India, Oct. 19 -- I have travelled with more than 25 different brands of suitcases over the years, and if there is one luggage debate I keep coming back to, it is hard shell versus soft shell. I have taken both through airports, checked them in, dragged them across city streets, squeezed them into cars, opened them in small hotel rooms and, on several occasions, returned home with considerably more stuff than I left with.

Both styles have worked for me, but for very different reasons. Hard shell luggage gets my vote for protection and structure. Soft shell luggage is my pick when I want flexibility, easier access and some breathing room for shopping. If I had to choose just one for most of my regular trips, though, I would pick an expand...