This New Zipper-Free Carry-on Might Be the Smartest Hard-Sided Luggage I’ve Ever Tried

Since moving out of state, I’ve been clocking serious miles on flights back home to see friends and family. Factor in a bunch of summer trips and destination weddings on the horizon, and I knew I was going to need luggage that’s up to the task. I’d seen Cotopaxi’s colorful backpacks and gear around the city, so when I heard that the sustainable outdoor brand was coming out with its first collection of hardside luggage, my interest was piqued. After testing the new Coraza Carry-On Luggage ahead of its official launch, I have thoughts. Read on for my full review. 

The Coraza Carry-On is a 22×14.5×9.5-inch hard-shell suitcase in Cotopaxi’s debut luggage line. It features a trolley handle, top and side handles, and four 360-degree spinner wheels — which can be easily swapped out for any of the six colorful wheel options for extra contrast. It’s also completely zipper-free, and features a latch closure with a TSA-approved lock for secure access. What’s more, the suitcase’s shell is made entirely of Global Recycled Standard (GRS)-certified recycled plastic (so it’s as sustainable as it is stylish), and claims to stand up against bumps, scratches, and dings. 

Unlike other suitcases that have sewn-in fabric linings, the Coraza has two large (machine-washable!) detachable packing cubes that are also made of 100% recycled material. The cubes simplify packing and make the suitcase easier to clean. 

I chose to test the carry-on in Aster, a muted lilac color, but it’s also available in Blue Spruce and Cotopaxi Black. The Coraza collection also includes a Medium Checked Suitcase.

I tested the Coraza Carry-On during a weekend trip to visit friends in Georgia, and I was impressed with how much I was able to fit inside (I’m a notorious over-packer). While I could’ve skipped packing cubes, thanks to the carry-on’s removable liners, I decided to use them anyway for more organization. I ended up fitting a small, medium, and large cube on either side and still had some wiggle room to squeeze in a couple of pairs of shoes — not too shabby. Plus, unpacking was so easy: I just detached the liners and moved them straight to the dresser in our room. 

While I was skeptical about the Coraza’s lock-and-latch closure at first, I actually love the extra layer of security. When the airline gate agent asked for volunteers to check their luggage at the gate, the TSA lock gave me the peace of mind I needed to check it without worry. The bag can be unapologetically tossed around (as they often are) without busting open, and no one can access its contents aside from me (and TSA agents, of course). Setting up the lock is a bit finicky at first, but with the help of Cotopaxi’s handy setup guide, I was eventually able to get the hang of it. And if the latch/lock, wheels, or liner zipper ever get irreparably damaged, I love that they can all be replaced to extend the lifespan of my luggage. 

Like I said earlier, I’ve seen Cotopaxi’s colorful gear around New York City, and have always been drawn to all the stylish color combos. Now the Coraza’s bright lilac exterior and mix-and-match wheels bring that same playful energy to my travel routine — and make the suitcase easier to spot on a baggage claim carousel. And if I ever want to switch up the look of the suitcase, I can always buy another two-pack of wheels in a different color for only $5. I’ve only taken the suitcase on one trip so far (and checked it during one flight), but the rigid exterior has held up great so far and shows barely any signs of wear. 

The Coraza Carry-On is also remarkably unfussy compared with other suitcases I’ve had. The trolley handle extends without any coaxing, the wheels glide smoothly in all directions, and it’s incredibly easy to clean. After my trip, I just chucked the interior liners in the washing machine and wiped down the exterior and interior with a disinfecting wipe. I feel like I could never get the inside of my old suitcases truly clean after a trip, but the removable liners make it easy. 

Between the fun colors and functional, resilient design, the Coraza has quickly become one of my favorite suitcases. It’s the one I’ll keep reaching for on future trips! 

Buy: Cotopaxi Coraza Carry-On Luggage, $295