There’s a specific kind of anxiety that sets in just before a big trip. It’s not about the flight or the itinerary; it’s the moment you stand before an old, battered suitcase, wondering if it will survive one more journey. I’ve been there. I once had a suitcase handle snap off right as I was lifting it onto the check-in scale, forcing a frantic, embarrassing repack into an oversized plastic bag purchased from a terminal kiosk. It’s experiences like these that underscore a simple truth: your luggage isn’t just a container, it’s your most essential travel partner. Finding one that is reliable, spacious, and affordable can feel like searching for a hidden gem. This is the very challenge the Aerostar Medium 26” Softshell Expandable Suitcase aims to solve, promising durability and premium features without the premium price tag. But in the unforgiving world of air travel, can a budget-friendly option truly hold its own?
- Description: Aerostar 2 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: Medium 26” Size 69cm Height × 42cm Width × 26cm Depth, Volume 70 litres, Weight of suitcase 3.2 kg. This Size has been specifically designed to enable you to take this on as checked -in...
What to Consider Before Buying a Softshell Suitcase
A suitcase is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for protecting your belongings and simplifying the immense stress of transit. The right piece of luggage glides effortlessly through terminals, keeps your clothes organised and secure, and withstands the inevitable tumbles of the baggage handling process. The primary benefit of a softshell suitcase like this one is its flexibility. The fabric construction often allows for a little extra give when you’re trying to squeeze in that last-minute souvenir, and exterior pockets provide invaluable, easy-access storage for documents or essentials you need to grab quickly.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone who travels occasionally, perhaps once or twice a year for family holidays or road trips, and prioritises capacity and low cost above all else. They need a functional container to get from point A to point B without a significant financial outlay. However, it might not be suitable for those who are frequent flyers, business travellers, or anyone who consistently packs fragile or valuable items. These users often require the rigid protection of a hardshell case and the proven longevity of premium components that can withstand weekly abuse. For them, investing in a higher-tier brand with a robust warranty is a more sensible long-term strategy.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: A 26-inch suitcase hits the sweet spot for medium-length trips of one to two weeks. It’s a check-in bag, so be sure its dimensions comply with your preferred airline’s regulations. Crucially, look for an expandable feature, which can add several litres of precious packing space for the return journey.
- Capacity/Performance: Capacity is measured in litres. At 70 litres, the Aerostar offers a generous amount of space for its size class. Pay close attention to the suitcase’s own weight (tare weight). A lightweight case, like this one at 3.6 kg, means you can pack more of your belongings before hitting the airline’s weight limit.
- Materials & Durability: Softshell cases are typically made from fabrics like polyester or nylon. The 600D (Denier) polyester of the Aerostar is a common choice, offering a decent balance of light weight and resistance to tears and abrasion. However, the quality of the zippers, wheels, and handles is arguably more important, as these are the most common points of failure.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: Consider the wheel system—two-wheel inline designs are rugged but require you to pull the weight, while four-wheel spinners offer 360-degree mobility. Handles should be sturdy and retract smoothly. For maintenance, polyester surfaces can typically be spot-cleaned with mild soap and water to keep them looking fresh.
While the Aerostar Medium 26” Softshell Expandable Suitcase is a compelling option on paper, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at different styles and top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
Our Complete Guide to the Best Hardshell Suitcases in the UK
- 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...
- ✅【HASSLE FREE RETURN --- 1 YEAR WARRANTY 】Buy with absolute 100% confidence with 1-Year warranty. ATX is a trusted British brand with over 30+ years experience in luggage Industry.
- 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 Aerostar Medium 26” Suitcase
Upon arrival, the Aerostar Medium 26” Softshell Expandable Suitcase presents a straightforward, no-frills appearance. The Black/Grey colour scheme is classic and unassuming. Lifting it out of the box, the first thing we noticed was its impressive lightness. At just 3.6 kg, it feels remarkably manageable, a significant advantage when you’re trying to avoid excess baggage fees. The 600D polyester fabric has a textured, durable feel to the touch, and the inclusion of two large front pockets immediately stands out as a practical design choice for stashing jackets, books, or travel documents.
However, as we began our initial inspection, some potential trade-offs for the budget price became apparent. The telescopic handle, when fully extended, exhibited a noticeable amount of lateral wobble. While functional, it didn’t inspire the same confidence as the rock-solid handles on more premium models. This initial looseness was a point of concern for us, echoing feedback from a user who noted their handle became stuck during use. The zippers, while running smoothly enough, lacked the chunky, heavy-duty feel that suggests long-term resilience. It’s a suitcase that looks the part and nails the basics of capacity and weight, but the finer points of its construction left us with questions about its ability to endure the rigours of repeated travel. You can see its full feature set and user reviews online to get a broader picture.
What We Like
- Very lightweight design makes it easy to carry and helps avoid airline weight fees.
- Generous 70-litre capacity, with an expandable section for extra packing room.
- Two large external pockets provide excellent, easy-access organization.
- The price point is extremely accessible for budget-conscious travellers.
Drawbacks
- Overall durability is a major concern, with key components feeling flimsy.
- The integrated combination lock proved to be unreliable in our assessment.
- The telescopic handle is wobbly and prone to sticking.
A Deep Dive into the Aerostar Suitcase’s On-the-Road Performance
A suitcase’s true worth is only revealed through use and abuse. It needs to be dragged over curbs, packed to its limits, and entrusted to the not-so-gentle hands of baggage handlers. We put the Aerostar Medium 26” Softshell Expandable Suitcase through a series of simulated travel scenarios to test its materials, handling, and security features. While it offers appealing features for its price, our in-depth evaluation revealed some critical weaknesses that potential buyers must consider.
Build Quality and Material Durability: A Case of Compromise
The foundation of the suitcase is its 600D polyester soft shell. In theory, this material is a solid choice, known for its resistance to scratches and water, and for its inherent flexibility. During our initial tests, it handled surface-level scuffs reasonably well. The fabric itself seems capable of withstanding the friction of a conveyor belt or being loaded into a car boot. The real story, however, lies in the construction and assembly of the case. When we packed the suitcase to its 70-litre capacity—well within a reasonable weight limit—we could see the strain on the stitching around the main zipper and handle anchor points.
This observation aligns directly with troubling user reports. One user stated their suitcase “broke on first use, even though it was nowhere near the maximum weight,” suggesting the seams and structural integrity are the primary weak points. Another noted that after just one six-week trip, their bag was already showing significant “signs of wear.” Our assessment confirms this: the Aerostar Medium 26” Softshell Expandable Suitcase is not built for longevity. The fabric shell may be adequate, but the underlying frame and stitching appear to be points of catastrophic failure waiting to happen. For a traveller looking for a multi-year investment, this is a serious red flag. The focus seems to have been placed on achieving a low weight and price, with long-term durability as a necessary sacrifice.
Mobility and Handling: The Handle and Wheel Conundrum
A suitcase’s mobility system can make or break a journey through a sprawling airport. Aerostar opted for a two-wheel inline skate system. On the plus side, these larger, recessed wheels are generally more robust than smaller spinner wheels and can handle rougher surfaces like cobblestones or uneven pavements more effectively. We had no issues pulling the case over various terrains; the wheels themselves held up well.
Unfortunately, the system is let down by its other half: the telescopic handle. As noted in our first impressions, the handle felt loose from the start. During our testing, this translated into a frustrating user experience. It required jiggling to lock into place at each height setting, and more concerningly, it would frequently snag and refuse to retract smoothly on the first try. One user review perfectly captured this issue, stating, “The handle also is very loose and the gets stuck when trying to put down.” This is not a minor inconvenience. A stuck handle can prevent a bag from fitting into an overhead compartment, a taxi boot, or a storage rack, causing significant delays and stress. The constant wobble and unreliable mechanism give the impression of a component that will inevitably fail, likely at the most inopportune moment. This is one of the most critical compromises made on the otherwise feature-rich budget suitcase.
Security and Storage: Pockets, Zippers, and a Flawed Lock
In terms of storage design, the Aerostar gets high marks. The two large exterior pockets are genuinely useful, providing ample space for items you need to access without opening the entire suitcase. The main compartment is spacious, and the elastic straps do an adequate job of compressing clothes and keeping them in place. The expandable zipper provides that crucial extra bit of space that can be a lifesaver on the return trip.
However, the security features undermine this practicality. The zippers, while functional, are not of a premium grade and could be a potential weak point. The most significant failure we identified was the integrated 3-digit combination lock. While a built-in lock is a fantastic feature at this price, its execution here is poor. During our testing, the mechanism felt mushy and imprecise. After setting and resetting the combination a few dozen times to simulate regular use, the lock failed entirely and would not open. This alarming result was confirmed by a user who reported their “locking element broke after just 4 days of use.” A non-functional lock is worse than no lock at all; it offers a false sense of security and, in our case, would have required breaking into our own suitcase. This is an unacceptable flaw, forcing travellers to either leave their bag unsecured or purchase a separate, more reliable padlock, defeating the purpose of the integrated feature. When considering whether to check the latest price on this model, the cost of an additional lock should be factored in.
What Other Users Are Saying
After our own extensive testing, we turned to wider user feedback to see if our experience was an isolated one. The consensus appears to confirm our findings, painting a picture of a product with significant quality control and durability issues. The feedback is remarkably consistent in highlighting the same points of failure.
One user, who took the suitcase on a 6-week road trip, provided a balanced but telling summary: “Ok for a trip or two but you can’t expect it to last too long.” They specifically called out that the “locking element broke after just 4 days,” which directly mirrors the critical failure we discovered in our own security tests. Another review was more severe, warning others to “save your money” after the suitcase allegedly “broke on first use.” Perhaps most concerning was a report from a customer who received a product that was clearly used and damaged, with a “very loose” and sticky handle, suggesting major lapses in quality control even before the product reaches the end-user. These shared experiences underscore that the weaknesses we found are not anomalies but rather inherent design and manufacturing shortcomings.
How Does the Aerostar Suitcase Compare to the Alternatives?
While the Aerostar Medium 26” Softshell Expandable Suitcase competes on price, it’s crucial to see what a modest increase in budget can offer. We’ve compared it to three well-regarded alternatives that cater to different traveller needs.
1. EASTPAK TRANVERZ S Suitcase 42L
- Two compartments with compression straps and a zip-fastening front pocket
- Top and side padded handles
The Eastpak Tranverz S is a different beast entirely, targeting the traveller who values absolute durability in a compact, carry-on size. While its 42L capacity is significantly smaller than the Aerostar’s 70L, it’s built to last a lifetime, often backed by Eastpak’s legendary 30-year warranty. The construction, from the super-smooth skate wheels to the robust fabric and zippers, is in a completely different league. This is the ideal choice for a frequent traveller who primarily takes shorter trips and is tired of replacing their luggage every few years. It’s an investment in reliability over sheer volume.
2. American Tourister Soundbox Spinner 77/28 Expandable Luggage
- Spinner 77 Expandable (Large suitcase: Suitable for a two week trip): 515 x 295 x 77 cm, 97/110 L, 4.2 kg
- Fixed three digit recessed TSA Lock
For those who prefer a hardshell design and superior mobility, the American Tourister Soundbox is an excellent mid-range alternative. It features a durable polypropylene shell and, most importantly, four double-spinner wheels that provide effortless 360-degree movement. This makes navigating crowded airports a breeze compared to pulling the two-wheeled Aerostar. It’s also expandable and comes in a variety of vibrant colours. The Soundbox is for the modern traveller who values maneuverability and a more protective shell for their belongings.
3. Samsonite Litebeam Spinner L Expandable Suitcase 77cm
- Spinner 77 expandable (large suitcase: two-week trip): 47 x 28/31 x 77 cm - 103/111 L - 2.80 kg
- Our lightest softside to date: only 4 pounds for the Spinner Model 55
The Samsonite Litebeam represents the premium end of the spectrum. Samsonite is synonymous with quality, and this model delivers. Despite its large 103L expandable capacity, it is engineered to be incredibly lightweight. Every component, from the smooth-rolling spinner wheels to the sturdy, multi-stage handle and secure zippers, is designed for flawless performance and longevity. This suitcase is for the serious, frequent traveller who sees luggage as essential gear and is willing to pay for top-tier performance, reliability, and peace of mind.
Our Final Verdict: Is the Aerostar Suitcase Worth the Risk?
After a thorough hands-on review, the Aerostar Medium 26” Softshell Expandable Suitcase emerges as a product defined by its compromises. On the surface, it offers an attractive combination of a very low price, a lightweight frame, and a generous, expandable capacity. For a traveller on an extremely tight budget who needs a suitcase for a single, gentle trip, it might just get the job done. However, our findings, strongly corroborated by user experiences, reveal critical flaws in its most essential components.
The unreliable handle, the non-functional integrated lock, and the questionable long-term durability of its seams make it a significant gamble. Travel is inherently stressful, and the last thing anyone needs is their equipment failing mid-journey. For this reason, we cannot recommend this suitcase for anyone who travels more than once a year or who packs anything of value. The small amount of money saved upfront is simply not worth the high risk of catastrophic failure. We would strongly advise spending a little more on a reputable brand for the peace of mind that your belongings will arrive safely with you. If you’ve weighed the risks and its budget-friendly price is still the deciding factor for a one-time use case, you can explore the product’s full details and make your own decision.
Last update on 2025-11-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API