreciated the convenience of polypropylene on short, informal trips as well as to choosing the right luggage material. Here’s a breakdown of ABS vs Polycarbonate vs Polypropylene Luggage to help you decide
Personal Experience Using Polypropylene Luggage
Polypropylene luggage was noticeable in that it was light and flexible to a degree throughout my usage. It is surprisingly hardy for its weight, surviving rough airport handling without breaking. That said, it is not entirely scratch-resistant and the variety of designs can also seem slightly limited when compared to other materials.
Key Features I Noticed About Polypropylene
Polypropylene luggage was noticeable in that it was light and flexible to a degree throughout my usage. It is surprisingly hardy for its weight, surviving rough airport handling without breaking. That said, it is not entirely scratch-resistant and the variety of designs can also seem slightly limited when compared to other materials.
Pros Based on My Use:
Lightweight: Perfect for Easy Carrying
A great feature of polypropylene luggage is that it is extremely lightweight. Even at full capacity, I found carrying it through busy airports or up stairs to be a breeze.
Flexibility: How It Handled Tough Conditions
The suitcase’s polypropylene material is incredibly pliable, meaning it can flex and spring back without breaking. This was a nice feature during travels where I did not know how gently my luggage would be treated.
Durability in Different Weather Conditions
As I discovered more humid and fluctuating climates during my travels, polypropylene was one material that continued to stand up against moisture build-up and atmospheric changes. Its strength did not warp in either extreme heat or extreme cold, providing that reassurance in climates where you just never knew what the day would bring.
Cons Based on My Use:
Scratches and Scuffs: Noticed Over Time
A negative I noticed with polypropylene over the years is that it scratches and scuffs easily. Though these did not impact the usability of the luggage, it made it look old quicker than I would have liked.
Design Choices: Limited Color Options
The other downside was the lack of variety in design and colors. Although it was great from a functionality standpoint, polypropylene luggage generally lacks the tidy, fashionable options that other materials like polycarbonate were able to deliver—until now.
Overall, polypro luggage is lightweight, pliable and durable for everyday use but might not be the tiptop of fashion or scratch-resistant.
What is Polycarbonate Luggage?
Polycarbonate luggage is made of a thermoplastic material that has high impact resistance and polymerization durability. Frequently traveled bags chosen for regular use can be roughly handled at airports, etc. Polycarbonate luggage is a strong and durable choice I used on several trips, but it has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Personal Experience Using Polycarbonate Luggage
Overall I have been very satisfied with polycarbonate luggage. The first outstanding aspect of the design was its sturdiness. The suitcase kept its form and my belongings safe with no signs of visible damage, even after several flights and the usual rough baggage handling. But I found polycarbonate luggage a little on the heavier side compared with polypropylene. Even so, I liked the extra reassurance my suitcase could take whatever life threw at it.
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Key Features I Noticed About Polycarbonate
Polycarbonate is an extremely tough and durable material. I was impressed by its sturdiness, particularly in taking the rough handling at airports. The bonus was an assortment of fashionable colors and styles. Polycarbonate has a fairly decent resistance to scratches compared to some other materials and this too contributed to the suitcase looking new even after a few trips.
Pros Based on My Use:
Strong and Durable: Survived Rough Baggage Handling
Durability is one of the biggest benefits of polycarbonate luggage. In travel, I saw it survive the rigors of bad baggage handling and return in pristine condition—no dents, no cracks. Even during difficult travel conditions, it is hard to protect your possessions.
Stylish: Wide Variety of Colors and Designs
Not only does polycarbonate luggage perform well, but it also looks good in an array of styles and colors. Having the option to select from some more contemporary, fashionable designs helped in this case as well since my luggage was easy to spot on the carousel.
Scratch Resistance: Stood Up to Multiple Trips
I eventually realized that polycarbonate scratch resists because it appears to do a good job at magic. This is ideal for anyone who travels a lot since, although the suitcase was thrown around during trips, it still looked good as new.
Cons Based on My Use:
Heavier Compared to Polypropylene
Polycarbonate offers more protection but at the cost of more weight. It was quite a bit heavier than polypropylene, too — which lessens its convenience factor for short trips or when I had to carry the suitcase for an extended time.
Price: Is the Higher Cost Worth It?
Polycarbonate luggage is usually priced on the higher end as compared to other materials like polypropylene. It is worth keeping in mind if you’re on a budget though, although I personally believe the high price does reflect durability and style. The price might be justified for frequent travelers, but if you only travel once or twice a year the expense might be over the line.
At last, polycarbonate baggage is very robust but fashionable; and even though omitted luggage, provided that the size of impacts like any damage can possess towards-surface area coloration scratches. On the downside, it is heavier and costlier than polypropylene, so making a choice of best-suited between polypropylene or polycarbonate luggage will be up to the travelers to decide which works well for their needs.
In-Depth Comparison: Polypropylene vs. Polycarbonate
One of the toughest decisions you make when choosing luggage is better polypropylene or polycarbonate luggage. Both have their own positives & negatives that I learnt for myself around the world. To help you choose the optimal option, we prepared an extensive comparison regarding weight, durability, flexibility, aesthetics, weatherproofing and cost.
Weight Comparison: Polypropylene Was Easier to Lift, But Did it Matter?
Polypropylene as a material is a lot lighter compared to polycarbonate so keep this in mind from my experience. This really helped me out when I had to do a lot of rolling my luggage from place to place and hoisting it into overheads. Its lightweight made traveling easier for me, particularly when I was fully loaded. But the additional weight of polycarbonate simply felt like a bit more work — certainly worth it for the extra protection.
Durability: Which Luggage Lasted Longer on My Journeys?
Third, luggage durability is essential when determining whether polypropylene or polycarbonate is better. In my experience, polycarbonate luggage lasted longer than its polypropylene counterparts over many years. Compared to polycarbonate that was even more resistant to being dented and cracked, which was especially useful when handled roughly — think air travel. Polypropylene had early signs of wear, including scuffs and scratches, but the material still performed reasonably well overall — and not nearly as good as polycarbonate. Bags have evolved significantly over time.
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Flexibility and Impact Resistance: My Experience with Cracks, Breaks, and Hard Bumps
I was impressed with the flexibility of polypropylene while I was away. It bends and flexes when impacted but does not crack — something I appreciated after my suitcase was forced into a few tight spots. Polycarbonate, for example, was more impact resistant — absorbing those hard bumps without chipping or cracking. In short, neither material did poorly on bumpy travel, but polycarbonate was more reassuring for tough conditions.
Design Choices: Which Material Gave Me More Style Options?
Polycarbonate is undoubtedly the winner in terms of style. Polycarbonate luggage also comes in a few designs and colors, so even I have the option to pick something that matches my essence. Polypropylene, on the other hand, is more functional than decorative, and thus does not offer as many choices. Hence, if you love stylish carriers then polycarbonate should be more relatable for you.
Water and Weather Resistance: How Both Held Up During Rain and Hot Weather
Both polypropylene and polycarbonate hold up well in various weather conditions. During rainy trips, I found that both materials kept my belongings dry, though polycarbonate seemed slightly better at repelling water. In hot weather, neither material warped or lost shape, making them both reliable options. However, polypropylene’s flexibility seemed to handle temperature changes better, making it a great choice for those traveling to extreme climates.
Price: Which Material Gave Me Better Value for Money?
One more reason why polypropylene has a lower price tag compared to polycarbonate, and plenty of space away from your wallet for budget travelers. But if you want something better for a simple, long-term solution in terms of durability and style, maybe the higher price would make sense with polycarbonate instead? In my opinion, if you need an economical option where to get the most for your money then polypropylene is definitely the way forward but if you are prepared to spend more on durability and look and feel then polycarbonate is a great investment.
Summary, both polypropylene and polycarbonate have their pros and cons, and the decision on which is better polypropylene or polycarbonate luggage depends on what matters most to you. Polypropylene is lightweight and affordable, while polycarbonate is more durable and stylish.
Which is Better for Different Types of Travel?
The type of travel you have in mind is a massive factor to consider when choosing your luggage material. Having traveled extensively, I found that both polypropylene and polycarbonate have their pros and cons but are best for the varying trips one might take. Below is how they fared across the specific travel scenarios, helping you choose which luggage between polypropylene and polycarbonate are your best options.
Frequent Flyers: My Go-To Choice and Why
What polycarbonate luggage can do for you The durability aspect is Tin key here for frequent flyers, which is the exact reason behind my choice of Polycarbonate luggage. The rigors of constant baggage handling wore it only with not a mar in sight. These hard-wearing pieces are strong, protective and scratch resistant — perfect for when you need to keep delicate contents safe on the go. Polypropylene is lighter, but for my frequent travels the extra strength of polycarbonate was worth the slight weight penalty.
Family Travel: Which Luggage Did I Find Best for Group Trips?
In family travel, where space and weight matter, polypropylene came out on top. It’s lighter so you could easily take more than one suitcase without being weighed down. Whenever we were packing for a weekend or longer trip, the flexibility of polypropylene ensured that it could also accommodate more items while making the luggage light. It was also more affordable, which is a plus when you’re purchasing a bunch of pieces for everyone in the fam.
Short Weekend Trips: The Material I Preferred for Quick Escapes
Polypropylene luggage was my choice for quick weekend jaunts. The lightweight and flexible design also made it more convenient for packing and transporting. I appreciated the lighter weight of polypropylene (vs. polycarbonate) since I didn’t have to stress as much about rough handling or fragile contents. It enabled me to walk around with just what I needed and without weight, so it was able to go wherever quick moves on a whim came up.
International Travel: Polycarbonate or Polypropylene Which Made My Life Easier on Long Flights?
When it came to international travel, where the luggage has to be beaten up enough for long flights and several transfers, I opted for polycarbonate. Wherever I was going, my suitcase had to be durable enough for a long haul of handling through countless transfers. For these tougher conditions, polycarbonate did a great job of guarding my possessions and the stylish designs were an added bonus for those long trips abroad. But for international travel it was worth the extra bulk.
To sum up, choosing which one is better regarding polypropylene or polycarbonate luggage completely depends on how you travel. Durability is one of the things that really makes polycarbonate stand out, especially for those frequent flyers and international travelers. But for family or occasional weekend trips, the lightweight and budget-friendly nature of polypropylene makes it a great option.
Environmental Impact Based on My Research
Travelers are increasingly conscious of sustainability, but the choice between polypropylene and polycarbonate luggage should also be made with an informed understanding of the impact of the material on the environment. I did some digging, and now know the green pros and cons of each to help you decide which is the better choice if you want to be a sustainable jetsetter.
How I Found Polypropylene’s Eco-Friendly Advantages
Polypropylene is often more sustainable since its recycling process is less complicated than polycarbonate. In doing my own research, I found out that in the manufacturing process polypropylene carbon footprint is much lower and produces less harmful by-products. It is also recyclable, and at the end of its life it can be used to produce a new product, which makes it an ideal choice for anyone who wants to reduce their ecological footprint. However, making the conscious decision to choose polypropylene made me feel good in knowing that I was supporting a more circular materials approach.
Concerns About Polycarbonate’s Environmental Footprint
It is worth mentioning that polycarbonate, although super strong, has some environmental issues. Polycarbonate, on the other hand, is generally more energy-intensive to manufacture and leads to higher emissions. In addition, polycarbonate is harder to recycle than that of say polypropylene because it needs specific facilities and processes in place meaning it’s recycled on a much smaller scale. I also learnt that polycarbonate tends to have a longer degradation time in landfills which means that its lifetime footprint is bigger than other materials.
Which Luggage Material is More Sustainable in the Long Run?
In terms of long term sustainability, polypropylene stands out as the more sustainable option. It is more environmentally friendly for the eco-conscious traveler as it can be recycled and has lower carbon emissions when being manufactured. That said, polycarbonate is longer, so it could mean fewer replacements of luggage over time and therefore less waste overall. At the end of the day, if environmentally sustainable is your main reason for looking into these two, then polypropylene is the best way to go. However, if you plan on using your suitcase for many years then the durability of polycarbonate may be worth its higher environmental cost.
Bottom line, when comparing the sustainability of polypropylene luggage vs polycarbonate, it’s hard to beat PP which is both recyclable and a lower emissions material to manufacture. Nonetheless, polycarbonate provides durability that can last longer and benefit the environment with less waste overall. Airport scanners play a vital role in detecting contraband. Curious about how they identify illegal substances?
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Maintenance and Care Based on My Use
While it is true that the lifetime of your luggage depends a lot on its material, you can ensure longevity with appropriate care and maintenance. Over my time using both polycarbonate and polypropylene luggage, I have learned a thing or two on how to maintain them in great condition, along with tips on how some repairs can be performed. Maintenance-wise, here’s what I found out about which is better polypropylene or polycarbonate luggage.
How I Cleaned and Maintained My Polypropylene Luggage
My polypro luggage has been pretty easy to clean. Something with a mild soap solution mixed with warm water worked well to remove scuffs and dirt. Here’s how I maintained it:
- Wipe it down: I wiped the surface with a soft cloth after all of my trips to clean dirt marks or stains.
- Spot Clean: To remove stains that needed extra care, I scrubbed the area with a soft-bristle brush and mild soap so as not to damage the surface.
- Air Dry: One way I would avoid mold and smells is always making sure my luggage was 100% dry before putting it away.
My polypropylene luggage did scratch fairly easily, however the regular cleaning meant that it was still looking good (the lowest image is actually a close-up of my suitcase), and performing well.
Simple Tips for Keeping Polycarbonate Luggage Looking New
That is a polycarbonate type of luggage, and I like its glossy finish which I wanted to keep. A Few Tips That Worked For Me To Keep It Clean:
The exterior was cleaned using a soft microfiber cloth (with no abrasive material).
- Adverse strong chemical: I never used the hand wash that might buff out the surface. I cleaned it with mild dish soap mixed in water instead.
- Proper Storage: I stored my polycarbonate suitcase out of direct sunlight in a cool, dry place to avoid discoloration and warping.
I regularly checked for scratches and fixed those we found with an appropriate polycarbonate polish.
What Happened When My Luggage Needed Repairs?
Inroad tested my polypropylene and polycarbonate bags, with the former giving me some minor issues. Here is what I did to fix each one:
Polypro Repairs: Polypro is very tough, but had one of these develop a tear in the zipper on a particularly rowdy trip. Replacing the zipper with a kit repair was easily done on my own. This material enabled easy repairs without professional help needed.
Repairing Polycarbonate: After rough handling had slightly dented my suitcase, I was worried about how to deal with the damage. But I found out several companies have repair options for polycarbonate luggage. I turned to professionals and got it repaired properly without affecting the suitcase.
Conclusion Both polycarbonate luggage and polypropylene luggage need proper putting on and removal to maintain them in top condition. Polycarbonate vs Polypropylene Luggage: Final Word And the answer may be on how much maintenance you want. While polypropylene is more simple to clean and restore, polycarbonate may necessitate a bit more caution but provides a polished look and is also a professional repair alternative. Both hard and soft luggage are durable materials, but all the same regular maintenance means you will get years of use from either type of bag.
Brand Experience and Recommendations
The right luggage brand can dramatically change your travel experience, so even while thinking about which is best-polypropylene or polycarbonate luggage. I have some experience in this domain, and based on my experiences with various brands I got a few insights that may help you in decision making about luggage materials and brands.
Brands I Used for Polypropylene Luggage: What I Liked and Disliked
After 1 year of searching over the quality polypropylene luggage, I finally went through all of these brands. One such brand was Samsonite. So here are the things I liked and disliked after my experience:
What I Liked:
- Lightweight Construction: Samsonite created some ridiculously lightweight polypropylene luggage that glided through airports.
- Value: I thought the prices were fair relative to others, and you get some nice quality for your money.
- Toughness: Throughout my travels, I observed this luggage withstand abuse.
What I Disliked:
- Lack of Color Options in Some Models: The designs were functional but I wanted more unique color combinations to express my fashion sense.
- Scuff-Proof: It did scuff up a little after a few trips – so not scuff-proof.
Brands I Tried for Polycarbonate Luggage: Worth the Investment?
I tried out Rimowa and Delsey for polycarbonate luggage. Here’s how they fared:
Rimowa:
Pros: You can feel the quality of Rimowa luggage; light, chic and unbelievably sturdy. I loved that it just felt high-end, and in turn really fun to use.
Cons: It was much more expensive than other brands, which makes you wonder how essential it really was. I loved this suitcase, but I had to consider whether it was worth the upgrade for casual travelers.
Delsey:
Pros: Delsey had stylish designs and a decent price-to-quality ratio. Their polycarbonate luggage has been perfect for all of my travels thus far.
Cons: While the luggage performed well, I did discover a few models to be heavier than expected, which could make or break them for travelers who want lighter options.
How Warranties and Customer Support Influenced My Choice
For me, warranties and support were important. Samsonite also offered a good warranty on polypropylene luggage, which made me feel better about my purchase. A major reason being that I knew in case there would be any problems, I will be able to contact customer support.
Rimowa also had a pretty long warranty for polycarbonate luggage, which I appreciated since they aren’t exactly cheap. Given the expensive nature of their products, it also helped that their customer service was proactive and helpful. Delsey, on the other hand, had a decent warranty but not as comprehensive so I favored Rimowa for a long-term purchase.
When deciding between polypropylene and polycarbonate baggage, the model you choose can significantly impact your travel experience. Based on my personal experience, Samsonite offers the best value for money in polypropylene luggage, while Rimowa stands out for its superior quality and design in polycarbonate. Additionally, it is important to consider the warranty and after-sales support (if any) before deciding on a brand, as these factors play a crucial role in ensuring your satisfaction with the luggage sets.
Which is Better for You?
Deciding on ideal luggage can make a world of difference to your travel experience and this is particularly relevant when it comes down to deciding between polypropylene vs polycarbonate. So here is my lightweight comparison from personal experience to help you decide which is more suitable for you — polypropylene or polycarbonate luggage.
Based on My Personal Experience, Which is Better for Frequent Travel?
For those of you traveling every week, I discovered that polypropylene luggage usually offered the optimum mixture of light-weight, toughness and price. The low weight allowed easy handling in the airport and the suppleness made it able to survive the abuse of being on the road constantly. Through multitude of conditions, I found it to be reliable on both short getaway and long hauler.
But polycarbonate luggage have their benefits, especially for durability hounds and fans of chicness. This polycarbonate suitcase has been shoved around and tossed in everything from Ubers to planes, and after multiple trips it still does well. If you tend to travel fairly often and prefer something that looks a bit nicer while also holding up well against wear-and-tear with good durability choice overall, polycarbonate can be worth going for.
Budget Considerations: Is the Cheaper Option Always Better?
With the budget, I realized that polypropylene luggage is usually cheaper than other price ranges but needs to be seen with a long term perspective. I started off looking for lower priced items but soon realized many of the lower-cost models shortchanged quality and longevity.
On the flip side, a polycarbonate suitcase is an expensive buy but it will last longer and save you money in the long run! My experience showed that a few extra dollars upfront on a trusted name-brand product typically equated to much less repair or replacement later. So when it comes to the less expensive choice, it’s worth considering whether or not spending a little in this area would save you more in the long run.
Style and Function: How I Balanced My Personal Preferences with Practical Needs
My bag choices were all about style and function. Polypropylene luggage typically was also lacking in the variety department, which I personally felt something when I looked for colorful travel gear that tasted stylish. I found the designs to be practical but not very aesthetic.
In contrast, polycarbonate luggage scored well on stylefront. I liked how the look was ultra-sleek and what a wide range of colors and designs were possible. I mean, of course, I needed luggage that worked properly but having something that looked pretty made my travels a tad easier for some reason.
This may seem arrogant, but MY NEEDS were what I eventually readapted based on the type of trips I was doing. For common, informal journeys I went with gentle and useful polypropylene options. I used the chic polycarbonate pieces for more formal events or longer travels when I cared about how I looked.
Bottom line: Which is better, polypropylene or polycarbonate luggage totally depends on your travel needs and preferences. If you’re a frequent flier then maybe polypropylene is a more practical suited option for you, or if you’re prepared to pay extra for strength and beauty then perhaps polycarbonate should be your choice. Keep in mind consideration for the budget and be attracted toward functionality vs style to choose wisely while you travel.
Conclusion
My Final Thoughts: Polypropylene vs. Polycarbonate
Having used both polypropylene and polycarbonate luggage extensively in the past, I am able to discuss their pros and cons thoroughly from experience. Luggage made of polypropylene, here again, wins in terms of its lightness and low price, making it one of the best options for someone who only leaves the house to take a quick trip. On the other hand, polycarbonate luggage combines excellent durability with more elegance — perfect for people looking for both style and solid construction in their travel accessories.
My Recommendation Based on Different Types of Travelers
I would suggest polypropylene for those of you who travel a lot. Well, to suit your busy life, its lightweight design and resistance to the everyday bumps and knocks are ideal. However, if you are on a business trip or traveling for a special occasion, it would be better to buy polycarbonate luggage. They can suit a professional look but also provide the practicality needed for heavy travel.
The type of combo will vary among family travelers. A combination may include both materials, with lighter polypropylene bags covering quick weekend trips and the more durable polycarbonate used for lengthier, heavier-duty trips.
Which Material Would I Choose Next Time?
Looking back on my experience, if I had to do it all over again, I would probably opt for polycarbonate luggage for my next purchase. It certainly requires a bigger budget, but in the long-run it pays for itself with durability, scratch resistant finish and good looks ideal for my travel life 😉 Having that insurance on top of the added confidence when it comes to any potential travel conditions is a big factor in my purchasing decisions.
To sum it up, which one you lean towards — polypropylene or polycarbonate luggage — is highly dependent on your travel lifestyle and personal choice. They each have their pros and cons, but selecting the right one for your adventures can make or break a trip!
Frequently Asked Questions About which is better polypropylene or polycarbonate luggage
Is Polycarbonate Really Worth the Extra Weight?
From my past traveling experience with bulky polycarbonate bags, I learnt that the additional weight often accompanies considerable benefits. Polycarbonate luggage can tend toward the heavier side compared to polypropylene, but it does provide extra utility in terms of protection for your things.
The polycarbonate bags protected my stuff from potential damage through rough-handling during my trips. Their scratch-resistant surface, along with their appearance, also helped to maintain their appeal in the long run.
This means that while it might be slightly heavier, the strength and style of poly gives you something to think about as a traveler who prefers quality over weight and also needs protection for your luggage. If you do not mind the extra bulk, the positives can outweigh the negatives.
Does Polypropylene Hold Up in Extreme Conditions?
Indeed, polypropylene luggage can exist in extreme situations for a fairly long time. I have to say that in my experience they worked just fine through rain, heat, and even when treated a bit roughly on different trips.
- Rain: I traveled through heavy rain and my polypropylene luggage kept my things dry as it’s water-resistant. It fended water off, restricting moisture from seeping in.
- Heat: I was impressed by the way the polypropylene material held up in high-temperature settings. Many other materials will warp or lose shape when exposed to high heat, but not this one!
- Rough Handed: My luggage screens the rough handling in airports, and thanks to the flexibility offered by polypropylene means all my broken baggage from hitting left to right would only hit my diary, not cracking or breaking. It displayed some scuffles after extended use, however I think that is fairly indicative of durability overall.
Generally speaking, polypropylene baggage held up well under harsh circumstances and carried out sturdily for the adventurous traveler. If you are choosing the right luggage material. Here’s a breakdown of ABS vs Polycarbonate vs Polypropylene luggage to help you decide
Which Material is Best for Carry-On Luggage?
For your carry-on/personal bag, I stick to my travel light & easy polypropylene. Here’s why:
Lightweight: Polypropylene luggage is usually lighter than polycarbonate, which makes them easier to lift and navigate through busy airports.
Flexibility: Its high flexibility enables polypropylene to absorb impacts, making it suitable for travel-related rough handling.
Affordable: Polypropylene tends to be cheaper, giving you great value for money on a casual traveler bag.
Trust me, if your flight is leaving from a major airport (or the likes of JFK or LHR) you will need to navigate gates and passport control and security checks — A lightweight polypropylene carry-on seems pretty ideal for this situation. All in all, for anyone who values convenience at the cost of making their bag last a long time, polypropylene is the way.
How Do I Clean and Maintain These Materials?
Both polypropylene luggage and polycarbonate suitcase don’t require much maintenance. Some general maintenance tips from my experience:
For Polypropylene Luggage:
Clean Regularly: Wipe down the outside after trips using a damp cloth with detergent It aids in getting rid of dirt and scuff marks.
Do Not Use Any Harsh Chemicals: Make use of only mild cleanersۥ, as it will harm the surface. The harsh chemicals may affect the integrity of the material.
Make Sure It’s Dry: Make sure your luggage is fully dry before putting it back inside the house to prevent any mold or mildew.
For Polycarbonate Luggage:
For Polycarbonate Luggage:
Clean with a Soft Cloth: Wipe down the surface using a soft damp cloth. A combo of soap and water also does the trick for tough stains.
Scratch Prevention: CZ’s shine can be restored by applying a polish made for plastics.
Storing: When your polycarbonate luggage isn’t in use, always store it away from heat to avoid warping, and ensure the bag is placed somewhere dry.
In an overall sense, both types of luggage can last many trips if cleaned properly and stored correctly.
