Which Luggage Is Most Prone to Damage? Ground Staff Name '3 Major Hazards,' Especially This Material to Avoid at All Costs

When traveling abroad, luggage almost always goes through the check-in process. From conveyor belts to cargo holds, bags inevitably face collisions and compression. But which types of luggage cause the most headaches for airport ground staff?

Recently, a netizen posted this question on a social platform, attracting over 700,000 views. Former airline ground crew, airport workers, and travelers shared their experiences, naming three types of luggage most prone to problems during transit—especially those nicknamed 'eggshell cases,' considered the biggest hazard.

### Credit Card 'Eggshell Cases' Criticized as Least Durable

Based on user comments, the most frequently criticized are low-cost suitcases given as credit card promotions or sold at bargain prices. Comments include: 'Definitely the ultra-thin suitcases from credit card companies—they crack so easily,' 'Credit card freebies +1, especially the cute patterned ones,' and 'Credit card luggage... terrible.'

Many of these products use ABS plastic, which has thin walls and limited impact resistance, making them prone to cracks and breakage during handling or collisions. Hence, they're mockingly called 'eggshell cases.'

One user shared that older ABS suitcases, even if unused for years, can become brittle due to material oxidation. Despite looking intact, they may shatter after just one flight. Some passengers mistakenly blame airlines for the damage, leading to compensation disputes.

Regarding material choice, experienced users recommend:

- **ABS Material**: Cheap but poor impact resistance; easily cracked. - **100% PC (Polycarbonate)**: May dent under impact but rarely cracks—recommended by many as the top choice. - **ABS+PC Hybrid**: Offers balanced durability, price, and practicality.

### Luxury Luggage Brands Also Increase Ground Staff Stress

Besides cheap luggage, high-end brands like Rimowa were also named. While these products are well-made, their high price makes travelers overly sensitive to cosmetic damage.

Users commented: 'With Rimowa, people get heartbroken over tiny scratches, forgetting that luggage is meant to be bumped and dropped,' and 'They cry for compensation over minor dents—then don’t use it if you don’t want it damaged, just display it at home.' Even slight scratches or dents often lead to compensation claims, adding pressure on frontline staff.

### Luggage Covers Risk Jamming Conveyor Belts

Another issue troubling ground staff is protective covers on luggage. Comments include: 'Suitcases with covers,' 'They easily get sucked into conveyor belts,' 'Wrapped in plastic film + over 25kg,' and 'No problem if not overloaded, but don’t wrap it in tape—it might loosen and jam the machinery, delaying all luggage.'

While many travelers use covers to prevent scratches or identify bags, ill-fitting or poorly secured covers can come loose during transit and get caught in airport conveyor systems. This not only delays other passengers’ luggage but may also damage their own.

### How to Choose Luggage: 2 Key Points to Consider

Beyond material, users advise checking for TSA-approved locks.

Although Taiwan airports don’t use TSA locks, customs officers in most Western countries can open TSA-locked bags with special keys when needed, avoiding forced entry and lock destruction. For frequent international travelers, this feature is essential.

View on Threads Editor / Li Yiqing