Why I might never travel without my Away luggage

Years ago, while passing through Munich International Airport, I had a really mortifying travel moment: my overstuffed, flimsy suitcase burst open on the luggage claim belt, sending my clothes spilling in all places. I’ll always remember the older man who kindly handed me my underwear — his face marked by a glance of secondhand embarrassment. After that, I made myself a promise: never again would I travel with an affordable suitcase.

When it got here time to finally spend money on quality luggage, I didn’t hesitate. About seven years ago, I purchased my first piece from Away Luggage, and I haven’t looked back since.

I began with the Greater Carry-On in light pink (later upgraded to the expandable version in black), then added The Large for longer trips, and most recently, The Medium — now my go-to each time I want to ascertain a bag. It’s secure to say I’m an Away loyalist for all times.

From the cobblestones of Rome to the icy roads of Reykjavík, choppy ferry rides in Bora Bora to the dirt tracks of Patagonia, these bags have handled every sort of terrain — and still look great doing it.

Through all of it, my Away luggage has never let me down. And on the rare occasion something did go incorrect, their customer support made it right immediately — often replacing an element (and even the entire suitcase) with only one quick email or call.

The brand was founded in 2015 to create durable, stylish, and functional travel gear. They provide a variety of hard-shell suitcases in various sizes, together with packing accessories and travel bags.

What makes Away different?

For starters, you get incredibly durable and high-quality suitcases for an incredible price point. The brand’s original line of suitcases costs $395 or less. They are available a wide range of colours and sizes and now have dozens of accessories equivalent to packing cubes, tote bags and more that fit perfectly with all Away luggage.

In addition they offer a 100-day trial (or return policy) and an incredible lifetime warranty.

Away luggage warranty covers:

• Cracks or breaks within the shell
• Wheels, handles, or telescoping handles that break off and aren’t any longer usable
• Zippers that may now not be opened or closed
• Fabric tears that render the front pocket fabric non-functional

My Review

While I’ve tried a wide range of Away models through the years, nowadays The Greater Carry-On Flex, The Medium and The Large are on constant rotation depending on my travel needs.

For long weekends, I reach for The Greater Carry-On Flex. After I’m checking a bag but still need to travel light, The Medium gives me the additional space without the majority. The Large is my go-to for prolonged getaways, big moves, or trips where I’ll be planted in a single or two places—like a tropical escape to Hawaii with stops on a few islands. But when I’m hopping between cities every few days, especially in Europe with cobblestones galore, I’ll follow The Medium to avoid lugging an excessive amount of around.

Durability

While you may just about throw your Away luggage across the room without worrying about real damage, like all hard-shell suitcase, expect just a few scuffs and scratches after some use. After I was selecting my first Greater Carry-On, I debated between classic black and lightweight pink. In the long run, I went with the fun alternative: pink. Each that carry-on and my black Medium suitcase have their justifiable share of markings, but nothing that detracts from their overall look or quality. The structure has held up beautifully, and the cosmetic wear is just an indication of well-traveled bags.

As previously mentioned on this review, just a few years later, I upgraded to The Greater Carry-On Flex in black, not because of injury, but because adulting meant trading pink for black and eventually admitting I at all times overpack.

Size and Space

The inside compression systems inside each of Away’s luggage have been a game-changer in relation to the variety of items I can pack.

Just just a few months before the pandemic hit, I traveled to Iceland for 4 nights in January 2020. (It was an unforgettable experience and my last international trip for nearly a 12 months, though I’d recommend getting in spring for longer daylight and more predictable weather.) I managed to pack snow boots, sneakers, two thick cable-knit sweaters, and all my other cold-weather essentials into my Greater Carry-On.

Similarly, in 2024, I packed for 2 climates on a 2.5-week trip to Argentina using my Medium suitcase, which held thick sweaters, denim, rain boots, a puffer jacket, and more — no problem in any respect.

Specific Specs (Greater Carry-On)

• Exterior: 22.7″ x 15.4″ x 9.6″ (57.7 x 39.1 x 24.4 cm)
• Interior: 20.9″ x 15″ x 7.9″ (53.1 x 38.1 x 20.1 cm)
• Weight: 7.9 lbs (3.6 kg)
• Capability: 47.9 L

Note: dimensions include wheels.

Other features include a durable polycarbonate shell, 360 degree spinner wheels, a TSA-approved combination lock for enhanced security, an interior compression system to assist maximize packing space, water-resistant polyester laundry bag, an extra grab handle (positioned on the underside for straightforward lifting) and my favorite spec of all, a nesting capability for efficient storage at home. 

Pros & Cons

Since I’ve tested several sizes and models through the years, for this section, I’ll concentrate on the Greater Carry-On for clarity.

Personalizations

Away offers a few fun ways to make your suitcase feel more personal. For $50, you may add a hand-painted monogram (up to a few letters) by Recent York artist Jen Mussari, with several font and color options to pick from. While that is my favorite customization feature by far, you may also add an engraved luggage tag for $10 if you happen to’re in search of something more subtle.

How We Tested

All three suitcases were put through the wringer over seven years of travel, tested on multiple flights across a variety of airlines — including tiny hopper planes in French Polynesia. They endured hotel transfers, baggage claims, automobile rides, and lots of overhead bin Tetris. Each was packed to full capability (not a tough feat!) to evaluate space and structure. For the carry-on, we also ran it through TSA checkpoints to judge ease of laptop removal, liquid access, and bin compatibility.

We scored each bag using the next criteria:

• Durability: Based on visible wear after repeated flights and handling
• Functionality: Interior organization, ease of transport, and built-in features
• Design & Aesthetic: Style, color options, and social feedback (yes, compliments count)
• Value: Overall quality in comparison with price and competitors

The Final Verdict

As a travel enthusiast and commerce journalist of nearly seven years, I’ve tried my justifiable share of suitcases through the years. Even when my sister worked at one other luxury luggage brand for 4 years, I didn’t reap the benefits of her (very generous) family discount. My loyalty to Away runs too deep.

I really like how sleek they appear, how easy they glide and most significantly, how long they last! With 40 countries under my belt and plans to ascertain many more off the list in the approaching years, I can happily say that I won’t be letting go of my Away Luggage anytime soon.

In the event you’re considering giving Away Luggage a try, you’ve got nothing to lose. Their 100-day return policy helps you to travel with it, truly put it to the test, and if it’s not for you, send it back for a full refund or exchange. But truthfully? I doubt you’ll need to.

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