We recommend the Solgaard Carry-On Closet Plus suitcase for its durability, security, and innovative shelving system.
We saw the television commercial for the Solgaard expandable suitcase, advertised as a carry-on closet that allows the user to unpack in seconds using a built-in shelving system that expands when you remove it. The commercial made it look so simple and practical that we decided to make a purchase.
The suitcase comes in three sizes: the standard 20 by 13.5 inch version (Carry-On Closet) which is compatible with European carry-on standards, and a slightly larger 22.4 by 14.6 inch (Carry-On Closet Plus) version which is compatible with U.S. carry-on standards. In addition, there is a full sized Check-In Closet that is 27 by 15.5 inches. We purchased the Carry-On Closet Plus for $285, and the reason we purchased the larger size is that it’s more practical for a week-long vacation without having to check luggage. The suitcase comes with a ten year warranty and shipping is free.
The suitcase arrived in two weeks – which is what was advertised due to its popularity. The initial evaluation is that it is a well built, high quality suitcase that feels very durable and solid. The suitcase has a combination lock for security, as well as a nifty USB charging port adjacent the lock that can be used with your own power bank.
When fully expanded, the shelving unit is about 1.5 times the height of the suitcase. The shelving unit includes a total of five shelves (the webpage noted six shelves); the two top shelves are smaller and allow for easy placement and retrieval of toiletries, and smaller clothing such as sox and underwear. The two middle shelves are larger, and have a zip cover, and are perfect for folded up pants and shirts. The bottom shelf consists of eight pockets that can be used for rolled up clothing (such as T-shirts or underwear), or shoes. However, if you have larger feet, you probably won’t be able to fit your shoes in the pockets while being able to close the suitcase. The shelving unit can be completely removed from the suitcase and hung up in a closet.
When we compressed the shelving unit, it was able to fully fit within the suitcase with a good bit of space to spare. There was a bit of a challenge actually closing the sides of the suitcase due to the overall depth of the shelving unit when filled with clothing.
Our overall first impression is that it is a pretty slick system that will make life much easier on the road, especially when staying in tight accommodation or when only staying one night at a time at multiple locations. We therefore recommend this suitcase to others with the caveat that it is rather expensive for a carry-on suitcase.