Effortless Travel: Review of the Samsonite Freeform Hardside 2-Piece Set

I recently used the Samsonite Freeform 21-Inch Hardside Carry-On for a week-long trip, and I was thoroughly impressed! From packing to rolling it through the airport, this suitcase exceeded my expectations.

✅ Lightweight Yet Sturdy: Its solid hardshell design is surprisingly light, making it easy to lift into the overhead bin.

✅ Effortless Maneuverability: The spinner wheels glide smoothly, even on carpeted airport floors. I could navigate tight spaces and crowded terminals with just a fingertip.

✅ Expandable & Spacious: The expandable feature was perfect for souvenirs and extra clothes—it’s more spacious than it looks!

✅ TSA-Approved Lock: The built-in TSA lock provided peace of mind while traveling—secure and user-friendly.

✅ Sleek Design: The navy color is both elegant and modern, with a finish that resists scratches well. I received several compliments on it!

If you’re in search of a carry-on that blends style, functionality, and durability, look no further. Samsonite truly nailed it with the Freeform. I highly recommend it for both frequent flyers and weekend adventurers!

I recently purchased the 24-inch size after previously getting the 21-inch and 28-inch models. The size difference makes it easy to store the 21-inch inside the 28-inch. However, the 21-inch is limited in capacity, only suitable for a couple of days’ worth of items. That’s why I decided to try the 24-inch as a middle option. Just to clarify, anything larger than 21 inches typically needs to be checked. Some airlines even have issues if the 21-inch bag is expanded and doesn’t fit into the baggage size tester at check-in, so be cautious about expanding it when using it as a carry-on.

I was initially uncertain about whether the 24-inch would fit inside the 28-inch, as I couldn’t find this information anywhere. The dimensional difference between these two sizes isn’t as significant as between the 21-inch and the 28-inch models. This detail matters if you live in a small space or find yourself in a cramped hotel room where it’s challenging to store both sizes separately.

Taking a chance, I ordered the 24-inch anyway, and I’m pleased to report that the 21-inch fits easily inside it. However, the 28-inch doesn’t close with the 24-inch inside as easily. Thankfully, all three models have an expansion zipper. Once I expanded the 28-inch, I was able to close it with the 24-inch nested inside. So, technically, you can nest all three sizes together, but you’ll need to expand the 28-inch first. Expect the complete set to take up a bit more space than anticipated when stored together.

Regarding the cases themselves, they have proven to be sturdy and lightweight, without feeling flimsy. The double wheels on each corner provide stability and make it easier to roll over uneven surfaces compared to spinner cases with single wheels. I prefer spinners, as they allow for easier maneuverability, and you can even place a larger bag on top without much trouble. The larger sizes offer more stability, but the 21-inch is quite manageable as well.

If you put two of these spinners back to back, you can hold the extended handles with one hand and angle them to move them together, which works surprisingly well once they start rolling. The plastic sides can develop static when humidity is low, attracting dust and hair, especially if laid down on a carpet. Rubbing a dryer sheet on the outside can help with that.

Some colors have a glossy finish, while others, like navy blue, feature a matte texture with slight diamond shapes. Just be aware that all colors will get scuffed during travel, and lighter colors may show marks from luggage belts more easily. However, these are hard-sided cases, so they won’t be as prone to tearing like soft-sided luggage, and they include expansion zippers that many hard-sided cases lack. Choose a color you like and try not to stress over the wear and tear. They occasionally go on sale; I managed to get my first set of 21/28 for under two hundred, though I do find them a bit overpriced at times.

This bag is fantastic! It’s sturdy and the perfect size for a week-long trip!

I recently bought a used set in blue, and it has quickly become my favorite luggage for all my trips. It’s perfect for both short getaways and longer vacations. My only major issue was with the initial delivery—the set came pre-locked without any instructions for unlocking it, which led me to return it for a replacement. However, once I received the new set, it has far surpassed my expectations.

The blue color is just right—distinct enough to be easily spotted but not overly flashy. It features a sleek, minimalist design that radiates professional elegance. The clean lines and subtle branding make it suitable for both business and leisure occasions.

Both pieces showcase excellent build quality and durability. The hard-shell exterior effectively withstands scratches, scuffs, and impacts from typical travel use. The zippers glide smoothly without snagging, and the reinforced seams and sturdy construction provide confidence in their long-term reliability.

The interior is designed to maximize packing space while keeping everything organized and secure. The adjustable compression straps prevent clothes from moving during transit, and the full zippered divider creates two separate packing sections. There’s ample room for several days’ worth of clothing, multiple pairs of shoes, and all essential travel items. The strategically placed mesh pockets are ideal for organizing smaller items, accessories, and toiletries.

The 360-degree spinner wheels offer fantastic mobility, allowing the suitcase to glide effortlessly over various surfaces, from smooth airport floors to rough pavement and carpet. The handle extends smoothly to multiple heights, ensuring comfortable maneuverability for users of all sizes. The carry-on’s compact size makes it easy to fit into overhead bins.

With its practical features, durability, and stylish design, this luggage set is a smart investment for anyone in need of reliable travel gear.