Level 8 Luggage: Clamshell vs. Front-Opening Suitcase: Which Style Is Best for You?
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If you’ve been following our road trips and cruises, you may be wondering how we pack for a multi-week adventure. An adventure that involves extensive travel time requires luggage that is lightweight, durable, and easy to maneuver. Recently, the team at Level 8 sent us two of their suitcases to put to the real-world test during a 2.5-week road trip to and from Alaska. Level 8 offers lightweight luggage for all types of travelers.
This journey involved cruise ship cabins on the Holland America Koningsdam, hotels, shuttle terminals, stairs, and elevators.
Pros and Cons of Havana Cabana Rooms on Carnival
If you missed our Alaska adventure in 2026, we are doing it again in 2028. We will be on the same ship and the same itinerary. It was AMAZING!
Here is our honest review of how the Level 8 suitcases held up under the pressures of travel. We road-tripped from Iowa to Vancouver, Canada. We visited a presidential library and seven national parks and monuments. The scenery was incredible everywhere we went.
Each night we took our Level 8 luggage into our hotel room, in many different types of properties. BONUS: Both of our Level 8 suitcases were easy to navigate.
First Impressions & Packaging of Level 8 Luggage
Right out of the box, the presentation made an impression:
- Protective Packaging: Each suitcase arrived neatly packed inside a high-quality fabric dust bag, keeping them pristine during transit.
- Eye-Catching Color: I opted for the pink clamshell case, which is easy to spot on baggage carousels or in busy terminal waiting areas without needing extra luggage tags or stickers. I have been known to have many stickers on my luggage, and I’m not sure I want to sticker this one up, as it’s beautiful and noticeable the way it is.
- Ultra-Lightweight Feel: Even before packing, both suitcases were exceptionally lightweight. This is a massive plus when navigating stairs or lifting bags into overhead bins and ship cabins. It’s true, Level 8 offers lightweight luggage for all types of travelers.
The Clamshell Suitcase (Sara’s Take)
- Packing Capacity: Fitting two and a half weeks’ worth of clothes and two pair of shoes (including a bulkier women’s size 11 hiking shoe) into a carry-on-sized frame was surprisingly effortless. I love my Merrell hiking shoes, perfect for any hike in Alaska!
- Smooth Zippers: Despite being packed tight for departure day, the heavy-duty zippers moved smoothly without snagging or pulling. I have been known to pack my suitcase to the brim, and I did the same thing on this trip.
- Multi-Way Carry Handles: Top and side carrying points made grabbing the bag in tight cruise ship hallways and stairwells simple. I loved being able to carry this suitcase the way it needed to be, according to where I was. Let’s face it, when you carry your suitcase in a crowd, you may have to change positions.
The Front-Opening Trunk (Todd’s Take)
- Top-Loading Access: The top-opening flap design allows you to open and access your clothes directly on a hotel or cabin bed without needing to lay the entire bag flat and flop it open. Todd consistently raved about this feature, and truth be told, I am a little jealous that he has this feature. Although, I’m not sure I would like it.
- Extra-Wide Handle: The wide handle system offers better steering control while rolling, though it requires a luggage sleeve or compatible backpack that can fit over the wider bars.
Performance Of Level 8 Luggage In Alaska
Throughout our stay onboard the Koningsdam and across regional transit, several features stood out:
- 360° Spinner Wheels: Smooth, silent, and stable over carpet, tile, and concourses.
- Built-in Protective Standoffs: Rubber feet on the side panel prevent scratches when laying the suitcase down horizontally.
- Sturdy TSA Locks: Simple to program and provides extra peace of mind when traveling through busy ports and terminals.
The Pros and Cons of Booking A Havana Cabana Room On the Carnival Vista
The Verdict: Is Level 8 LuggageWorth It?
Yes! Both suitcases passed our Alaska trial with flying colors. The lightweight build, robust zippers, and smooth wheel action make Level 8 Luggage a fantastic choice for cruise travelers, road trippers, and frequent flyers alike.
If you are looking for stylish, ultra-durable luggage for your next trip, Level 8 is definitely worth a spot on your radar. We are now true fans, as Level 8 offers lightweight luggage for all types of travelers.
