Why Softshell Luggage is Ideal for Light Pack Travellers

November 02 2024, by Carolina UC, 6 min reading time

Whether you’re jetting off on a quick weekend trip or navigating busy train stations, packing light can make your travel experience smoother and more enjoyable. Softshell luggage is an ideal choice for light packers, offering flexibility, ease, and practicality without the bulk and weight of a hardshell case. Let’s dive into why softshell luggage is such a fantastic option for travellers from the UK who value efficient packing and convenience.

Lightweight Design Reduces Travel Burden

One of the biggest advantages of softshell luggage is its lightweight design. Made from durable yet lightweight fabrics, softshell suitcases often weigh significantly less than their hardshell counterparts. For light packers, this reduced weight means more freedom to carry essentials without breaching weight restrictions—a major plus for air travel, where every kilogram counts!

UK travellers hopping on budget airlines like Ryanair or EasyJet, with strict weight limits on cabin baggage, will appreciate how softshell luggage minimises added bulk. A lighter suitcase lets you focus on packing what you need without paying for excess baggage.

Flexible Material Allows for Easier Packing

Another reason softshell luggage is ideal for the light packer is its flexibility. Unlike rigid hardshell cases, softshell bags have a bit of “give,” allowing you to pack oddly shaped items with greater ease. This flexibility is particularly helpful if you’re squeezing in some extra clothes or last-minute purchases.

Travellers carrying a mix of items will love the adaptability of softshell luggage. This extra flexibility makes it simpler to organise your belongings without feeling restricted by the unyielding nature of hardshell cases.

Often More Compact and Easy to Store

Softshell luggage is usually more compact than hardshell alternatives, especially when empty. If you’re short on storage space at home or are planning to bring the bag on a coach or train, the ability to stow a softshell suitcase in smaller compartments is invaluable.

In a city like London, where storage space is often limited, having luggage that can easily slide under a bed or squeeze into a cupboard is a welcome advantage. This compactness not only benefits storage at home but also makes it easier to fit into cramped luggage compartments on planes and trains.

External Pockets for Quick Access Items

One feature that softshell luggage often boasts over hardshell options is external pockets. These pockets are perfect for light packers who want quick access to essential items, such as travel documents, mobile chargers, or a good book for the journey. With external pockets, you don’t have to open your entire suitcase just to retrieve a small item.

UK travellers rushing through security at Heathrow or Gatwick will appreciate the convenience of grabbing their passport or boarding pass without rummaging through the entire bag. These pockets make travel that bit smoother, adding to the convenience factor.

Expandable Options for Extra Packing Space

Many softshell suitcases come with expandable compartments, offering additional space when needed. This flexibility is perfect for light packers who may need a little more room on the return journey after picking up souvenirs or shopping.

Having that expandable option on a softshell bag can be a lifesaver, particularly for those who want to keep their luggage small and light but appreciate the flexibility to expand if necessary. UK-based travellers who frequently pop over to European cities for weekend shopping sprees will find this feature particularly appealing.

Easier to Fit into Overhead Compartments

Softshell luggage’s flexibility also makes it easier to fit into tight spaces, like overhead compartments on planes or storage racks on trains. A softshell bag can be gently pushed into a tight overhead bin without risking damage, unlike a hardshell case that’s more rigid and challenging to squeeze into confined spaces.

This can be especially useful when flying budget airlines where every inch of cabin baggage space counts. Light packers will appreciate being able to fit their softshell suitcase wherever needed without having to force it or worry about finding alternative storage options.

Soft Sides Absorb Impacts Without Breaking

While softshell luggage doesn’t have the hard, protective shell of a hardshell suitcase, its soft sides do offer one unique advantage: they absorb impact better without cracking. This can actually be a benefit when travelling with delicate items, as the soft sides will “give” upon impact, helping to absorb the shock rather than transferring it directly to the items inside.

For light packers who still carry a few fragile items, softshell luggage can offer a surprising level of protection. You’ll have peace of mind that a slight knock or bump won’t cause damage to the exterior or the contents inside.

Usually More Affordable than Hardshell Options

Softshell luggage is generally more affordable than hardshell options, making it a budget-friendly choice for travellers who prioritise practicality over extra durability. This affordability means that travellers can often get a higher quality softshell bag for less than they’d pay for a basic hardshell case.

For the budget-conscious UK traveller, who might prefer spending money on experiences rather than luggage, softshell options provide an economical way to pack light without compromising on quality.

Comfortable to Carry with Multiple Handle Options

Softshell luggage typically includes multiple handle options, providing versatile carrying choices. Many come with padded top and side handles, allowing you to carry the bag comfortably by hand when necessary. This is particularly useful if you’re navigating crowded streets, hopping onto public transport, or lifting the bag into an overhead compartment.

These extra handles add to the ease of carrying the bag, a small but valuable feature for light packers who want to avoid the hassle of wheeling a bulky suitcase through busy areas or narrow train aisles.

Ideal for Short Trips or Weekend Getaways

Ultimately, softshell luggage is perfectly suited for short trips and weekend getaways, where packing light is often the goal. Its flexible design, external pockets, and compact nature align with the needs of those who travel lightly. Whether you’re off to Edinburgh for a couple of nights or jetting to Paris for a quick city break, softshell luggage provides a no-fuss, travel-friendly solution that’s easy to manage.

For UK travellers, who may prefer weekend breaks or short-haul flights to nearby destinations, softshell luggage is a practical choice that provides everything needed without the unnecessary bulk of a large suitcase.

Conclusion

In summary, softshell luggage is a versatile and practical choice for light packers, offering numerous benefits that enhance the travel experience. From its lightweight and flexible design to external pockets and expandable options, softshell luggage has features that suit the needs of efficient travellers. It’s easy to carry, fits neatly into overhead compartments, and provides an affordable way to keep your travel simple and stress-free.