I have a clam shell and what I like about the bucket style is the “lid” is lighter and easier to open, takes less room in the room to open. Where as the clam shell I need to have the clearance so both sides can lay flat and the part I lift up is heavier
Hi @avocado3748 I don't find it any different to open the clamshell vs the traditional luggage. There is balance on both sides in a good piece and and they both take up the same room on a luggage rack (as shown in the video). But it all comes down to personal preferences, and that's what matters if the bags are the same size.
Hi @cathylingo9521 It really didn't since I never opened the expansion and I didn't use the huge front pocket either and there was still room on the top of the packing cubes. Happy Holidays to you, too!
I use both styles, depending on what I'm packing and the weight issues. If I'm packing cameras and scuba gear that needs to be padded, I use a hard shell. If I'm packing just scuba gear like wet suits, fins, etc. I use a soft side since they tend to be a tad lighter and wet suits weigh a lot. It also depends on where I'm going, I use soft side if I'm going on a small live aboard because when they are empty I feel I can squeeze them into tighter spaces since they are a tad flexible. I also use them on road trips if I have limited space in my car, for the same flexible reasons. I also don't use packing cubes, I've tried a number of times and find I can pack more without them, then with. I understand they are great for organization but since I'm usually an unpacker, it's not an issue. I just find I can squish more into little spots without them.
Hi @lovestodive1879 ! Wow you scuba. I wish I could but I have ear pressure issues, but my hubby loves to. You have a really well-thought-out plan for packing. I'm sure with al your equipment you must be checking in your bags. I know we have to when we take all our ski gear, and that is probably the only exception we make to checking in our luggage. Thank you so much for sharing your process with us!
This was a great video comparison! I was ALWAYS team traditional/bucket style. Now after visually seeing identical packing, the clamshell I feel is superior as there isn't any change to the EXTERIOR dimensional measurement although maintaining that "extra space" INTERNALLY inside the bag. So, if you're not wanting to potentially make your bag "out of measurement specs" for airline carry-on dimensions by using the expanding method on the traditional bag, the clam shell style luggage "seems" like the way to go.
Hi @tancam1231 You are right about the exterior and the hardshell bags. If you are concerned about making compliance in size the hardshell is the way to go. Thank you for your helpful comment!
@PerriesPassport Actually hardshell as well as soft-sided clam shell style suitcases are the way to go just based on what I saw from your video. The extra bulk from expanding a traditional bag would place it out of carry on specs for sure. Again, thanks for a great demo of the two bags!
I use the clamshell if I'm going to a rainy destination and the bucket style if I'm needing to look more "compact" but want something I can "squish" more into since the fabric style has more give....but ultimately, I prefer a travel backpack. 😂
Merry Christmas! And happy one year anniversary. I have learned so much from your channel. I used to use clam shell luggage but then converted to duffel and then wheeled soft-side. I notice that I do switch out to accommodate each trip. I have grown to love my soft-sides. ☺️🧳🏷️🎄
Hi @Beacon631! Thanks for the good wishes, and Merry Christmas to you! It's interesting that you used both but prefer the duffel-style bags. What do you like about them? You are right that each bag does serve their own purpose though. I have found the same thing even with my clamshells. After testing out this bag, I have to say that I was pleasantly surprised at how much it could hold.
@ With a clam shell you are only limited to the confines of the size of each side. With a duffel or soft-side you can utilize all of the space at once. I learned to pack cubes vertically. Somehow I was able to pack more. If I use my carry on clam shell that I still have then I don’t use packing cubes at all. I prefer the others though. 😀
@@Beacon631 The one thing to be mindful about when using the traditional style bag (and you pointed it out) is that if you are using packing cubes, for the most part, I think that it makes the most sense to get ones that are the width of the bag, instead of various sizes (unless you are going to compress and lay one on top of the other). Obviously, I used the noncompressed in this video, but I can see how you would need them if you are aiming to pack more. Thanks for the great comment! ❤
Hi @@Beacon631 So you are another one for team traditional soft side! I am so shocked at how many of the people replying are, too! Packing vertically makes total sense for a bucket-style bag. I could see that clearly when I stuck that cube on its side. Thanks for your advice!
@@PerriesPassport Yes, the width of the bag works best. Once packed and zipped, sit the bag upright and open the zipper only at the top. The items settle and you could probably add a few more items.
I personally have the clamshell Travelpro Maxlite Air carry on. It is about 1 pound heavier than the bucket Travelpro in your video (Travelpro is in general very light for a mid-range price). Both versions will expand but with the added room you might max out on the allowable weight and/or not be able to fit in the carry-on sizer at the airport. In that case, either bag would have to be checked. With that in mind, I agree that it is a personal choice as to what style you like better. I like the organization of the clamshell. Merry Christmas!
'congrats on your first year. I would respectfully disagree on how much room they each take on the luggage rack. The "bucket style" you could put two on the luggage rack if you have each over the edge a bit. I've done it. With the clam shell, there is no way to get two bags on the luggage rack because of how they open. I know you travel carryon only but when I'm doing our church tours we check in a bag, since the tour company doesn't like carryon for the bus. The clam shell check baggage are hard to fit on luggage racks! Love your channel and have gotten some really good tips!
Hi @conniekershaw4412, Thank you for your well wishes on my anniversary on YT. I really can't speak to how a larger carry-on bag fits on a luggage rack, so I will take your word on this! Thanks for sharing your experience with larger luggage.
Depends on how big the checked bag is. I’ve traveled with a 24 and 26” checked bags and the luggage racks still fit. Anything bigger might be a problem.
Hi @@tanyas6643 This is very true, but these days I am worried about getting gate checked, so the largest bag I take is a 22 inch. I have seen them check out the bags at the gate, and they are looking for larger bags.
HI @deborahconkle6822 ! Do you feel like the soft bag gets more in or just an easier pack for you? I have to say I really loved that bag. I'm considering it even for myself because it is so light! Have a very Happy Holidays!! ❤😺❤
Congratulations on your first anniversary! I always appreciate your videos, because you do such thorough comparisons! I am usually team soft-side too. I have a similar but different version of the TravelPro 19". This one looks a little more square than mine. Mine is more rectangular and is a spinner bag. Did you know that there's a little space in the bottom of the soft bag for your hand, so you can hold it from the top and bottom? Great for lifting overhead! I have an inexpensive hard side bag and use that on occasion as well. Happy Holidays to you!
HI @colleenc5008 ! Thank you so much for your good wishes on my anniversary! It's been such a fun year doing this. I have to tell you that I was really impressed by the bag. I knew that Travel Pro was a great bag, since that is what the crew uses, but I didn't think that I would like a bag so much. I'm going to have to look at the bag again to see if this model had that handle on the bottom. Have a happy holiday and a great New Year!
I always look forward to your videos, and found this one to be very informative. Congratulations on your 1 year anniversary. Hope you and your family have a wonderful Christmas.
Hi @PingPongGirl-rx9rc ! I'm so glad you found this video informative and thanks for the congrats, Wish you and your family a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Congrats on your 1 year YT anniversary! 🎉 🥂🍾 I’m a new fan of clamshell luggage… after years of using bucket styles. (Other people made that choice for me, by gifting the bucket style luggage to me.) I like the separate sides, for organizing and easier access to things. I can just leave my packing cubes and pouches in the case and only grab what I need. Makes repacking, the day of departure (for home) so much quicker. (Just rearrange a bit if needed and then zip up.)
HI @tanyas6643 ! Thank you so much for the congrats. It means a lot to me. I have to say that I am team clamshell myself for the reasons you state. But I have to say, that I was totally surprised at how many people responded that they prefer the traditional bucket bag. Many more than I expected. So I guess that there is a bag out there for everyone!
Hi @biancagrunbergtesler7732 ! You know I am so surprised at how many of the people who responded liked the soft-sided bucket bags! You wouldn't think so by how many companies make only hard-sided clamshell luggage. Have a happy holiday and a great New Year ahead!!
Hi @lindapark8467 I'm glad that you asked that question. The hardshell bag weighed 7.5 lbs. and the soft shell bag weighed 5.3 lbs and that is a huge difference, so if you are dealing with weight restrictions, this bag is the way to go.
Hi @suryas6429 ! This was not about weight, but volume . That being said, I have packed out my Ninety Go bag, and have made compliance for SAS, which only allows 17Kg. Thanks for commenting!
Hi @joannefrench1172 This was just a pack to check the bags for volume. If this was a total pack I would have included those items. Thanks for commenting!
Fitting on a luggage rack isn’t a high priority. I don’t like clamshells because you have to keep your things zipped in or they fall out when you open the suitcase. It’s all about the weight these days anyway. I think eventually we will be paying by the pound. People are even smuggling luggage on board in special multi pocket jackets. 😂
Hi @MNP208! I totally agree that soon they will charge us by the weight. And YES! Those multi-pocket jackets have become such a big thing!! When you pay up to $100 for a checked bag, you can understand why, LOL!
Hi @Judythe1 ! This was just a test pack to show how much you could get into the bag. That being said, I always pack my toiletries into my personal item bag. Thanks for asking!
Which bag did you think would hold more? Also, which style of bag do you prefer? Please tell me in the comment section below.
I have a clam shell and what I like about the bucket style is the “lid” is lighter and easier to open, takes less room in the room to open. Where as the clam shell I need to have the clearance so both sides can lay flat and the part I lift up is heavier
Hi @avocado3748 I don't find it any different to open the clamshell vs the traditional luggage. There is balance on both sides in a good piece and and they both take up the same room on a luggage rack (as shown in the video). But it all comes down to personal preferences, and that's what matters if the bags are the same size.
It seemed like the clam shell had more extra space. Happy Holidays!
Hi @cathylingo9521 It really didn't since I never opened the expansion and I didn't use the huge front pocket either and there was still room on the top of the packing cubes.
Happy Holidays to you, too!
I use both styles, depending on what I'm packing and the weight issues. If I'm packing cameras and scuba gear that needs to be padded, I use a hard shell. If I'm packing just scuba gear like wet suits, fins, etc. I use a soft side since they tend to be a tad lighter and wet suits weigh a lot. It also depends on where I'm going, I use soft side if I'm going on a small live aboard because when they are empty I feel I can squeeze them into tighter spaces since they are a tad flexible. I also use them on road trips if I have limited space in my car, for the same flexible reasons. I also don't use packing cubes, I've tried a number of times and find I can pack more without them, then with. I understand they are great for organization but since I'm usually an unpacker, it's not an issue. I just find I can squish more into little spots without them.
Hi @lovestodive1879 ! Wow you scuba. I wish I could but I have ear pressure issues, but my hubby loves to. You have a really well-thought-out plan for packing. I'm sure with al your equipment you must be checking in your bags. I know we have to when we take all our ski gear, and that is probably the only exception we make to checking in our luggage. Thank you so much for sharing your process with us!
This was a great video comparison! I was ALWAYS team traditional/bucket style. Now after visually seeing identical packing, the clamshell I feel is superior as there isn't any change to the EXTERIOR dimensional measurement although maintaining that "extra space" INTERNALLY inside the bag. So, if you're not wanting to potentially make your bag "out of measurement specs" for airline carry-on dimensions by using the expanding method on the traditional bag, the clam shell style luggage "seems" like the way to go.
Hi @tancam1231 You are right about the exterior and the hardshell bags. If you are concerned about making compliance in size the hardshell is the way to go. Thank you for your helpful comment!
@PerriesPassport Actually hardshell as well as soft-sided clam shell style suitcases are the way to go just based on what I saw from your video. The extra bulk from expanding a traditional bag would place it out of carry on specs for sure. Again, thanks for a great demo of the two bags!
I use the clamshell if I'm going to a rainy destination and the bucket style if I'm needing to look more "compact" but want something I can "squish" more into since the fabric style has more give....but ultimately, I prefer a travel backpack. 😂
I want to get stronger so I can carry on my back for long periods. Until then, roller bags
Hi @RoamSweetRoam. ! A very clever approach! I love my backpacks. I love it for short trips (7 days or less).
Hi @karenhenry5806 ! I totally understand.. Backpacls and backaches are a bad match!
Merry Christmas! And happy one year anniversary. I have learned so much from your channel. I used to use clam shell luggage but then converted to duffel and then wheeled soft-side. I notice that I do switch out to accommodate each trip. I have grown to love my soft-sides. ☺️🧳🏷️🎄
Hi @Beacon631! Thanks for the good wishes, and Merry Christmas to you! It's interesting that you used both but prefer the duffel-style bags. What do you like about them? You are right that each bag does serve their own purpose though. I have found the same thing even with my clamshells. After testing out this bag, I have to say that I was pleasantly surprised at how much it could hold.
@ With a clam shell you are only limited to the confines of the size of each side. With a duffel or soft-side you can utilize all of the space at once. I learned to pack cubes vertically. Somehow I was able to pack more. If I use my carry on clam shell that I still have then I don’t use packing cubes at all. I prefer the others though. 😀
@@Beacon631 The one thing to be mindful about when using the traditional style bag (and you pointed it out) is that if you are using packing cubes, for the most part, I think that it makes the most sense to get ones that are the width of the bag, instead of various sizes (unless you are going to compress and lay one on top of the other). Obviously, I used the noncompressed in this video, but I can see how you would need them if you are aiming to pack more. Thanks for the great comment! ❤
Hi @@Beacon631 So you are another one for team traditional soft side! I am so shocked at how many of the people replying are, too! Packing vertically makes total sense for a bucket-style bag. I could see that clearly when I stuck that cube on its side. Thanks for your advice!
@@PerriesPassport Yes, the width of the bag works best. Once packed and zipped, sit the bag upright and open the zipper only at the top. The items settle and you could probably add a few more items.
Woohoo on one year and many subscribers! Love ur content 😍 as always. Happy holidays
Hi @marybrady6934 Thanks so much!!! Thanks for watching and your kind words. Happy Holidays to you, too!
I personally have the clamshell Travelpro Maxlite Air carry on. It is about 1 pound heavier than the bucket Travelpro in your video (Travelpro is in general very light for a mid-range price). Both versions will expand but with the added room you might max out on the allowable weight and/or not be able to fit in the carry-on sizer at the airport. In that case, either bag would have to be checked. With that in mind, I agree that it is a personal choice as to what style you like better. I like the organization of the clamshell. Merry Christmas!
Hi @jillellerton325 Thanks for the heads up about the expansion. For me as for you, it's all about organization! Merry Christmas to you, too!
'congrats on your first year. I would respectfully disagree on how much room they each take on the luggage rack. The "bucket style" you could put two on the luggage rack if you have each over the edge a bit. I've done it. With the clam shell, there is no way to get two bags on the luggage rack because of how they open. I know you travel carryon only but when I'm doing our church tours we check in a bag, since the tour company doesn't like carryon for the bus. The clam shell check baggage are hard to fit on luggage racks! Love your channel and have gotten some really good tips!
Hi @conniekershaw4412, Thank you for your well wishes on my anniversary on YT. I really can't speak to how a larger carry-on bag fits on a luggage rack, so I will take your word on this! Thanks for sharing your experience with larger luggage.
Depends on how big the checked bag is. I’ve traveled with a 24 and 26” checked bags and the luggage racks still fit. Anything bigger might be a problem.
This is a good reminder. Thanks.
Hi @@tanyas6643 This is very true, but these days I am worried about getting gate checked, so the largest bag I take is a 22 inch. I have seen them check out the bags at the gate, and they are looking for larger bags.
Great comparison Perrie! I prefer the soft bag😊❤! Happy Holiday!😊
HI @deborahconkle6822 ! Do you feel like the soft bag gets more in or just an easier pack for you? I have to say I really loved that bag. I'm considering it even for myself because it is so light! Have a very Happy Holidays!! ❤😺❤
Congratulations on your first anniversary! I always appreciate your videos, because you do such thorough comparisons! I am usually team soft-side too. I have a similar but different version of the TravelPro 19". This one looks a little more square than mine. Mine is more rectangular and is a spinner bag. Did you know that there's a little space in the bottom of the soft bag for your hand, so you can hold it from the top and bottom? Great for lifting overhead! I have an inexpensive hard side bag and use that on occasion as well. Happy Holidays to you!
HI @colleenc5008 ! Thank you so much for your good wishes on my anniversary! It's been such a fun year doing this. I have to tell you that I was really impressed by the bag. I knew that Travel Pro was a great bag, since that is what the crew uses, but I didn't think that I would like a bag so much. I'm going to have to look at the bag again to see if this model had that handle on the bottom. Have a happy holiday and a great New Year!
Yes, i comment on that. It is a very helpful handle.!
I always look forward to your videos, and found this one to be very informative. Congratulations on your 1 year anniversary. Hope you and your family have a wonderful Christmas.
Hi @PingPongGirl-rx9rc ! I'm so glad you found this video informative and thanks for the congrats, Wish you and your family a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Happy one year anniversary! Your videos are always full of such great information. Happy holidays to you and yours! 🎄😊
@melanies.6139 ! Thanks for your good wishes and Happy holidays to your family, too!
Congrats on your 1 year YT anniversary! 🎉 🥂🍾 I’m a new fan of clamshell luggage… after years of using bucket styles. (Other people made that choice for me, by gifting the bucket style luggage to me.) I like the separate sides, for organizing and easier access to things. I can just leave my packing cubes and pouches in the case and only grab what I need. Makes repacking, the day of departure (for home) so much quicker. (Just rearrange a bit if needed and then zip up.)
HI @tanyas6643 ! Thank you so much for the congrats. It means a lot to me. I have to say that I am team clamshell myself for the reasons you state. But I have to say, that I was totally surprised at how many people responded that they prefer the traditional bucket bag. Many more than I expected. So I guess that there is a bag out there for everyone!
Happy one year anniversary, Perrie! Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to you and your family.
@sherryschumacher1881 Same to you Sherry. May this year bring you much jo to you and your family!
Great comparison!!But I do prefer a soft sided bag,bucket style...thanks!!!
Happy holidays...and a wonderful 2025!!!
Hi @biancagrunbergtesler7732 ! You know I am so surprised at how many of the people who responded liked the soft-sided bucket bags! You wouldn't think so by how many companies make only hard-sided clamshell luggage. Have a happy holiday and a great New Year ahead!!
Love your channel. Merry Christmas and thank you..
Hi, @patpierce4146 Thanks so much for watching and Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Love your videos! Just wondering : which bag weighed the least?
Hi @lindapark8467 I'm glad that you asked that question. The hardshell bag weighed 7.5 lbs. and the soft shell bag weighed 5.3 lbs and that is a huge difference, so if you are dealing with weight restrictions, this bag is the way to go.
Happy one year Anniversary Perrie! You’re doing a fantastic job with your videos! Here is to many more in the New Year! 🥳🎉🥂
Hi @karenhenderson5726 ! Awww... thank you so much Karen! I have so enjoyed getting to know you!
Great ideas thank you and Merry Christmas! 🎄
Hi @malindamocha5100 I'm glad you liked them and Merry Christmas right back at you!
I've enjoyed your videos this year and look forward to seeing more in the new year!! Happy Holidays!!
@donnag1356! I'm so glad you have enjoyed my videos and Happy Holidays to you, too!
With all such stuff, will these come within the weight limits of a carry on luggage?
Hi @suryas6429 ! This was not about weight, but volume . That being said, I have packed out my Ninety Go bag, and have made compliance for SAS, which only allows 17Kg. Thanks for commenting!
In Europe the airlines allow 10kg 😢@@PerriesPassport
What about toiletries? Any electronics & accessories?
Hi @joannefrench1172 This was just a pack to check the bags for volume. If this was a total pack I would have included those items. Thanks for commenting!
Happy Holidays to you too! I really enjoy your videos!
@marthameyer7918 I'm glad you have enjoyed my videos and Happy Holidays to you, too!
Always love your videos!
Hi @noellowery6542 ! Thank you so much! It really means a lot to me!
Fitting on a luggage rack isn’t a high priority. I don’t like clamshells because you have to keep your things zipped in or they fall out when you open the suitcase. It’s all about the weight these days anyway. I think eventually we will be paying by the pound. People are even smuggling luggage on board in special multi pocket jackets. 😂
Hi @MNP208! I totally agree that soon they will charge us by the weight. And YES! Those multi-pocket jackets have become such a big thing!! When you pay up to $100 for a checked bag, you can understand why, LOL!
Where are your toiletries?
Hi @Judythe1 ! This was just a test pack to show how much you could get into the bag. That being said, I always pack my toiletries into my personal item bag. Thanks for asking!