Disagree. A 40L clamshell will load exactly the same as 40L top load as long as both are of the same material. Your comparison was not fair because you used a hard shell vs a soft shell. I travel on a plane 3-5x a year (mostly int'l) and I find top load luggage easier to use. I have 4 carry ons, 3 check ins, and even a golf travel bag. Clamshell, top load, hard case, soft case...I prefer to use the top load luggages when possible.
Comparing a 39.9L hardside (Monos) to a 32L softside (Calpak) and saying the same stuff won’t fit is a little off, 8L differential is quite a size gap between the two.
I am also on team traditional luggage. I travel with a lot of outdoor equipment (climbing gear, camping gear, etc). The clamshell just doesn't always work for this as oftentimes the items need more depth than just half the suitcase. I also find it annoying every time I open the suitcase to have the zipper running in between the wheels (although this is definitely a personal preference).
I use Travelpro softsided. I understand your concerns about "digging" to the bottom of a softsided. That's why I use compressible packing cubes. Plus my wife uses hard shell and after a couple flights it looks "banged up" with scuffs and scratches. Mine still look like new. I do use the front pockets for cables, chargers, batteries, computer, etc.
I love the Travelpro maxlite5. It holds a lot plus it weighs much less i also have the Monos small carry on but it’s heavier. I checked it once on the way home from a trip and it came back looking awful!
I actually like both for different reasons. Sometimes packing certain things I need the deeper luggage but that’s because I’m packing for my toddler and bringing a lot of things she likes from home that are large that clamshell is too shallow for. For typical packing such as clothes, shoes, toiletries, I’m very much more a clamshell packer.
The shoes and hair tool could fill the space between the handle gaps and you could use vertical packing cubes - just use different tactics for each style bag
The hair tool is too tall to fit adequately in there, and my shoes are too wide. It really wouldn’t have made much of a difference. Maybe I’ll do the vertical challenge when I get home
Agreed. You can’t just pack the same style in different bags. People have different suitcases for different type of trips. So I would imagine that different bags would have different packing styles. I personally also use hardshell clamshell style luggage, but I’m not a big packing cube fan. I find I can fit more when I’m able to use the nooks and crannies (like the space between the rods that seems wasted under these packing cubes). I generally use cubes so that I can keep the kids clothes separate from each other. When we unpack I just hand the cubes out to the kids. Just so you know where we’re coming from. We’re a family of 7. We’ve done trips as long as a month plus with carry-on only. I’ve been to all 7 continents and 50 states. Kids not quite there yet. Although most of them have been to the lower 48 and 4 continents (not bad considering we don’t take them out of school and some of them are on an 11 month school year).
I’ve had both types of carry on suitcases. The one I’m using now, is a wheeled backpack for the times on cobblestone streets, old hotels with no elevator etc. It’s the bucket kind, but packing vertically solves the problem, and, I can fold the “lid cover” under the “bucket” in the hotel so it takes up much less space.
We use international-sized (TravelPro Maxlite International Carryon Spinner) luggage, mainly because Canadian airlines are super strict. I have heard that that Monos carryon, for example, they will force you to gate check it, even if it passes the sizer. We have also used 40L packs (Osprey Farpoint/Fairview 40L). For me, its more about the stress of dealing with the airlines and their ever-changing rules (randomly enforced).
Often it is because of the aircraft. The 'shape' of the overhead bins may not allow full size (normal) carryon bags to fit and close. Some hardside bags need to 'hog' whole bin to themselves 😂😂. Thankfully many newer aircraft have better bin space ❤
this is the reason i went from fridge sized rollers, to only carryon starting 24" to 23 to 22 to 21 to 20 and now i'm at 16. Unless i know my itinerary doesn't put me on a tiny regional plane, i'll stick with that little one. or if i'm going FC/business where they won't gate check your bag
@@rhondillon5056 yes. they're retrofitting older planes that have the worthless narrow pizza oven overheads with modern storage that'll take regulation bags sideways so everyone can get a carry-on in there.
Totally agree. Flown to YVR and YYZ, both times they had me check my Mono at the gate where I had to remove my laptop, risk my camera gears in it, and carry the heavy duffle with laptop in it at the airport… neck and shoulder pain and old back injuries didn’t help either. I’ve also had an experience traveling in Asia to Taiwan on budget airline with the Mono carry on, the ground crew explicitly stated that whenever they see a nice suitcase, they will weight it. She said usually the more expensive suitcase are heavier. With the check in luggage charge, the budget airline ticket was about the same price if I would’ve flown on regular airline with at least one check bag included. 🥲 learned my lesson, always check the weight before buying a carry on.
I have all soft sided luggage. My favorite has the open space on one side and a garment bag on the other. So while the sides aren't even like a clam shell they are much closer than the calpak you packed. My husband has a business trip that requires him to wear suits three days and four nights of casual cloths and the garment bag side is clutch. I think it also depends on the packing cubes you are using. The garment bag suitcase I have has the handle hardware on the outside so no bars in the inside making it easier to stand up packing cubes and maximizes the space. I watched this video with my husband and could tell he was intrigued, being a luggage addict it doesn't take much to persuade me to try out new luggage. I am also a total Quince addict and am going to try out their clam shell carry on. I have a soft sided Lipault that I bought because it was under 5 lbs which is helpful when weight is a factor. As previously noted I just love luggage.
I love my clam shell hard luggage, but my soft side bucket wins when it comes to weight. This can be an issue if u r flying an airline that’s strict about weighing bags.
I was wondering about that as well. The calpak is 6.6 lbs versus the Monos which is 7 lbs. Not a huge difference for these specific bags but I've found soft sides in the 4-5 lb range and haven't found that low with hard side without sacrificing capacity. I have some back issues and every pound helps me with lifting. Delsey has one in the mid 6lb range that's about the same size. July has a super light bag 3.2 lbs (!!!) but it's only 32L. Looking for an affordable unicorn, would love ideas 😊
@BethC817 a lot of soft bags can actually weigh more than hard. Quince and heys airlite actually weigh about 5 pounds, and are expandable. (Real weight vs weight on website)
@@ItsTheKellys I just watched your best 2023 video and appreciate that you shared the weight. So helpful. I think I'm convinced now on hardshell clamshell for a carry-on. Great videos!
I just did this with my mom. Hard case clam vs soft shell. We actually fit more in the soft case as we stacked the packing cubes up from the bottom which I noticed you did not try it that way. We did not fit as much if we laid them flat like you did. However my son bought some anime figures and kept them in the box…we could fit the 3 boxes on one side of the hard case plus some extra stuff and it left the other side empty to pack clothes but in the soft sided case it just fit those only with not much else. I think they each serve a different purpose. I going on a cruise soon and will be trying to figure out which case will be better🤷🏻♀️ as I am only bringing carry on size to Alaska. I really have enjoyed your videos🙂
Have you had your Alaska cruise yet? Which did you decide on using? Going on an Alaskan cruise is September and want a new carryon. Just can’t decide on hard or soft…
@@ShannanMajor we leave tomorrow. Bringing large soft suitcase because that is what I had but on my trip over to the states I prefer my hard case as it steers better when my backpack is on it and does not tip over.
Awww, safe travels and have fun! I think I’m going with hard clamshell international size. I already have a soft bucket domestic carry on. Now to decide between a couple of contenders….
I have not travelled for 18 years and next year i am going to Alaska. I just ordered a 20 inch hardshwll suitcase. I was also more in favour of a soft suitcase. But honestly i saw pros and cons for both . The cute compact style won me over. I am amazed at how much fits in carry on only. I baught a backpack and a personal item bag and now i have to decide which will fit more and be more useful.
Have a great time in Alaska! For your personal item, just think of convenience and if you can maybe use it during your trip too! I’m personally a backpack fan, especially if it has a trolley sleeve to fit over your luggage handle :)
I packed my kid for a summer program at a college last year. We had to check because they didn't supply sheets, pillows, towels, etc. in the dorms. I did use a "bucket" bag in checked luggage because some of the things that were needed (like a fan - no AC in the dorms either) were too deep/bulky to go in a clamshell. I have seen videos where they make good use of space in a softshell bag by filling the trolly mechanic space with flats, curling iron, etc. and then standing smaller cubes/toiletry bags up rather than laying them flat. I still prefer a hardshell for carry-on only.
Great Video. I have used many types of luggage but have avoided clam-shell, as I didn't feel it held as much. When packing my traditional style bag, I stand my packing cubes with the handles up. Fits in much better and easier to access without unpacking every thing. I due for a new bag, so I might order a clam shell and see how if it packs as well for me.
Let me know if you get one and how you feel about the difference. I really really prefer the separation of the two sides. It’s extra organization: clothing on one side, and accessories on the other, plus no digging and unpacking.
I just went from a travel pro professional series soft sided bag to a monos carry on (small) and I can fit a bunch more in because it keeps its rectangle shape all the way around where the travel pro was more wedge shaped and slimmer at top. Love the monos so far!
This is exactly where I am - moving to Monos from the Travel Pro, mainly because the wedge shaped really bugs me, too. (And if I’m honest, because I think the Monos looks so sharp!) I haven’t travelled with the Monos yet though, and have been hesitant to do so until I watched this video. The selling point for me was your organizational approach - clothes on one side and accessories on the other. Thanks for the demo.
I would have packed the open bag differently - shoes between the bars in the back, cubes on their side (the side of the suitcase is high enough to do that), then everything else goes in. That said, I also prefer a hardside clamshell bag if I'm using a rolling suitcase.
I've had (and still have)both. When we first started diving the soft side was much less heavy then the hard side. We did buy the Hays hard side and actually used it for our clothes and still used the soft side for our gear, which was checked. We also used the hard side for underwater cameras, computers, regulators, etc. which we carried on. Now I use hard side but I either travel by car or our RV mostly now. I can see the advantage to both. I think the soft side might lend itself better to not using packing cubes so you can stuff all the corners and I did like the fact that in the airport I could just unzip a little portion of the top and put things in or take things out without having to open the entire thing like you do with clamshell. It came in really handy when flying out of somewhere cold and arriving somewhere hot and a wardrobe change of maybe taking off a sweater and heavy shirt came in handy. Our carry ons were always stuffed full with gear and there was no room for that. Oh, and I am an unpacker, even when I going to multiple locations I still unpack for that location, I don't like living out of a suitcase.
I prefer packing a soft side luggage but my dream luggage is a hard side that opens like a soft one (the bucket style). I do typically use my hard side carryon when I’m doing carry on only & the soft luggage (with a cover) for checked bags
I have been really enjoying your videos. Thank you. I think this makes total sense for carryons, but with a larger suitcase I prefer the “bucket” style. Larger clamshells do not dit on luggage racks opened up. But my large soft sided can sit on a rack, table, small chair and lean the top against the wall for full access. You have convinced me with the carry ons for sure.
Has anyone tried the Hanke luggage that opens in the traditional suitcase manner, but is a hard case? Similar to old time travel trunks it looks like the best of both worlds.
I have a Hanke and love it however I recently got a Mixi with a wide handle and love that one also. Both have the front opening but the wide handle on the Mixi leaves the inside area wide and flat.
Visually doesn’t look same size. The clamshell compartment sits lower (less open air between under clamshell to the floor) when it’s upright. Which means slightly more space than the bucket case. What is the real measurement of the compartment itself between the two?
I’m very much team clamshell as I really value compartmentalization, but I actually agree with the bucket-lovers claim that they take up less space. I feel way more awkward opening up a clamshell suitcase to get stuff out in public than I do with a bucket style bag just because of how much horizontal space I need to take up to open up my bag. I also think a bucket style bag may be preferable if you’re staying places where space is limited and where you can’t (or don’t wish to) unpack, like in a hostel dorm room or one of those tiny closet like single rooms in European hotels. That said, those pros for bucket bags don’t really apply to me, so I’m not tempted to switch from a clamshell bag. Having multiple spaces in a bag is just invaluable to me. The only thing I miss is the front pockets, as the soft shelled suitcases and more varied in their pocket options than the pockets you get on pro style clamshell bags. And I’ve never seen a pro bag that had pockets that were configured in a way that suited what I tend to bring with me on vacation. They’re all kind of built around the idea that the people who want pockets must carry laptops and other work related items, which I don’t do at all. What I want is a place where I can stash my liquids bag without getting into the main compartment or carrying it around in my personal item (which may not have much room in it as I don’t like to carry big personal items unless I badly need the extra space). Or to stash a sweater for the plane. What I don’t need is a laptop sleeve as I haven’t brought a laptop on a trip in a least 10 years.
This! We aren’t all business travelers with the need for dedicated technology pockets. I rather carry my laptop in my personal item backpack or tote anyway.
I have always used the bucket style until recently. I got a monos carry on plus and have used it once. I absolutely love it and after a lot of searching am now thinking about getting the Nomad Lane V4 Bento personal item bag. These two will be ideal for traveling.
I am with you on this one although I do think that you have to adjust your style depending on the bag you use. However I always say you can pack much more on the clam shell hard luggage than soft ones. But at the end of the day it is a personal preference . Some people swear by the packing cubes while others find them a waste of weight and space . Each to their own. I did enjoy this video though
I have a hard sided bag, but opens like traditional soft sided where i get the full depth. I will choose it or my clamshell backpack depending on what i need. Or both!!
I think the Luka was a bad choice for comparison (no offense!). It’s just a poorly designed suitcase in terms of space efficiency with all the curves and places where it juts out. I’d love to see a comparison of monos to the Briggs and Riley sympatico carry on
I can’t buy that expensive of a bag for a comparison unfortunately. Especially when I know I won’t use it. I find that most bucket bags are designed similarly. In terms of “here is a bucket and here is a flap to cover it”.
I agree with you. It's not just about the exterior specs, it's about how the inside space can be used. I have no doubt that my Briggs and Riley carry on could hold everything she put in the hardside. The bucket style has the benefit of extra depth for bulky items.
I never understood people saying the clamshell doesn’t fit on a luggage rack. Do you all have luggage racks at home or do you pack on the floor? Last I checked, floor space is still available. Also, I never leave my suitcase open, I get what I need and close it. I don’t have a clamshell, but strongly considering one. I just got back from South Africa and was annoyed at having to dig through my luggage. We stayed at 4 hotels between JNB & CPT and I brought two pieces of luggage with me. I usually travel with a carryon or large checkin. I knew I was going to shop a lot so that’s why I brought both. This trip made me consider the clamshell, especially since I was already in the market for new luggage. I’m leaning towards Travelpro Elite.
Well, keep closing and opening the clamshell is not as easy as soft-sided. It is heavy when is packed. I liked to close my suitcase also, but will leave my wife's clamshell open because closing it is too annoying. You don't have a clamshell therefore you don't understand.
I want a check-in size clam shell luggage with clasps instead of zipper. I was going to get Solgaard, but after seeing your review, I changed my mind. Do you have a video with Check-in clam shell, clasps, no zipper?
I don’t review checked bags because I don’t check bags but I’m sure a lot of my trunk reviews come in check in sizes. I have a monos trunk, July trunk, Carl friedrik, and several level 8 trunks on my page.
I like the organization of a clamshell and that it keeps its shape. Unfortunately, mine doesn’t fit well on a luggage rack since it isn’t international size. Hope to get a smaller one soon.
I agree with you! I used to like the more traditional ones because I thought it was more functional, but I made the switch to clamshell in my checked luggage first, rationalizing that I would be unpacking my bag anyway when I use a larger bag (usually for a resort type holiday where I'm not on the move once I reach my destination). Now I'm sold! It was much easier to fit what I needed in my bag, the way you demonstrated it was exactly my experience too.
My clamshell suitcase fit under the bed in my cruise cabin and believe me that thing was packed to the gills. I even had it expanded . Yes I overpacked it😂
As I travel with convertible duffels most of the time I am no longer used to two equal sides. I definitely prefer a big caverness 40 liter gap but since I never over pack there's always room for something else as I may throw in a jacket because I land in a warm climate et cetera. I think my first bag that I felt was truly cavernous was a Tom Bihn duffle manufactured in Seattle. I went to the showroom where they also create and manufacture the bags and I fell in love. TB bags have always had a reputation for looking like a "dad's bag" but as you can choose from countless colour combinarions and two or three different materials you can always personalize. I'm sure that most people look into a deep cavernus bag and want to stuff a lot of things in but because I pack light, pack traveling clothes of lightweight materials, and always use packing cubes it always works out for me! But that's just me!
I have a clam shell for a carry on. But my upcoming trip I can only have one checked bag and a carryon and we will be moving hotels for 9 days. My carryon clam shell isn’t big enough for that, so I just got a soft side bucket one. Also I had recent back surgery for the 3rd time, so prefer to just open the least heavy side. It’s definitely a preference! I use compression cubes as well. Also I had to buy a rolling under seat backpack for my carryon because after my last trip, I was in pain for weeks with a regular backpack that was too heavy.
I prefer the clamshell for the organization. Also, the fact that it will keep it shape means I don't have to worry about it bulging in the front and no longer being the right size at the airport. We just bought our Heys Airlite based on your videos. They came in and are really nice. The blush is such a pretty colour.
My sister and I travel together and she always gets the luggage rack so clam shell luggage is perfect for her. I like the long slim packaging cubes so I prefer the traditional luggage style. You are so right. Once you know your travel style, either luggage type is perfectly fine. 🛅🧳😊
Thank you for this. One thing I never considered is how the clamshell avoids having to dig through a standard bag. That’s really convenient. I also appreciated seeing that it does work on a luggage rack.
Clam shells may pack more… but what a pain in small hotel rooms in Europe. We took 1 checked size and 2 carryons for 3 weeks traveling along the coast in Brittany and Normandy in variable weather. Bought new trunk style for checked bag and will prob replace one carryon for trunk style. Going to try vertical packing soon.
I guess I’m not traveling to spacious hotels, as I have determined I must must take a traditional trunk style but HARDSIDE trunk style, not softside. I have lost an entire clamshell softside to a downpour while it was being offloaded from the airplane. They seemingly dropped it in a pool it was so drenched. Yeah zippers are leak points for hardside (most) but the damage is far far less. But the main reason I must use trunk style is for use as a drawer in interesting lodging with zero room to open a clamshell. I’m so tired of tripping over clamshell on the floor by the bed. And all this has helped me become a more minimal packer. Better fabrics, more convertible and multipurpose things, and a little less of them. Bonus is making weight easily for weird or restrictive international flights where the bag is weighed sometimes multiple times. But I always enjoy your videos! ❤
I think it’s helpful to have one of each. In Japan my husband had trouble with his clamshell. We knew the hotels would be small but it was still a shock how little floorspace there was. My bucket style was great because I could leave it unzipped and pushed against the wall, whereas he could hardly find enough floorspace to open his clamshell fully on the ground. His clamshell was also very unstable on the luggage rack if there was one, I think because the weight is distributed wider so if we caught a corner of it while walking past it would fall. And like others have said, if you have a bulky item (ex/Christmas present), a bucket is easier to pack it in. That being said-I just traded my bucket travelpro for a beis carryon and am looking forward to the easier organization. I think the clamshells may also be less “tippy” because of their center of gravity? Not sure but excited to use it!
Agree about Japan. Only take soft sided luggage. Especially with 3 people in a room. Most hotels do not have the floor space (or any space!) for clamshell. I suppose if you owned both types and made the decision regarding your destination/ needs then either would work.
I have been looking at clamshell backpacks and so happy to find Pacsafe just came out with a couple. Yay Clamshell just looks like a great way to pack. Thanks.
I actually have a HARD SHELL that has a traditional top lid. No CLAMSHELL. And i love it! I'm so annoyed at lifting a fully packed lid of a clamshell. And to keep things organized, i just use packing cubes.
Hello! I’ve been watching your guys’ channel to help me decide what carry on luggage to buy & have seen that you’ve recommended July sometimes. Have you ever flown with the July carry on essential with American or United Airlines? According to July’s website it’s 1 inch longer in width than both airlines restrict but it’s still within the standard 45 linear inches
I honestly can't judge fairly what my preference would be between the two types, as I have never had or used a clamshell piece of luggage. I have only had and used traditional "bucket" style cases, duffles, backpacks or totes. I'm a creature of habit, sticking to what I'm familiar with. I do however remember my mom packing her's and my dad's clothes in a clamshell, hard side suitcase (the old fashioned kind, with the latches, no trolley). I thought it was neat how she packed, each having a side. One day when I have more storage space and need more luggage, I'd like to try clamshell. Although I have my own method of packing bucket style that works for me so far. But , I haven't traveled for more than long weekend road trips in several years.
I am totally team soft/traditional luggage. Main reason as you mention, the space in the hotel room. We are a family of five. Husband has clamshell and I feel it takes up a lot of extra space. I feel that me and 3 kids have better organization, we do of course use packing cubes! After watching your video I might reconsider to try the clam shell going forward😂 just to verify. Thank you for taking your time to making great videos.
You mentioned your heys bags.. I’m so interested in the blue and grey colors. I know you mentioned in the comments July and monos as favs but for lightweight European how’d they fair?
Heys is the lightest and then monos and then July (regular bags not trunks or plus or pro) and honestly none of these airlines weighed my bag at all! The airline and the quince actually weigh the same for the lightest bags that I own besides the July light And yes I’m obsessed with the blue
@catiejohnson7910 I like heys better luggage wise but quince does have compression (not as good as monos or July but still compression) and they have an expandable one now too
@@ItsTheKellys I did see the expandable one on quince site today. Wasn’t sure what the comparison was to those now esp with weight. I’ve found my expandables seem to be heavier. And I’m looking for a lightweight expandable for future euro trips
I got a monos carry-on for my trip to the Netherlands, and although it held up well… I found the clamshell was quite annoying. Unless you are traveling to one place and staying there for a length of time… I found it traveling every day or two it was a problem, not one single hotel I stayed in offered the room to open a clamshell style unless it was on the bed. I don’t want to unpack, if I’m just there a day or two. Every place I stayed it would’ve been more convenient to have a traditional opening of luggage. I don’t travel with the kind of things you show in your videos. in fact, I usually travel with a lot less.. I recently bought a new traditional style opening to use on my next trip. I want to see if it makes a difference for me personally. I just can’t get out of my head. How annoyed I was it every single place I stayed. There was no place to keep things in my suitcase and get to them easily, if it was in a clamshell. And also I had to open my suitcase in a Amsterdam airport for some reason on the security. It wasn’t it was took up space to lay it down and open it up for the security people. Another annoying notch on its clamshell belt. I will probably use my clamshell again. But only for specific trips where I’m going for somewhere for a week where I can unpack and not have to get into my luggage each day. I’m not against clamshell, but it’s not the best for my style of packing and travel at least on that trip. Will continue to experiment. Ps I do use packing cubes. Firmly believe in those and always travel with some size personal item.
I’m never in a hotel room for more than 2 days and still have a fine time with mine, but I’ve been doing that clamshell style for 8 years, so I’m just used to it.
@@ItsTheKellys I know that we will never divert you from your devotion to the clamshell! I don’t mind using both for different reasons. However, I do travel a lot for work and found that the bucket style works better for me In most occasions. The way I pack, it really works for me. I have a Delsey clamshell and a new Monos clamshell and I’m sure I will use them again. But after my last travel experience, I think I’m going to go with the bucket and see how that works. Will report back.😊
I just got back from 3 weeks in Europe. I can visualized what you're saying. 4 out of the 5 rooms I was in, you would have to had have your clamshell opened on the floor. I traveled with a 30 liter bucket backpack so i never gave clamshells a thought until i read your post.
Travel with less stuff. I travel with my wife and we can fit two top opens on the hotel luggage shelf. Clamshells take up too much space or a lot more work... open/close. If you travel alone, use a clamshell.
I don’t seem to use my luggage like anyone else has mentioned in comments. I do one week trips to one place. I use carryon luggage just to store clothes, shoes,toiletries. I use an under seat bag for everything else. When I get to my destination, I unpack everything into drawers. But call me shocked at your packing results. I’m so glad you showed a comparison of the two types of bags. I seriously would not have believed the top opening bag didn’t hold more than the clam shell. Thank you for helping me nix the top opening bag, just in case I don’t have drawers.
I purchased the monos carry on for myself and the one with the monos-pro? (I think that’s what it’s called lol And I purchased the backpack and duffel bag from monos for our personal!! I really don’t even use the backpack or duffel! I was shocked these would work but you were right they are definitely great for us!! I leant mine to my daughter last month and she was like this is so small lol I’m like just try it and now I’m going to be buying her one for her birthday!!! Cheers and love from Canada 🇨🇦
I use to use a backpack style (Tom Bihn) and I recently switched as I find it too uncomfortable to lug around on my back as I get a bit older. I LOVE clam shell its the only way.
I think it depends on the destination. For me, a traditional style with the deep space works best if I’m packing my snorkel and fins, otherwise I like a clamshell. 🙂
Disclosure: it's just what I like. Sorry. I own both clam shell AND a bucket. My bucket is from Victoria Secrets. Love it. Was a clearance purchase in NY. It has the 4 rollar wheels.
All the things other than the packing cubes could have been placed in the bottom of the top loading case first, especially between the handle bar grooves, with the packing cubes being placed instead. on top of the other items
Agree. Love hard-sided clamshell with 4 wheels. My very first suitcase was a soft case with two wheels, which now I only use to store my packing accessories, like packing cubes, toiletry bag, luggage tags, etc.
Clamshell all the way! I used to use the bucket, then went to clamshell and thought it was silly. Then I liked it for organizing and can't go another way. Still looking for a light weight personal size item that is clamshell....probably a backpack for the future 😉
I DM’d. I’ve overall had clamshell but now I have to get into the bag on the airplane and the clamshell is super difficult to get into on a plane when I need certain things for my toddler. Hence, soft sided front lid opening. I got a tumi one at an outlet so I got it 50% off.😊 I like both for different reasons. I have yet to travel just carry on, but my toddler NEEDS certain things so now, I’m getting anxious checking bags in. Like, her blankee, her stuff animal lovey, and even her eczema soap (which comes from a special company online and not available in stores). I think this is the trip I’m going to do carry on. Still have a checked bag for bulky items but for the most part I’m going to try carry on only😂
You can also keep clamshell open and live out of it by just sliding it under the bed like an under the bed storage box. The other style is often to tall to fit easily
@@ItsTheKellys Good point. I am mostly cruising, in friends/family’s guest room or at an AirBNB. My pre cruise hotels I live out if my personal item backpack.
I have a concern about the weight of a clamshell. I mean you can probably get super light ones if you pay a fortune, but always think they weight a lot more.
Preach!! This is so true, it's so much more efficient seeing exactly where everything is without having to unload a single thing. Thanks for another great video Lauren!! 👍🏻👍🏻
You may not know if you just happened to stumble upon this video, but my channel is all about carry on luggage, and teaching people how to pack in a carry on, so I don’t own any bigger luggage, nor can I try to put that on a luggage rack. I chose a standard international size carry on for each example, that had the same dimensions. I apologize if it seems biased, but I truly cannot think of a single reason that I would ever choose the other kind, and that’s the opinion in my video :)
I think the issue about clamshell bags being tricky on luggage racks is more of a problem with check in size bags. My husband has a clamshell style check in bag, and wherever he travels with it a) he swears at how awkward it is to open and b) the number of times he's accidentally caused an avalanche of stuff with his bag is hilarious 😆😂 Both my carry on and check in size bags are of the bucket variety and I enjoy the 3D tetris that packing and unpacking is 😂😂😂
@@ItsTheKellys I think they're particularly handy for international moves, and even though I try to stick to carry on bags for most European trips, I enjoy a checked bag on intercontinental trips.
Hard-sided can pack more than soft-sided because the hard-sides became essentically compression boards. Airline crews like soft-sided because it's lighter, the pockets out front means they can get things out "on the job", and they don't pack a lot. Most people traveling / vacationing aren't like that; who stays only 1 or 2 nights at a destination and go back? Channels that promote soft-sided because airline crews use them are content farming, not actually helping people
We gotta start with the fact that these cases aren't actually the same size. Look at how the soft luggage slopes inward from the side profile view at the top. This isn't a good comparison. Should've used a bag with equal square dimensions, not sloped so that the dimensions on one end are less in volume than the dimensions at the other end of the case.
I used the one bucket style soft sided carry on that I own because viewers were repeatedly asking for this video, so I did it with what I had. They have the same outer dimensions, which is what matters for the airline you're flying. Out of the 56 hard shells that I own, I chose the one with the closest as possible. even if I had an extra inch, or whatever would make you happy, it still wouldn't help.
I never knew there was a name for the kind of luggage that opens with 2 sides to use for packing. I like clamshell luggage for sure. I don't care if it's hard side or soft side, as long as it's the smallest lightest bag ever with GOOD WHEELS. I refuse to carry a huge suitcase and I hate checking bags. I'm so vain, I'll bring fewer clothes to have room for my makeup, toiletries, and other lotions and potions. I'm ridiculous but at least I don't have to carry tons of bags and I have room to bring home souvenirs. BTW 92 countries?! WOW. Go you!
It’s 95 countries now ;) thank you! I’m with you on the lotions and potions, but I make them smaller, knowing that most of them I only need a fingertip dollop, and end up saving so much space! (I have videos on that too) Cheers to carry on’s and souvenirs! Woo!
I am a fan of monos, but you are literally comparing two products that are NOT similar in size. The monos is 8 liters larger! That is 25% larger interior space. It is also an inch taller and .5" wider! So of course it will fit more!
Not the point of the video. And this was the closest bag size I had to the ONLY non clamshell one I own. As if the extra inch is going to give you that much packing space.
@@ItsTheKellys The point of the video is showing how much more tight the soft side was. But the interior volume of the soft shell you used is 25% smaller. So of course it is going to be/feel smaller or tighter.
I totally disagree. The traditional bucket style has allows for more variety of shaped items. The clamshell style is really geared towards packing cube shaped objects (e.g. flatter items). With the bucket style, you only need to lay one side down to open the case. You overstate the issue with removing stuff from the bucket style as you're already using packing cubes. The hard-sided case is compressing your items when you close it - that's either good or bad depending on how overpacked the bag is. I prefer soft-sided luggage (especially if it expands) as you can pack more or less depending on the situation. The expansion is useful if you bring back extra souvenirs and are willing to check the bag.
Hardshell, but opens the traditional way… I found one on amazon, but have yet to pull the trigger. Clamshells take up too much floors space and don’t really fit on luggage racks.
I also prefer clamshell. I've heard that some people like the top opening style for super small hotel rooms in Japan. I think they put two carry-on suitcases side by side on the luggage rack. If I had the top opening style, I would stand the packing cubes up on their ends, so everything is stacked, and I could still access the cubes without digging. It might require smaller packing cubes. 🌸Heidi
Do you agree or disagree? Let’s talk about it below!
Agree
Disagree. Cannot just restrict to carry on and big clamshells do not fit on a hotel stand and take up less space when open.
Ah well this is a carry on packing channel :)
Disagree. A 40L clamshell will load exactly the same as 40L top load as long as both are of the same material. Your comparison was not fair because you used a hard shell vs a soft shell. I travel on a plane 3-5x a year (mostly int'l) and I find top load luggage easier to use. I have 4 carry ons, 3 check ins, and even a golf travel bag. Clamshell, top load, hard case, soft case...I prefer to use the top load luggages when possible.
Comparing a 39.9L hardside (Monos) to a 32L softside (Calpak) and saying the same stuff won’t fit is a little off, 8L differential is quite a size gap between the two.
I am also on team traditional luggage. I travel with a lot of outdoor equipment (climbing gear, camping gear, etc). The clamshell just doesn't always work for this as oftentimes the items need more depth than just half the suitcase. I also find it annoying every time I open the suitcase to have the zipper running in between the wheels (although this is definitely a personal preference).
I use Travelpro softsided. I understand your concerns about "digging" to the bottom of a softsided. That's why I use compressible packing cubes. Plus my wife uses hard shell and after a couple flights it looks "banged up" with scuffs and scratches. Mine still look like new. I do use the front pockets for cables, chargers, batteries, computer, etc.
I love the Travelpro maxlite5. It holds a lot plus it weighs much less i also have the Monos small carry on but it’s heavier. I checked it once on the way home from a trip and it came back looking awful!
@@lynnleipold2617good to hear…just ordered the Maxlite 5.😊
I actually like both for different reasons. Sometimes packing certain things I need the deeper luggage but that’s because I’m packing for my toddler and bringing a lot of things she likes from home that are large that clamshell is too shallow for. For typical packing such as clothes, shoes, toiletries, I’m very much more a clamshell packer.
The shoes and hair tool could fill the space between the handle gaps and you could use vertical packing cubes - just use different tactics for each style bag
Agreed packing for bucket style needs different tactics
Agreed.
The hair tool is too tall to fit adequately in there, and my shoes are too wide. It really wouldn’t have made much of a difference.
Maybe I’ll do the vertical challenge when I get home
Agreed. You can’t just pack the same style in different bags. People have different suitcases for different type of trips. So I would imagine that different bags would have different packing styles.
I personally also use hardshell clamshell style luggage, but I’m not a big packing cube fan. I find I can fit more when I’m able to use the nooks and crannies (like the space between the rods that seems wasted under these packing cubes).
I generally use cubes so that I can keep the kids clothes separate from each other. When we unpack I just hand the cubes out to the kids.
Just so you know where we’re coming from. We’re a family of 7. We’ve done trips as long as a month plus with carry-on only. I’ve been to all 7 continents and 50 states. Kids not quite there yet. Although most of them have been to the lower 48 and 4 continents (not bad considering we don’t take them out of school and some of them are on an 11 month school year).
She could have also done that in the clamshell. She had more wiggle room in the clamshell luggage, in my opinion.
I’ve had both types of carry on suitcases. The one I’m using now, is a wheeled backpack for the times on cobblestone streets, old hotels with no elevator etc. It’s the bucket kind, but packing vertically solves the problem, and, I can fold the “lid cover” under the “bucket” in the hotel so it takes up much less space.
We use international-sized (TravelPro Maxlite International Carryon Spinner) luggage, mainly because Canadian airlines are super strict. I have heard that that Monos carryon, for example, they will force you to gate check it, even if it passes the sizer. We have also used 40L packs (Osprey Farpoint/Fairview 40L). For me, its more about the stress of dealing with the airlines and their ever-changing rules (randomly enforced).
Often it is because of the aircraft. The 'shape' of the overhead bins may not allow full size (normal) carryon bags to fit and close. Some hardside bags need to 'hog' whole bin to themselves 😂😂. Thankfully many newer aircraft have better bin space ❤
this is the reason i went from fridge sized rollers, to only carryon starting 24" to 23 to 22 to 21 to 20 and now i'm at 16. Unless i know my itinerary doesn't put me on a tiny regional plane, i'll stick with that little one. or if i'm going FC/business where they won't gate check your bag
@@rhondillon5056 yes. they're retrofitting older planes that have the worthless narrow pizza oven overheads with modern storage that'll take regulation bags sideways so everyone can get a carry-on in there.
Totally agree. Flown to YVR and YYZ, both times they had me check my Mono at the gate where I had to remove my laptop, risk my camera gears in it, and carry the heavy duffle with laptop in it at the airport… neck and shoulder pain and old back injuries didn’t help either.
I’ve also had an experience traveling in Asia to Taiwan on budget airline with the Mono carry on, the ground crew explicitly stated that whenever they see a nice suitcase, they will weight it. She said usually the more expensive suitcase are heavier. With the check in luggage charge, the budget airline ticket was about the same price if I would’ve flown on regular airline with at least one check bag included. 🥲 learned my lesson, always check the weight before buying a carry on.
@@tintintinnie
I have all soft sided luggage. My favorite has the open space on one side and a garment bag on the other. So while the sides aren't even like a clam shell they are much closer than the calpak you packed. My husband has a business trip that requires him to wear suits three days and four nights of casual cloths and the garment bag side is clutch. I think it also depends on the packing cubes you are using. The garment bag suitcase I have has the handle hardware on the outside so no bars in the inside making it easier to stand up packing cubes and maximizes the space. I watched this video with my husband and could tell he was intrigued, being a luggage addict it doesn't take much to persuade me to try out new luggage. I am also a total Quince addict and am going to try out their clam shell carry on. I have a soft sided Lipault that I bought because it was under 5 lbs which is helpful when weight is a factor. As previously noted I just love luggage.
I love my clam shell hard luggage, but my soft side bucket wins when it comes to weight. This can be an issue if u r flying an airline that’s strict about weighing bags.
Actually, all of my non-clamshell bags weigh more.
I was wondering about that as well. The calpak is 6.6 lbs versus the Monos which is 7 lbs. Not a huge difference for these specific bags but I've found soft sides in the 4-5 lb range and haven't found that low with hard side without sacrificing capacity. I have some back issues and every pound helps me with lifting. Delsey has one in the mid 6lb range that's about the same size. July has a super light bag 3.2 lbs (!!!) but it's only 32L. Looking for an affordable unicorn, would love ideas 😊
@BethC817 a lot of soft bags can actually weigh more than hard. Quince and heys airlite actually weigh about 5 pounds, and are expandable. (Real weight vs weight on website)
@@ItsTheKellys I just watched your best 2023 video and appreciate that you shared the weight. So helpful. I think I'm convinced now on hardshell clamshell for a carry-on. Great videos!
@BethC817 thank you! 😊 🥰
I just did this with my mom. Hard case clam vs soft shell. We actually fit more in the soft case as we stacked the packing cubes up from the bottom which I noticed you did not try it that way. We did not fit as much if we laid them flat like you did. However my son bought some anime figures and kept them in the box…we could fit the 3 boxes on one side of the hard case plus some extra stuff and it left the other side empty to pack clothes but in the soft sided case it just fit those only with not much else. I think they each serve a different purpose. I going on a cruise soon and will be trying to figure out which case will be better🤷🏻♀️ as I am only bringing carry on size to Alaska.
I really have enjoyed your videos🙂
Have you had your Alaska cruise yet? Which did you decide on using? Going on an Alaskan cruise is September and want a new carryon. Just can’t decide on hard or soft…
@@ShannanMajor we leave tomorrow. Bringing large soft suitcase because that is what I had but on my trip over to the states I prefer my hard case as it steers better when my backpack is on it and does not tip over.
Awww, safe travels and have fun! I think I’m going with hard clamshell international size. I already have a soft bucket domestic carry on. Now to decide between a couple of contenders….
I have not travelled for 18 years and next year i am going to Alaska. I just ordered a 20 inch hardshwll suitcase. I was also more in favour of a soft suitcase. But honestly i saw pros and cons for both . The cute compact style won me over. I am amazed at how much fits in carry on only. I baught a backpack and a personal item bag and now i have to decide which will fit more and be more useful.
Have a great time in Alaska! For your personal item, just think of convenience and if you can maybe use it during your trip too! I’m personally a backpack fan, especially if it has a trolley sleeve to fit over your luggage handle :)
I packed my kid for a summer program at a college last year. We had to check because they didn't supply sheets, pillows, towels, etc. in the dorms. I did use a "bucket" bag in checked luggage because some of the things that were needed (like a fan - no AC in the dorms either) were too deep/bulky to go in a clamshell. I have seen videos where they make good use of space in a softshell bag by filling the trolly mechanic space with flats, curling iron, etc. and then standing smaller cubes/toiletry bags up rather than laying them flat. I still prefer a hardshell for carry-on only.
Great Video. I have used many types of luggage but have avoided clam-shell, as I didn't feel it held as much. When packing my traditional style bag, I stand my packing cubes with the handles up. Fits in much better and easier to access without unpacking every thing. I due for a new bag, so I might order a clam shell and see how if it packs as well for me.
Let me know if you get one and how you feel about the difference. I really really prefer the separation of the two sides. It’s extra organization: clothing on one side, and accessories on the other, plus no digging and unpacking.
I just went from a travel pro professional series soft sided bag to a monos carry on (small) and I can fit a bunch more in because it keeps its rectangle shape all the way around where the travel pro was more wedge shaped and slimmer at top. Love the monos so far!
Thanks for sharing!
This is exactly where I am - moving to Monos from the Travel Pro, mainly because the wedge shaped really bugs me, too. (And if I’m honest, because I think the Monos looks so sharp!) I haven’t travelled with the Monos yet though, and have been hesitant to do so until I watched this video. The selling point for me was your organizational approach - clothes on one side and accessories on the other. Thanks for the demo.
I would have packed the open bag differently - shoes between the bars in the back, cubes on their side (the side of the suitcase is high enough to do that), then everything else goes in. That said, I also prefer a hardside clamshell bag if I'm using a rolling suitcase.
I've had (and still have)both. When we first started diving the soft side was much less heavy then the hard side. We did buy the Hays hard side and actually used it for our clothes and still used the soft side for our gear, which was checked. We also used the hard side for underwater cameras, computers, regulators, etc. which we carried on. Now I use hard side but I either travel by car or our RV mostly now. I can see the advantage to both. I think the soft side might lend itself better to not using packing cubes so you can stuff all the corners and I did like the fact that in the airport I could just unzip a little portion of the top and put things in or take things out without having to open the entire thing like you do with clamshell. It came in really handy when flying out of somewhere cold and arriving somewhere hot and a wardrobe change of maybe taking off a sweater and heavy shirt came in handy. Our carry ons were always stuffed full with gear and there was no room for that. Oh, and I am an unpacker, even when I going to multiple locations I still unpack for that location, I don't like living out of a suitcase.
I prefer packing a soft side luggage but my dream luggage is a hard side that opens like a soft one (the bucket style). I do typically use my hard side carryon when I’m doing carry on only & the soft luggage (with a cover) for checked bags
I have the Hanke from Amazon that is exactly this and I LOVE IT!
Lojel but then again… weight issue with hard side is not easy to beat
I have been really enjoying your videos. Thank you. I think this makes total sense for carryons, but with a larger suitcase I prefer the “bucket” style. Larger clamshells do not dit on luggage racks opened up. But my large soft sided can sit on a rack, table, small chair and lean the top against the wall for full access. You have convinced me with the carry ons for sure.
Has anyone tried the Hanke luggage that opens in the traditional suitcase manner, but is a hard case? Similar to old time travel trunks it looks like the best of both worlds.
I have a Hanke and love it however I recently got a Mixi with a wide handle and love that one also. Both have the front opening but the wide handle on the Mixi leaves the inside area wide and flat.
@@kariryan3941 Thank you for the suggestion. I have been looking for something like the Mixi for a while. Those bars inside are really annoying ;)
Visually doesn’t look same size. The clamshell compartment sits lower (less open air between under clamshell to the floor) when it’s upright. Which means slightly more space than the bucket case. What is the real measurement of the compartment itself between the two?
I’m very much team clamshell as I really value compartmentalization, but I actually agree with the bucket-lovers claim that they take up less space. I feel way more awkward opening up a clamshell suitcase to get stuff out in public than I do with a bucket style bag just because of how much horizontal space I need to take up to open up my bag. I also think a bucket style bag may be preferable if you’re staying places where space is limited and where you can’t (or don’t wish to) unpack, like in a hostel dorm room or one of those tiny closet like single rooms in European hotels.
That said, those pros for bucket bags don’t really apply to me, so I’m not tempted to switch from a clamshell bag. Having multiple spaces in a bag is just invaluable to me. The only thing I miss is the front pockets, as the soft shelled suitcases and more varied in their pocket options than the pockets you get on pro style clamshell bags. And I’ve never seen a pro bag that had pockets that were configured in a way that suited what I tend to bring with me on vacation. They’re all kind of built around the idea that the people who want pockets must carry laptops and other work related items, which I don’t do at all. What I want is a place where I can stash my liquids bag without getting into the main compartment or carrying it around in my personal item (which may not have much room in it as I don’t like to carry big personal items unless I badly need the extra space). Or to stash a sweater for the plane. What I don’t need is a laptop sleeve as I haven’t brought a laptop on a trip in a least 10 years.
This! We aren’t all business travelers with the need for dedicated technology pockets. I rather carry my laptop in my personal item backpack or tote anyway.
I have always used the bucket style until recently. I got a monos carry on plus and have used it once. I absolutely love it and after a lot of searching am now thinking about getting the Nomad Lane V4 Bento personal item bag. These two will be ideal for traveling.
What will be a great set up!
I am with you on this one although I do think that you have to adjust your style depending on the bag you use. However I always say you can pack much more on the clam shell hard luggage than soft ones. But at the end of the day it is a personal preference . Some people swear by the packing cubes while others find them a waste of weight and space . Each to their own. I did enjoy this video though
I have a hard sided bag, but opens like traditional soft sided where i get the full depth. I will choose it or my clamshell backpack depending on what i need. Or both!!
What brand do you have? And does it have a cupholder on the outside?
I think the Luka was a bad choice for comparison (no offense!). It’s just a poorly designed suitcase in terms of space efficiency with all the curves and places where it juts out. I’d love to see a comparison of monos to the Briggs and Riley sympatico carry on
I can’t buy that expensive of a bag for a comparison unfortunately. Especially when I know I won’t use it.
I find that most bucket bags are designed similarly. In terms of “here is a bucket and here is a flap to cover it”.
I agree with you. It's not just about the exterior specs, it's about how the inside space can be used. I have no doubt that my Briggs and Riley carry on could hold everything she put in the hardside. The bucket style has the benefit of extra depth for bulky items.
I never understood people saying the clamshell doesn’t fit on a luggage rack. Do you all have luggage racks at home or do you pack on the floor? Last I checked, floor space is still available. Also, I never leave my suitcase open, I get what I need and close it.
I don’t have a clamshell, but strongly considering one. I just got back from South Africa and was annoyed at having to dig through my luggage. We stayed at 4 hotels between JNB & CPT and I brought two pieces of luggage with me. I usually travel with a carryon or large checkin. I knew I was going to shop a lot so that’s why I brought both.
This trip made me consider the clamshell, especially since I was already in the market for new luggage. I’m leaning towards Travelpro Elite.
Well, keep closing and opening the clamshell is not as easy as soft-sided. It is heavy when is packed. I liked to close my suitcase also, but will leave my wife's clamshell open because closing it is too annoying. You don't have a clamshell therefore you don't understand.
Both are good. I think I would have packed the soft shell differently. You can pack in front pockets of the soft luggage.
Not really- it bulges out too much, and won’t fit in a bin.
@it'sthekellys where did you get your luggage rack storage from? It looks amazing!
Thank you for the complement and here's a link amzn.to/4a6E4er
I absolutely love my calpak hardside clamshell 20” carryon and my 16” hardside personal size clamshell.
Bought the monos becasue of you, and I have taken it on 2 trips, plane and train, and it was amazing :)
So glad to hear that! 🥰
How about zippers vs clips? Which can pack more?
Zippers, in my experience. I just did a trunk video and overpacked for it and it was very had to close and open again
I want a check-in size clam shell luggage with clasps instead of zipper. I was going to get Solgaard, but after seeing your review, I changed my mind. Do you have a video with Check-in clam shell, clasps, no zipper?
I don’t review checked bags because I don’t check bags but I’m sure a lot of my trunk reviews come in check in sizes. I have a monos trunk, July trunk, Carl friedrik, and several level 8 trunks on my page.
I like the organization of a clamshell and that it keeps its shape. Unfortunately, mine doesn’t fit well on a luggage rack since it isn’t international size. Hope to get a smaller one soon.
It still should fit! People put checked sizes on them :) you just balance it
I agree with you! I used to like the more traditional ones because I thought it was more functional, but I made the switch to clamshell in my checked luggage first, rationalizing that I would be unpacking my bag anyway when I use a larger bag (usually for a resort type holiday where I'm not on the move once I reach my destination). Now I'm sold! It was much easier to fit what I needed in my bag, the way you demonstrated it was exactly my experience too.
My clamshell suitcase fit under the bed in my cruise cabin and believe me that thing was packed to the gills. I even had it expanded . Yes I overpacked it😂
As I travel with convertible duffels most of the time I am no longer used to two equal sides.
I definitely prefer a big caverness 40 liter gap but since I never over pack there's always room for something else as I may throw in a jacket because I land in a warm climate et cetera.
I think my first bag that I felt was truly cavernous was a Tom Bihn duffle manufactured in Seattle. I went to the showroom where they also create and manufacture the bags and I fell in love. TB bags have always had a reputation for looking like a "dad's bag" but as you can choose from countless colour combinarions and two or three different materials you can always personalize.
I'm sure that most people look into a deep cavernus bag and want to stuff a lot of things in but because I pack light, pack traveling clothes of lightweight materials, and always use packing cubes it always works out for me!
But that's just me!
I have a clam shell for a carry on. But my upcoming trip I can only have one checked bag and a carryon and we will be moving hotels for 9 days. My carryon clam shell isn’t big enough for that, so I just got a soft side bucket one. Also I had recent back surgery for the 3rd time, so prefer to just open the least heavy side. It’s definitely a preference! I use compression cubes as well. Also I had to buy a rolling under seat backpack for my carryon because after my last trip, I was in pain for weeks with a regular backpack that was too heavy.
I prefer the clamshell for the organization. Also, the fact that it will keep it shape means I don't have to worry about it bulging in the front and no longer being the right size at the airport. We just bought our Heys Airlite based on your videos. They came in and are really nice. The blush is such a pretty colour.
My sister and I travel together and she always gets the luggage rack so clam shell luggage is perfect for her. I like the long slim packaging cubes so I prefer the traditional luggage style. You are so right. Once you know your travel style, either luggage type is perfectly fine. 🛅🧳😊
I like the soft, but for the specific reason that they take up less space when open.
Thank you for this. One thing I never considered is how the clamshell avoids having to dig through a standard bag. That’s really convenient. I also appreciated seeing that it does work on a luggage rack.
Clam shells may pack more… but what a pain in small hotel rooms in Europe. We took 1 checked size and 2 carryons for 3 weeks traveling along the coast in Brittany and Normandy in variable weather. Bought new trunk style for checked bag and will prob replace one carryon for trunk style. Going to try vertical packing soon.
I’ve been to almost every country in Europe and it’s never been a problem for me. But I only carry on.
Can the packing cubes be packed on their sides?
If they are, then you can’t pack anything on top of them.
I guess I’m not traveling to spacious hotels, as I have determined I must must take a traditional trunk style but HARDSIDE trunk style, not softside.
I have lost an entire clamshell softside to a downpour while it was being offloaded from the airplane. They seemingly dropped it in a pool it was so drenched. Yeah zippers are leak points for hardside (most) but the damage is far far less.
But the main reason I must use trunk style is for use as a drawer in interesting lodging with zero room to open a clamshell. I’m so tired of tripping over clamshell on the floor by the bed.
And all this has helped me become a more minimal packer. Better fabrics, more convertible and multipurpose things, and a little less of them. Bonus is making weight easily for weird or restrictive international flights where the bag is weighed sometimes multiple times.
But I always enjoy your videos! ❤
I have a bucket style carryon luggage, but I can’t wait to try the clamshell carryon bag
Clam shell carry on is great, but a larger one will not fit on the luggage rack, so for my checked bag to Spain, I ordered the Maxlite 5. 😊
Ah, I don’t check bags :)
@@ItsTheKellys I can carry on for the regular trip….but I am so curious, how do you travel to an event like a wedding with a carry on?
I think it’s helpful to have one of each. In Japan my husband had trouble with his clamshell. We knew the hotels would be small but it was still a shock how little floorspace there was. My bucket style was great because I could leave it unzipped and pushed against the wall, whereas he could hardly find enough floorspace to open his clamshell fully on the ground. His clamshell was also very unstable on the luggage rack if there was one, I think because the weight is distributed wider so if we caught a corner of it while walking past it would fall. And like others have said, if you have a bulky item (ex/Christmas present), a bucket is easier to pack it in.
That being said-I just traded my bucket travelpro for a beis carryon and am looking forward to the easier organization. I think the clamshells may also be less “tippy” because of their center of gravity? Not sure but excited to use it!
Agree about Japan. Only take soft sided luggage. Especially with 3 people in a room. Most hotels do not have the floor space (or any space!) for clamshell. I suppose if you owned both types and made the decision regarding your destination/ needs then either would work.
I have been looking at clamshell backpacks and so happy to find Pacsafe just came out with a couple. Yay
Clamshell just looks like a great way to pack. Thanks.
Awesome!
I actually have a HARD SHELL that has a traditional top lid. No CLAMSHELL. And i love it! I'm so annoyed at lifting a fully packed lid of a clamshell. And to keep things organized, i just use packing cubes.
Yeah I have one of those too. I actually find it even worse than the soft ones 🙊 but we all have our favorites!
@@ItsTheKellys Why worse? Less room?
Could you pls try and compare again with Mixi hardshell top opening carry on.
I don’t own that one and have no interest in purchasing it to prove my point again, when everyone fights me on the results. It won’t fit as much.
Thanks for sharing. If the interior volume of the bags are the same, they should be able to fit the same amount of stuff. Physics.
Hello! I’ve been watching your guys’ channel to help me decide what carry on luggage to buy & have seen that you’ve recommended July sometimes. Have you ever flown with the July carry on essential with American or United Airlines? According to July’s website it’s 1 inch longer in width than both airlines restrict but it’s still within the standard 45 linear inches
45 linear inches is all that matters :) you will be fine!
I honestly can't judge fairly what my preference would be between the two types, as I have never had or used a clamshell piece of luggage. I have only had and used traditional "bucket" style cases, duffles, backpacks or totes. I'm a creature of habit, sticking to what I'm familiar with. I do however remember my mom packing her's and my dad's clothes in a clamshell, hard side suitcase (the old fashioned kind, with the latches, no trolley). I thought it was neat how she packed, each having a side. One day when I have more storage space and need more luggage, I'd like to try clamshell. Although I have my own method of packing bucket style that works for me so far. But , I haven't traveled for more than long weekend road trips in several years.
I am totally team soft/traditional luggage. Main reason as you mention, the space in the hotel room. We are a family of five. Husband has clamshell and I feel it takes up a lot of extra space.
I feel that me and 3 kids have better organization, we do of course use packing cubes!
After watching your video I might reconsider to try the clam shell going forward😂 just to verify.
Thank you for taking your time to making great videos.
Does anyone know if there is soft sided clam shell luggage available on the market right now?
Nope :-/ I research all the time for one
@@ItsTheKellys Well maybe it's time to make one! 😆
Great demonstration.
Thank you :)
You mentioned your heys bags.. I’m so interested in the blue and grey colors. I know you mentioned in the comments July and monos as favs but for lightweight European how’d they fair?
Heys is the lightest and then monos and then July (regular bags not trunks or plus or pro) and honestly none of these airlines weighed my bag at all! The airline and the quince actually weigh the same for the lightest bags that I own besides the July light
And yes I’m obsessed with the blue
@@ItsTheKellys oh sooo heys or quince….
@catiejohnson7910 I like heys better luggage wise but quince does have compression (not as good as monos or July but still compression) and they have an expandable one now too
@@ItsTheKellys I did see the expandable one on quince site today. Wasn’t sure what the comparison was to those now esp with weight. I’ve found my expandables seem to be heavier. And I’m looking for a lightweight expandable for future euro trips
I got a monos carry-on for my trip to the Netherlands, and although it held up well… I found the clamshell was quite annoying. Unless you are traveling to one place and staying there for a length of time… I found it traveling every day or two it was a problem, not one single hotel I stayed in offered the room to open a clamshell style unless it was on the bed. I don’t want to unpack, if I’m just there a day or two. Every place I stayed it would’ve been more convenient to have a traditional opening of luggage. I don’t travel with the kind of things you show in your videos. in fact, I usually travel with a lot less.. I recently bought a new traditional style opening to use on my next trip. I want to see if it makes a difference for me personally. I just can’t get out of my head. How annoyed I was it every single place I stayed. There was no place to keep things in my suitcase and get to them easily, if it was in a clamshell. And also I had to open my suitcase in a Amsterdam airport for some reason on the security. It wasn’t it was took up space to lay it down and open it up for the security people. Another annoying notch on its clamshell belt.
I will probably use my clamshell again. But only for specific trips where I’m going for somewhere for a week where I can unpack and not have to get into my luggage each day. I’m not against clamshell, but it’s not the best for my style of packing and travel at least on that trip. Will continue to experiment. Ps I do use packing cubes. Firmly believe in those and always travel with some size personal item.
I’m never in a hotel room for more than 2 days and still have a fine time with mine, but I’ve been doing that clamshell style for 8 years, so I’m just used to it.
@@ItsTheKellys I know that we will never divert you from your devotion to the clamshell! I don’t mind using both for different reasons. However, I do travel a lot for work and found that the bucket style works better for me In most occasions. The way I pack, it really works for me. I have a Delsey clamshell and a new Monos clamshell and I’m sure I will use them again. But after my last travel experience, I think I’m going to go with the bucket and see how that works. Will report back.😊
I just got back from 3 weeks in Europe. I can visualized what you're saying. 4 out of the 5 rooms I was in, you would have to had have your clamshell opened on the floor. I traveled with a 30 liter bucket backpack so i never gave clamshells a thought until i read your post.
Travel with less stuff.
I travel with my wife and we can fit two top opens on the hotel luggage shelf. Clamshells take up too much space or a lot more work... open/close. If you travel alone, use a clamshell.
I don’t seem to use my luggage like anyone else has mentioned in comments. I do one week trips to one place. I use carryon luggage just to store clothes, shoes,toiletries. I use an under seat bag for everything else. When I get to my destination, I unpack everything into drawers. But call me shocked at your packing results. I’m so glad you showed a comparison of the two types of bags. I seriously would not have believed the top opening bag didn’t hold more than the clam shell. Thank you for helping me nix the top opening bag, just in case I don’t have drawers.
I unpack often, especially if I have dresses that can wrinkle :) but I’m not usually in the same hotel for more than 2-3 nights
I purchased the monos carry on for myself and the one with the monos-pro? (I think that’s what it’s called lol
And I purchased the backpack and duffel bag from monos for our personal!! I really don’t even use the backpack or duffel! I was shocked these would work but you were right they are definitely great for us!! I leant mine to my daughter last month and she was like this is so small lol I’m like just try it and now I’m going to be buying her one for her birthday!!!
Cheers and love from Canada 🇨🇦
Top load for checked bags. Clamshell for carryon? They make hardshell top loaders too.
I only carry on, so I’m sticking to clamshell 🩵
Thank you for this comparison! You have opened up my eyes!!! 😊
Glad it was helpful!
Osprey duffle all the way for me! This is the result of over 50 years of packing.
I could never walk through massive airports with a duffel! My poor body 😂
The duffles I'm referring to have wheels plus I always check my bags. I don't want to drag anything through the airport.@@ItsTheKellys
Ah ok, this is a channel that teaches people how to pack carry on only :)
I think they were referring to the checked clamp shell luggage taking too much space
Nah, they fight me on all of the sizes 😂
I use to use a backpack style (Tom Bihn) and I recently switched as I find it too uncomfortable to lug around on my back as I get a bit older. I LOVE clam shell its the only way.
Yes I tried to do a backpack on this trip for weight restrictions… and I bought a clamshell mid trip.
I think it depends on the destination. For me, a traditional style with the deep space works best if I’m packing my snorkel and fins, otherwise I like a clamshell. 🙂
Disclosure: it's just what I like. Sorry. I own both clam shell AND a bucket. My bucket is from Victoria Secrets. Love it. Was a clearance purchase in NY. It has the 4 rollar wheels.
All the things other than the packing cubes could have been placed in the bottom of the top loading case first, especially between the handle bar grooves, with the packing cubes being placed instead.
on top of the other items
If that would have worked, I would have done it that way.
Agree. Love hard-sided clamshell with 4 wheels. My very first suitcase was a soft case with two wheels, which now I only use to store my packing accessories, like packing cubes, toiletry bag, luggage tags, etc.
I agree with you, I prefer clam shell.
Clamshell all the way! I used to use the bucket, then went to clamshell and thought it was silly. Then I liked it for organizing and can't go another way. Still looking for a light weight personal size item that is clamshell....probably a backpack for the future 😉
I DM’d. I’ve overall had clamshell but now I have to get into the bag on the airplane and the clamshell is super difficult to get into on a plane when I need certain things for my toddler. Hence, soft sided front lid opening. I got a tumi one at an outlet so I got it 50% off.😊 I like both for different reasons. I have yet to travel just carry on, but my toddler NEEDS certain things so now, I’m getting anxious checking bags in. Like, her blankee, her stuff animal lovey, and even her eczema soap (which comes from a special company online and not available in stores). I think this is the trip I’m going to do carry on. Still have a checked bag for bulky items but for the most part I’m going to try carry on only😂
I’m a total bag and organizational freak, any size shape or brand, so I love your videos. Thx for sharing!
Yay! Me too! Thanks
I almost caved to the flip open top craze and ditched my hard clamshell carry on. So glad I found your video! My clamshell is here to stay.
Yesss
You can also keep clamshell open and live out of it by just sliding it under the bed like an under the bed storage box. The other style is often to tall to fit easily
Yes but most hotels don’t have access to under the bed unfortunately. That’s where I store mine on cruise ships though!
@@ItsTheKellys Good point. I am mostly cruising, in friends/family’s guest room or at an AirBNB. My pre cruise hotels I live out if my personal item backpack.
I have a concern about the weight of a clamshell. I mean you can probably get super light ones if you pay a fortune, but always think they weight a lot more.
Usually the soft shell non clamshell bags are heavier! I have several hard shell clamshells under 6 pounds, and some are even under $150.
@ thanks. I think 6 lbs is heavy though 😀😀 I’m looking around the 2 kgs mark or 4.4 lbs.
Hi there! Can you tell me where you got your cute hat? 😊
Hi! I got it at target last March!
You have enlightened me 😄
Preach!! This is so true, it's so much more efficient seeing exactly where everything is without having to unload a single thing. Thanks for another great video Lauren!! 👍🏻👍🏻
It just makes so much sense to me 😂
The bucket opening is obviously smaller. Also try open a bigger clamshell on a luggage rack. Seemed bit biased
You may not know if you just happened to stumble upon this video, but my channel is all about carry on luggage, and teaching people how to pack in a carry on, so I don’t own any bigger luggage, nor can I try to put that on a luggage rack.
I chose a standard international size carry on for each example, that had the same dimensions.
I apologize if it seems biased, but I truly cannot think of a single reason that I would ever choose the other kind, and that’s the opinion in my video :)
@@ItsTheKellys my point is that it isn´t clear if booth have the same volume, the bucket opening looks smaller
You convinced me in one video!
I think the issue about clamshell bags being tricky on luggage racks is more of a problem with check in size bags. My husband has a clamshell style check in bag, and wherever he travels with it a) he swears at how awkward it is to open and b) the number of times he's accidentally caused an avalanche of stuff with his bag is hilarious 😆😂
Both my carry on and check in size bags are of the bucket variety and I enjoy the 3D tetris that packing and unpacking is 😂😂😂
Haha yeah I’ve never traveled with a bag that big!
@@ItsTheKellys I think they're particularly handy for international moves, and even though I try to stick to carry on bags for most European trips, I enjoy a checked bag on intercontinental trips.
Hard-sided can pack more than soft-sided because the hard-sides became essentically compression boards.
Airline crews like soft-sided because it's lighter, the pockets out front means they can get things out "on the job", and they don't pack a lot. Most people traveling / vacationing aren't like that; who stays only 1 or 2 nights at a destination and go back?
Channels that promote soft-sided because airline crews use them are content farming, not actually helping people
We gotta start with the fact that these cases aren't actually the same size. Look at how the soft luggage slopes inward from the side profile view at the top. This isn't a good comparison. Should've used a bag with equal square dimensions, not sloped so that the dimensions on one end are less in volume than the dimensions at the other end of the case.
I used the one bucket style soft sided carry on that I own because viewers were repeatedly asking for this video, so I did it with what I had. They have the same outer dimensions, which is what matters for the airline you're flying. Out of the 56 hard shells that I own, I chose the one with the closest as possible. even if I had an extra inch, or whatever would make you happy, it still wouldn't help.
@0:48, even Solgaard??? 😂
Great video! You
This is more of which is a better luggage than clamshell vs side opening.
Love the claim shell. Is there a particular carry on your prefer or carry more than the others?
I have two top carry on videos. One for 2022 and one for 2023 :) July and monos are always top.
I never knew there was a name for the kind of luggage that opens with 2 sides to use for packing. I like clamshell luggage for sure. I don't care if it's hard side or soft side, as long as it's the smallest lightest bag ever with GOOD WHEELS. I refuse to carry a huge suitcase and I hate checking bags. I'm so vain, I'll bring fewer clothes to have room for my makeup, toiletries, and other lotions and potions. I'm ridiculous but at least I don't have to carry tons of bags and I have room to bring home souvenirs.
BTW 92 countries?! WOW. Go you!
It’s 95 countries now ;) thank you!
I’m with you on the lotions and potions, but I make them smaller, knowing that most of them I only need a fingertip dollop, and end up saving so much space! (I have videos on that too)
Cheers to carry on’s and souvenirs! Woo!
I am a fan of monos, but you are literally comparing two products that are NOT similar in size. The monos is 8 liters larger! That is 25% larger interior space. It is also an inch taller and .5" wider! So of course it will fit more!
Not the point of the video. And this was the closest bag size I had to the ONLY non clamshell one I own. As if the extra inch is going to give you that much packing space.
@@ItsTheKellys The point of the video is showing how much more tight the soft side was. But the interior volume of the soft shell you used is 25% smaller. So of course it is going to be/feel smaller or tighter.
I've even been able to fit my medium check-in clamshell bag open on a luggage rack in the hotel room.
Exactly!
I totally disagree. The traditional bucket style has allows for more variety of shaped items. The clamshell style is really geared towards packing cube shaped objects (e.g. flatter items). With the bucket style, you only need to lay one side down to open the case. You overstate the issue with removing stuff from the bucket style as you're already using packing cubes. The hard-sided case is compressing your items when you close it - that's either good or bad depending on how overpacked the bag is. I prefer soft-sided luggage (especially if it expands) as you can pack more or less depending on the situation. The expansion is useful if you bring back extra souvenirs and are willing to check the bag.
Clamshell all the way!!!
lol, this is great. I read somewhere about hotel rooms in Asia (Japan mostly) being super small, but again, who cares!
Hardshell, but opens the traditional way… I found one on amazon, but have yet to pull the trigger. Clamshells take up too much floors space and don’t really fit on luggage racks.
Did you watch the part where I fit it on the luggage rack? I’ve never had a problem with it in 95 countries
I also prefer clamshell. I've heard that some people like the top opening style for super small hotel rooms in Japan. I think they put two carry-on suitcases side by side on the luggage rack. If I had the top opening style, I would stand the packing cubes up on their ends, so everything is stacked, and I could still access the cubes without digging. It might require smaller packing cubes. 🌸Heidi
Sold it!
The big clamshells don't fit racks
I only pack carry on’s. And anything can balance on a rack!