This Carry-On Is $100 Less Than Its Competitors

As a beauty editor, when I think of "buttery smooth," the effects of a good lotion come to mind — rarely does the maneuvering of a suitcase. Let me explain: my experience with luggage up until this point has been largely lackluster. My last suitcase boasted a handle with loose screws that always threatened to fall out when my group was called to board, and the four wheels on the bottom rotated at their leisure, though sometimes not at all. My luggage growing up was the family's collection of softshell bags that seemed to get bullied by baggage handlers and always emerged at the other end of my destination noticeably less perky than before. However, my less-than-stellar experience with luggage ended recently when the Quince Expandable Carry-On Hardshell Suitcase ($150) arrived at my door.

What I Like About the Quince Expandable Carry-On Hardshell Suitcase

The first thing I noticed about the Quince Expandable Carry-On Hardshell Suitcase is how easily it moves. I've rolled it over carpet (why LGA remodeled all of the terminals with so much carpet, I'll never know), concrete, and even cobblestone streets on my recent trip to Italy, and had no issues with the wheels getting stuck. If anything, this Quince suitcase moves a little too well — if you are on a sidewalk with an incline, it may try to make a quick getaway.

The inside of the bag is a highlight, divided into two distinct sections. On the left side, the bag has a zippered compartment. I like to use this section for shoes, keeping them away from clothing. While some suitcases have optional zippered pouches, this one should stay closed once you've packed it to keep your things organized. The other side of the bag comes with a removal divider, cinched in place with two sturdy plastic buckles. The front of the divider has a mesh pocket where I like to stash things like sunglasses, jewelry, and an extra book. On the other side of the mesh pocket is your standard suitcase interior, with the bonus of a small pocket containing a rolled-up bag for dirty laundry inside.

The suitcase is also very sleek looking. I went with the dark green colorway, and while I was initially apprehensive to go with something other than my go-to (black), I found it to be a complementary shade to my other carry-on bags.

What's Worth Noting About the Quince Expandable Carry-On Hardshell Suitcase

Fans of luggage with one large open compartment may find the zippered pouch on the left to be an adjustment. While convenient for footwear or separating your items, the zipper can limit how much you fit on that side. That said, space-saver bags can easily help you combat any challenges there.

The suitcase also has a tendency to show wear. On its inaugural outing (a quick weekend trip), I noticed small scuffs on the hard shell from different surfaces it brushed up against. However, Quince has a solution: in the mesh compartment when you first open the bag, there is a sponge eraser (think Mr. Clean) that can buff out most marks.

Who Is the Quince Expandable Carry-On Hardshell Suitcase Best For?

This suitcase is perfect for the frequent flyer and weekend getaways. The expandable middle allows for more storage space if you're feeling confined while retaining the rigid exterior shell that protects your belongings. I know from experience that the suitcase can stand up to a two-week trip around Europe.

Where Is the Quince Expandable Carry-On Hardshell Suitcase Available?

This suitcase is available on the Quince website.

Additional Details About the Quince Expandable Carry-On Hardshell Suitcase

Jessica Harrington is the senior beauty editor at PS, where she writes about hair, makeup, skin care, piercings, tattoos, and more. As a New York City-based writer and editor with a degree in journalism and over eight years of industry experience, she loves to interview industry experts, keep up with the latest trends, and test new products.