Samsonite Winfield 2 Review

Summary – Samsonite Winfield 2 Review

With this suitcase coming to the end of it’s product cycle, there is a real chance of grabbing a real deal. This suitcase performed well in our tests and regardless of the discounted pricing, would have offered value at full price. It is a definite ‘buy’ recommendation – read the full Samsonite Winfield 2 Review for in-depth comments.

Samsonite Winfield 2 Set

Specification

In-depth – Samsonite Winfield 2 Review

The Samsonite Winfield 2 review was a relatively straightforward affair. If I am perfectly honest, there is nothing that really catches the eye or stands out for that matter. Is that such a bad thing?

No…in some ways that is a great thing.

There is a time and a place for new innovation and cutting-edge design. Not everybody wants that.

Most people want a solid suitcase, with a relatively innocuous design and a price tag that won’t make you wince.

This is exactly what we have here. The Samsonite Winfield 2 range is designed to perfectly meet that market. Have they succeeded in doing so? The sheer level of sales will tell you that they do.

So, let’s move into my full review and see if this ‘innocuous’ design is really worthy of your hard-earned money.

Choosing Samsonite is a big advantage…

Before you continue to the full Samsonite Winfield 2 review, it is worth mentioning Samsonite as a company.

They know what they are doing…they have done it for long enough.

I see this quite often now where somebody will ask me to review a Calvin Klein suitcase. People like brands but honestly, what do Calvin Klein know about making great suitcases. Clearly, they are not manufacturing them so who is…we have no idea.

This is why I like luggage businesses that are just that. Focused on delivering great suitcases that do exactly what they are meant to. I have traveled enough to know that I want luggage that lasts rather than looking ‘designer’ for five minutes.

This also leads to my second point…the warranty. Samsonite offer a great one…10 years global. Not only does the 10-year period show great faith in their products, they actually honor it. Try getting a designer company to arrange a faulty zip…you know where I’m going with this.

So, let’s look in depth – Samsonite Winfield 2 Review

In this review, I will consider the suitcase from a number of angles. By the end, you will be in doubt about what to expect.

I will specifically look at the following;

• Build
• Design & Functionality
• Value

Build

This aspect of the review looked at the build of the suitcase from a range of factors. I initially considered the build, looking specifically at the materials used, the likely durability of them. I complete this section considering the actual finish of the Delsey Titanium range.

• Materials
• Durability
• Finish

The build was as you would expect from Samsonite, rock solid. Nothing new here, it is what they do well…arguably, the best.

Let’s look a little further into materials, durability and the finish.

Materials

The main body of the Samsonite Winfield 2 is constructed from polycarbonate. This is exactly as you would expect in this price bracket.

Polycarbonate is a material that brings a host of benefits. It is a very lightweight material which makes it easy to carry and manoeuvre. It also means it doesn’t impact as much on your luggage allowance.

It is resistant to large temperature changes which prevents cracks appearing in your luggage.

It is also a very flexible material…don’t worry, your hardside suitcase will be just that but the flexibility is in the material itself. This means that it is resistant to cracking. The biggest benefit is that any dents that may appear can simply be pushed back out with no evidence of any damage.

The interior of the case is lined in a nylon. This is again pretty much expected but it is lightweight and strong. It won’t win prizes for luxury feel or design…but it does the job.

Durability

Given that the main body is constructed from Polycarbonate, I fully expect that Samsonite Winfield 2 range to be highly durable. The user reviews I have read to date confirm this to be the case too.

Another advantage of polycarbonate is the ability to deliver different kinds of finishes. On the Samsonite Winfield range, it is a brushed metal finish texture, which incidentally is really nice. It also means that it will hide scratches better than an ABS case for instance…or a glossy one.

If you want your case to look good for longer, this is an important consideration.

The zips are metal and are no doubt, Samsonite quality…which basically means that you should have no issues.

The hinges looked very robust too. It is a clam shell design so a strong hinge is imperative for long term reliability.

One thing I have learnt over many years when reviewing products, is to look at the overall fit. Does everything look like it was designed in unison? If so, it improves the functionality and durability in the end product. On the Samsonite Winfield 2 luggage range…clearly, they have. A win.

Finish

There should be no surprises here. Samsonite have a hard-fought reputation that they go to great lengths to protect and build.

The finish was great…everything was as it should be. Absolutely no surprises.

Design & Functionality

Main compartments

The design of the Samsonite Winfield 2 is a 50/50 clam-shell. Obviously, this means that it has a center opening. Both compartments are the same size.

One side has a fully zipped compartment area which is always very practical. It offers your contents more protection and stops things falling out.

Within the zipped compartment lid, there are two large zipped pockets. Again, these always prove to be very handy.

On the other side, you have an open section with adjustable luggage straps attached. I personally prefer two fully zipped compartments but I can see the rationale behind one. It’s not a deal breaker by any stretch of the imagination.

Front compartments

There are no compartments or pockets on this range, including the carry-on version. On the larger cases, this is expected and not an issue.

On carry on versions, I think it should be integrated into the design. It is almost a necessity as it allows you to keep your travel documents easily accessible. This might well be an important issue for some…but not all. Something to consider anyway.

Capacity

The capacity on this range is good. You don’t see a massive difference between ranges and brands as in most cases, it is determined by the dimensions. However, good design can make the most of what is available. Samsonite do this very well.

The available capacity is boosted by the ability to expand the case by two inches. Obviously, that is a welcome design choice that most would agree with.

If you do purchase the carry-on version intending to use the expansion capability, be warned, it may not fit within the carry-on limits set by airlines. This is applicable to any brand not just Samsonite.

Handles

The pull handle was very good in my test…very reassuring. With some manufacturers, they often feel weak for some reason. Not with Samsonite, the pull handle on this was reassuringly strong.

The little details make the difference. This range has a wider pull handle that makes handling the suitcase much easier. Definitely a good design choice. The grip is nice, comfortable and sure to last. I should probably add that the pull handle rises in stages which is great and given it is made from aluminum, it is very lightweight too.

Moving onto the carry handles, it was pretty standard stuff. They were retractable which means they sit very nicely when not being used. Pretty rigid on first use but I’m sure they will ease up over time with usage.

Locks

The Samsonite Winfield 2 luggage set comes with integrated TSA007 locks as standard. This is very much the industry standard these days but regardless, it is good to have. A little bit of extra protection is always welcome.

A point to note, if you are travelling to or within the US, it is a necessity to have TSA locks. Therefore, whatever suitcase you choose, ensure they have them integrated.

Wheels

The wheels are excellent. Full 360-degree maneuverability means they go where you want them too. It does make wheeling cases round so much easier.

As with all the blurb that manufacturers feed you, they only really mention the positives…as you will expect. What they don’t tell you is that once you move away from the comfort of the silky-smooth airport floors, the ride quality is not as good. This applies to all manufacturers, not just Samsonite.

Having said this, on rougher terrain, the Samsonite Winfield 2 was definitely at the better end of the scale…so some assurance at least.

Value

As I say in pretty much every review I do, value is very subjective as some people consider some aspects to deliver more value than others. I do this too as I have a strong preference for good brands and great warranties. That is simply a result of the amount of traveling I do.

However, I try to be more balanced in reviews and try and put myself in the position of the average buyer.

All things considered, the Samsonite Winfield 2 luggage range offers exceptional value for money…exceptional! Why do I say this? The range is coming to the end of its life cycle which means heavy discounting. You can get a great price on them right now, up to 50% in some circumstances.

Even at full price, I would have probably said they offered value, at the discounted price, it is a no brainer.

Verdict

For the average person, the Samsonite Winfield 2 review shows that this is the perfect suitcase range. Strong, durable, well built and backed up by a fantastic warranty, I struggle to see why it would not meet peoples needs.

When you factor in the discount pricing, it becomes an absolute steal. For a newer model with exactly the same specifications and materials, you can be asked to pay three times as much.

It’s not going to win any awards for sheer beauty but judged as an overall package…it’s hard to beat this deal. Have a look on Amazon, this is where the best prices are being offered currently.

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FAQ’s

Is Polycarbonate better than ABS plastics for luggage?

Yes, polycarbonate is better than ABS in almost all circumstances. It is stronger, more durable and weighs much less. It is much less likely to crack a if it gets dented, you can push it back into shape.

Is Samsonite a good brand?

Samsonite is a great American brand that has been trading for well over 100 years. They are the biggest luggage company and the biggest selling one. They have a huge following based on the quality of their products and their fantastic service levels.

Is a warranty important when considering what suitcase to buy?

It is one of my prime considerations. I travel a lot so I need the reassurance that if there is a problem, it can be dealt with quickly. What I don’t want is a suitcase that may be cheaper but breaks easily. It is a false economy.

I want a suitcase that is strong and robust…and should a problem develop, it gets dealt with quickly and efficiently.

Is the Samsonite Winfield 2 20” carry on accepted on all airlines?

The simple answer is no. YOU need to check what the size limits are with the airlines that you fly with frequently. Most airlines have different restrictions as they fly different kinds of planes. You therefore need to ensure you meet their requirements, otherwise you may be forced to check your carry-on luggage.

How long is the warranty on the Samsonite Winfield 2?

The range has a limited 10 year global warranty. This covers any production and material issues.

Since you are here…Can i ask a favor?

It would be really nice if you could pin this image on Pinterest…it’s just a couple of clicks for you …but it means everything to us.

Thank you so much 🙂

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Citations

The Guardian