Since Away launched its signature hard luggage in 2015, it has become a stylish staple in many people’s luggage arsenal. In July 2024, Away debuted soft-sided luggage.

I've found that Away bags show wear and tear more readily than soft-sided bags like the Travelpro we recommend above. However, the bag is guaranteed for life and has a 100-day trial period.

So, when a fan-favorite luggage company known for its polycarbonate designs came out with a new softside case, The Away Softside Carry-On ($225), I wanted to test it.

From luggage to footwear, this is the dream I chase: functional coolness. That’s why I was thrilled when suitcase style-icon Away released a new line of soft-sided suitcases.

According to Consumer Reports, soft-sided luggage is often made from woven nylon, but each nylon style has its pros and cons. Cordura has more texture and can hide scuff marks and abrasions better.

It's exactly those advantages that draw so many travelers to the soft side. Even so, in recent years, hard-shell luggage has seemingly been the travel companion of choice.

This bag was a top pick in our soft-sided carry-on tests. Weighing just 6.5 pounds, it features a spacious interior, multiple pockets and a removable toiletry organizer.

Today, soft-sided luggage comprises the bulk of the market, but hard-sided luggage is making a comeback—thanks to new materials that are both rigid and lightweight. In a recent survey of our ...

Travel Bags Soft-Sided vs. Hard-Sided Suitcases: The Final Showdown Updated June 11, 2025 Connie Park/NYT Wirecutter By Maria Adelmann Maria Adelmann is a writer covering travel.

Soft-sided luggage is made of fabrics that move and yield—usually woven nylon, like cordura, ballistic, or ripstop. Cordura is more textured than ballistic, a little softer, and more abrasion ...