There’s a specific kind of pre-holiday dread that has nothing to do with flight delays or crowded airports. It’s the moment you stand before a mountain of clothes, shoes, and travel essentials, armed with a suitcase that suddenly seems comically small. I’ve been there more times than I can count. I remember a trip to the Alps where I spent an entire evening trying to master vacuum-pack bags, wrestling with a puffy ski jacket that refused to be tamed, all while my partner calmly packed their single, enormous suitcase. That was the moment I realised the sheer freedom that comes with having one cavernous piece of luggage. It’s not about overpacking; it’s about packing smart without the stress. The search for a suitcase that can handle a two-week family vacation, bulky winter gear, or an international move without forcing you to make brutal choices is a common traveller’s tale. This quest led us directly to the Aerostar 32” Expandable Softshell Suitcase, a contender promising colossal space and lightweight convenience.
- Description: Aerostar 4 wheels lightweight soft shell check in Luggage & carry on suitcase. Fashionably designed to make you look chic and stylish, matched with robust quality to endure all your...
- Size: Extra Large 32” Size 87cm Height × 53cm Width × 33cm Depth, Volume 162 litres , Weight of suitcase 4.6kg. This Size has been specifically designed to enable you to take this on as checked...
What to Consider Before Buying an Extra-Large Suitcase
An extra-large suitcase is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for stress-free travel on long journeys. Its primary benefit is consolidating what might otherwise be two or three smaller bags into a single, manageable piece of checked luggage. This simplifies airport logistics, potentially reduces baggage fees, and gives you the flexibility to pack for multiple climates or bring back souvenirs without worry. The right extra-large case becomes your mobile wardrobe, a reliable workhorse that protects your belongings across thousands of miles. However, the wrong choice can lead to frustration, from broken wheels and torn fabric to exceeding airline weight limits simply because the case itself is too heavy.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing a significant packing challenge: families heading on a long holiday, individuals relocating, or adventurers packing bulky equipment like ski boots or diving gear. They value volume and convenience above all else. Conversely, this type of luggage might not be suitable for those who primarily take short weekend trips, prefer to travel with only a carry-on, or have difficulty handling a large, potentially heavy piece of luggage. For them, a smaller 24-inch case or a versatile travel backpack would be a more practical alternative. For those who need maximum space but also require uncompromising protection for fragile items, a hardshell suitcase might be a better fit.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: Pay close attention to the external dimensions (L x W x H) to ensure they comply with your preferred airlines’ checked baggage limits. As one user noted with a different product, advertised dimensions can sometimes be inaccurate, so verifying is key. For a case this large, the expandable feature can be a game-changer, offering that crucial extra bit of room when you need it most.
- Capacity/Performance: Capacity is best measured in litres. The Aerostar 32” Expandable Softshell Suitcase boasts a massive 162 litres, placing it firmly in the extra-large category. Consider the weight of the suitcase itself; at 4.6 kg, this model is impressively lightweight for its size, leaving more of the typical 23-30kg weight allowance for your actual belongings.
- Materials & Durability: Softshell cases, typically made from polyester or nylon, offer flexibility and the advantage of external pockets. A higher denier (d) count, like the 600d polyester used here, indicates a thicker, more durable fabric. While hardshell cases (ABS or polycarbonate) provide superior impact protection, modern softshells are often treated to be water and scratch-resistant, offering a robust and lighter alternative.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: Four spinner wheels are non-negotiable on a large suitcase, as they allow for effortless 360-degree movement. Check for a sturdy, multi-stage telescopic handle and well-padded top and side carry handles. For maintenance, a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient for softshell cases, though some users opt for a plastic cover for extra protection during transit.
While the Aerostar 32” Expandable Softshell Suitcase is an excellent choice in the softshell category, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at models that prioritise rigid protection, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- IDEAL STORAGE SPACE: Transporting as many necessities as possible with as little inconvenience as possible . The RMW suitcase interior features packing straps to hold your clothes in place, A zipped...
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- Dimensions & Specifications: 66×43.3×28.5cm (including wheels/handle), weighing just 3.2kg. Internal dimensions: 59×41×28.5cm (69L capacity). Telescopic handle extends to 101cm. Please verify...
First Impressions: Unboxing the Purple Haze Giant
Pulling the Aerostar 32” Expandable Softshell Suitcase from its box, the first thing that struck us was the colour. The “Purple Haze” is a vibrant, deep purple that’s stylish without being garish. In a world of black and grey luggage carousels, this is a suitcase you will spot instantly, a sentiment echoed by users who praise the bright, easy-to-spot colours. The second impression is its sheer scale. At 87cm tall, it’s a genuinely extra-large case, yet lifting it with the side handle revealed its surprisingly low weight of 4.6kg. The 600d polyester fabric feels tough and tightly woven, with a slight texture that suggests it will hide scuffs well. We immediately tested the four spinner wheels on our office floor, and they glided silently and smoothly across both carpet and hard flooring, changing direction with a gentle nudge. The telescopic handle extends with a satisfying click to two different heights, feeling sturdy with minimal wobble. Zippers are often a weak point, but these felt robust and ran smoothly along their tracks, with the main compartment zippers being lockable. It made a strong first impression as a well-thought-out piece of luggage, and you can see its full feature set and user reviews to get a better sense of its initial appeal.
What We Like
- Enormous 162-litre capacity is perfect for long trips or multiple people.
- Surprisingly lightweight at just 4.6 kg, maximising packing allowance.
- Four spinner wheels provide exceptionally smooth and agile manoeuvrability.
- Durable and flexible 600d polyester construction with useful external pockets.
- Vibrant colour options make it easy to identify at baggage claim.
Limitations
- Front pockets are not large enough to accommodate most laptops.
- Softshell design offers less protection for fragile items compared to a hardshell case.
Performance Under Pressure: A Feature-by-Feature Analysis
A suitcase can look great out of the box, but its true worth is only revealed through rigorous testing and real-world use. We put the Aerostar 32” Expandable Softshell Suitcase through its paces, examining every aspect from its cavernous interior to its rugged exterior to determine if it’s truly the ultimate travel companion for those who need to pack big.
The Heart of the Matter: Cavernous Capacity & Smart Organisation
The headline feature of this suitcase is its staggering 162-litre capacity. To put that into perspective, that’s enough space for a couple to pack for a ten-day holiday or for a single person to pack for a multi-week, multi-climate adventure without making compromises. During our test packing, we were able to fit two weeks’ worth of clothing for one adult, including bulky sweaters, several pairs of shoes, a toiletry bag, a jacket, and even a small travel pillow, with room to spare. The expander zip adds another few inches of depth, providing a crucial buffer for last-minute additions or holiday shopping. The interior is fully lined with a soft, durable material that feels protective of clothes. The well-attached elasticated packing straps are effective at compressing clothes and keeping everything in place, preventing a jumbled mess upon arrival. There’s also a large, slim zippered pocket on the inside of the lid, perfect for separating laundry or storing documents flat. The exterior features two large front pockets. As one user correctly pointed out, they are not designed for a full-sized laptop. We found the top pocket is ideal for an iPad, books, or travel documents, while the bottom pocket can easily hold a light jacket or magazines. This is a design choice that favours quick-access travel essentials over mobile office gear, which is a reasonable trade-off for most holiday travellers. For anyone tired of the suitcase-packing puzzle, this suitcase’s immense volume is a genuine game-changer.
On the Move: Wheels, Handles, and Airport Agility
A suitcase of this size would be an absolute nightmare to transport without a superb wheel and handle system. Fortunately, Aerostar has delivered here. The four spinner wheels are, as one user perfectly described them, “a dream to move around.” We tested them on various surfaces—smooth airport-style flooring, office carpeting, and even a slightly uneven pavement outside. The suitcase glided effortlessly in every direction, requiring minimal effort to push, pull, or spin 360 degrees. This agility is critical when navigating crowded check-in queues or bustling train stations. The wheels feel solid and well-mounted, designed to withstand the rigours of baggage handling systems and rough terrain. The telescopic handle is equally impressive. It’s a dual-pole design that provides stability, preventing the case from tipping when rushed. It locks firmly into two different height positions, catering to users of different heights. We found no significant rattling or flexing. In addition to the main handle, the padded, reinforced carry handles on the top and side are essential for lifting the case into a car boot or onto a luggage rack. They feel securely stitched and comfortable to grip, even when the case is packed to its 30kg capacity. The combination of lightweight construction and excellent mobility makes handling the Aerostar 32” Expandable Softshell Suitcase far easier than its massive size would suggest.
Built to Endure: A Closer Look at Materials and Durability
The choice between softshell and hardshell luggage often comes down to personal preference, but the 600d polyester of the Aerostar 32” Expandable Softshell Suitcase makes a compelling case for the former. The “600d” refers to the denier of the fabric, a measure of its thickness and weight. This is a robust, durable material commonly used in high-quality backpacks and luggage for its excellent resistance to abrasion and tearing. We found the fabric to be tough yet flexible, which is a key advantage of softshell cases—they can absorb impacts without cracking and can be squeezed into tight spaces more easily than their rigid counterparts. The manufacturer claims it is impact-resistant, scratch-resistant, and water-resistant. While we wouldn’t submerge it, the material did cause water to bead up and roll off during a splash test, indicating it will protect your belongings from a sudden downpour on the tarmac. The corners, which are high-impact areas, are reinforced, and the overall construction feels solid, confirming user feedback that “the quality looks very strong for soft shell suitcase.” The flexibility also means the external pockets are genuinely useful, something you don’t get with a hardshell. This level of durability at its price point is impressive and offers peace of mind for frequent travellers.
Security Features and Final Touches
Security is a paramount concern when checking in your belongings. The Aerostar 32” Expandable Softshell Suitcase addresses this with a built-in 3-digit slim line combination lock. This lock secures the main compartment zippers, deterring opportunistic theft. It’s easy to set your own personal code, and its integrated design means you won’t have to worry about losing a separate padlock. For an added layer of security, the two front pockets are also equipped with lockable zippers, allowing you to secure items in the external compartments with your own small padlock if desired. This is a thoughtful touch not always found on competing models. While the built-in lock isn’t TSA-approved (meaning security agents in some countries may need to break it for inspection), it provides a strong deterrent and is perfectly suitable for travel within the UK and many other destinations. The overall design is clean and functional, prioritising practical features that enhance the travel experience, which you can explore further when you check the latest price and availability.
What Other Users Are Saying
Across the board, user feedback often confirms our own findings, providing a well-rounded picture of the product’s real-world performance. The most common point of praise is for the suitcase’s core strengths: its size and mobility. One happy traveller noted it’s a “very nice case, plenty of room inside and the wheels are a dream to move around,” which perfectly aligns with our testing. The vibrant colours are also a frequent highlight, with another user mentioning their choice was “great colour- easy to spot.”
However, the feedback also brings a couple of important limitations to light. One user confirmed our assessment of the front pockets, stating they were “a bit smaller than I expected. Laptop doesn’t fit. iPad ok.” This is a crucial piece of information for business travellers. More significantly, one review for a different size in the product line raised a serious issue about inaccurate dimensions being advertised. While we did not find this to be the case with our 32-inch model, it serves as a critical reminder for all online luggage purchases: always double-check the dimensions yourself upon arrival to ensure they meet your airline’s requirements.
How Does the Aerostar 32” Suitcase Compare to the Alternatives?
While the Aerostar 32” Expandable Softshell Suitcase excels in its category, the luggage market is vast. Here’s how it stacks up against three notable competitors, each offering a different set of features for different types of travellers.
1. ATX Luggage Est. 1991 32-Inch Expandable Suitcase
The ATX suitcase is the Aerostar’s closest rival in terms of size, offering a slightly larger 173-litre capacity. The key difference is its construction: this is an ABS hardshell case. This makes it the better choice for travellers who prioritise maximum protection for fragile contents over the flexibility and external pockets of a softshell. While both are 32-inch expandable models with four spinner wheels and combination locks, the choice comes down to shell type. If you frequently pack electronics, glass bottles, or other breakable souvenirs, the rigid protection of the ATX might give you more peace of mind.
2. Kono 28 Inch Large Hard Shell Spinner Suitcase
The Kono suitcase represents a step down in size but not necessarily in utility. At 28 inches, it falls into the “large” rather than “extra-large” category. This makes it a better option for travellers who find a 32-inch case too cumbersome or simply don’t need that much space. It’s a hardshell model made of lightweight ABS, offering good durability and protection. For solo travellers on a one-to-two-week trip, the Kono provides ample space without the sheer bulk of the Aerostar, making it a more manageable and often airline-compliant choice for standard checked luggage.
3. Samsonite Litebeam Spinner L Expandable Suitcase Green
The Samsonite Litebeam brings a premium brand name and reputation to the table. Like the Aerostar, it is a softshell expandable spinner, but it is smaller at 77cm (approx. 30 inches) with a 103/111L capacity. Samsonite is known for its high-quality components, rigorous testing, and often comes with a longer warranty. This suitcase is for the brand-conscious traveller who values proven longevity and refined design over sheer maximum volume. While it carries a higher price tag and offers less space, it’s a fantastic investment for those who want a top-tier softshell case from a world-renowned manufacturer.
The Final Verdict: Is the Aerostar 32” Expandable Softshell Suitcase for You?
After extensive testing and analysis, we can confidently recommend the Aerostar 32” Expandable Softshell Suitcase to a specific type of traveller: the one who needs maximum packing space without being weighed down. Its colossal 162-litre capacity, combined with a featherlight 4.6kg frame, is a winning formula for long family holidays, international moves, or trips involving bulky gear. The exceptionally smooth spinner wheels and sturdy handle system make it surprisingly agile for its size, turning a potential behemoth into a graceful travel companion. The durable 600d polyester and practical features like the integrated lock and expandable main compartment offer excellent value for money.
It’s not for everyone—those needing to transport a laptop in an outer pocket or who require the bomb-proof protection of a hardshell should look elsewhere. But for its intended purpose, it excels. If you are tired of playing packing Tetris and dream of a single suitcase that can hold it all, this is an outstanding choice. It solves the big-packing problem with ease and style. For a closer look at what could be your new go-to luggage for grand adventures, we highly recommend you find the best price for the Aerostar 32″ suitcase online today.
Last update on 2025-11-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API