ON THE CASE

Marisa Cannon puts the latest crop of larger suitcases through their paces to help you prepare for your next long-haul trip

Marisa Cannon puts the latest crop of hold-bound suitcases through their paces

Tumi V3 Short Trip Packing Case A new polycarbonate case from Tumi’s lightest hard-side collection, this case weighs only 3.8kg – light given its size, and larger than its “short trip” description suggests. It is easy to handle when filled, requiring little effort to manoeuvre thanks to four wheels. There are two main compartments, with a large zip-up pocket containing a plastic hanger bracket for storing suits. The other section is open and covered with dark grey lining, with X-shaped tie-down straps and a third compartment on the outside of the flap which is useful for storing documents. A three-stage telescoping handle allows for good control when handling. It also has an integrated TSA lock.

VERDICT

A solid, spacious case that is easy to handle. Best for trips lasting several days. DIMENSIONS 66cm x 44.5cm x 25.5cm VOLUME 59 litres WEIGHT 3.8kg COLOUR Hunter, Pacific blue, magenta, blur print, banana leaf print, black WHEELS Four PRICE £445 uk.tumi.com

Made from Bayer polycarbonate, this hard-shell case is streamlined and sturdy, with four wheels and a retractable handle that can be set at three different positions. Separate grips on the side and top make it simple to lift. It has two zip-up dividing walls made out of mesh and nylon fabric, plus two elasticated Y-shaped compression straps to help keep clothes in place. It also expands to allow up to 27 per cent more volume. A welcome layer of security comes from the Access lock combination recovery programme, whereby owners can register their security codes online and retrieve them if forgotten.

VERDICT

Stylish and good value for money, with utilitarian interiors that help to keep items in place.

DIMENSIONS67cm x 45cm x 30cm VOLUME 65 litres WEIGHT 4kg COLOUR Rose gold, silver, gold, Evergreen, Deep Lake WHEELS Four PRICE £280 victorinox.com

Antler Oxygen Medium

The soft, polyester Antler Oxygen is a new ultra-light case with a strong, ripresistant frame, as well as corner protectors designed to withstand the ravages of rough ground handling. Along with the expandable zip, the flexible material allows some give. It also has four wheels, top and side grip handles, an outer zip pocket concealed under a flap, plus TSA combination locks. Inside there is a mesh zip-up pocket and X-shaped straps for keeping items in place, although, when full, it can be a little unsteady. Cabin cases from the range come with a removable transparent toiletry bag.

VERDICT

An extremely lightweight case made with durable fabric, although this picks up dirt easily. DIMENSIONS 70cm x 43cm x 27cm VOLUME 74 litres WEIGHT 2.2kg COLOUR Blue, red, black WHEELS Four PRICE £155 antler.co.uk