There’s a specific kind of travel dread that has nothing to do with flight delays or security lines. It’s the feeling of wrestling a stubborn suitcase with a mind of its own through a crowded airport. We’ve all been there: one wheel veers left, the handle gets stuck, and you end up dragging a heavy, awkward box behind you. After one too many trips fighting with our old, worn-out luggage, we decided enough was enough. The hunt began for a complete set that was lightweight, easy to maneuver, and secure, without costing a fortune.
- [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...
What to Consider Before Buying a Hardside Luggage Set
Before you invest in new travel gear, it’s crucial to understand what separates a great luggage set from one that will fail you mid-trip. The ideal customer for a hardside set is someone looking for superior protection for their belongings against the bumps and tumbles of travel. Key factors to consider are the shell material—ABS is lightweight and affordable, while polycarbonate offers more flexibility and impact resistance. Wheel quality is paramount; look for 360-degree double spinner wheels for effortless gliding. Security is another non-negotiable, so a built-in TSA-approved lock is essential for peace of mind when flying. Finally, consider the sizes. A three-piece set typically offers a carry-on for short trips and two larger checked bags for longer journeys, providing versatility for any travel plan. The TILYMOL 3 Piece Hardside Expandable Luggage Set ticks these boxes on paper, promising a blend of modern features and affordability.
While the TILYMOL 3 Piece Hardside Expandable 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: Sleek, Smooth, and Ready to Roll
Upon unboxing the TILYMOL 3 Piece Hardside Expandable Luggage Set, we were immediately impressed. The three pieces arrived nested within each other like Russian dolls, a smart space-saving feature for storage. The black ABS hardshell has a textured finish designed to minimize the appearance of scuffs, and it looked sleek and modern. Setup was a breeze; the two smaller cases were ready to go, and the largest 28-inch case simply required popping on the wheels. The standout feature from the first moment was the spinner wheels. They glide across hardwood and carpet with an incredible smoothness that promised an easy airport experience. The lightweight construction was also a huge plus, leaving more of the baggage allowance for our actual belongings.
What We Like
- Exceptionally smooth and quiet 360-degree spinner wheels
- 20-inch carry-on meets strict airline size requirements
- Lightweight ABS construction maximizes packing capacity
- Expandable feature on larger cases adds valuable space
- Integrated TSA-approved locks for enhanced security
What We Didn’t Like
- ABS shell is prone to cracking under the stress of air travel
- Durability is a concern for frequent flyers checking bags
- Wheels and handles have been reported to break after rough handling
Performance In-Depth: Putting the TILYMOL Luggage to the Test
A luggage set can look great at home, but its true character is revealed on the road. We took the TILYMOL set on two very different journeys: a week-long road trip and a cross-country flight, to see how it would hold up under different conditions.
Mobility and Handling: A Dream on Smooth Surfaces
Let’s start with the best feature: the wheels. TILYMOL boasts silent, multi-directional double spinner wheels, and they did not disappoint. In the airport terminal, the suitcases floated alongside us with zero effort. Pushing them upright or pulling them behind was equally seamless. This sentiment was echoed by many users, one of whom noted, “The wheels and mobility are exceptional making hiking through three airports a breeze.” For navigating hotels, train stations, and smooth pavement, the handling is top-tier.
Capacity, Organization, and Features
The interior of the suitcases is standard but functional. One side has a zippered divider to keep items separate, while the other has elastic straps to secure clothing. The 24-inch and 28-inch models are expandable, which we found invaluable for packing souvenirs on the return trip, offering a welcome 20% increase in space. The built-in TSA locks were easy to set and provided a sense of security. As one user preparing for a cruise happily noted, “The TSA-approved locks are easy to set the new codes on, and all three luggage pieces include them.” Another key finding, confirmed by a meticulous traveler, is that the 20-inch carry-on is true to size and fits even strict airline overhead bin requirements, a major relief for anyone trying to avoid checked bag fees.
The Durability Question: Road Trip vs. Air Travel
Here’s where our experience split. For our road trip, the TILYMOL 3 Piece Hardside Expandable Luggage Set was a perfect companion. It was easy to lift in and out of the car, protected our belongings, and showed no signs of wear. If your travel is primarily by car, this set performs wonderfully.
However, air travel told a different story. While our carry-on was flawless, the 28-inch checked bag did not emerge from baggage claim unscathed. It suffered a significant scuff that went through the black finish to the white plastic underneath, and a small dent near a corner. This experience aligns with numerous user reports. One traveler stated their bag sustained a “huge dent along with a crack” on its very first flight. Another lamented that their suitcase “didn’t survive its first trip abroad,” arriving with a broken corner. The lightweight ABS material, while great for avoiding overweight fees, appears to be too thin and brittle to consistently withstand the harsh reality of airport baggage handling. This is the set’s critical trade-off: exceptional mobility and low weight for questionable checked-bag durability.
What Other Users Are Saying
Our findings are a near-perfect reflection of the broader customer experience. The reviews are highly polarized based on travel type. Travelers who use the set for car trips or primarily use the carry-on are overwhelmingly positive. One user was “thrilled” that the carry-on fit Delta’s strict requirements, calling it a “quality piece.” However, the feedback from those who check the larger bags is often negative. A stark review mentioned, “I used this luggage for just one trip, and it did not withstand normal airport handling… I was very disappointed with the durability.” This suggests the set is ideal for light travel but a gamble for frequent flyers.
Alternatives to the TILYMOL 3 Piece Hardside Expandable Luggage Set
If the durability concerns for air travel give you pause, it’s worth considering a few alternatives known for their robust construction.
1. American Tourister Westridge 3-Piece Hardshell Luggage Set Expandable
- Complete Travel Solution - The American Tourister Westridge hard-sided luggage 3-piece set features a 20” hardshell carry-on, 24” medium luggage, and...
- Durable & Lightweight - This lightweight luggage set has a durable ABS hard case that is scratch-resistant so your suitcases will continue to look good...
American Tourister is a subsidiary of Samsonite and is known for providing reliable quality at a more accessible price point. The Westridge set offers similar features like spinner wheels and expandability but often comes with a more durable shell material or construction. It’s a solid step-up for travelers who want a recognized brand name and a bit more reassurance against baggage handler abuse without breaking the bank.
2. Joyway 20 Inch Expandable 4 Piece Hardshell Luggage Set
- 4 Piece Luggage Set: This suitcase set included 13 inch luggage and 20 inch carry on luggaeg and a travel bag and a toiletry bag. Fully equipped for all...
- Expandable Capacity: Designed with an expandable layer to add 15% more space to your rolling luggage.
For those focused on value and versatility, the Joyway set is an intriguing option. It often includes four pieces, adding a smaller personal item or cosmetic case to the standard trio. While it falls into a similar budget-friendly category as TILYMOL, comparing recent user reviews on durability would be key. It’s a great choice if you need an extra bag and are willing to accept similar durability trade-offs.
3. Samsonite Centric Expandable Hardside 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" 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...
If durability is your absolute top priority for frequent flying, investing in a brand like Samsonite is often the wisest choice. The Centric set is made from polycarbonate, which is more flexible and impact-resistant than the ABS used in the TILYMOL set. While it comes at a higher price, it’s an investment in luggage that is built to withstand the rigors of frequent air travel for years to come.
Final Verdict: A Great Set for the Right Kind of Traveler
So, do we recommend the TILYMOL 3 Piece Hardside Expandable Luggage Set? The answer is a conditional yes. If you are a student, a road-tripper, or an infrequent traveler who primarily uses a carry-on, this set is a fantastic value. You get three stylish pieces with some of the smoothest wheels on the market at an unbeatable price. However, if you are a frequent flyer who regularly checks bags, we advise caution. The ABS shell’s questionable durability could lead to disappointment and a cracked suitcase after just one or two encounters with rough baggage handlers.
If you’ve decided the TILYMOL 3 Piece Hardside Expandable Luggage Set is the right fit for your travel style, you can check its current price and find more details here.
Last update on 2025-10-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API