We prefer hardshell suitcases for their durability and protection of contents, but it's mainly a matter of preference and budget. Hardshell suitcases can be more protective of the contents, and we prefer the look. However, you'll pay more for a quality hardside case, and there's less room to expand if you just need to fit in a couple extra things. Both types of suitcase have the potential to be incredibly lightweight --and keep in mind that even the heaviest bags we featured, at 7 pounds, feel very light. If your budget doesn't allow for the absolute lightest, we're willing to bet you'll be happy with a 6 or 7 pound bag, even if it's not "the world's lightest."