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.

Choosing the right size top-opening suitcase

Medium vs Large for checked luggage

The medium suitcase at around 65L is the right fit for trips of one to two weeks, or for travellers who pack light on longer trips. The large size at around 92L suits extended travel, winter trips with bulky layers, or anyone who prefers extra room rather than tight packing. Both sizes check in on all major Australian airlines. If you're deciding between the two, consider what you pack rather than how long the trip is. Travellers who pack mostly light clothing (t-shirts, shorts, dresses) get further with the medium. Travellers packing heavier fabrics, multiple pairs of shoes, or items for varying climates tend to need the large size.

Glide vs Glide Elite

Both ranges use the same top-opening design, German polycarbonate shells, Japanese Hinomoto wheels, and TSA-approved locks. The Glide is the original range available in medium and large check-in sizes. The Glide Elite builds on the same foundation, with an aluminium frame for added structural rigidity and a wheel lock that keeps the case stationary on slopes or on moving trains. The Glide Elite is also available as a carry-on. The packing experience is identical across both. The choice comes down to whether the aluminium frame and wheel lock matter for how you travel.

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.

Continue exploring

Carry-On Luggage Anti-Theft Bags Travel Bags & Backpacks Packing Cube Sets Large Suitcase Packing Set