Reveal the Best Carry-On Spinner Luggage: Rockland Melbourne Honest Review

Description

Design & Materials

The Rockland Melbourne Hardside Expandable Spinner Wheel Luggage, item model number F145-CHARCOAL, caught my eye immediately with its sleek and modern design. The charcoal color is understated yet stylish, making it a great unisex choice for all types of travelers. The ABS material used for the hard shell is lightweight yet durable, which is exactly what I want in a carry-on. I’ve taken it through crowded airports, rough sidewalks, and even cobblestone streets, and it’s held up well. The surface is resistant to scratches and dents, though I did notice a few scuff marks after checking it on a crowded flight. It’s not a dealbreaker for me, but if you’re someone who likes their luggage to look pristine, this might bother you.

Weight & Portability

At just 6.49 pounds, this carry-on is impressively lightweight. I’ve carried it up stairs, onto trains, and through narrow airplane aisles without breaking a sweat. The four multi-directional spinner wheels make maneuvering a breeze, even in tight spaces. I’ve used other suitcases with wheels that caught on every little bump, but these roll smoothly on almost any surface. That said, the wheels aren’t completely silent, and on rough terrain, they can be a bit noisy. If you’re someone who travels at odd hours and doesn’t want to wake up half the airport, this could be mildly annoying.

Capacity & Organization

The interior of this carry-on surprised me with how much space it offers. I managed to pack for a week-long trip, including clothes, shoes, and toiletries, without needing the expandable feature. The interior mesh zip pocket and elasticated pocket are lifesavers for keeping smaller items organized. I used the zippered pocket for my travel-sized toiletries and the elastic one for socks and underwear. It’s not the most luxurious interior, but it’s functional and gets the job done. The expandable zipper is a bonus for those moments when I go overboard with souvenirs.

Handles & Comfort

The ergonomic aluminum telescoping handle feels sturdy and is easy to adjust. I’m 5’8″, and the handle extends to a height that’s comfortable for me. My shorter friend borrowed the suitcase for a weekend trip and had no complaints either. The side and top handles are well-padded, making it easy to lift the suitcase into overhead bins or car trunks. However, I did notice that the telescoping handle wobbles slightly when fully extended, especially if the suitcase is heavily loaded. It hasn’t broken or shown signs of wear, but it does make me a little nervous about long-term durability.

Security & Locking System

This suitcase includes a basic locking system, which is a nice touch for peace of mind. It’s not TSA-approved, so if you’re flying in the U.S., you might want to invest in a separate TSA-friendly lock. I didn’t experience any issues with the zippers; they glide smoothly and feel sturdy. However, I wouldn’t rely solely on the included lock for high-value items—better safe than sorry.

Size & Airline Compatibility

Measuring 20″x13″x9″, this carry-on fits the size restrictions for most major airlines, including United, American, Delta, and Southwest. I’ve taken it on both domestic and international flights without any problems fitting it into overhead compartments. It’s compact yet spacious, which makes it ideal for weekend trips or short business travel. I’ve never had to gate-check it due to size, which is a big win in my book.

Weather Resistance

I got caught in a drizzle while waiting for a taxi, and the suitcase’s ABS shell kept my belongings dry. It’s not advertised as waterproof, but it seems to handle light rain well. I wouldn’t test its limits in a downpour, though, as the zippers don’t appear to be sealed. If you’re heading somewhere with unpredictable weather, you might want to pack important items in waterproof bags just to be safe.

Warranty

Rockland offers a limited warranty with this suitcase, which is always reassuring when you’re investing in travel gear. I haven’t had to deal with customer service yet, but knowing there’s a warranty in place gives me some peace of mind. That said, the specifics of the warranty aren’t overly detailed, so I’d recommend keeping your proof of purchase just in case.

Positives

Good Aspects

• Lightweight design at 6.49 pounds makes it easy to carry and maneuver.
• Spacious interior with organizational pockets for efficient packing.
• Durable ABS material that resists minor scratches and dents.
• Multi-directional spinner wheels provide smooth movement.
• Compact size perfectly fits most airline carry-on restrictions.

Negatives

Caveats

• The telescoping handle wobbles slightly when fully extended.
• Wheels can be noisy on rough surfaces, which might bother some travelers.
• The hard shell is prone to minor scuff marks over time.

Competing Products

In comparison to similar carry-ons like the Samsonite Winfield 2 and the Travelpro Maxlite 5, this suitcase holds its own in terms of durability and style. The Samsonite offers a sleeker design and better scratch resistance, but it’s significantly heavier. The Travelpro Maxlite 5 is lighter and has a more flexible exterior, but I prefer the hard shell of the Rockland Melbourne for added protection. In terms of price and value, this suitcase falls right in the middle, making it a solid choice for budget-conscious travelers who don’t want to compromise on quality.

Bang for the Buck

The price-to-quality ratio of this suitcase is excellent. It offers features like spinner wheels, expandable capacity, and a durable design at a fraction of the cost of premium brands. While it’s not perfect, the minor flaws are easy to overlook considering the overall value. If you’re looking for an affordable, reliable carry-on, this suitcase is definitely worth considering.