There’s a unique kind of stress that comes with planning a short trip. You want to be prepared, but you dread the thought of paying hefty checked baggage fees for a simple weekend getaway. I’ve been there countless times, trying to cram everything into a backpack, knowing there has to be a better way. The ideal solution is a compact, reliable luggage set that meets strict airline carry-on requirements without forcing you to leave essentials behind. This is precisely the problem the Rockland Expandable Softside 2-Piece Luggage Set aims to solve.
- Upright: 20" x 13" x 7.5" (with wheels)
- Tote bag: 13.5"x 11" x 5"
What to Consider Before Buying a Luggage Set
Before you invest in new luggage, it’s crucial to consider your travel style. Are you a frequent flyer jetting off every other week, or an occasional vacationer taking a few trips a year? The ideal customer for the Rockland Expandable Softside 2-Piece Luggage Set is the savvy, budget-conscious traveler. This includes students heading home for the holidays, families looking for a durable first suitcase for their kids, or anyone planning a weekend escape who refuses to pay extra for luggage. Key factors to weigh are size, weight, durability, and of course, price. You need a carry-on that fits comfortably in the overhead bin and a personal item that slides under the seat. It should be lightweight enough to lift easily but sturdy enough to handle the rigors of travel. While premium sets offer advanced features, they often come with a premium price tag. For those who prioritize value and practicality for infrequent travel, this Rockland set hits a sweet spot. If this sounds like you, this incredibly affordable luggage duo is worth a closer look.
While the Rockland Expandable Softside 2-Piece 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 Spacious Set
Upon unboxing the Rockland Expandable Softside 2-Piece Luggage Set in its vibrant purple color, the first thing we noticed was how incredibly lightweight it is. The 19-inch upright weighs a mere 6 pounds, and the tote bag is just 1 pound, making it a breeze to handle. The set feels cohesive, with the flight tote designed to be the perfect personal item companion to the carry-on roller. The heavy-duty polyester fabric feels substantial for the price point, and the interior is fully lined, which is a nice touch. It includes two key pieces: the 19-inch expandable upright and a 14-inch flight tote bag. The upright features two front zipper pockets for easy access to travel documents, while the tote is simple but effective, with a detachable shoulder strap. It’s a no-frills package that focuses on delivering the essentials without unnecessary weight or complexity.
What We Like
- Exceptional value for a two-piece set
- Perfect dimensions for most airline carry-on and personal item restrictions
- Expandable main compartment adds crucial packing space
- Extremely lightweight and easy for anyone to maneuver
- Available in a wide variety of fun colors and patterns
What We Didn’t Like
- Telescoping handle feels flimsy and can be shaky
- Two-wheel design is prone to tipping if not packed carefully
- Zippers and seams may not withstand frequent, heavy use
A Deep Dive into the Rockland Luggage Set’s Performance
A low price is only a good deal if the product performs. We put the Rockland Expandable Softside 2-Piece Luggage Set through its paces on a long weekend trip to see if it could handle the realities of travel, from packing to navigating a busy airport.
Capacity and Packing Space
This is where the set truly shines. The 19-inch upright looks compact, but its capacity is deceivingly generous. We were impressed with how much we could fit inside, a sentiment echoed by users who managed to pack for a full week. One user noted they packed “a week’s worth of clothing…that included 3 t-shirts, 2 leggings, 3 blouses, 3 camisoles, a light sweater, jeans, 2 pairs of shoes…and undergarments” with room to spare. The key is the expandable zipper, which provides an extra 2.5 inches of depth. For our test, we packed three pairs of pants, four shirts, a light jacket, toiletries, and a pair of shoes without even needing to use the expansion. The matching tote is perfect for keeping in-flight essentials like a book, headphones, snacks, and a tablet close at hand.
Mobility and Handling
The upright features two in-line skate wheels, which roll smoothly on flat surfaces like airport linoleum. However, unlike four-wheel spinners, this design requires you to pull the luggage behind you. We found, as several users confirmed, that the suitcase has a tendency to tip over if you stop abruptly or if it’s not packed correctly. One traveler shared a great tip: “Pack heavier items closer to the wheels and it will stay balanced.” The push-button telescoping handle extends to a good height, but we found it had a bit of wobble. It feels like the primary point of weakness, with some users reporting it getting stuck or breaking. For occasional travel it’s perfectly adequate, but it might not hold up to the demands of a road warrior.
Durability and Build Quality
Herein lies the main trade-off. For its incredibly low price, the build quality is surprisingly decent, but it’s important to set realistic expectations. The material is a heavy-duty polyester with PVC backing, which holds up well against scuffs and is water-resistant. The ergonomic top and side handles feel sturdy and are a huge help when lifting the bag into an overhead bin. However, some users reported issues like loose threads, broken handles, or torn seams after just one trip. As one reviewer aptly put it, “You do get what you pay for (at least with the zippers).” Our inspection revealed that while the construction is solid for light use, we would be gentle with the zippers and avoid over-packing to the point of strain. For the price, the quality offered by this Rockland set is remarkable, making it an excellent choice for infrequent trips.
Design and Features
Beyond its functionality, the Rockland set stands out with its vast array of colors and patterns. From classic solids like the purple we tested to whimsical prints like owls and giraffes, there’s a style for every personality. This makes it particularly popular for kids, as one parent noted, their daughter was “obsessed” with her adorable suitcase. The included lock and keys are a simple but welcome touch for a bit of extra security, though many users had trouble finding the keys, which are often attached to the main product tags. The organizational pockets—two on the outside of the upright and three inside—are genuinely useful for separating small items.
What Other Users Are Saying
The general consensus among travelers is that the Rockland Expandable Softside 2-Piece Luggage Set offers phenomenal value, provided you understand its limitations. Many are thrilled with the purchase, calling it a “fabulous deal for the occasional traveler.” One happy customer exclaimed, “Oh my goodness the quality for the price… You can’t beat that anywhere, brand spanking new too!” However, the feedback is also a tale of two experiences. While many receive flawless sets, a notable number of users report quality control issues, such as broken handles upon arrival or bags failing on the first use. One user’s review was updated to say, “MY HUSBANDS CARRY ON BAG IS COMING APART. HE BARELY USED IT.” This highlights that while you can get a fantastic deal, there’s an element of gamble involved regarding long-term durability.
Alternatives to the Rockland Expandable Softside 2-Piece Luggage Set
While the Rockland set is a fantastic budget option, your travel needs might call for something different. Here’s how it compares to three popular alternatives.
1. TILYMOL 3 Piece Expandable Hardside Luggage Set
- [Expandable Capacity] 24in and 28in luggages can expand for 20% more capacity. The 20in carry-on luggage is approved by airlines. It fits most airline...
- [Smooth and Silent Multi-directional Spinner Wheels] With the 360° rotating double wheels, this large carry on suitcase moves quietly and smoothly. It has...
If you need more capacity and prefer the protection of a hardside shell, the TILYMOL set is a compelling choice. It includes three pieces instead of two, featuring smooth 360-degree spinner wheels for superior maneuverability and a TSA-approved lock. It’s a step up in features and durability, making it better suited for longer trips or travelers who prefer checking their bags.
2. Amazon Basics 2-Piece Expandable Hardshell Suitcase Set
- VERSATILE SET: Includes carry-on and large checked suitcase to fit your travel needs; carry-on measures 14.8 x 10 x 21.7 inches; large measures 20.7 x 12.6...
- DURABLE AND RELIABLE: Extra-thick hard shell with scratch-resistant finish guards against impact and rough handling
This set from Amazon Basics offers a great middle-ground. It provides the durability of a hardshell design with four multi-directional spinner wheels. This set includes a 21-inch carry-on and a larger 30-inch checked bag, making it ideal for those who want a matching set for both short and long journeys. It competes on value but offers a more modern, hardside alternative to the Rockland’s softside design.
3. Samsonite Centric 3-Piece Expandable Luggage Set
- SET INCLUDES 20" Carry On (meets carry-on size restrictions for those traveling domestically and looking to stay light) and 24"/28" Spinners (maximize your...
- 10 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY: Samsonite products are rigorously tested to ensure our products meet stringent standards. This bag comes with a 10-year warranty...
For the frequent traveler who demands maximum durability and performance, the Samsonite Centric set is a worthy investment. Samsonite is a benchmark for quality in the luggage industry. This hardside, three-piece set is built to last, featuring a scratch-resistant twill texture and effortless spinner wheels. While it comes at a significantly higher price point, its longevity and reliability justify the cost for those who travel often.
The Final Verdict: Who Should Buy This Luggage Set?
After extensive testing and analysis, our verdict is clear: the Rockland Expandable Softside 2-Piece Luggage Set is an absolute steal for the right person. If you are an occasional traveler, a student, or someone buying a first suitcase for a child, you will be hard-pressed to find a better value. It’s stylish, incredibly lightweight, and perfectly sized to help you avoid checked bag fees. While it may lack the robust durability of premium brands, its performance far exceeds its price tag for light to moderate use. It’s the definition of a smart, budget-friendly travel solution.
If you’ve decided the Rockland Expandable Softside 2-Piece Luggage Set is the right fit, you can check its current price and purchase it here.
Last update on 2025-10-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API