{"id":3765,"date":"2025-01-11T13:54:48","date_gmt":"2025-01-11T13:54:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blog.theblyde.com\/?p=3765"},"modified":"2025-01-11T13:54:48","modified_gmt":"2025-01-11T13:54:48","slug":"delsey-vs-samsonite-we-tested-both-to-find-out-which-is-better","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blog.theblyde.com\/?p=3765","title":{"rendered":"Delsey vs. Samsonite: We Tested Both to Find Out Which is Better"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Delsey and Samsonite are two of the largest and most popular luggage brands in the world, and they both make a wide range of excellent suitcases. Both are excellent, but they definitely cater to different types of travelers.<\/p>\n

I tested and rated 32 suitcases from these two brands to help answer the question of which one you should buy. I built this comparison on real-world experience and data-backed research to give you the best information possible.<\/p>\n

I was impressed with Delsey\u2019s quality, durability, and attention to detail, especially for the price. Their suitcases are timelessly stylish, and they are intuitive to use. Delsey was definitely the winner for anyone prioritizing craftsmanship and style.<\/p>\n

On the other hand, Samsonite really delivered on pure functionality. Their more modern designs have more advanced features that made it easy for me to stay organized while traveling.<\/p>\n

So which luggage brand is best? As with so many things in life, the answer is: it depends. Neither is going to be the best for everyone, but there\u2019s a good chance that one of them is better than the other for your specific needs. I\u2019ll guide you through exactly what you need to consider to make that decision.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n

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Why You Can Trust Us <\/h2>\n

The TravelFreak editorial team has tested dozens of suitcases over the years, and we\u2019ve learned a lot about what separates a quality piece of luggage from an overpriced, overhyped piece of plastic. We\u2019ve tested and reviewed budget luggage, luxury suitcases, and everything in between.<\/p>\n

We know how hard it is to find the perfect suitcase, and we want to make the process easier for you. So our team of gear junkies and product engineers developed the most comprehensive luggage test methodology possible.<\/p>\n

We tested and rated 17 Delsey suitcases and 15 Samsonite suitcases, including carry-ons and checked bags from both brands.<\/p>\n

We evaluated every one of these suitcases on 31 metrics across eight categories. We gave them all the same treatment and rated them on the same standardized scales. This makes it easy for us (and you) to compare the advantages and disadvantages of each.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n

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Delsey vs Samsonite: Quick Answers <\/h2>\n
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  • Durability:<\/strong> Delsey luggage uses better materials and stronger components than Samsonite overall, but both brands build reliable luggage.<\/li>\n
  • Price:<\/strong> Both Delsey and Samsonite have affordable suitcase models, but Samsonite is generally cheaper.<\/li>\n
  • Warranty:<\/strong> Most Samsonite luggage has a 10-year warranty, while Delsey has a limited lifetime warranty on every suitcase.<\/li>\n
  • Sustainability: <\/strong>Delsey uses more recycled materials than Samsonite and has more in-depth programs in place for reducing carbon footprint, energy use, and pollution.<\/li>\n
  • Materials:<\/strong> Delsey uses high-quality materials like 100% polycarbonate, while Samsonite uses cheaper materials on many suitcases.<\/li>\n
  • Design and Style:<\/strong> Delsey luggage has a sophisticated, timeless style. Samsonite suitcases come in a wider variety, from conservative to ultra-modern.<\/li>\n
  • Interior Organization:<\/strong> Most Samsonite suitcases have more pockets and better internal organization than Delsey bags.<\/li>\n
  • Expandability:<\/strong> Both Delsey and Samsonite have several carry-on and check-in models that can expand.<\/li>\n
  • Wheels:<\/strong> Delsey luggage has slightly more durable double spinner wheels than Samsonite, especially on budget models.<\/li>\n
  • Handle:<\/strong> Delsey and Samsonite suitcases have similar adjustable handles.<\/li>\n
  • Color Options:<\/strong> Delsey luggage usually has more colors to choose from than Samsonite.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

    Browse Delsey Luggage\u00a0 \u00a0Browse Samsonite Luggage\n\t<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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    Delsey vs Samsonite: Which Should You Buy? <\/h2>\n
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    Buy <\/b>Delsey<\/b> if you\u2026<\/b><\/p>\n

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    • are a frequent traveler.<\/span><\/li>\n
    • travel for business or are a digital nomad.<\/span><\/li>\n
    • are traveling in Europe.<\/span><\/li>\n
    • prioritize style and aesthetics.<\/span><\/li>\n
    • care about buying more sustainable products.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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      Buy <\/b>Samsonite<\/b> if you\u2026<\/b><\/p>\n

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      • travel less frequently.<\/span><\/li>\n
      • need luggage for international travel on airlines with strict size and weight limits.<\/span><\/li>\n
      • need luggage for cruises or summer vacations.<\/span><\/li>\n
      • need luggage to carry a suit, dress, or other formal clothing.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n
        \n

        Materials & Quality <\/h2>\n

        \"Delsey\"Delsey<\/p>\n

        Durability is possibly the most important consideration when you\u2019re shopping for new luggage. A suitcase can be stylish, functional, and packed with features, but if it falls apart after a few trips, it\u2019s no good.<\/p>\n

        Delsey is the winner here, scoring 8.8 for Build Quality, where Samsonite only scores 7.9.<\/p>\n

        Delsey\u2019s build quality starts with the materials they use.<\/p>\n

        Their hardside luggage is all made of 100% polycarbonate, which is the gold-standard material for hardside luggage right now. This material is incredibly lightweight and still strong and impact-resistant. In contrast, Samsonite\u2019s lower-price luggage often uses cheaper ABS or polypropylene.<\/p>\n

        Delsey\u2019s iconic Chatelet Air suitcases have extra reinforcement in the corners, which is where they take the most impact. They also use an innovative double-layer zipper that is much stronger and more secure than standard zippers. I\u2019ve found that zippers are often the first thing to break on a suitcase, so it\u2019s great to see the extra strength here.<\/p>\n

        Samsonite luggage is well-built overall, I just wish they would move away from using cheaper materials. C\u2019mon, Samsonite. Delsey can make an affordable polycarbonate suitcase, you should be able to too.<\/p>\n

        Also, where every Delsey suitcase I\u2019ve tested uses double spinner wheels, some of Samsonite\u2019s cheaper models only have single spinner wheels. I\u2019ve broken a few of those on cobblestones in Europe, so I\u2019d stay away from single spinners.<\/p>\n

        Oh, and Delsey also has a whole line of Jeep suitcases. Those have to be tough, right? I don\u2019t think I recommend taking them rock crawling through.<\/p>\n

        Browse Delsey Luggage\u00a0 \u00a0Browse Samsonite Luggage\n\t<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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        Design & Features <\/h2>\n

        \"Delsey\"Delsey<\/p>\n

        Delsey bags are elegant, refined, and stylish. They\u2019re designed in France, and the aesthetics are inspired by Parisian architecture. I love how Delsey blends vintage design with a bit of modern flair. Even their inexpensive soft-sided bags like the Sky Max 2.0 look great.<\/p>\n

        If you want to add some sophistication to your travel setup, Delsey is a great choice.<\/p>\n

        Samsonite suitcases definitely have a different vibe\u2014much more modern, with geometric patterns and minimalist designs.<\/p>\n

        Functionally, Delsey bags are pretty simple and straightforward. Most have a large zippered compartment on one side and a set of compression straps on the other. There are a few zippered pockets inside the main compartment, but no Delsey bag I\u2019ve tested has very much beyond that in the way of organization.<\/p>\n

        Samsonite\u2019s basic suitcases are similarly simple, but they also have more advanced designs with more features than any Delsey suitcase. For example, the Outline Pro Carry-On is great for staying organized. It has several interior pockets and a removable compression panel that works really well for keeping things securely in place. The Armage II is a high-end softside luggage that has a removable toiletry bag and garment holder and tons of internal compartments to sort smaller items.<\/p>\n

        Samsonite also has more suitcases that are designed specifically to fit in the overhead bin on international flights with tighter carry-on size limits. If you\u2019re planning to fly on budget international airlines, a smaller Samsonite suitcase might be the better choice.<\/p>\n

        Delsey bags are intuitive, but Samsonite packs in more functionality. Samsonite 8.9 for functionality, and Delsey scored a bit lower at 8.2.<\/p>\n

        One exception to this is Delsey\u2019s Turenne 2.0 Carry-On, which is a hardside carry-on with an external zippered pocket for a laptop. It fits larger laptops than similar Samsonite models, and it works really well for traveling with a laptop.<\/p>\n

        Browse Delsey Luggage\u00a0 \u00a0Browse Samsonite Luggage\n\t<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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        Value for Your Money <\/h2>\n

        \"Samsonite\"Samsonite<\/p>\n

        Delsey and Samsonite both have a huge range of products, from budget-friendly to premium.<\/p>\n

        Samsonite scored slightly higher on average for Price-to-Performance, mainly because Delsey has more mid-to-high-end suitcases in their lineup. That doesn\u2019t mean you can\u2019t get great bang for your buck from Delsey, though.<\/p>\n

        Delsey recently released their NOW! Hardside Carry-On, which is designed to be affordable and accessible while still delivering on style and quality. This minimalist suitcase is cheaper than most Samsonite bags, and it is surprisingly well-made. If you\u2019re on a tight budget, this is definitely one of the best suitcase options out there.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n

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        Warranty and Buying Experience <\/h2>\n

        Samsonite and Delsey have pretty similar warranty policies overall, but Delsey\u2019s is a bit better. Delsey scored 7.0 for Warranty in our rating system, while Samsonite only scored 5.0.<\/p>\n

        Most Samsonite suitcases have a 10-year warranty that covers manufacturing or materials defects.<\/p>\n

        Delsey luggage comes with either a 2-year, 5-year, 10-year, or lifetime warranty, depending on the product. This warranty covers functional defects to the wheels, handles, shell, and zippers.<\/p>\n

        Neither brand will cover damage caused by airline baggage handlers. If that\u2019s something you want, you should look into Travelpro or Briggs & Riley.<\/p>\n

        One advantage of Delsey is that they offer replacement parts. For something simple like a broken wheel or handle, it\u2019s usually easier to repair it yourself at home rather than ship your bag away to be fixed. Not many luggage brands have this option, but it is a more economical and sustainable way to keep suitcases working longer.<\/p>\n

        Ultimately, you can get a durable bag from either brand, and the warranty just gives you some peace of mind in case something goes wrong.<\/p>\n

        Browse Delsey Luggage\u00a0 \u00a0Browse Samsonite Luggage\n\t<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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        Brand Impact <\/h2>\n

        Both of these brands are progressing on their journey toward sustainability, but they both still have a ways to go. Both use recycled materials and have programs in place to reduce their energy consumption and carbon footprint.<\/p>\n

        Delsey scored slightly higher for Brand Impact in our testing: 6.5 vs Samsonite\u2019s 6.2 sustainability score.<\/p>\n

        The difference ultimately comes down to the fact that Delsey has a more concrete roadmap for how they will improve their impact. They plan to use 100% recycled materials by 2028, market more repairable products by 2026, and transition to more rail and maritime transportation (as opposed to more energy-intensive methods like trucking and air shipment). They also conduct an annual carbon assessment and sustainability audit of their supply chain.<\/p>\n

        If you care about buying sustainable products, Delsey isn\u2019t perfect, but I definitely recommend it as the better choice over Samsonite.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n

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        Final Thoughts <\/h2>\n

        Delsey and Samsonite have a lot in common. They both are massive global brands. They both sell suitcases ranging from affordable to premium. They both prioritize delivering high quality, functional suitcases at accessible prices.<\/p>\n

        Ultimately, the difference lies in their approach to building a good suitcase.<\/p>\n

        Delsey focuses on crafting classic designs that are enjoyable to use and built to last. That means they focus less on revolutionary designs and more on refining things that already work. That makes Delsey suitcases timeless, simple, and reliable.<\/p>\n

        Samsonite leans more toward innovation. Their designs are forward-thinking and offer features you won\u2019t find anywhere else. If you want a suitcase that goes above and beyond, you\u2019ll love Samsonite\u2019s designs.<\/p>\n

        The choice is yours. Whatever you pick, don\u2019t forget to enjoy the journey!<\/p>\n

        Browse Delsey Luggage\u00a0 \u00a0Browse Samsonite Luggage\n\t<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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        \n\t\t\tDelsey vs Samsonite FAQs\t\t<\/h2>\n
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        \n\t\t\t\t\t\tWhat is the difference between Samsonite and Delsey?\t\t\t\t\t\t
        \n\t\t\t\t\t<\/h3>\n
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        Delsey luggage combines sophisticated design with easy usability, while Samsonite is more modern and has more advanced features.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n

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        \n\t\t\t\t\t\tIs Delsey a luxury brand?\t\t\t\t\t\t
        \n\t\t\t\t\t<\/h3>\n
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        Delsey is a mid-range luggage brand that aims to make premium style and build quality more accessible.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n

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        \n\t\t\t\t\t\tWhich brand of luggage is the most durable?\t\t\t\t\t\t
        \n\t\t\t\t\t<\/h3>\n
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        Delsey scored higher than Samsonite for Build Quality in our testing.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n

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        \n\t\t\t\t\t\tWhy is Samsonite so popular?\t\t\t\t\t\t
        \n\t\t\t\t\t<\/h3>\n
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        Samsonite carry-on and checked luggage is popular because it is affordable, durable, and available everywhere.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n

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        \n\t\t\t\t\t\tWhere is Samsonite luggage made?\t\t\t\t\t\t
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        Samsonite luggage is made in India, China, and Hungary.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n

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        \n\t\tAbout the Author<\/span><\/p>\n

        Jeremy Scott Foster<\/h3>\n

        Jeremy Scott Foster is an adventure-junkie, gear expert and travel photographer based in Southern California. Previously nomadic, he\u2019s been to ~50 countries and loves spending time outdoors. You can usually find him on the trail, on the road, jumping from bridges or hustling on his laptop working to produce the best travel and outdoors content today.<\/p>\n

        \t\tMore Articles \u00bb\n\t<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n