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Our Verdict
The MVST Select C45 Polycarbonate Suitcase Large Checked is a top-notch suitcase that exceeds in both form and function. Stylish, strong, and thoughtfully designed, it hits all the right marks while being more affordable than other checked bags of the same quality. The zipperless aluminum frame may cost you some extra weight and bucks, but it’s totally worth it. Its sleek, modern design, durable construction, and thoughtful details make it a top choice for all travelers who can afford it.
Specifications
| Size: | 28.2″ x 18.1″ x 10.8″ (71.6cm x 45.9cm x 27.4cm) |
| Capacity: | 73 L |
| Weight: | 11.7 lbs (5.3 Kg) |
| Material: | 100% virgin polycarbonate with aluminum frame |
| Color: | Black, Green, Navy, Blue |
First, let’s talk about MVST Select
MVST Select is a US-based luggage company that specializes in stylish, premium quality hardside suitcases at competitive prices. They are primarily known for their TREK Aluminum collection, which blends innovative features with a luxuriously rugged look at a price point well below the competition. Whether made from aluminum, virgin polycarbonate, or, more recently, carbon fiber, the brand’s products are meticulously designed to withstand the rigors and demands of modern travel. They are also backed by a Limited Lifetime Warranty covering damage to the shell, wheels, handles, zippers, and other functional elements of the suitcases.
Worldwide shipping, a 60-day return policy, and a rewards program loaded with perks make purchasing a MVST suitcase easy and convenient. The M Rewards program provides a 10% discount for new users, and the potential savings increase as you make purchases, interact with MVST Select on social media, and refer friends.
Design and Functionality
As an editor at Travel Away, I’ve had the privilege of testing out countless pieces of luggage over the years. The MVST Select C45 is one of the most well-designed large suitcases I’ve used in recent times.
In my experience, there is no such thing as the perfect suitcase, but the combination of a polycarbonate shell with an aluminum frame like the one on the C45 comes pretty darn close. This keeps the bag lighter than a full aluminum one and stronger than a polycarbonate one. In other words, it offers the best of both worlds in an unbeatable price-quality-performance-ratio package.
Not only is the 28-inch size perfect for both domestic and international travel, extended solo trips, and couple getaways, but the suitcase is incredibly durable, able to withstand the rigors of even the most demanding trips. In fact, it’s one of the strongest and most rigid polycarbonate shells in my arsenal, alongside the Monos Hybrid and Carl Friedrik’s Carry-on X.
There are also tons of extras that show superior attention to detail, such as a waterproof interior pocket, an antimicrobial interior liner, and an ergonomic aluminum telescopic handle that’s sturdier than the industry standard. MVST doesn’t specify the origin of the wheels, but they are just as smooth, quiet, and durable as the Hinomoto ones. The suitcase is easy to maneuver even when fully packed, and we had no problem rolling it over sidewalks and carpets, let alone polished airport floors and hotel lobbies. The two additional handles on the top and side make the bag easy to lift from the luggage carousel or load in and out of vehicles.
My favorite thing about the C45 Large Checked is the zipperless closure. The bag comes with two secure locking latches and a TSA-approved lock, ensuring contents are safe when the luggage is checked. Plus, it’s effortless to use – unlocking the combination lock requires just one simple push, and closing the bag is equally easy with a single press of the latches.
Materials, Strength, and Durability
MVST crafts the C45 from 100% virgin polycarbonate, one of the best hardside luggage materials available. This places it in the same league with Rimowa, Tumi, Horizn Studios, and Monos, and a notch above brands like Away, Delsey, and Samsonite, which opt for polycarbonate composites in their suitcase constructions. The material is lightweight, flexible, and break-proof. Its slightly textured surface has proven to be resistant to scuffs and scratches, as we found no seriously visible marks after checking the bag 6 times.
On top of that, the case is reinforced with a sturdy aluminum frame for extra protection against bumps and drops and boasts an anti-microbial interior fabric that prevents germ growth and helps reduce odor so your belongings stay fresh. The telescopic handle is also made of aluminum.
Thanks to the high-quality materials, this thing is tough as nails, won’t break, and will take care of your belongings in style. The company claims the body can sustain 250 lbs of weight with little deformation, and while I can’t confirm that exactly, I have no reason to doubt it either. Like any self-respecting traveler, I’ve sat on it several times at the airport, and it felt very sturdy. I weigh 127.8 lbs, and I didn’t feel like I was putting any strain on it at all.
Aesthetic
I totally dig the masculine vibe of the C45 suitcase. It looks like something a well-traveled professional would roll by his side on the way to the business lounge. On the other side of the coin, it looks just as badass when paired with distressed jeans and an oversized coat. The exterior has a luxurious look and feel, with brushed metal details and a distinctive vertical line pattern that adds formality and contributes to its svelte silhouette.
In terms of color, MVST sticks to the classics while also offering enough options to suit different tastes. I opted for Green, and I would do it again in a heartbeat. It’s a beautiful dark, neutral shade that goes with absolutely any outfit (from professional to more casual) and feels at home in any setting. I think it smoothes a bit the case’s masculine aesthetic, and I have a hunch it also hides the scuffs better than Black, which in turn feels even more high-end and minimalist. The bag is also available in Navy and Blue, both of which look nice and sharp. Regardless of the color, however, all C45 suitcases feature color-matching handles and wheels for a more unified, minimalist look, as well as a luxurious wraparound aluminum strip encircling the bottom of the case, discreetly displaying the brand’s logo.
Organization
The interior of the suitcase is slightly unique. On one side, you have a zip flap with two zippered pockets, including a waterproof one perfect for storing wet items, liquids, or makeup. On the other, a removable divider serves as a compression panel, flanked by another pair of pockets. This layout lets you pack the bag to the brim and gives you plenty of compartments to keep cables, chargers, and smaller accessories organized. If nothing else, it eliminates – or at least diminishes – the need to use additional pouches and packing cubes, which I’ve found to be immensely practical, almost liberating, especially on multi-stop trips.
Alternative #1: Carl Friedrik Large Check-In
For a similar sleek design but with an elevated level of craftsmanship, check out the Carl Friedrik Large Check-In. I’ve used and loved their Carry-On, and this is basically the same suitcase in a larger format. Just like the C45 Large Checked, it’s a polycarbonate aluminum hybrid and has a comparable masculine elegance, with its textured gray surface and classy Vachetta leather details. However, the built quality is a step above, and so is the price.
Alternative #2: Rimowa Hybrid Check-In L
It’s almost triple the price, but there’s no denying that the Rimowa Hybrid Check-In L is a good investment. Made with polycarbonate and an aluminum frame, it shares many similarities with MVST Select C45 Large Checked Luggage. Iconic German design and heritage aside, this model pluses with anodized aluminum bumpers for extra protection and a lifetime warranty. It’s also a bit more spacious at 84 L.
Conclusion
MVST Select might not have the name recognition of some other premium luggage brands, but the quality is up there. Thanks to its polycarbonate aluminum hybrid construction and zipperless closure, the C45 Large Checked feels significantly sturdier and more rugged than its zippered counterparts. It had enough room to get me through a 15-day trip to Stockholm while still remaining comfortable to maneuver.
A more luxurious interior, with zippers and fabric of higher quality, would have been nice, but the superior organizational features make up for it. Functionality-wise, it meets all my needs. Lastly, I love its modern, high-end appearance. It’s easy to clean, maintain, and blend into any decor when not in use. If it’s within your budget and you like the looks, there’s no reason not to get this suitcase.