Samsonite vs American Tourister – Which Brand is Better according to Experts?

Because you’ve landed on this article about Samsonite vs. American Tourister, that means you’re familiar with the names of both luggage brands, as they are recognized worldwide for their high-quality, exceptional suitcases and travel gear. But you may be confused about which brand is better according to your preferences, which luggage brand you should go for, and whether Samsonite and American Tourister are the same company.

In this Samsonite and American Tourister luggage comparison guide, we’ll delve into the details and compare the backgrounds, durability, characteristics, and key features of both brands that set them apart.

By the end of the Samsonite vs American Tourister battle, you’ll have all the necessary information to help you decide whether Samsonite or American Tourister is the perfect choice for your next trip.

Are Samsonite and American Tourister the same company?

Samsonite not only owns its namesake brand but also American Tourister, which clearly means that both luggage brands are owned by the same company and united under the Samsonite Corporation.

Samsonite was established in 1910 and with time and continuous efforts, it became one of the leading companies in the luggage and travel gear industries. Samsonite is known for producing innovative, durable, and exceptional luggage with multiple colors, sizes, and styles.

On the other hand, the American Tourister emerged in the 1930s and focused on producing luggage, business, and casual bags. American Tourister is known for its stylish and appealing yet affordable, dependable luggage with great quality.

In 1933, Samsonite Corporation, a global leader in the travel goods industry, acquired the American Tourister brand and merged both luggage brands under its corporate structure. With this strategic move, Samsonite could diversify its product offerings and cater to a wider range of customers’ preferences and budgets. It also helps Samsonite strengthen its position as a dominant player in the market.

Since then, both luggage brands have been doing great and flourishing under the same corporate umbrella. However, they target different markets and have great distinctions, but they still maintain a commitment to quality, durability, functionality, and attention to detail.

Let me tell you, American Tourister is not the only brand that Samsonite owns; Samsonite also owns Tumi, High Sierra, Hartmann luggage brands, and much more.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Samsonite Brand

The Pros

• Excellent build quality: At this price point, Samosnite is the best brand in terms of durability and longevity. They mostly use polycarbonate, which is the most durable and flexible plastic material that passes through rigorous testing to ensure quality and performance.
• Excellent customer reviews: Samsonite has been in the game for over a century and has been tested by thousands of people. On average, their luggage scores around 4.5 stars out of 5, which is really excellent. Most of their customers are returning buyers because they tested and loved their products.
• Wide range of designs: Samsonite has a wide range of products, and the good thing is that each of them has a unique aesthetic that makes it feel more appealing and standout at crowded airports.
• Features and Convenience: Samsonite offers all the essential features, even in their affordable pieces of luggage. These features include a TSA-approved lock, single or dual spinner wheels, a telescopic handle, a USB port, and a laptop pocket in some of their models.
• Reliable Warranty and Support: Samsonite is a well-reputed brand in the luggage industry. However, they don’t offer a lifetime warranty but a reliable five- and ten-year warranty, and they also provide good after-sale service.
• Affordable: Samsonite seems to be a little expensive, but when you look at its quality and compare it with other premium brands like Rimova, Tumi, and Away, It’s really an affordable option to consider. A good piece of polycarbonate luggage can be found for around $100, which is really affordable considering the quality and features.

The Cons

• Limited Packing Organization: Samsonite is not really good at offering packing features, especially in their affordable suitcases. However, they do offer offers in their premium luggage options. When compared with other brands, newer brands offer quite good packing features, even in their affordable luggage.
• A few models are overpriced. While Samsonite is really an affordable brand, some of their models are really expensive. I’d say they’re overpriced because they’re priced around $700, which is absolutely not worth it.

Benefits and Drawbacks of the American Tourister Brand

The Pros

• Design and aesthetics: In terms of aesthetics, their suitcases look even more appealing and stylish. Not only do their suitcases come with different designs and patterns, but they also have printed designs. They own a wide range of luggage with appealing and elegant designs.
• Affordable: American is more affordable than Samsonite. However, the price difference is not big. You can easily get a carry-on for between $50 and $100. For around $200, you can get a set of three pieces of luggage.
• Excellent warranty and support: In terms of warranty, the American Tourister is exactly the same. They also offer a five- and ten-year warranty and excellent support.
• Customers’ reviews: They have gotten thousands of reviews from all around the world. However, they couldn’t get as many positive reviews as Samsonite, but they’re good enough with an average rating score of 4.5 out of 5.

The Cons

• Not as durable as Samsonite: American Tourister suitcases are also durable enough, but not to the same extent as Samsonite. Customers claim that American Tourister used to be excellent in terms of durability, but the quality has decreased with time.
• Features and Convenience: The American Tourister offers essential features, but most of the time, they don’t offer expansion capability, a TSA lock, dual spinner wheels, or a USB charging port, which are very necessary for convenience.
• Not good for frequent travelers: American Tourister can last up to 10 years if it’s used twice or three times a year and taken care of properly, but if you travel frequently, American Tourister can’t last very long.

Also Related: Samsonite vs Coolife: Which Luggage Brand Is Better for You?

Main Differences: Samsonite vs American Tourister

Now let’s talk about the main differences between Samsonite and American Tourister luggage brands. However, choosing the perfect piece of luggage completely depends on your needs and preferences, but here are some of the main differences to make it easier for you to decide which one you should go with.

Which brand makes more durable and quality products?

Durability is one of the most important differences, which is why I have put it at the top. Samsonite is the one that puts a huge amount of effort into doing research on different types of material for suitcases, zippers, handles, and wheels. That’s probably the reason why Samsonite is more expensive than the American Tourister luggage brand.

But that does not mean American Tourister luggage breaks frequently and should not be considered. If you’re someone who is tight on budget but still wants a piece of durable luggage, then you must look at the American Tourister luggage brand.

But when compared to Samsonite, Samsonite is more sturdy and durable and worth paying extra money for.

Does American Tourister design more stylish and modern suitcases?

In terms of design, American Tourister has an advantage over Samsonite, but that does not mean that Samsonite luggage does not look good. They also look very stunning, classy, and professional, but less flashy. When it comes to Samsonite’s softside luggage, it is not great in terms of appearance and style.

American Tourister, on the other hand, comes with more stylish and eye-catching suitcases in multiple designs and colors. Their luggage design is inspired by different types of things and follows a particular theme. They are really unique and stylish. If the design is something that matters a lot to you, you should definitely consider American Tourister.

Who is better at features and convenience: Samsonite or American Tourister

When it comes to features, the American Tourister luggage brand offers only basic and essential features such as rollar or spinner wheels, TSA-approved lock, and expansion capability in their hardside luggage. If you’re someone who is looking for a budget-friendly option and does not want a feature-loaded suitcase, American Tourister is surely a good choice.

But when it comes to Samsonite, it goes one step ahead of the American Tourister. This is because Samsonite not only offers all the essential features but also additional smart luggage features such as a USB charging port, a telescopic multi-stage handle, and dual spinner wheels.

So if you’re someone who most of the time travels with gadgets such as smartphones and tablets and is looking for something feature-loaded, Samsonite is the best choice you should go for because it provides you with the facility to conveniently charge your electronic devices while traveling.

Which one is better at providing more affordable products?

When it comes to Samsonite luggage, however, it’s more affordable than most other luxury travel brands, but when compared to the American Tourister luggage brand, it’s generally more expensive. If you notice, some of the premium luggage options from the Samsonite luggage brand can go up to $700. They also offer a wide range of affordable bags that are priced under $100.

On the other hand, if you’re a budget-conscious traveler and your main concern is affordability, the American Tourister brand is surely a great choice for you. Because they make luggage that falls below $100 without compromising on quality and durability, it really is a budget-friendly brand. Whether you’re a frequent or occasional traveler, American Tourister understands the importance of managing your budget when selecting the right piece of luggage.

So the price difference is not very huge, but there is a notable difference between both luggage brands, Samsonite and American Tourister.

Comparison of warranty and terms and conditions between Samsonite and American Tourister

When it comes to warranties, Samsonite and American Tourister offer the same types of warranties, and this is not really surprising because both luggage brands are owned by the same company.

Samsonite is known for its exceptional customer support and has been serving customers for over a hundred years. It offers three types of warranties: a limited 3-year warranty, a limited 10-year warranty, and a limited global warranty.

But the most important thing for you to know here is that the warranty does not cover damages caused by transportation or improper use. Sometimes, it has also been seen that Samsonite went beyond the limit and helped its customers even without a warranty. If your luggage goes out of warranty, you can also get it repaired, but you may have to pay for it.

All these things apply to American Tourister, they also offer the same three types of warranties. Similar to Samsonite, American Tourister does not cover airline damage, improper use, or normal wear and tear.

Organization and Storage: Samsonite vs American Tourister

Organization and storage are the first things that are considered when looking for luggage. There is nothing much to say. Both luggage brands, Samsonite and American Tourister, offer the same kind of storage and capacity, with a little difference. Their premium version of the suitcase often offers extra pockets and may sometimes include a WetPak too.

Size and Dimension

Generally, both luggage brands, Samsonite and American Tourister, come in three sizes. These sizes include carry-on, medium check-in, and large check-in luggage. The carry-on luggage, which generally lies between 20 and 21 inches, is the one you can take on planes.

The medium-size check-in luggage comes between 24 and 25 inches and is perfect for smaller trips or for one person for a week. The last one, the large check-in luggage, offers the facility to pack for longer trips and can be used for two people. If the trip is short, you can make it up to three people. This luggage generally measures between 28 and 29 inches.

While we’re talking about the size and dimension, you must be aware of the 62 linear inches luggage rule by airlines. You can read the complete guide here.

Closing Thoughts: So what should you choose—Samsonite or American Tourister?

It entirely depends on what you want, your preferences, and your budget. If you’re looking for high-quality, durable, and outstanding luggage that will last for years, Samsonite is the best choice you must consider. And if you’re looking for something even within your tight budget, then American Tourister is what you can go for; it won’t disappoint you.

If you want everything in your luggage, including better quality, durability, and basic and advanced features, you can give Samsonite’s premium luggage a chance. On the other hand, if the design is something that plays a big role for you in making decisions, then you can go with American Tourister.

Ultimately, it totally depends on you, what you need and prefer, and what amount you’re willing to invest.