The Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage has long been one a favorite among CNN Underscored’s readers. This budget-friendly carry-on luggage has much to love for under $125, like a durable polycarbonate shell and smooth multidirectional spinner wheels.
But it’s not a new bag — and it’s remained virtually unchanged since its launch roughly 10 years ago. So, let’s take a look at Samsonite’s entry-level carry-on and whether or not it’s still worth buying in 2024.
The Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage has durable polycarbonate construction, lightweight design and spacious storage. And at under $125, we think it's well worth the price for most travelers.
What we liked about it
Durable and lightweight
The Samsonite Omni PC is crafted from 100% polycarbonate, which offers great durability and scratch resistance under normal use. It weighs less than much of the competition at just 6.8 pounds when empty.
The exterior shell feels sturdy is thinner than what you’ll find in more expensive luggage like Away’s The Carry On. I think this is justified for the price, but it’s worth noting if you’re hard on your luggage or check your carry-on frequently.
Secure and convenient
The bag has a built-in TSA-approved combination lock that secures your belongings. This means TSA agents can open the bag with a key during security checks, so you don’t have to worry about them cutting the lock if you check your bag.
The expandable design provides an extra inch of packing space when needed, and the organized interior with compression straps and a zippered divider keeps items neatly arranged. This is great when you buy just one too many souvenirs and need a little extra space.
Wheels are easy to maneuver
I also liked the Omni PC’s 360-degree spinner wheels that moved smoothly across various surfaces like concrete and tile. The aluminum telescoping handle also makes for easy and comfortable maneuvering, but has a little shake when making tight turns.
Lots of size and color options and great warranty
Available in multiple sizes (20”, 24” and 28”) and a variety of colors, Samsonite’s 10-year warranty backs the Omni PC. It offers a compelling blend of quality features at a competitive price point. That’s a strong value proposition if you plan to keep the bag for years to come.
What we didn’t like about it
No exterior pockets
The hard-side design of the Omni PC means there are no external pockets. That can be inconvenient for quick access to items like travel documents or small electronics like chargers.
Minimal interior organization
The basic interior layout with compression straps and a single zippered divider may not offer enough organization options if you prefer multiple compartments or pockets for smaller items.
I’d like to see a document folder over the compression compartment like you find in Away’s The Carry-On. This adds a convenient place to put toiletries, documents and other small items, and provides some separation from the other compartment.
Unstable when expanded
When the bag is fully expanded, I found it slightly less stable. Likewise, when it’s full, its balance is off when standing upright. This can make the bag hard to maneuver through airports and doesn’t make it feel like a premium bag.
No side grab handle
The last gripe I have with the Samsonite Omni is its lack of a horizontal side grab handle. This can make it tough to lift into overhead bins or security scanners at the airport, especially when the bag is packed full. You’ll have to rely on the top handle for lifting.
How it compares
| Interior measurements | 19 x 14.5 x 8.75 inches. |
|---|---|
| Exterior measurements | 22 x 15 x 9.5 inches. |
| Weight (empty) | 6.8 pounds. |
| Colors | Army blue, Black, Caribbean blue, Charcoal, Pink, Purple, Red, Silver, Teal, White. |
| Warranty | Limited 10-year global warranty. |
| Price | $119 |
| Interior measurements | 20.5 x 14.5 x 10 inches. |
|---|---|
| Exterior measurements | 23 x 15 x 10 inches. |
| Weight (empty) | 6.5 pounds. |
| Colors | White/Gray, Navy, Black, White and Amethyst Purple. |
| Warranty | Limited 10-year global warranty. |
| Price | $140 |
| Interior measurements | 20.1 x 13.9 x 7.5 inches. |
|---|---|
| Exterior measurements | 21.7 x 14.4 x 9 inches. |
| Weight (empty) | 7.5 pounds. |
| Colors | Jet Black, Navy blue, Coast Blue, Olive Green, Sorbet Orange, Wave Blue, Salt White and limited-edition colors. |
| Warranty | Limited lifetime warranty. |
| Price | $275 |
| Interior measurements | 20 x 14.5 x 8.5 inches. |
|---|---|
| Exterior measurements | 21.5 x 15 x 8.5 inches |
| Weight (empty) | 7.4 pounds. |
| Colors | Sand, Moss, Forest, Navy, Shadow Lavender, Charcoal, Monochrome, Clay and limited-edition colors. |
| Warranty | Limited lifetime warranty. |
| Price | $295 |
| Interior measurements | 18.5 x 13.3 x 9.6 inches. |
|---|---|
| Exterior measurements | 22 x 14.9 x 10 inches. |
| Weight (empty) | 7.34 pounds. |
| Colors | Black, light blue, navy blue, orange. |
| Warranty | Limited 1 year warranty. |
| Price | $64 |
Bottom line
The Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage is a solid budget-friendly carry-on. It should perform well on short trips ample space, durability and lightweight convenience.
With that in mind, it can be a great option for cost-conscious travelers given the sub-$125 price tag. At the same time, we recommend paying a bit more for something like Away’s The Carry On if you’re a frequent traveler. The added features and better materials will make up for the higher price.
Looking to invest in a top-notch carry-on? Away’s signature carry-on bag combines style, durability and affordability. Its robust polycarbonate shell ensures your belongings are well-protected, and it's compact enough to meet carry-on requirements for most domestic airlines.