\nCotopaxi Coraza Carry-On Suitcase\u00a0<\/b><\/h2>\n image<\/p>\n
Size: <\/b>Carry-onCapacity:<\/b> 36 LitersDimensions: <\/b>22\u201d x 14.5\u201d x 9.5\u201dClosure: <\/b>Dual locking latches<\/p>\n
Pros<\/b>
Cons<\/strong>Who It\u2019s For: <\/b>Travelers looking for a sturdy hard-shell carry-on suitcase who prefer latch closures over full-zip access<\/p>\n
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Design, Capacity, and Internal Organization\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\nThe suitcase itself is simple: a hard-sided recycled polycarbonate shell with a clamshell opening, a retractable handle, and a grab handle. It doesn\u2019t have additional interior\/exterior pockets, an expandable zipper, or multiple access points like other suitcases I\u2019ve tested, but the straightforward build gets the job done, and I appreciate the protection of the hard-sided design.<\/p>\n
By the specs, the Coraza is a standard carry-on. But as I discovered during my frantic packing attempt, it\u2019s actually a tight squeeze. Its 36-liter capacity is noticeably smaller than other industry-standard carry-ons, like my beloved Samsonite Paralux (which offers a few more liters of additional space). If you\u2019re someone who frequently butts up against carry-on weight limits, the Coraza might not be quite big enough for you. I ended up testing the Coraza a few weeks later on a less convoluted trip to Arizona, and the suitcase\u2019s trimmer dimensions were perfectly sized for the simpler trip.<\/p>\n(Photo: Maggie Slepian)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nInside, the Coraza attempts to make up for the smaller size with two removable hanging mesh packing cubes for included organization. I used one side for clothes and the other side for shoes and gear. The idea is great, but the functionality doesn\u2019t totally work. Because these sacks hang from the center rather than wedging into corners like traditional cubes, they emphasize the bag\u2019s smaller capacity. I was able to fit more into the Coraza by ditching the sacks, and I\u2019d recommend using your own compression bags to maximize space. This is a good example of not needing to reinvent the wheel: sure, the hanging bags can keep the interior from getting banged up, but it reduces space and functionality.<\/p>\n