There’s a familiar dread that can creep in before any trip: wrestling with a worn-out, heavy suitcase with a stuck wheel and a zipper that threatens to burst. We’ve all been there, trying to cram that last outfit in, hoping the whole thing doesn’t fall apart at baggage claim. The right luggage isn’t just a box for your clothes; it’s the starting point of a smooth journey, promising easy navigation through bustling airports and organized packing that lets you focus on the adventure ahead.
- Merax launches a trendy travel luggage set. Comes with a 20-inch luggage and a weekender bag, and a toiletry bag. Merax luggage is made of high-quality ABS...
- 【Suitcases with Wheels】360° Silent 8 Wheels: The dual wheels are more durable and can withstand stronger pressure. The two wheels are easy to control...
What to Look For in a Modern Hardside Luggage Set
Before investing in new travel gear, it’s crucial to know what separates a great value from a future headache. The ideal traveler for a set like this is someone who takes occasional trips, values style and coordination, and needs a versatile solution for weekend getaways or short business travel. Key factors to consider are durability, weight, and maneuverability. You want a hardside shell that can withstand bumps without being excessively heavy. Smooth, 360-degree spinner wheels are non-negotiable for gliding through terminals. Finally, security features like a TSA-approved lock provide essential peace of mind. A set that bundles a carry-on with matching accessory bags offers fantastic convenience and value, ensuring you have the right piece for every type of journey. The Merax 3 Piece Hardside Luggage Set aims to check all these boxes at an attractive price point, but it’s important to weigh its features against its real-world performance.
While the Merax 3 Piece Hardside 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 Stylish and Surprisingly Complete Travel System
Unboxing the Merax 3 Piece Hardside Luggage Set, we were immediately struck by the vibrant blue color and sleek, striped design. It’s a set that definitely stands out from the typical sea of black suitcases. The main 20-inch carry-on is nested inside the larger duffel, with the toiletry bag inside, making for very efficient shipping and storage. The ABS hard shell of the main suitcase feels incredibly light, weighing in at just over 7 pounds, which is a huge plus for avoiding overweight baggage fees. The real surprise was the quality of the included accessories; the expandable weekender duffel and matching toiletry bag make this feel less like just a suitcase and more like a complete, coordinated travel solution right out of the box.
What We Like
- Excellent Value: A 3-piece coordinated set at a budget-friendly price point.
- Smooth Maneuverability: The 8 spinner wheels provide an effortless 360-degree glide.
- Lightweight Construction: The ABS shell is very light, making it easy to lift into overhead bins.
- Integrated TSA Lock: A valuable security feature not always found in this price range.
- Stylish Design: The vibrant colors and modern pattern are visually appealing.
What We Didn’t Like
- Durability Concerns: The ABS shell is prone to scratching and scuffing easily.
- Wobbly Handle: The telescoping handle developed some side-to-side play during testing.
- No Expansion: The main carry-on suitcase does not have an expandable zipper.
- Seam Strength: Some users report issues with seams and zippers on the duffel bag after minimal use.
Putting the Merax 3 Piece Luggage Set to the Test
A luggage set can look great, but its true worth is only revealed on the road. We took the Merax 3 Piece Hardside Luggage Set on a multi-stop trip involving flights, car travel, and navigating city streets to see how it held up under real-world conditions. Here’s our detailed breakdown of its performance.
Durability and Material Quality
The suitcase is constructed from Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), a material known for being lightweight and rigid. In our hands-on testing, it felt solid enough for carry-on use. However, its biggest weakness became apparent after just one flight where it had to be checked. The shell showed several scuffs and scratches, confirming feedback from other users that it’s not the most resilient material. One traveler noted, “One single flight and they were already scuffed up and scratched to heck.” While it protected the contents inside perfectly, those who want their luggage to remain pristine-looking may be disappointed. For travelers who primarily use it as a carry-on, this is less of an issue.
Wheels and Maneuverability
This is where the Merax set truly shines. The eight 360-degree spinner wheels are fantastic. We glided through the airport terminal with exceptional ease, changing directions effortlessly with just a light push. The wheels rolled smoothly over tile, carpet, and even some cracked pavement without a hitch. This level of maneuverability is a premium feature that makes navigating a busy airport far less stressful. If effortless rolling is your top priority, this set delivers an impressive performance.
Handles and Portability
The 3-section telescopic handle extends to a comfortable height, but we did notice a bit of wobble, especially when fully extended and maneuvering quickly. This sentiment was echoed by users who mentioned the handle feeling “loose and wobbly.” While it never failed us, it doesn’t inspire the same confidence as handles on more premium suitcases. The top and side grab handles are functional, but lack significant padding. Given the suitcase’s light weight, this wasn’t a major issue for us.
Storage, Organization, and Capacity
Inside, the 20-inch carry-on is smartly designed. It opens clamshell-style into two main compartments. One side features cross straps to secure clothing, while the other has a full zippered divider with a mesh pocket, which is great for keeping smaller items or shoes separate. We were impressed with how much we could fit, easily packing for a four-day trip. As one user happily reported, “This set fit more than a weeks worth of clothing.” The most significant drawback here is the lack of an expandable zipper on the hardside case, which limits your ability to bring home souvenirs. The included weekender duffel, however, *is* expandable, providing a great backup for extra items.
The Bonus Bags: A Coordinated Duo
The included weekender duffel and toiletry bag are what elevate this from a simple suitcase to a true set. The duffel is spacious, and its trolley sleeve is a brilliant feature, allowing it to slide securely over the suitcase handle. This makes managing multiple bags a breeze. While some users noted the material on the accessory bags feels thinner, they held up well for us on our trip and add immense value and convenience to the overall package.
What Other Users Are Saying
Feedback on the Merax 3 Piece Hardside Luggage Set is decidedly mixed, often hinging on user expectations for its price point. Many travelers are thrilled with the value, with one stating, “The appearance, size, color and overall quality of this product exceeded my expectations and beat my previous high price suitcase in every area.” Others praise the lightweight design and smooth wheels. However, the most common complaint centers on long-term durability. A disappointed user wrote, “This luggage CAN NOT handle the wear and tear of baggage handling… the seams become looser and now there’s a hole.” This confirms our findings: it’s a stellar set for gentle, carry-on-focused travel but may not withstand the rigors of frequent checked baggage.
Alternatives to the Merax 3 Piece Hardside Luggage Set
While the Merax set offers great value, it’s wise to consider other options that might better suit your needs, whether you need more durability, expandability, or a different configuration.
1. LARVENDER 3 Piece Expandable Hardshell Luggage Set
- Expandable Carry on Luggage with Backpack: 3-piece set includes 20inch expandable carry on luggage 22x14x9 airline approved (Expands for extra 25% packing...
- Luggage with TSA Lock for Secure Travel: Stay safe and hassle-free with our TSA-approved combination locks. Zippers are not easy to be pierced by sharp...
This LARVENDER set is a direct competitor, also offering a 3-piece configuration but with a travel backpack instead of a toiletry bag. The key advantage here is that its hardshell carry-on is expandable, addressing a major limitation of the Merax suitcase. If you often find yourself needing that extra bit of packing space, this set is a very compelling alternative.
2. Samsonite Evolve SE 2PC Set Luggage Expandable
- SET INCLUDES 20" Carry On (meets carry-on size restrictions for those traveling domestically and looking to stay light) and 24" Spinner (maximize your...
- Industry leading expanded capacity in all sizes.
For travelers willing to invest more for brand reputation and enhanced durability, the Samsonite Evolve SE set is a step up. Samsonite is a benchmark for quality in the luggage industry. While this is a 2-piece set, you are paying for more robust materials, sturdier handles, and the peace of mind that comes with a globally recognized brand known for longevity. It’s the choice for the frequent flyer who prioritizes durability above all.
3. Traveler’s Choice Archer 29-Inch Hardside Spinner Luggage
- Durable & Strong: Textured polycarbonate shell delivers maximum durability and protection during travel.
- Protective Lining: Shield-98 technology resists bacterial growth, keeping your luggage clean, fresh, and travel-ready after every trip. Durable YKK...
If your primary need is a single, large suitcase for checking in on long trips, the Traveler’s Choice Archer is a fantastic option. Instead of a multi-bag set focused on carry-on travel, this provides one massive 29-inch checked bag. It’s built from durable polycarbonate, a material generally considered more impact-resistant than the Merax’s ABS shell, making it better suited for the harsh realities of baggage handling.
Our Final Verdict: Is the Merax Luggage Set Right for You?
After extensive testing, we can confidently say the Merax 3 Piece Hardside Luggage Set offers exceptional value for a specific type of traveler. If you are an occasional vacationer, a weekend tripper, or someone who sticks to carry-on travel, this set is a fantastic choice. You get a stylish, lightweight, and incredibly easy-to-maneuver suitcase plus two matching bags for a price that’s hard to beat. However, if you are a frequent flyer who regularly checks bags, its susceptibility to scuffs and potential long-term durability issues with the handle and seams might be a concern. For the budget-conscious traveler looking for a complete, coordinated system for lighter travel, this set is a winner.
If you’ve decided the Merax 3 Piece Hardside Luggage Set is the right fit, you can check its current price and purchase it here.
Last update on 2025-10-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API