We reviewed the Samsonite TOIIS XP Trunk suitcase – here's what we thought

We know that browsing products online isn’t the same as taking them for a test spin, so we’re here to bridge the gap. In our series of in-depth reviews, our editors pick out the products you may be curious about and provide the low-down on all their features.  

First up, we’re reviewing Samsonite's TOIIS XP Trunk . Stylish and sturdy, this suitcase could be just the thing for your next epic adventure. Read on to see if it’s the right choice for you, then head to the Cathay Shop to purchase it. 

A little bit of background

The TOIIS collection is inspired by the mantra, “travel with own identity and style”, and it’s easy to see why. Each item in the collection – eight suitcases and two bags – boasts customisable features such as exterior logos, trolley handles and wheel caps.

Style doesn’t come at the expense of functionality, though. The TOIIS XP is designed with ball-bearing double wheels to ensure a smooth journey and includes an extendable compartment that’s ideal for squeezing in all those extra souvenirs. 

First impressions

Made with sturdy polyester polycarbonate, the TOIIS XP is built for adventure. The aesthetic is a mix of earthy and urban, with a ribbed texture and straps that add a utilitarian touch. The range of colours available – black, green, ivory and blue – complements the natural look.

Despite friends warning me of the impracticality of a light shade, I was immediately drawn to the ivory. In fact, it’s more of a soft sandy hue, pairing perfectly with most of my wardrobe. Orange accents on the wheels add a welcome pop of colour and ensure your case will stand out on the airport conveyor belt.  

Relative to its height and width, the TOIIS XP Trunk is deeper than most other suitcases on the market. It has a height of 74cm, width of 44cm and depth of 37cm, increasing to 41cm when the case is extended – a saviour for those who want an easily manageable suitcase that can still fit lots.

Other practical details include four exterior hooks on the left side of the suitcase, where you can hang small items to keep your hands free on the go; four stabilising grooves on the back of the case that allow the top to be used as a table; and large grooves on the top and bottom of the suitcase for you to deftly lift it with both hands. Lastly, a set of adjustable straps enable you to secure items like a water bottle to the front of the case for easy access.

What else?

While there are already plenty of thoughtful details on the outside of the suitcase, you’ll unpack a lot more when you open it up. The first thing you’ll notice is the bold orange lining; it’s made of Recyclex^™, an eco-conscious polyester fabric produced entirely from recycled plastic bottles.  

On one side of the interior, you’ll find a deep, zipped mesh pocket. On the other side is an inner storage organiser comprising one main zipped compartment plus two smaller zipped mesh pockets. Conveniently, this organiser can be removed and hung up, doubling as a laundry bag or toiletry kit. And don’t worry: a pair of interior cinching straps will keep the rest of your belongings in place. For extra security, the suitcase is fitted with a TSA combination lock and anti-theft security zippers to protect your valuables.

The pros and cons

Personally, I’ve only ever owned simple, no-frills suitcases, and was very excited to take this ultra-stylish one out for a whirl. It proved effortless to handle and I can see myself gravitating towards it for all my future journeys.   

A major potential pitfall for a suitcase is wheels that are frustratingly difficult to manoeuvre. I’m happy to report that this suitcase offers maximum mobility – its back wheels are bigger and stronger than its front wheels, making it convenient to pull. I also appreciated the suitcase’s lightweight 4.9kg frame. Coupled with the extra grips on the top and bottom, carrying it up and down stairs was surprisingly stress-free.

On the flip side, while I was impressed with all the nifty details and special features the suitcase comes with, I found that in practise, most weren’t necessarily that useful. I found the exterior hooks on the suitcase to be too large for hanging smaller items and the hooks on the bottom of the case too low to easily reach. 

Who it’s for?

This suitcase is probably best for those embarking on a glamping or camper van holiday. For one thing, the top of the suitcase can double as a handy table. For another, the adjustable front straps and the hanging organiser – which can be attached to the front of the suitcase – are ideal for rough and ready environments when you need to access things easily.

Final thoughts 

Stylish and modern, the TOIIS XP stands out for its durable, eco-inspired design that makes it suitable for adventures in the wild. While some of its additional details are rather extraneous, this suitcase is a fundamentally solid pick that excels at all the basics – offering sufficient storage, organisation, mobility and security to ensure a seamless user experience, wherever your travels take you.