Before we delve deeper into our travel plans for the remainder of the year, let’s discuss what’s probably the most important travel gear you can possibly buy: luggage.
I bought both the popular Solgaard Carry-On Closet and Solgaard Closet Check-In back in November 2023. So how are they holding up over 8 months later?
Well let’s first go over what makes the Solgaard luggage brand unique to its competitors. After all, when visiting their website, you’re greeted with the tagline “Award-Winning Luggage.”
Interior Features
For both bags, the interior material is made out of Interior Shore-Tex® lining, and is 100% recycled plastic according to the site.
The “Closet” feature in its name stems from the unique shelving system these luggages have. There are five shelves in total that are removable, self supporting, and patented.
(PICTURE of shelves)
Exterior Features
Both the Carry-On Closet and Closet Check-In are constructed with a Polycarbonate Shell, Aluminum Frame, ergonomic handle, and 360 degree wheels for easy movement. The Solgaard site describes this outer shell as “virtually indestructible” due to its waterproof and scratch resistance, and backs this claim by offering a lifetime warranty on both products.
The Carry-On and Check luggages also offer a TSA approved three-digit combination lock. This is important to note as there is no zipper on either bag. Just a pinch of the lock, and the exterior buckles will pop open for quicker access.
(PICTURE on Opening Mechanism)
Feature Differences
The biggest difference between the carry-on and the check luggage, is the fact that the carry-on offers an integrated USB charging port, with the powerbank sold separately. This port is found in the back center of the carry-on right below the handle.
(PICTURE of Port)
Dimensions for Carry-On Closet
The 2 sizes available are:
Medium
External: 53 x 34 x 23cm (20.8 x 13.4 x 9in)*
Internal: 48 x 33 x 22cm (19 x 13 x 8.7in)
Weight: 7.5lbs**
Large
External: 57 x 37 x 24cm (22.4 x 14.6 x 9.6in)*
Internal: 52.5 x 35.5 x 23.5cm (20.6 x 14 x 9.3in)
Weight: 8.1**
* Measurements w/ wheels
** Measurements without closet insert weight (.75lbs,.4kg)
Dimensions for Check-In Closet
2 sizes also available:
Medium
External: 24.8 x 14.5 x 11.8in (63 x 37 x 30cm)
Weight: 10.7lbs / 4.9kg
Large
External: 28.3 x 17.3 x 14.5in (72 x 44 x 37cm)
Weight: 12.3lbs / 5.6kg
Shelving unit:
-41″H x 13.25″W x 8.5″Deep. Weight 1.2lbs
-104.15cm H x 33.66cm W x 21.6cm Deep. Weight 0.5kg
Volume:
91L
(PICTURE comparing sizes side-by-side?)
Price
Currently at the time of writing this post, there is a $50 price difference between the carry-on and check luggage.
The Carry-On Closet is retailing for $275 and the Check-in Closet for $325.
The Solgaard website also provides free U.S. shipping on orders over $100.
Thoughts
I first heard about this brand on IG. My first impression of the bags were that they had a very sleek and expensive-looking design. Plus, I was attracted to the fact that they were advertised as being lightweight.
Once I unboxed them, I was impressed they each came with their own protective bags too. I’m also happy to note that their claim of being lightweight is true. However, I wasn’t as impressed with the design when I got a closer look, as it’s more plastic than I initially thought. After a few months of use (4 trips later), this hasn’t been so great and has worn down with scuffs. With every trip, I’m also concerned that the TSA lock buckles that keep the luggage closed will one day pop open, and spill all my belongings as a result of poor handling at the airport. However, one can argue this could happen with zipper luggage too.
The unique shelf feature has been pretty great and easy to use, but I would say it’s best for shorter spring/summer trips, when packing lighter items. As for the carry-on and shoes, it can hold a few flats very comfortably (about 4-5 pairs), but the moment you add heels, you have less and less space. For a recent trip to Saint Barth’s for example, I was able to comfortable pack three flats and one thick wedge.
In comparison to other trending travel brands such as BEIS, which I’ve also previously owned, the Solgaard proves more true to its claims. For reasons previously mentioned, I think the checked bag could be about $150 less than its current price, and the carry-on price is fair.
Overall, it’s worth the buy!
