Summary: Two things stand out for me with the Level8 lightweight textured suitcase set that this brand kindly sent me for review. First, the shape – these cases are much squarer than you’ll find from other brands, in a smart, eye-catching way.
Second, the unique texture on the front is unlike anything I have seen (or felt) before. The ‘Micro-Diamond’ looks almost like textile – and feels soft. It is anything but soft, these Level8 suitcases are as hard-shell as they come.
This review covers the Level8 suitcase set, which includes a giant 28” case, medium at 24” and a cabin-sized 20”.
You can check the latest prices and colour options in the impressive gallery – over at the official Level8 Amazon Store here!
Mark’s Disclosure: Level8 kindly sent me this suitcase set for review. This is much appreciated, though I never let review samples affect my judgement or conclusions.
Detailed Review of the Level8 Textured Suitcase Set
The large sized Level8 textured suitcase is a whopper. There are three sizes to choose from in total.
Here are the sizes:
- Large: 99 Litre capacity, 71cm x 34cm x 42cm
- Medium: 65 Litre capacity 66cm x 44cm x 25.6cm
- Small: 40 Litre capacity, 54cm x 23.5cm x 37cm
The boxy designs that Level8 suitcases makes them deeper than most other brands. A squarer shape makes them distinctive, and the sharper, almost pointy corners emphasise this even more.
The small one will be perfect for hand-luggage, though you’ll need to check before you fly with the super-budget airlines. These cases are light for polycarbonate designs, though I would not call them lightweight compared to the super-light options available elsewhere. The large cases are 5.8kgs. With a 23kg allowance, this should not be a problem for most of us. Balancing this, you do get a robust suitcase. It feels plenty tough enough to withstand being checked-in.
Colour Options and Small Design Touches
I love the black case, where the Micro-Diamond texturing has a matte look. Level8 have a mix of subdued / dark colours as follows:
- Black
- Dark Grey
- Dark Blue
- Green
- Blue
While the textured front panel is the key design feature for this luggage set. There are some smaller touches which are worth a note.
First, the wheels have a contrasting ‘8’ logo on them in orange. This logo is also in a badge on the front, right in the middle of the textured panel. Second, the zips and combination lock are on the top, not the side* (as you get with other Level8 designs). This makes them easy to reach. I found the square shape of the carry handles unusual – complimenting the boxy design.
*Note that some colours do still have the side locks.
Level8 Textured Design Suitcase Set Review: Outside Features
Level8 Textured Design Suitcase Set Review: Outside FeaturesThere are 8 wheels (four pairs) on each case in this suitcase set. They are tough plastic and are set close to the bottom of the cases. You can pull or push these cases, and effectively steer them around the airport.
Each case has a telescoping handle. When you put each case side-by-side, the handles all reach the same height – even though the tops of the suitcases themselves vary. You click a button on the top of each case to raise the handle, there are two height settings for the cabin and medium sizes. These handles are not as smooth as some coming up and going down, though feel tough enough to keep working year-after-year.
You get four plastic studs on one side. These protect the textured surface when you stand your case on its side. Small things like this make a difference, so I am happy to see that Level8 thought of it.
Combination Lock / TSA
I already covered the combination lock. This starts at 0-0-0 and can easily be reset. It has a TSA override, and grips the zip-heads. Like all combo locks, it will not stop a determined thief. Combination locks do deter opportunists, and add peace of mind while your cases are checked in at foreign airports.
The textured hard-shell cases don’t have the smart lock, which customs can override with special phones. If this sounds interesting, make sure you check the Level8 suitcases Amazon.co.uk store for their latest tech.
Inside Features of the Level 8 Textured Luggage Set
The first thing which caught my eye with this luggage set from Level 8 is that there are straps in both sides. This is unusual, as most luggage brands have them in one side only – with the other side zipped shut.
Those straps are adjustable and have a plastic clasp. The two sides each get a unique cover. One side has a mesh – so you’ll see what is inside. On the other side there are two pockets, which have meshed outsides. The lining is grey material, which is textured. It felt a little loose for me, though certainly won’t get in the way of your packing.
Feedback: What Did Regular Users of the Level8 Textured Suitcases Sets Say?
Let’s set my personal opinions aside for a minute – and see what longer-term users of these luggage sets from Level8 thought. It is always important to find out thoughts after a few trips, as first impressions will often flatter.
First up, the positives. While not glowing feedback, there comments at major retailers are mostly four stars+. The space of Level8 cases came in for praise from multiple people. Having two separate sides, each with a cover and strap also got complimented. It appears that the unique box-style design also went down well with multiple users.
On the downside, there were some doubts over whether these cases would last. Surprisingly, no actual reports of damage while in transit were obvious. I’m taking this as a plus point – as people are quick to complain should wheels fall off or the shell should split.
FAQ for Level8 Textured Luggage
Do Level8 Suitcases Come with a Warranty?
Yes, by purchasing your Level8 cases via their official site, you automatically get a guarantee for manufacturing defects. There is no need to register your case. As with all luggage brands, this won’t cover damage in transit or from misuse.
How Heavy are Level8 Suitcases?
The carry-on version of the Level8 textured case is 3.5kg. Medium cases are 4.44kg and the large 5.9kg. While not lightweight relative to other materials, for a tough polycarbonate case which will last for years,
Do I Have to Pay Shipping for Level8 Suitcase Orders?
No, for UK residents, shipping is free. Your case will be sent via one of the carrier / delivery companies. I got a text giving me a 1-hour window for when the suitcases would arrive (a big plus, compared to some brands where you get half a day!).
How Long Does It Take to Get my Level8 Luggage Once Ordered?
Level8 cases can be with you in 3 days of ordering, with the maximum wait 5 working days. Perfect for those times you discover your old suitcases are broken just before you go on holiday.
Wrapping Up: My Final Thoughts on Level8 Textured Suitcases?
I liked these cases more than I expected. They have a unique design, which helps them stand out from the hundreds of standard hard-shell options out there – without being to showy or brash.
While the weight is on the higher side, the shells felt tough enough to withstand multiple trips. I have not yet flown with one – so let’s see if my theory is correct. The textured design is a big plus, with the minimal contrasting logos on the wheels an elegant minimalist touch. For the carry-on, do note that there is no outside pocket with this design.
The inside definitely ticks all the right boxes. Dual straps, plus both sides having covers is a big plus.
This suitcase set is competitively priced – and is definitely built to last for many years. If you love the style, there are no practical reasons not to get a set.
Check out the latest pricing and see which colour option you like best now – over at the official Level8 Luggage Amazon UK Store!
