Penguin Luggage vs Samsonite Luggage: Is Nobl Travel the Better Brand?

Shopping for luggage can feel like a guessing game. Some brands promise durability but rely on the same fragile zippers that fail after a few trips. Others lure you in with a low price, only to scuff, crack, or lose a wheel before your next vacation.

That’s why brands like Nobl Travel stand out. Our hard-shell luggage is built from aluminum and polycarbonate, backed by a lifetime guarantee. You get tons of thoughtful features, too. But we’re often asked how we stack up to other brands, like Penguin luggage vs Samsonite.

First, know that the Original Penguin brand doesn’t actually make luggage any longer. You can still find their suitcases at department stores, but the company has pivoted towards sportswear for the most part.

So really, that leaves us looking at Samsonite and Nobl Travel - and we think the difference is obvious. While Samsonite is definitely the more popular brand, found in duty-free shops and department stores worldwide, it’s fairly basic in terms of quality and features. 

You can learn more about Penguin vs Samsonite luggage and how Nobl Travel stacks up below. Or, you can skip to the good part where you explore our online storefront and discover your new favorite carry-on luggage and checked luggage. The last suitcase you’ll ever buy is a click away!

“I purchased the aluminum carry on and checked suitcases and love them both.” - Mike

“I find the luggage very easy to use, I love the security as well as the ease of moving the luggage. Wheels are great. Just love the overall function.” - Nancy

“Customer service was stellar. Thank you. We are getting ready to use the suitcases as we travel to our home in Italy, soon, and we anticipate these carry on bags to make our trip so much easier! Thanks!” - Anita

Quick Look at Nobl Travel vs Penguin vs Samsonite Luggage

 

What matters	Nobl Travel	Samsonite	Penguin
Closure & security	Zipperless aluminum-frame latches; dual TSA combination locks.	Zippered shells; TSA locks on most collections.	Zippered shells; basic TSA locks on many models.
Shell materials	Aerospace-grade aluminum + reinforced polycarbonate (by series).	Polypropylene / polycarbonate; premium lines use multi-layer tech (Roxkin™).	ABS with polyester lining; some polycarbonate blends.
Built-in convenience	USB & USB-C pass-through, phone holder, hidden cup holder, bag clips (All-in-One).	Select carry-ons add USB pass-through; otherwise conventional layouts.	No integrated charging; standard pockets/straps only.
Interior organization	Compression panels, waterproof toiletry pocket, passport sleeve; front laptop access (All-in-One).	Mesh dividers, cross-straps; WetPak™/KompressPak™ on select lines; recycled linings on some.	Split divider, zip pockets, compression straps; basic configurations.
Durability in real use	Rigid frames resist prying/warping; built for frequent travel.	Varies by collection; premium shells hold up well, entry lines are average.	Best for occasional trips; ABS scuffs/cracks sooner under heavy use.
Warranty & support	Lifetime warranty on luggage; responsive brand support.	10-year limited global warranty (manufacturing defects).	Limited warranties via retailers; shorter terms common.
Price tier (hard-shell)	Premium investment tier.	Mid-range (varies widely by line).	Budget-friendly; set pricing common.

 

Popular Models and Features From Nobl Travel 

Nobl Travel was created to rethink how luggage should work in the real world. Instead of relying on outdated zippers and generic interiors, every suitcase is designed to solve the frustrations travelers face daily: security concerns, limited access, and flimsy builds that don’t last. 

You gain access to a wide collection of luggage that blends premium materials with thoughtful features you’ll actually use on each trip you take. But, let’s zero in on our three most popular series. 

The All-in-One Series

Our all-in-one carry-on luggage and checked baggage is our most popular for a reason. It’s built with a zipperless aluminum frame and an unbreakable polycarbonate shell. 

You get TSA-approved locks to prevent tampering while making airport security checks smooth. We also added a quick-access laptop pocket in the front for navigating security lines.

What sets it apart are the built-in conveniences, though. We included touches like USB and USB-C pass-through charging, a phone holder, a hidden cup holder, and bag clips that keep extra items stacked neatly.

Meanwhile, compression panels, a waterproof pocket, and a passport sleeve keep essentials inside secure and help you pack more into less space. It’s the most innovative luggage on the market. 

The Aluminum Series

Our aluminum luggage is the strongest value in the world. It’s as durable as the big brands at a fraction of the price. It features reinforced corners and rigid shells that protect your belongings trip after trip, while premium spinner wheels glide easily through terminals.

Interiors are spacious and organized with compression panels and waterproof sections. These pieces are built for travelers who want durability and style without compromise.

The Collapsible Series

The collapsible carry-on and collapsible checked luggage we’ve developed are also really innovative, especially for those storage space at home. Each folds down to just four inches when not in use!

Don’t let the slim profile fool you, though. You can still fit all the essentials without cramming, and these suitcases feature sturdy shells, zipperless security, and smooth spinner wheels.

 

Across every series, Nobl delivers luggage designed for security, convenience, and longevity. Each piece is backed by a lifetime warranty and supported by responsive customer care. 

We feel confident the last suitcase you’ll ever need is right here in our collection, waiting to be discovered. But, let’s introduce the other brands in our Penguin Luggage vs Samsonite comparison in the interest of transparency.

Popular Models and Features From Samsonite

When most people think of upgrading from basic budget luggage to something a bit more elevated, Samsonite is one of the first brands they consider. It’s easy to see why with more than a century of experience behind the brand.

From lightweight polypropylene shells to advanced aluminum frames, you gain access to the full spectrum of suitcase styles. We’ll introduce three of their most popular models below.

The Freeform

The Freeform is designed for travelers who value light weight and maneuverability at just 8.5 pounds for a checked size. It combines a polypropylene shell with expandable capacity, TSA-approved locks, and dual spinner wheels. 

Inside, the suitcase includes cross ribbons, a divider, and multipockets for smaller essentials. It’s a solid choice for those looking for dependable mid-range luggage without premium frills or features. 

The Outline

The Outline Pro takes a step forward in design, pairing a polypropylene shell with dual spinner wheels and an ergonomic handle system. The carry-on version includes a built-in USB port and battery pocket, a rare extra in Samsonite’s catalog, which is otherwise relatively uninnovative.

The Recyclex® lining inside is crafted from recycled plastic bottles so you can feel good about your purchase. The interior also has a compression divider called KompressPak™, which creates more space while keeping items in place. A WetPak™ pocket contains damp items.

The Proxis Aluminum

We touched on our aluminum series, so we think it’s fitting we highlight Samsonite’s. The Proxis Aluminum is among the brand’s most premium suitcases. It has anodized aluminum corner guards, structured dividers, compression straps, and smooth 360° wheels.

At nearly 17 pounds, though, it’s heavy compared to polycarbonate models. Aluminum dents and scuffs quickly, which we choose to call “character” but others see as premature wear. The big difference, though, is this suitcase costs $1,000. Ours is only $595.

 

Samsonite’s range covers casual travelers through seasoned flyers, but longevity and innovation can leave a little to be desired. That’s to be expected at this price point, though.

We actually have quite a few other articles comparing Samsonite vs it luggage, Delsey vs Samsonite, and Samsonite vs Travelpro. But for now, we need to introduce the other half of our Penguin luggage vs Samsonite luggage comparison.

Popular Models and Features From Penguin

Original Penguin is better known as a sportswear label than a luggage company, but its travel line extends the same casual, lifestyle-oriented aesthetic. You can find basic bags, and some of its original suitcases are still stocked at department stores. At least, for now.

The focus is on affordability and style rather than technical innovation, and most suitcases use ABS shells that are lighter on price but also less durable under heavy use. Let’s take a look!

Kith Hardside

The Kith Hardside Set packages three suitcases together - a carry-on, medium, and large. Each is made from ABS with a polyester lining. They all have spinner wheels, telescoping handles, and expansion zippers.

There are zippered compartments and compression straps inside to help with organization, but the overall design is straightforward. Still, it’s not a bad choice for families or budget-conscious travelers.

Eli Hardside

The Eli Hardside offers a single checked case option. It’s crafted from the same materials as the Kith, but with corner bumpers for extra protection. The interior features slip pockets, a zip divider, and compression straps. It’s still cheap at only $80, too!

Heritage Weekender Duffle Bag

This is the only “luggage” still available from the Original Penguin brand on its official website - a pretty solid duffle bag for the money ($50).

It’s made entirely from polyester and has side compartments for accessories, a separate compartment for shoes, and an adjustable shoulder strap to streamline your trip from the parking lot to the gate. It has the classic Pete the Penguin logo.

There are some obvious trade-offs for Original Penguin luggage. Durability, warranty coverage, and long-term support are pretty hit or miss. But we know you came here hoping to learn about Penguin luggage vs Samsonite luggage, so let’s dive into the differences below!

Samsonite vs Penguin Luggage vs Nobl Travel: Choosing the Right Suitcase For Your Next Adventure

Choosing between Samsonite, Penguin, and Nobl Travel is pretty simple when you understand the differences and have a firm grasp on what matters most to you in luggage. Each brand takes a different approach to materials, design, and support. Here’s what you ned to know…

Luggage Materials and Construction

One of our biggest frustrations with traditional luggage is how fragile it is. Suitcases are exposed to tough conditions every time you travel - careless baggage handlers, uneven terrain, crowded overhead bins, etc.

So, why does Penguin still use ABS with polyester lining for its hard-shell cases? Simple - it’s cheap! It’s also really lightweight. The problem is, it’s also notoriously prone to cracking and scuffing. There’s nothing worse than being greeted by a damaged suitcase at baggage claim.

Samsonite offers quite a few different materials to choose from, ranging from polypropylene in its entry-level luggage to polycarbonate for better impact protection in its Outline and other mid-to-high-end suitcases. The brand also has an aluminum series for the ultimate protection.

We’ve put an emphasis on both materials and overall construction, because we truly want to sell you the last suitcase you’ll ever buy. That’s why we start with aluminum frames and then use either unbreakable polycarbonate or more aluminum for the shell.

Even the wheels and handles are built with meticulous attention to detail to ensure they stand the test of time. You can order your Nobl Travel luggage with peace of mind.

Innovative Features and Design Enhancements

Gone are the days when suitcases just got you from point A to point B. Today’s luggage is smarter. At least, it can be depending on which brand you choose between Nobl Travel luggage vs Penguin luggage vs Samsonite luggage.

Penguin keeps features simple. Expansion zippers, basic dividers, and compression straps are standard across models. The focus is on practicality, not innovation. You get what you pay for.

Samsonite does better in this area, but only on select lines. The Outline Pro carry-on includes a USB port and battery pocket, while interiors across many collections feature mesh dividers, WetPak™ compartments for damp items, and compression systems like KompressPak™.

But, our luggage at Nobl Travel is by far the most innovative with thoughtful touches like USB and USB-C charging, a built-in phone holder, a hidden cup holder, and bag clips that secure extra items while you move.

There are also intuitive design features inside, like compression panels, waterproof toiletry pockets, and a passport sleeve keep belongings organized. A dedicated laptop pocket in the front makes airport security far less stressful. 

That’s not to mention our one-of-a-kind collapsible luggage, which saves you storage space at home. Keep your suitcase on a shelf, under a bed, anywhere you have 4” to spare! 

Customer Support and Warranties

The luggage itself is just one piece of the puzzle when choosing between Penguin luggage vs Samsonite vs Nobl Travel. Think about the brand behind the suitcase, too.

Penguin doesn’t make luggage anymore, so you probably aren’t going to get much support if you encounter an issue with a suitcase purchased through a department store. 

On the other hand, Samsonite offers a 10-year limited global warranty across most of its hard-side lineup. Coverage applies to manufacturing defects but not airline damage or normal wear. The problem is, a lot of reviews point to warranty frustrations as a common theme.

We’re the only brand of the three that backs our suitcases with a lifetime guarantee that we actually stand behind and honor. We mean it when we say this is the last suitcase you’ll ever buy!

Price and Value for the Money

We know the idea of buying higher-end luggage can be tough when there are cheap alternatives available. But you get what you pay for, which is why Penguin luggage sits at the bottom of our three-way comparison.

Yes, the suitcases are less than $100. But if it only lasts you a few trips before denting and it’s not actually elevating your travel experiences, is it really worth it? We think not. 

Samsonite has a suitcase for every budget, from entry-level carry-ons at just $119 to more sophisticated, durable aluminum luggage at $1,000. There are plenty of options in between, too. Quality depends on the collection. 

Now, Nobl Travel might be the most expensive option on paper since our carry-ons start at $245 and our checked luggage starts at $275. But the value for the money we deliver is second to none. You get better materials, better features, and better support. It’s worth every penny!

What Real Travelers Think

The key takeaway from this Penguin luggage vs Samsonite comparison is Penguin doesn’t make luggage anymore, so it’s really just a comparison of Nobl Travel and Samsonite. 

That said, what do real customers have to say about these two brands? Let’s turn to Trustpilot - the #1 independent review site for authentic, unaltered feedback:

• Samsonite: 2.9/5 stars across less than 1,000 reviews
• Nobl Travel: 4.0/5 stars across nearly 2,000 reviews

For what it’s worth, Original Penguin does have a Trustpilot account - but the reviews aren’t really about luggage as much as they are about clothing, since that’s what the brand is better known for. Still, the rating of 2.0/5 stars raises a few red flags.

So if you want a suitcase you can feel confident ordering, we think the choice between Nobl Travel vs Penguin luggage vs Samsonite luggage is clear. Stick with Nobl Travel!

Parting Thoughts on Penguin Luggage vs Samsonite

We hope this Penguin vs Samsonite luggage comparison has left you feeling clear on which brand best suits your needs. You can still find some Original Penguin suitcases at department stores like Nordstrom, but the company has phased these out of its catalog.

Samsonite provides more variety, with stronger materials and mid-range pricing, but quality varies across collections and most models still stick to conventional designs.

We here at Nobl Travel approach luggage differently, combining zipperless security, aluminum reinforcement, and built-in conveniences with a lifetime warranty. The difference will be obvious in that first trip. Order today!