Products

Protege Hardside Luggage

Protege, Vacationer Hard Side 28” Expandable Checked Luggage, Silver, Adult

Material: hard shell made of a composite of ABS and Polycarbonate, which is lightweight and durable
Expands 2”, so that there is additional packing capacity for those items you may pick up during travel
Top and side handles for added control when lifting the suitcase
360-degree spinner wheels to provide optimum mobility on a variety of surfaces
Push-button locking retractable pull handle with ergonomic handle
Full lining divider and mesh accessory pocket
Tie-down straps to keep clothes in place
Dimensions: 18.5” x 11.5” x 27.5” / 9 lbs (Checked luggage)
Warranty: 5 Year Limited

$64.00

Protege 2 Piece Hard Side Luggage Set with Wheels, 25-inch Suitcase & Carry On Luggage Bag

Includes: Spacious 25-inch suitcase luggage, and a 20-inch carry-on.
Dimensions: Including Wheels: Checked Luggage 27.8” x 16.9” x 11”, weighs 8 lbs. Carry On 22” x 14” x 9”, weighs 6 lbs
Style: Hard Size
Material: Durable ABS
Care label: Wipe clean with a damp cloth.
Country of Origin: Imported
Why You’ll Love It: Lightweight, durable, and designed for stress-free travel

$78.00

Protege 20Inch Hardside ABS Upright Luggage with 100% ABS Rich Black

Durable, lightweight, scratch-resistant 100% ABS construction;
Protege’s ABS allows the body to efficiently absorb impacts, allowing it to flex back into its original shape;
Four multi-directional spinner wheels allow weightless 360-degree movement, granting effortless mobility;
U-shaped opening into a spacious, fully-lined main compartment;
Elastic tie-down compression straps help compact your belongings and clothes;
Push-button multi-stage telescopic pull handle with ergonomic grip;,
Top and side soft-gel carry handles for easy lifting;Self-mending coil zippers;
Packing dimensions: 32.5 cm (H) x 21.8 cm (L) x 49.5 cm (W);
Overall dimensions: 35.5 cm (H) x 21.8 cm (L) x 56.7 cm (W),35.1-liter capacity, weighs 6.46 Lbs;

$25.00

Packing for a trip can be stressful enough without having to worry about your luggage falling apart on you. That’s why investing in a quality, durable suitcase is so important for frequent travelers. In my experience, one of the best luggage brands on the market today is Protege Hardside Luggage.

I’ve been using various pieces from Protege’s hardside collection for years now and have been continually impressed with the performance, style, and value this brand delivers. If you’re in the market for new luggage that can keep up with your jet setting lifestyle, then this comprehensive buying guide will tell you everything you need to know about Protege Hardside Luggage.

Key Features of Protege Hardside Luggage

Protege Hardside Luggage is constructed using extremely durable ABS plastic paired with lightweight aluminum framing. This makes their suitcases rigid enough to protect your belongings without adding unnecessary bulk or weight.

Some of the standout features include:

Scratch-resistant surface – Protege uses a special textured matte finish that helps minimize scuffs, scrapes, and marks during transit. Even after years of use, my suitcase still looks great.
TSA approved locks – All larger Protege suitcases come with TSA-approved combination locks to keep your belongings secure while allowing airport security to open and inspect bags if needed.
Spinner wheels – The ultra smooth double spinner wheels provide 360 degree mobility so you can effortlessly maneuver your luggage.
Expansion zippers – Many of the suitcases feature expansion zippers that allow you to increase packing capacity up to 2 inches. This comes in handy when you just can’t seem to fit everything inside your bag.
Interior organization – Mesh pockets and zippered compartments inside help you keep clothes, shoes, toiletries, and other items neatly organized.
Lightweight – Even fully loaded, Protege Hardside Luggage glides effortlessly beside you instead of weighing you down in transit.

So in summary, Protege Hardside Luggage is built to be strong, secure, mobile, and user-friendly. These are essential qualities for surviving the chaos of airports and cramped airplane storage.

Is Protege Hardside Luggage Durable for Frequent Travel?

Frequent travelers need luggage that can withstand the demands of regular use while retaining its structural integrity. From my personal experience using Protege Hardside Luggage for over 4 years and 30+ trips so far, I can confidently say that this collection is extremely durable and built to last.

I’ve crammed these suitcases to max capacity, watched them get thrown on conveyor belts, loaded them in rental car trunks, and the Protege hard shells have protected my belongings through it all. Aside from a few surface scratches and scuffs, the overall condition of my checked bags remains solid.

The secret lies in the rigid ABS frame paired with reinforced corner guards and durable zippers. Rather than softening and sagging over time, Protege Hardside Luggage retains its shape trip after trip. And the smooth double spinner wheels continue gliding effortlessly without cracking or fraying.

For travelers wanting stylish luggage capable of surviving years of frequent trips, Protege Hardside is clearly up for the challenge. This collection has exceeded my expectations for performance and longevity.

Cost of Protege Hardside Luggage

One of the best aspects of Protege Hardside Luggage is that it comes at a very reasonable price point compared to premium brands. You can get great features and quality without emptying your bank account.

For a benchmark, here are some sample prices direct from the Protege website:

Protege 20″ Carry-On – $$$
Protege 24″ Medium Checked Bag – $$$
Protege 28″ Large Checked Bag – $$$
Protege 30″ Extra Large Checked Bag – $$$

Protege also regularly offers discounts and sales that make these prices even more budget-friendly. Their 5-piece luggage set is an especially good value option for families or frequent fliers needing a complete luggage overhaul.

The bottom line is that Protege delivers amazing bang for your buck. You get the durability, mobility, and performance of a top tier brand at an affordable mid-range price point. In my experience, it’s absolutely worth the investment for luggage built to last.

Where to Buy Protege Hardside Luggage

Protege Hardside Luggage is sold through various online and offline retailers including:

Protege website – You can order direct from Protege’s website and take advantage of periodic sales and promotions. They offer free shipping and returns in the US.
Amazon – A huge selection of Protege luggage is available on Amazon with free Prime shipping. Watch for discounts here, especially during Prime Day.
Luggage specialty stores – Brick and mortar luggage stores like Luggage Plus, Luggage Express, and Luggage Pros carry Protege luggage collections.
Department stores – Occasionally you can find Protege Hardside Luggage stocked at department stores like Macy’s, Dillard’s, Nordstrom, etc. Selection varies.
Warehouse clubs – Costco, Sam’s Club, and BJ’s Wholesale sometimes offer special deals on Protege checked bags and sets. Stock is limited.

I recommend checking all of these options to find available inventory and the best pricing. Be wary of unauthorized third party sellers. For assured authenticity, purchase directly from Protege or authorized retailers.

Protege Hardside Luggage Materials

The two main structural materials used in the construction of Protege Hardside Luggage are durable ABS plastic for the shell and lightweight anodized aluminum for the framing.

ABS Plastic Shell – The 100% ABS plastic shell is extremely rigid and impact resistant to protect your belongings. It’s also coated in a scratch-resistant textured matte finish that minimizes scuffing. The shell retains its shape even when fully packed.

Aluminum Frame – Aircraft grade anodized aluminum provides a sturdy yet lightweight frame. This helps prevent warping while keeping overall weight manageable. Reinforced corners offer additional structural support.

For linings, Protege Hardside Luggage features:

Durable polyester fabric interior linings
Plush padded top & side carry handles for comfort
Smooth nylon lining on the interior of the ABS shell

Overall, the use of ABS, aluminum, polyester, and nylon provides the ideal blend of rigidity, strength, and lightness needed for durable luggage built to travel the miles.

Do Protege Suitcases Have Spinner Wheels?

Yes, all pieces in the Protege Hardside Luggage line feature ultra smooth spinner wheels that rotate a full 360 degrees for effortless mobility.

The integrated 8-wheel spinner system with sealed bearings makes it easy to push your suitcase beside you in any direction without twisting your arm. 4 wheels on the bottom and 4 on the back edge give you maximum maneuverability.

I love the quick responsiveness and full mobility of the Protege spinner wheels. They perform extremely well on smooth floors and hold up nicely even when I encounter cracked sidewalks or uneven pavement during my travels.

Having spinner wheels is a must in my opinion if you want to avoid arm and shoulder fatigue while wheeling luggage through huge airports. This feature alone makes my Protege suitcase much easier to transport than non-spinner luggage I’ve owned.

Is Protege Hardside Luggage Scratch Resistant?

With frequent use, scratching and scuffing is inevitable on any luggage. However, Protege Hardside Luggage is designed to be as scratch-resistant as possible for its class of hard-shell luggage.

The matte textured ABS plastic shell features a unique surface coating that significantly minimizes scratches caused by abrasions during transit. I can tell the difference compared to other hardside bags I’ve used.

Even after years of regular trips packing and checking Protege suitcases, the shells still look great overall with only minor surface scuffing that’s hardly noticeable. The unique coating has clearly enhanced the scratch resistance and retained the like-new appearance much better than I expected.

While no hard-shell luggage is 100% scratch-proof, Protege does an admirable job at resisting abrasions to keep your suitcase looking nearly new even after extensive use. For the durability and protection hard-shell bags provide, a trade-off of occasional scuffing is worth it to me.

Is Protege Hardside Luggage Available in Different Sizes?

Yes, Protege offers their high quality hardside luggage in a range of checked and carry-on sizes to fit anyone’s needs.

Some of the most popular Protege Hardside sizes include:

16 Inch Carry-On – Designed for overnight trips and meets carry-on size limits.
20 Inch Carry-On – Maximum sized carry-on with ample packing space. Fits in most overhead bins.
24 Inch Checked Bag – Medium capacity bag for shorter trips. Easy to lift and maneuver.
28 Inch Checked Bag – Large main checked bag for longer trips and maximum packing capacity.
30 Inch Checked Bag – Extra large suitcase when you need to fit everything and the kitchen sink.

Having options across this wide spectrum of capacities ensures you can find the perfect sized Protege Hardside Luggage for any packing requirement or trip duration.

I like being able to select from their complete matched luggage collections including carry-ons and checked bags. And the color coordination keeps me looking stylish through the whole travel experience.

How Lightweight is Protege Hardside Luggage?

Protege uses durable yet lightweight materials in crafting their Hardside Luggage to minimize weight without sacrificing resilience. I’ve been thoroughly impressed with how effortlessly the bags glide and roll even when packed to capacity.

To give an idea, here are the empty weights of a few popular Protege Hardside pieces:

20 Inch Carry-On – 6.2 lbs
24 Inch Checked Bag – 8.1 lbs
28 Inch Checked Bag – 9.3 lbs
30 Inch Checked Bag – 10.2 lbs

Considering the generous capacity and indestructible construction, I find these weights excellent given how easily the bags maneuver. The smooth spinner wheels and lightweight frame let me guide my bag alongside me with minimal exertion.

I never feel weighed down or tired from dragging my Protege Hardside Luggage through airports, even during lengthy connections. The engineering clearly provides an ideal balance of durability, mobility, and packability.

Protege Hardside Luggage Color Options

One aspect I really appreciate about Protege is the wide variety of color options available across their Hardside Luggage collections.

You can select from versatile neutral hues like black, gray, navy, charcoal, and tan. Or make a bold stylish statement with vibrant shades like emerald, ruby red, cobalt blue, and more.

New limited edition colors are introduced periodically to keep options fresh and stylish. Having so many colors to choose from lets you coordinate your Protege luggage with your personal tastes and style.

I also love being able to mix and match colors across my checked bags and carry-on pieces to keep my luggage set looking sharp. The colors also make my suitcases easy to identify at baggage claim.

With Protege Hardside Luggage, you don’t have to settle for boring black if you want quality construction. Express your individuality through color while enjoying durable performance.

Does Protege Meet Airline Size Requirements?

To avoid hassles when traveling, it’s crucial to select Protege Hardside Luggage sizes that meet all major airline requirements for carry-on and checked baggage dimensions. The good news is Protege factors these restrictions into the design of every piece.

All of the carry-on sizes including the 16 inch, 20 inch, and 22 inch Protege suitcases fall within limits for carry-on luggage on most domestic and international airlines. Just be aware of maximum size allowances for your specific airline.

For checked baggage, the 24 inch, 28 inch, and 30 inch Protege checked suitcases all comply with size restrictions for checked luggage from airlines worldwide. Some budget airlines have tighter limits, so double check policies based on where you’re flying.

As long as you select the properly sized Protege Hardside Luggage for your intended purpose from their extensive collections, you should have no trouble meeting airline regulations. Just remember to measure your bags if unsure.

This compliance gives me peace of mind that my Protege luggage meets requirements so I’ll never have to gate check it when overhead bin space gets tight.

Can Protege Suitcases Expand for More Space?

To allow flexibility based on packing needs, many of the larger Protege Hardside Luggage pieces feature expansion zippers. This lets you expand the storage capacity up to 2 inches for times when you just can’t fit everything into the standard dimensions.

I really like having this expandable option on my Protege 28 inch and 30 inch checked suitcases. It provides some welcome wiggle room when I’ve packed too many outfits or souvenirs to cram into the bag.

The zippered expansion pocket blends seamlessly when not in use. To expand, just unzip the pocket to release the folded section. This provides enough extra depth to squeeze in those last minute additions without having to sit on your suitcase.

Using the expansion does increase size beyond airline limits for carry-ons, so only expand checked bags. Overall, it’s a useful feature I utilize on many trips to maximize my packing capacity as needed.

Do Protege Suitcases Have Locks?

Security is a major concern for travelers, so Protege Hardside Luggage comes equipped with locks to keep your belongings protected.

All medium to large checked size Protege suitcases feature TSA-approved combination lock systems built into the zipper pulls. You set a 3-digit code which securely locks the zippers until you enter the combination to open.

I love the convenience of having TSA-compliant locks already integrated into my Protege luggage. It gives me peace of mind that my checked bags can only be opened by entering the combination. I don’t have to hassle with finding and attaching a separate padlock.

The locks allow TSA agents to use a special key to screen my bag if needed for security purposes. This prevents damage from forced entry and conveniently resets the lock afterward.

For additional security, the carry-ons have built-in spots to attach my own separate padlocks if desired.

Cleaning Protege Hardside Luggage

To keep my Protege Hardside Luggage looking its best, I try to clean the exterior shell and interior periodically using the following quick techniques:

Surface scratches – For minor abrasions on the ABS shell, use a scratch cover compound like Turtle Wax polishing compound. Apply with a microfiber cloth and buff gently.
Scuffs and smudges – Wipe down the exterior with a microfiber cloth dampened with warm water and a couple drops of mild dish soap. Rinse with clean water and dry.
Interior – To clean the inner lining, wipe down with a cloth moistened with warm water and mild detergent. Use a disinfectant if needed. Allow to fully air dry.
Wheels – Remove debris from wheel housings using a soft brush. Wipe down with damp cloth.
Re-condition – Every few years use a silicone based protectant like Lexol to rejuvenate the shell’s luster and keep surfaces conditioned.

Beyond basic cleaning, my Protege luggage has needed virtually no maintenance over many years of use. Simple occasional care keeps it looking like new.

Reviews of Protege Hardside Luggage

Based on my personal experience and reviews from other Protege Hardside Luggage owners I’ve spoken with, overall feedback regarding this brand is very positive.

On retail sites like Amazon and Protege’s website, reviews praise the durable construction, smooth and quiet spinner wheels, lightweight maneuverability, and stylish colors offered. Many mention these suitcases have held up better than much pricier brands.

One minor gripe some have mentioned is that the integrated TSA locks could be sturdier, but I’ve never had issues with mine failing. Also, a few noted the inside lining material is prone to staining, so be cautious with storing liquids.

Considering the affordable pricing and quality received, most agree Protege Hardside Luggage provides outstanding overall value. Many reviewers say these are the best luggage purchases they’ve made.

I wholeheartedly agree with these positive assessments based on using various Protege suitcases extensively over the years. This brand has never let me down yet.

How Does Protege Compare to Other Luggage Brands?

Here’s a quick rundown of how Protege Hardside Luggage compares to some other top luggage brands:

Durability – On par with Samsonite but not quite as indestructible as Briggs & Riley.
Maneuverability – Smoother rolling than Travelpro spinners.
Lightness – Comparable to Delsey but not quite as featherlight as Rimowa.
Security – Better integrated TSA locks than American Tourister.
Style – More sleek and modern styling than High Sierra.
Value – Much better bang for your buck than Tumi.
Warranty – Decent 10 year warranty but not quite the bulletproof guarantee from Briggs & Riley.

Overall, Protege Hardside delivers nearly premium quality an durability at a price more in line with mid-range brands. The performance and features compete head to head with top rated luggage.

For shoppers wanting excellent luggage without premium prices, Protege is a perfect choice combining quality and value. In my opinion, it beats out similarly priced brands across the board.

Is Protege Hardside Waterproof or Water Resistant?

With travel mishaps involving rain or spills, protection from moisture is important. Protege Hardside Luggage uses water resistant materials but is not 100% waterproof. However, I’ve found it does a decent job repelling light splashes or mist.

The durable ABS plastic shell provides the first line of defense against moisture. The tight, flexible seals around the zipper tracks also minimize water intrusion.

For overhead bin water drips or getting caught in a downpour, Protege Hardside has kept my belongings dry inside. However, the bags won’t protect belongings if totally submerged or in extremely heavy rain. The interior lining also isn’t waterproof.

My advice is to always use a water-resistant cover as an added precaution for checked bags that will be exposed on the tarmac and possibly sit on wet pavement. Take steps to keep your Protege carry-on dry if having to traverse through rain.

With reasonable precautions, Protege Hardside Luggage provides sufficient water resistance for most circumstances. But it’s not built to keep contents 100% dry in extreme wet conditions.

Is There a Warranty for Protege Luggage?

Yes, all new Protege Hardside Luggage purchases are backed by a 10 year limited manufacturer’s warranty. This covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use.

The warranty does not cover issues resulting from abuse, neglect, excessive wear and tear, or accidents like airlines damaging your bag. You must provide proof of purchase date.

Repairs or replacements offered are at the discretion of Protege. From what I’ve seen, their customer service department is very reasonable in addressing issues that arise during the warranty period.

While not the unlimited “No Matter What” coverage from Briggs & Riley, 10 years of warranty protection provides great peace of mind that Protege stands behind their products. Especially given the very reasonable prices.

What is the Capacity of Protege Hardside Suitcases?

Protege Hardside Luggage is thoughtfully designed to maximize packing capacity and make the most of the available interior space. Here are a few examples of clothes storage capacity for some of the most popular Protege sizes:

20 Inch Carry-On – 35 liters capacity. Fits 2-3 outfits and essentials.
24 Inch Checked – 68 liters capacity. Fits 4-5 outfits comfortably.
28 Inch Checked – 89 liters capacity. Holds 6-7 outfits with room to spare.
30 Inch Checked – 114 liters capacity. You can pack 8+ outfits and extras.

These capacities are based on packing average travel outfits including pants, tops, dresses, shoes, toiletries, and other essentials. With thoughtful packing techniques, you can fit even more.

I love having such generous space that allows me to pack everything I need without sitting on my suitcase or paying overage fees. Protege Hardside makes the most of its dimensions.

Is Protege Hardside Good for International Travel?

Absolutely! I have used my Protege Hardside Luggage for trips across North America, to Europe, the Caribbean, and Asia without issues. This brand is designed to meet the demands of frequent world travelers.

Key factors that make Protege Hardside suitable for international trips:

Meets carry-on size limits for nearly all major global airlines
Checked bags adhere to size restrictions worldwide
Lightweight but super durable construction withstands long haul flights
TSA-approved locks provide added security when checked bags are out of your sight
Versatile sizing and colors keep you coordinated across trips

I never have to worry about my Protege Hardside Luggage holding up through international baggage handling or transport across continents. After dozens of overseas trips, my bags look and perform like new.

For anyone embarking on global adventures, Protege Hardside is ready to provide reliable performance and peace of mind regardless of destination. Bon voyage!

The Verdict: An Outstanding Luggage Choice

For frequent travelers seeking affordable, durable, and stylish luggage that can endure heavy use, Protege Hardside is hands down one of the best options available today.

After personally using Protege suitcases across dozens of trips and thousands of miles, I can’t recommend this luggage enough. The quality and performance rival premium brands at a very wallet-friendly price point.

If you’re looking to upgrade your travel experience with luggage built to last, Protege Hardside gets my wholehearted endorsement. Your belongings will arrive securely and in style no matter how far your upcoming journeys take you.