Top-Opening Suitcases
Top-opening suitcases that pack from above instead of splitting in half. The lid lifts up when the case is laid flat, giving you one deep cavity to layer into with full visibility of contents. You only need the footprint of the case itself to pack, not double the space like a clamshell. Available across two ranges in carry-on, medium, and large sizes.
The Glide range is the original line with German polycarbonate shells, Hinomoto wheels, and TSA-approved locks. The Glide Elite range builds on the same foundation and adds a rivetless aluminium frame and wheel lock to the same top-opening design. Both ranges share the same packing functionality, the same shell material, and the same wheels. The medium suitcase (around 65L) suits trips of one to two weeks. The large (around 92L) handles longer trips or travellers who pack heavier.
For carry-on top-opening, the Glide Elite Carry-On Pro is the only option in this design at cabin size. Browse the full travel luggage range for carry-on luggage, softshell options, and wheeled duffles. Pair any suitcase with compression packing cubes to get the most from the single-cavity layout.
Glide Elite Carry-On ProA carry-on built for airport stops: ZeroRoll wheel brakes keep it still, while the front pocket keeps your laptop and passport within reach.
$280.00 AUD3.2 Kgs35L10 Year
Glide Elite Medium Check-InMost hard-shell cases split into two halves. Glide Elite opens from the top, so you pack from above into one deep cavity.
$370.00 AUD4.15 Kgs65L10 Year
Glide Elite Large Check-InLarge top-opening check-in luggage for extended travel, with one deep packing cavity and a rivetless aluminium frame for greater rigidity.
$450.00 AUD5.3 Kgs95L10 Year
Got questions?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a top-opening and a clamshell suitcase?
A clamshell splits 50/50 down the middle into two shallow halves and needs double its footprint to open. A top-opening suitcase lays flat and the lid lifts up from above, giving you a single deep packing cavity. You pack in layers with everything visible from above, and the case only takes up its own footprint. All Zoomlite Glide and Glide Elite suitcases use the top-opening design.
What is the difference between the Glide and the Glide Elite?
Both use the same top-opening design, German polycarbonate shell, Hinomoto wheels, and TSA lock. The Glide Elite adds an aluminium frame for extra structural rigidity and a wheel lock that holds the case still on slopes or moving surfaces.
What size suitcase do I need for a two-week trip?
The medium suitcase (around 65L) handles one to two weeks for most travellers packing a mix of light and mid-weight clothing. The large (around 92L) is better for longer trips, winter travel with bulky layers, or travellers who prefer extra room. Both sizes meet checked baggage requirements on all major Australian airlines.
How should I pack a top-opening suitcase?
Pack in layers with heavier items at the bottom and lighter items on top. Packing cubes work well with this design because they stack flat for a neat fit, and each layer is visible when you open the lid. Fill to around 80-90% capacity to prevent contents shifting during transit. The single cavity means no dividing your clothes across two halves.