As an avid traveler who’s constantly hauling luggage through airports and hotel lobbies, a durable, lightweight bag is non-negotiable for me. I’d seen positive reviews for the Samsonite Volante spinner luggage line touting its resilience and maneuverability. So I decided to put it to the test as my go-to checked bag on several upcoming trips.
In this review, I’ll share my firsthand experience using the medium-sized Volante checked spinner. Read on for details on the interior capacity, exterior features, performance, pros and cons, and whether it lived up to its promises as a rugged yet portable luggage solution.
Overview of the Samsonite Volante Spinner
The Volante is made from durable polyester fabric with protective trim and accents. The version I tested was medium sized with dimensions of 29” x 20” x 12” and a weight of 9.7 lbs.
It features four multi-directional double spinner wheels intended to make rolling easy. Visually, its sleek silver colorway looks sharp and doesn’t show dirt. The pronounced texture adds dimension while hiding scuffs.
My initial impressions were positive about the smooth-spinning wheels, lightweight feel for a checked bag, and the fabrics’ durability against abrasion. The metal hardware also seemed sturdy and built to last.
Review of Interior and Exterior Features
Interior Storage and Organization
Inside the large lid, you’ll find one cavernous main compartment perfect for packing cubes, clothing layers, and bulky items. There are two zippered mesh compartments on one side, one medium and one small, to help organize toiletries, underwear, socks, etc.
I fit 7-10 days worth of clothing and shoes with room left over. The grab handles inside made removing items easy. And the fully lined interior cleaned up nicely after an exploded shampoo situation. Definitely invest in packing cubes to maximize the space.
Exterior Durability and Mobility
To my relief, the durable ballistic nylon fabric stood up well to checked baggage handling. Despite clear evidence of the bag being tossed around, it arrived without any notable scratches, scuffs, or lost hardware.
The spinner wheels handled smooth airport floors as well as old cobblestone streets at my destination flawlessly. The push-button telescoping handle locked securely at multiple heights and steering felt effortless.
There are also padded top and side grab handles that made lifting comfortable despite a heavy load. The protective plastic bumpers on the corners prevented abrasion. And the durable zippers stood up to heavy use.
Pros and Cons From My Experience
Pros
- Durable ballistic nylon fabric resists abrasion
- Large internal capacity at 68 liters
- Four spinner wheels roll smoothly in all directions
- Lightweight at just 9.7 lbs for a checked bag
- Padded top and side carry handles
- Protective plastic trim reinforces vulnerable points
Cons
- No TSA-approved lock included
- No exterior organizational pockets
- Not a hardside, so less protection for delicate items
- Wheels and handle less heavy-duty than premium brands
- Zippers not splash proof
Who Is the Volante Spinner Best Suited For?
The Volante meets the needs of certain travelers who will benefit most from its advantages:
- Those wanting maximum interior packing capacity for long trips
- People who pack heavy and max out checked bag weight limits
- Those concerned about avoiding airline overweight fees
- Travelers who hate lugging around a heavy bag
- Anyone who packs messy items that could stain the interior
- Those wanting a sleek, professional checked luggage aesthetic
However, it may not be ideal for those wanting exterior organizational features or the indestructible nature of a hardside. But for hauling lots of clothing and gear, it’s perfectly equipped.
My Final Verdict After Several Trips
After putting the Samsonite Volante spinner to work as my checked luggage on half a dozen trips ranging from weekend getaways to 2-week vacations abroad, I’m impressed with how it held up.
The spinning wheels handled mileage smoothly and reduced shoulder strain compared to non-spinner luggage. The ballistic nylon shell withstood the roughest baggage handling with barely a scratch. And I loved having the huge capacity without a super heavy empty bag.
For anyone wanting checked luggage that can fit a ton while maintaining effortless mobility, the Volante is a home run. While I still prefer hardsides for delicate items, for clothing and bulky gear, it doesn’t get much better than this. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend the Volante to frequent travelers looking to simplify packing with a cavernous yet portable bag.
Conclusion
Featuring rugged fabrics protecting a massive internal capacity while remaining lightweight, the Samsonite Volante spinner makes hauling loads of gear a breeze. If you require a bottomless pit of packing space, its durable yet flexible shell ticks all the boxes.
