Is Aluminum Luggage Worth the Investment?
Are you looking for aluminum luggage but worried if the investment in a piece of aluminum luggage is worth it? Should you consider aluminum luggage or not? If these are the questions you have in mind, you’ve come to the right place.
In this aluminum luggage guide, we’ll explore why aluminum luggage is so expensive, the advantages and disadvantages of aluminum luggage, and ultimately help you decide whether aluminum luggage is the right choice for you or not.
In the end, we’ll also look at some of the best recommendations for aluminum luggage options on the market. By the end of this article, you’ll have enough knowledge to be able to make an informed decision.
Reasons: What Makes Aluminum Luggage So Expensive?
The most important question that you may have in mind when buying aluminum luggage is: What are the reasons that make aluminum luggage so expensive? Let’s take a closer look at some of the factors that contribute to their cost.
Material and Production Costs
One of the main reasons for the high price of aluminum luggage is the cost of the production process and the material. Aluminum is a comparatively expensive material to work with, and the manufacturing process is complex and time-consuming.
The process of making aluminum luggage starts with the basic raw material, and that raw material itself comes at a high price. And then there is the manufacturing cost, which includes the cost of machinery, tools, manpower, and other equipment used in the production process.
Additionally, the use of high-quality hardware, zippers, and wheels also contributes to the overall cost of a piece of aluminum luggage.
Also read: Polycarbonate vs Aluminum Luggage Which is Better?
Durability and Longevity
Aluminum is one of the most durable materials and is known for its durability. There are different types of aluminum material with different qualities, and the aluminum that is used in luggage is of high quality because aluminum luggage is supposed to withstand the rigors of travel and handle different difficult conditions that may arise while traveling.
They are not supposed to show wear and tear compared to other materials, and that’s why they are made of high-quality aluminum material that ticks all the boxes that contribute to the longevity of the luggage.
They are made of strong, durable, yet lightweight material, and this definitely comes at a huge cost. This is how durability and longevity also contribute to the cost of an aluminum suitcase.
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Association with Prestige and Luxury
Finally, prestige is also one of the main reasons, because aluminum luggage is also seen as a status symbol and represents a prestigious class. Aluminum luggage is always associated with luxury and the premium class of people, which also contributed to its higher cost.
Because these bags are usually bought by high-class people, they are willing to pay a handsome amount for the prestige of owning aluminum luggage. With the premium price, you’re not only getting a piece of luggage but also a piece of luxury and exclusivity.
Branding and Designing
The cost of an aluminum suitcase is often increased because of the influence of brands and design. When a particular brand that has established a reputation for high quality and luxury luggage charges a handsome amount for its products, regardless of the actual cost of production, consumers are always willing to pay more for their products.
Therefore, one of the main factors that contribute to the cost of aluminum luggage is brand value and reputation.
Another factor that can impact the price of luggage is the design used by brands. This is because unique and innovative designs require more expensive materials or production processes, which also contributes to the cost of aluminum luggage.
Also read: A Detailed Guide On Are Luggage Covers TSA Approved?
Premium Features
As we discussed above, aluminum luggage itself is an expensive material, and it becomes even more expensive when some features are added to it. We’re living in an era where everything is progressing, and we can’t ignore important features as they make our journey a lot easier.
These features could include a built-in TSA-approved lock, multiple compartments, 360-degree double-spinner wheels, and sometimes GPS tracking. These advanced features come at a cost that makes an aluminum suitcase even more expensive and adds to the overall cost of luggage.
Availability of High-Security Features
Aluminum luggage is always more secure than other types of luggage. They are always zipperless, which makes them more secure because there are different ways that thieves can break through the zipper. This locking system that comes with aluminum luggage is highly secure and really difficult to break into.
And this added zipperless security feature also contributes to the higher cost of aluminum luggage. However, this feature comes at a cost but provides peace of mind during your travels. Peace is something that can never be compromised while traveling.
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Advantages of Aluminum Luggage
When it comes to traveling, one of the most important decisions you’ll have to make is choosing the right luggage. Not only does it need to be functional, but it also needs to be able to withstand the wear and tear of travel.
And obviously, an aluminum suitcase works really well and offers a wide range of advantages. Let’s take a look at each of them one by one.
Extremely Durable
The biggest advantage that comes to mind is the durability of aluminum luggage. Aluminum luggage is made from sturdy and durable aluminum that can last for a very long period of time. It can handle uneven surfaces, including cobblestone, and rough terrain.
The hardshell exterior of the luggage protects your belongings from scratches and other types of damage, so whether you’re a frequent traveler or just taking your first trip, aluminum luggage can be the best companion for travel and last for many trips to come.
Also read: Do Airlines Prefer Hard or Soft Luggage
Highly Secure
Safety and security are the top priorities of a traveler because they offer peace of mind while traveling. Fortunately, aluminum luggage offers both. Aluminum luggage comes with a built-in locking mechanism, which is more secure than a normal zipper locking mechanism.
This security feature gives you peace of mind, knowing that your belongings are safe and secure while you travel. You don’t have to worry about someone breaking into your aluminum luggage and stealing your valuable items.
Water-Resistant Capability
Nothing ruins a trip like arriving at your destination and finding that your luggage and clothes have gotten wet. With aluminum luggage, you don’t have to worry about it at all. The aluminum is always water-resistant, which simply means you don’t have to worry about getting your luggage wet from rain or moisture.
You can peacefully travel in wet and humid weather and enjoy your journey. Whether you’re planning for a tropical destination or simply a rainy place, you can trust that aluminum luggage will protect you and keep your belongings dry throughout the journey.
Also read: Is it Safe to Put a Laptop in Checked Luggage?
Easy to Clean and Maintain
The biggest concern for a traveler after every trip is cleaning his luggage. This is really a difficult task, especially when it comes to soft luggage. But with aluminum luggage, this is not the case; you don’t have to worry about spending hours cleaning your luggage.
You can simply clean your luggage with little effort; the exterior of the luggage can be wiped down with a damp, clean cloth, and the interior can be cleaned with mild detergent. In this way, you can keep your luggage clean even after multiple trips and don’t have to struggle more to remove stains or odors from your luggage.
Offers Better Protection
Obviously, because aluminum luggage comes at a great cost, it offers the best protection for your belongings compared to other traditional fabrics or soft-sided luggage. Whatever you’re carrying with you in your luggage, including laptops, electronic devices, clothes, or anything else,
You can rest assured that your belongings will stay safe throughout the journey. You don’t have to worry about your belongings getting damaged or scratched.
Not only does it protect your belongings, but it also provides extra cushioning for them. You can pack your valuable items with confidence, knowing that you’ll reach your destination without moving here and there.
Also Read: Is Samsonite Really a Good Luggage Brand
Style and Color Options
In the initial stages, aluminum luggage used to come in a silver color option, but as time passed, aluminum luggage grew, and now there are plenty of color options available on the market. These colors include black, grey, blue, green, and, of course, silver itself.
You can choose any color you want, but most importantly, choose a color that is not very popular. This is because most common colors are usually targeted by thieves, and at the same time, it becomes difficult to spot a suitcase with a common color quickly at the baggage carousel.
When it comes to style and appearance, aluminum luggage is not left behind. There are so many design options on the market that you may sometimes get confused because of their availability. They are not only extremely durable but also elegant, sleek, and stylish.
The sleek and modern design of aluminum luggage makes it stand out from traditional luggage. Whether you’re looking for something nice and classy or something trendy, you’ll surely find the perfect companion for your travels.
Also read: Why Choosing the Perfect Luggage Color Is Crucial?
Disadvantages of Aluminum Luggage
Most people consider aluminum luggage because of its durability and unique appearance. However, there are also some drawbacks to aluminum luggage that must be considered before making any final decision.
Heavier Compared to Other Materials
Weight is one of the biggest disadvantages of aluminum luggage. Generally, aluminum luggage is 45% heavier than a normal polycarbonate suitcase. 45% more is a great percentage that can make or break a deal, and it should be considered while making a decision to buy aluminum luggage.
The most important advice I’d give you is that when traveling internationally, particularly with budget airlines, it’s important to consider the weight of your carry-on luggage. An aluminum carry-on bag can easily take up a significant portion of your hand luggage weight allowance.
To avoid this, it’s highly recommended to only use aluminum luggage as check-in luggage. Not only does it allow you more weight limits, but it also assures you that your luggage can handle the rough handling by the working men who handle luggage.
If you use aluminum luggage as carry-on luggage, it’ll be difficult for you to lift and maneuver your luggage, especially when it’s full. It can cause pain in your shoulders or arms if you carry it with you for a long distance and cause you inconvenience while traveling.
Also Read: Samsonite Omni 2 Hardside Luggage Review
More Expensive Compared to Other Material Luggage
Another disadvantage of aluminum luggage is that it’s often more expensive than other types of luggage, including polycarbonate, polypropylene, or ABS luggage. The cost of an aluminum suitcase can vary, and if you opt for a piece of non-branded luggage, you can get it for around $250–$400.
But I’d recommend you go with a reputed brand like Rimowa or Away and obviously, the aluminum luggage of these brands is way too expensive and can go up to $1500. This is definitely a significant drawback for budget-conscious travelers, as they may not be able to afford the cost of aluminum luggage.
They are so expensive that you can buy 2-4 pieces of hardside or softside branded luggage for the cost of one piece of aluminum luggage.
Easily Captures Unwanted Attention
Because aluminum luggage is considered premium, comes at a great cost, and is associated with a luxury class, it can attract evil eyes with bad intentions because of its shiny, sleek, and premium appearance. In general, thieves target luggage that looks extremely premium, such as black or famous-color luggage.
Your expensive aluminum luggage can be a target for theft, especially in crowded places like airports and train stations. You’ll have to be extra cautious while traveling with an expensive and premium aluminum suitcase. This is also a drawback that must be considered when buying aluminum luggage.
Also Read: Samsonite vs Delsey Paris Luggage Brands
Final Thoughts: Should You Buy Aluminum Luggage or Not?
In conclusion, aluminum luggage offers a number of advantages, such as extreme durability, high security, superior protection, water resistance, stylish design, and easy cleaning. However, it also has its disadvantages, such as weight and cost.
We don’t recommend aluminum luggage due to its high price; it may not be the best option for everyone. You can purchase 2-4 pieces of hardside or softside luggage for the cost of one piece of aluminum luggage.
However, if you are not concerned about finances and prioritize durability and superior protection, then aluminum luggage definitely becomes the perfect choice for you.
