Is it small enough to carry on?

It is sold as a carry-on spinner, but at 9.9 lbs empty and 31.5 L it is on the heavy, compact side. Check your airline's weight limit before packing it full.

What is the Suitor packing cube?

It is a crush-proof compartment inside the case designed to hold folded garments flat. It protects suits and shirts but takes up part of the 31.5 L interior, and it lifts out when you want the full space.

Does it have a TSA lock?

Yes. A TSA-approved lock is built into the case, so security can open it without cutting the zippers.

How much does the expansion add?

The zip expansion adds 1.25 inches of depth. That helps on the return trip but can push the bag past some carry-on size limits.

How does it compare with a hard-shell carry-on?

The softside body flexes into tight bins and the Suitor cube protects clothes, but a hard shell resists scuffs better and usually weighs less.

Is the Silhouette 18 worth it over a cheaper softside carry-on?

It earns its keep on the hardware: Aero-Trac suspension wheels, a RightHeight handle and a built-in TSA lock are features budget softsides often skip. The trade-off is the 9.9 lb empty weight and 31.5 L of packing room.