There’s a unique stress that sets in right before a trip, and it has nothing to do with flight delays or hotel bookings. It’s the luggage scramble. I’ve been there: pulling a hefty, two-wheeled relic from the closet for a long vacation, only to realize I need a small carry-on for a weekend getaway and have nothing that matches or functions well. The result is a mismatched collection of bags that are either too heavy, too small, or simply a pain to drag through a crowded airport. The dream is a single, unified solution that adapts to any travel plan, and that’s precisely the problem the Merax 3 Piece ABS Hardshell Luggage Set aims to solve.
- [High Quality Suitcase] - Extra strong ABS construction ensures long-lasting usage and durability but also lightweight, features textured finish to prevent...
- [3 Piece Luggage set] Set includes 20" carry on (Meets carry-on size restrictions for those traveling domestically and looking to stay light) and 24"/28"...
What to Consider Before Buying a Hardshell Luggage Set
Before investing in a new luggage set, it’s crucial to know what you’re looking for. The ideal customer for a 3-piece hardshell set is the versatile traveler—someone who might take a week-long international trip one month and a quick domestic business trip the next. You value convenience, organization, and a cohesive look. Key factors to consider are material, mobility, security, and overall value. You need a durable shell (like ABS) that can withstand the rigors of baggage handling, spinner wheels that glide effortlessly in any direction, and a reliable locking system for peace of mind. Most importantly, you want a set that provides the right size for every occasion without forcing you to buy each piece separately. This set is for the practical planner who wants to be prepared for any journey on the horizon. If you’re looking for a comprehensive solution that balances features with affordability, the Merax 3 Piece ABS Hardshell Luggage Set presents a compelling case.
While the Merax 3 Piece ABS Hardshell Luggage Set is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- ALL-IN-ONE SET: Includes carry-on, medium checked, and large checked suitcase to suit every travel need; carry-on measures 14.8 x 10 x 21.7 inches; medium...
- 【5 Piece Luggage Set】Luggage sets include a 28-inch large suitcase, 24-inch medium checked luggage, 20-inch carry on luggage, an extended duffel bag,...
- Sleek Durability: Crafted with a high-performance polypropylene shell and sandy-smooth texture for superior impact resistance and long-lasting protection.
First Impressions: A Sleek and Unified Travel System
Upon receiving the Merax 3 Piece ABS Hardshell Luggage Set, the first thing we noticed was the clever, space-saving packaging—the three cases arrived nested inside one another like a Russian doll. Unpacking them revealed a handsome trio in a lovely Rosybrown color with a textured finish designed to minimize the appearance of scuffs. The ABS material felt impressively lightweight, a huge plus for avoiding overweight baggage fees. The telescoping handles extended smoothly with a satisfying click, locking securely at multiple heights. The star of the show, however, was the set of four double spinner wheels on each case. A quick test glide across the floor confirmed they were silent and moved with liquid grace, promising an easy sprint through the airport. The built-in TSA combination lock was easy to set and added a welcome layer of security.
What We Like
- Comprehensive 3-piece set covers all travel needs (carry-on to long-haul).
- Effortless 360-degree mobility thanks to silent double spinner wheels.
- Lightweight yet sturdy ABS construction.
- Adjustable telescoping handle is comfortable and locks securely.
- Integrated TSA-approved lock for enhanced security.
What We Didn’t Like
- ABS shell is not as scratch-resistant as advertised; prone to scuffs from handlers.
- Some user reports mention potential durability issues with certain units.
Performance Deep Dive: How the Merax Luggage Set Held Up
A luggage set can look great out of the box, but its true worth is only revealed on the road. We put the Merax 3 Piece ABS Hardshell Luggage Set through its paces on a multi-destination trip involving flights, train travel, and car trunks to see how it truly performs under pressure.
Durability and Construction
The core of this set is its Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) hardshell. In our tests, we found it offered a great balance of being lightweight and resilient. It protected our belongings from impacts and compression effectively. However, it’s important to set realistic expectations. While the product description touts scratch resistance, our experience, confirmed by other users, shows that the shell will inevitably collect scuffs and scratches from aggressive baggage handling. One user noted TSA “scratched the heck out of them” on the very first trip. We see this not as a defect, but as a characteristic of ABS material at this price point—it prioritizes impact protection over cosmetic perfection. While one user reported a crack on their first use, this seems to be an outlier, though it suggests occasional quality control inconsistencies.
Mobility and Handling
This is where the Merax 3 Piece ABS Hardshell Luggage Set truly shines. The four multi-directional double spinner wheels on each suitcase are a game-changer. We navigated crowded airport terminals, city sidewalks, and hotel lobbies with incredible ease. The suitcases glide effortlessly alongside you, requiring minimal effort to push or pull. As one happy traveler noted, the multi-level adjustable handle is a standout feature, allowing you to find the perfect height and avoid hunching over. It locks firmly in place and feels solid in hand, making the entire transit experience smoother and more comfortable.
Packing and Capacity
Having three distinct sizes (20″ carry-on, 24″ medium checked, and 28″ large checked) at our disposal was fantastic. For a weekend trip, the 20″ was perfect and met all domestic carry-on restrictions. For a week-long vacation, we found ourselves echoing another user’s experience: “We were able to fit enough clothes for 2” in the medium suitcase alone. The clamshell design opens into two large compartments, making it easy to organize clothing and other items. Many users were delighted to find the suitcases are expandable, offering that crucial extra bit of room for souvenirs on the return journey. The interior straps keep everything secure, ensuring your belongings don’t shift in transit.
Security and Design Features
The integrated 3-digit TSA combination lock is a must-have for modern travel. It’s simple to program and provides confidence that your belongings are secure from theft, while still allowing TSA agents to inspect your bag without breaking the lock. The sleek, modern design and the attractive Rosybrown color received several compliments. As a few users pointed out, the actual color can sometimes vary slightly from online images, so it’s wise to expect subtle differences. The overall aesthetic is clean and sophisticated, making the Merax 3 Piece ABS Hardshell Luggage Set a stylish choice for any traveler.
What Other Users Are Saying
Across the board, sentiment for the Merax 3 Piece ABS Hardshell Luggage Set is largely positive, with users frequently praising it as a “total game-changer” and a “great buy.” The convenience of the three sizes, the smooth-rolling wheels, and the spacious interiors are consistently highlighted as major strengths. One reviewer summed it up perfectly: “Easy to roll, great looking, and seriously practical.” However, the feedback isn’t without criticism. The most common complaint revolves around the shell’s susceptibility to scratching, which contradicts the “scratch-resistant” claim. A more serious, though less common, issue was a user whose black set cracked on its maiden voyage, raising questions about consistency in manufacturing.
Alternatives to the Merax 3 Piece ABS Hardshell Luggage Set
While the Merax set offers incredible value, it’s always good to know your options. Here are three popular alternatives that might better suit your specific needs.
1. Coolife 3 Piece Luggage Set Expandable
- 3 piece small, medium and large luggage set made from extra strong ABS material.
- Mounted TSA combination lock provides peace of mind when checking cases through security.
The Coolife set is a very close competitor to the Merax. It also features an ABS hardshell, spinner wheels, and a TSA lock. Some users report that Coolife’s material feels slightly thicker and may offer a bit more resistance to scuffs, though it often comes at a slightly higher price point. If maximum durability and scratch resistance are your top priorities and you’re willing to spend a little more, the Coolife set is a worthy contender.
2. Melalenia 7 Piece Hardshell Luggage Set
- 7 Piece Luggage Sets: The luggage set of 4 pieces offers 12"mini suitcase,18"/20" carry on luggage,24" medium checked luggage,28" large check-in suitcase,...
- Durable Spinner Wheels: The 360° rotatable silent spinner wheels are walk-tested and make it easy to maneuver your hard shell suitcases, even in busy...
If you’re an organization enthusiast, the Melalenia set takes things to another level. Instead of just three suitcases, it comes with a complete 7-piece ensemble that includes packing cubes, a toiletry bag, and more. This is less a direct competitor and more a different travel philosophy. If you value a complete, all-in-one packing system over just the luggage itself, this set offers tremendous value.
3. Kono 4 Piece Hardside Luggage Set Spinner Wheels TSA Lock
- 【4 Piece Luggage Sets】➤Carry-Ons Suitcase: 20.3" x 15" x 8.3"; Beauty Case:11" x 9" x 5.9"; Weekender Bag: 15.7" x 11.8" x 8.7"; ➤Toiletry Bag:...
- 【Hardshell Suitcase and Waterproof Travel Bag】➤Kono suitcase is made from lightweight and durable ABS hard shell, Scratch & Pressure-resistant....
The Kono 4-piece set offers a slightly different configuration, often including a 14-inch vanity or cosmetics case in addition to three suitcases. This is an excellent choice for travelers who like to keep their toiletries, makeup, or small electronics in a separate, dedicated hard case that matches their main luggage. It’s a great option for those who want that extra piece for better organization on the go.
Our Final Verdict: Is the Merax Luggage Set Worth It?
After extensive testing and analysis, we can confidently recommend the Merax 3 Piece ABS Hardshell Luggage Set for the vast majority of travelers, especially those seeking maximum versatility on a budget. It delivers on its core promises of mobility, capacity, and convenience. The spinner wheels are a joy to use, and the three sizes ensure you’re prepared for any type of trip. While it may not win a beauty contest after a few rough encounters with baggage handlers, its functional durability and outstanding value make it a smart investment for families, couples, and solo adventurers alike.
If you’ve decided the Merax 3 Piece ABS Hardshell Luggage Set is the right fit, you can check its current price and purchase it here.
Last update on 2025-10-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API