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With light weight, flexible shape and lots of storage space, soft luggage offers optimal comfort on all your adventures. Find the perfect model - from Travel bag above Trolley up to Backpack - For your next vacation and experience stress -free travel at the highest level!
A soft shell suitcase – also called a fabric suitcase, soft suitcase or simply soft luggage – is the right choice if you value low weight, flexible shape and practical outer pockets. The robust nylon or polyester material gives way on impact instead of breaking, and adapts to your packing needs. Ideal for train, car and business travel, as well as cabin luggage suitcases.
Benefits of Soft Luggage
Lighter weight: Soft shell suitcases often weigh 0.5–1 kg less than comparable hard shell models – giving you more room within airport weight limits.
Expandable volume: Many models feature an expansion zip, creating up to 25% extra packing volume.
Outer pockets for quick access: Your laptop, passport or reading material stay within easy reach at all times – a clear advantage over hard shell cases.
Flexible storage: The soft material can be squeezed more easily into overhead compartments, car boots or tight wardrobes.
Shock absorption: The flexible material cushions impacts during transport.
Soft Shell Suitcase Sizes – Cabin Luggage to XL
Cabin luggage soft case (55 cm, approx. 35–45 litres): airline-compliant for cabin transport, often even more with the expandable volume.
Medium (M, 65 cm): 60–80 litres for trips of 1–2 weeks.
Large soft shell suitcase (L, 75 cm): 90–110 litres, ideal for family or long-term trips.
XL soft luggage (80+ cm): 120 litres and more – for extra-long trips or as a family trolley.
Soft Shell Suitcase: 2 Wheels vs. 4 Wheels
When it comes to wheels, you have a choice: soft shell suitcases with 2 wheels are particularly sturdy, don't tip over, and are well suited to uneven pavement. Soft shell suitcases with 4 wheels (spinners) glide effortlessly alongside you and are ideal for long walks through airports. If you want to stay flexible, you'll find both 4-wheel models and 2-wheel trolleys with us.
Soft Luggage or Hard Shell – What Suits Your Trip?
Soft shell suitcases are the better choice for train, car and bus travel, as well as when you frequently need to access outer pockets. Hard shell suitcases made of polycarbonate, on the other hand, offer more protection for delicate items and are more water-resistant. For frequent air travel with checked luggage, a hard shell is often the better option, while soft luggage suits flexible, multi-purpose trips. You'll find a detailed comparison in our guide Hard Shell or Soft Shell – Which Is Better?.
Soft Shell Suitcases – What to Look Out For
Material: High-quality nylon (e.g. Cordura) or polyester – coated for water resistance.
Zips: Sturdy double zips with TSA-compliant locks are now standard.
Wheels: 360° double wheels with bearings run more smoothly and last longer than simple wheels.
Interior layout: Cross straps, a divider and zippered inner pockets help keep your packing organised.
Expansion zip: If you want to pack more on the return journey (souvenirs!), you'll benefit from a 15–25% volume expansion.
Frequently Asked Questions About Soft Shell Suitcases
What's the difference between a soft shell suitcase and a fabric suitcase?
There is no difference – soft shell suitcase, fabric suitcase, soft suitcase and soft luggage all refer to the same product. The terminology varies depending on region and manufacturer, but it always means a suitcase with a soft outer material made of nylon or polyester.
When is soft luggage better than a hard shell?
Soft luggage is especially well suited to train journeys, car trips and bus tours. It's also more practical if you want quick access to outer pockets (laptop, passport, reading material). For frequent air travel with checked luggage, however, we recommend hard shell suitcases with a TSA lock.
Is soft luggage waterproof?
High-quality soft luggage is water-resistant, but not completely waterproof. Coated materials easily withstand light rain. For prolonged exposure to heavy rain or snow, an additional rain cover is recommended.
What size soft shell suitcase should I choose for cabin luggage?
A soft shell suitcase for cabin luggage should not exceed 55 × 40 × 20 cm and have a volume of approximately 35–45 litres. Pay attention to the weight – soft luggage models often weigh only 2.2–2.8 kg, leaving more allowance for your belongings. For details on airline rules, check our cabin luggage guides.
Soft shell suitcase with 2 wheels or 4 wheels – which is better?
It depends on how you use it: 2 wheels are sturdier and don't tip over – ideal for uneven surfaces or cobblestones. 4 wheels (spinners) can be pushed alongside you with just one finger – ideal for long walks through airports and smooth floors. Frequent travellers often find the 4-wheel version worthwhile.
How do you clean a soft shell suitcase?
For light soiling, a damp cloth with mild soapy water is enough. More stubborn stains can be treated with an upholstery or textile cleaner. Avoid machine washing and harsh cleaning agents, as these can damage the water-resistant coating. Always let the suitcase dry standing up and open.
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