This year alone, I’ve been on more than 20 flights — not accounting for any unexpected layovers or flight changes (of which there have been many). I’m often asked how I manage to travel as often as I do on a standard, single person’s budget, to which my response is always the same: frugal travel. Unlike other nomads, my trips often entail stays at boutique hotels and hostels, as opposed to the splashier properties featured on TikTok and the like. The rooms are usually smaller (read: cozier), with less storage space and amenities. But in my experience, forgoing physical space typically opens up more flexibility within my travel budget for other things, like flights, activities, and naturally, a luxurious dinner or two. In short: it’s a worthwhile trade-off.
And at stays where I find myself a little more crammed than normal, I rely on this Royce & Rocket Castle Midsize Suitcase With Shelves ($615), which is designed to act like an on-the-go closet — complete with built-in shelving units and all. The convertible travel accessory is made like a standard, midsize suitcase with a zippered design, interior compartments, and 360-degree wheels, but it’s also fitted with built-in shelves that can be propped up or folded down accordingly. The hard-side luggage has been a total game-changer on some of my recent trips — especially in smaller accommodations and Airbnbs. Ahead, I detail how it’s helped me to travel more efficiently, with zero drawers or closet space necessary.
What I Like About This Royce & Rocket Suitcase
Suitcases with shelves certainly aren’t a new phenomenon, but this travel bag feels like it’s designed to reimagine the luggage category entirely. This Royce & Rocket suitcase’s built-in shelves are surprisingly practical; situated on the interior right side of the suitcase, they can simply be propped up when I want to store items on them, or folded down and stowed away when I don’t. The shelves are made from a durable material that’s sturdy enough to hold several items (depending on weight), but they’re also not so bulky that I feel like I’m losing out on available packing space.
The shelves have genuinely transformed the way I travel and helped to improve my efficiency while on trips — especially whenever I’m staying in Airbnbs with other travelers or hotels with limited closet and drawer space. I can refold clothing, separate outfits on top of them, display shoes, and even organize my makeup products so that they don’t clutter the bathroom counter. Even in the tiniest stays, I somehow feel more organized and in control of my belongings thanks to this luggage with shelves.
Additionally, I appreciate that the suitcase features all the usual details I value in my luggage: a TSA-approved lock for extra security, 360-degree top wheels for easier mobility, a three-stage trolley handle that offers comfortable grip support, and a stylish design that’s so timeless, I know I’ll be able to use it for years. I oftentimes feel I have to sacrifice on style in order to get functionality with my luggage, but this suitcase proves otherwise.
What’s Worth Noting About the Royce & Rocket Suitcase
The suitcase is made from a polycarbonate hard shell that’s designed to last, but for as durable as it may be, the luggage shows scuffs and scratches pretty quickly. After only a couple trips, I began to notice visible scuff marks and scrapes across the product’s shell, with abrasions similar to the wear that most checked suitcases retain through airport travel. While the product is still in tact with zero dings or gauges deep enough to render the luggage useless, it’s worth noting that the suitcase does show wear more easily, especially in comparison with luggage I’ve tried from other similar brands.
Who Is This Royce & Rocket Suitcase Best For?
Whether you’re a budget traveler (like me) looking to maximize on space in even the smallest hotel rooms or a messy packer ISO something that’ll help you stay more organized, this luggage is a fantastic investment that combines the benefits of a closet, dresser, and suitcase all into one seamless product. With the help of this accessory, you’ll feel much more efficient in your travels and confident to take on the world in style.
Additional Details:
- This Royce & Rocket suitcase is available in three exterior colors — including black (my shade of choice), burgundy, and silver — as well as two interior colors, including cloud pink and tobacco brown.
- The product is fitted with the brand’s patented shelving system, which includes two built-in, interior shelves that can be folded down or propped up as needed.
- Unlike other models, this spinner suitcase has a 2.5-inch expansion feature, giving users even more flexibility (and space) while packing.
Where Is This Royce & Rocket Suitcase Available to Shop?
This hardside suitcase is available to shop at Amazon, Royce & Rocket, and Saks Fifth Avenue.
Rating:
★★★★
Kyley Warren is an award-winning writer, editor, and affiliate strategist with more than four years of experience in the publishing space. She currently works as an assistant editor on PS Shopping and is an expert on all things related to shopping and fashion. She previously worked with Entertainment Tonight as a style commerce writer, and her byline has appeared in publications globally.
