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If you're deciding between a softside and a hardside carry-on, the Travelers Club Richmond and American Tourister Stratum 2.0 are two crowd-pleasers at affordable prices. Richmond is ultra-budget and flexible, while the Stratum 2.0 brings a more stylish, protective shell. Here's how they stack up.
Softside Carry-On
Hardside Carry-On
Stratum 2.0’s hard shell resists damage better than Richmond’s fabric exterior.
Richmond has more flexibility, but Stratum is better for structured packing.
Stratum 2.0 handles better with a sturdier wheel and handle system.
Richmond is the cheapest, but the Stratum 2.0 delivers a solid value upgrade.
"Users love the Richmond for its unbeatable price and light weight, but some caution against expecting high-end durability."
"Stratum 2.0 gets high marks for its look and how well it holds up on flights. Some users find it a bit snug for overpackers, but most praise the smooth wheels."
The Richmond uses soft polyester fabric which is light and flexible, but less protective against drops and abrasions. The Stratum 2.0 boasts a hardside shell with scratch-resistant texture, offering better durability for travelers concerned about rough handling. If you want peace of mind when checking or gate-checking your bag, the American Tourister holds up better to wear.
Richmond is a roomy bag, and its softside construction makes it a bit more forgiving when stuffing in last-minute items. However, it lacks structured compartments. The Stratum 2.0 has a clamshell layout with cross straps and zippered panels, giving more defined packing zones. If organization is important to you, the Stratum 2.0 gets the edge.
Both models feature spinner wheels for easy movement, but American Tourister’s build feels smoother and more solid on uneven terrain. The Richmond's wheels work fine but can feel wobbly under heavy loads. The Stratum 2.0's telescopic handle also offers a sturdier feel, making it easier to guide through crowded terminals.
The Richmond looks basic and utilitarian—functional, but nothing flashy. American Tourister’s Stratum 2.0 brings more flair with its textured shell and trendy color palette. If you like a carry-on that stands out and looks fresh, the Stratum 2.0 brings much more style to the table.
Travelers Club offers limited warranty coverage and support is known to be hit-or-miss. American Tourister has stronger brand presence and customer service, including a 10-year limited warranty, giving more assurance for frequent travelers.
No, neither the Richmond nor the Stratum 2.0 includes a TSA lock.
The softside Richmond can compress slightly to fit tight spaces better than a hardside.
The Richmond is hard to beat for the price, especially for short or occasional trips. But if you want a carry-on that balances style, durability, and ease of use, the Stratum 2.0 is worth the small price bump.
Travelers on a strict budget or casual flyers.
Style-focused or semi-frequent travelers who want better performance and looks.
Have experience with either of these suitcases? Let us know how they’ve held up on your travels!