away travel medium suitcase

Away Luggage Review: Are the Popular Carry-Ons Worth the Hype?

We put the internet's favorite suitcase through hours of testing to determine if it's worth buying.

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What I thought of the Away Carry-On

Should you buy away carry-on luggage, other types of away suitcases, more away travel products we like.

As an analyst in the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab, I have personally tested dozens of travel products, from carry-on luggage and smart suitcases to hardside luggage and travel backpacks . After putting the Away carry-on through our rigorous Lab evaluations — which include using specialized equipment to analyze scratch and water resistance, as well as an obstacle course to measure wheel performance and maneuverability — I was blown away by this bag for being impressively lightweight, scratch resistant, easy to maneuver and fitting everything in our packing tests. In fact, it landed the top spot for carry-on luggage in our roundup of the best luggage brands of 2024 .

The bottom line: Away luggage is absolutely worth investing in.

What is Away luggage?

Away is a travel gear brand that offers a variety of travel accessories, including checked suitcases , backpacks , packing cubes and weekender bags . The brand originally went viral for its carry-on featuring a removable battery that can charge your phone on the go, but Away has since stopped offering battery packs with its suitcases as most people already own portable chargers .

Away's Carry-On and Bigger Carry-On are the brand's two most popular items — they are made from the same materials and have the same features but in two different sizes. In the brand's most recent update to its luggage line, the standard Carry-On now has a slightly larger packing capacity and is a bit heavier than the previous model. I put the new standard Carry-On to the test in the Textiles Lab and I used the Bigger Carry-On during a recent vacation to find out if Away luggage is actually worth buying.

Away The Carry-On

Away The Bigger Carry-On

When it comes to luggage material, polycarbonate reigns supreme over other hardside materials like plastics. Away carry-ons are made with polycarbonate, which is extremely durable and more lightweight than metals like aluminum.

Polycarbonate bags typically ace our drop tests, which involve GH pros filling a suitcase with a set weight and releasing the luggage from a 3-foot height. We repeat this test at various angles and note any damages and imperfections. As suspected, after I dropped it from different angles using our drop tester, the Away carry-on showed no dents, damages or changes in appearance .

During testing, we also use a wire to scratch the surface of the suitcase and then rate any scuffs or marks left behind. Compared to other suitcases, Away's carry-on aced our scratch-resistance testing, showing very minimal scuffs and remaining in great condition . Because marks and scuffs are inevitable on hardside luggage, the suitcases also come with a magic eraser sponge, so you can easily buff the outside of your suitcase when scuffs appear to keep your luggage looking fresh trip after trip.

I gave Away's handles lower comfort scores, compared to the other carry-ons I tested. They felt a bit wobbly and less sturdy than other carry-on handles, and they don't offer any padding at the grip. The newest iteration of the brand's carry-on luggage features an additional underside grab handle near the wheels to help make it easier to stow and retrieve from an overhead bin.

The 360º wheels rolled easily over a variety of different surfaces when I was at the airport, including linoleum, tile and carpet. Testers agreed, finding this suitcase easy to maneuver through our obstacle course and over different floorings.

A carry-on absolutely has to hold everything you need for your vacation. Away carry-ons have massive interiors , clocking in at 39.8L for the Carry-On and 47.9L for the Bigger Carry-On. When you open the suitcase, there's equal packing space on both sides. One side is a large zippered compartment, and the other is open with compression straps to keep everything in place. There are also zippered pockets for smaller items, so nothing gets lost at the bottom of your suitcase. For ultimate organization, pair the suitcase with the brand's mesh packing cubes , which excelled in our recent packing cubes test and fit perfectly in the carry-on.

I was impressed with just how much I could fit in the Bigger Carry-On — enough for a whole week's vacation without needing a checked bag. It was easy to keep all my belongings organized, and I especially loved the included laundry bag that kept my dirty clothes separate. This bag came with a stylish leather luggage tag in a similar color to the suitcase that keeps my contact info accessible if my luggage gets lost. (Remember not to put your home address on your luggage tag and instead just your email address or phone number.) Away luggage also features TSA-compliant locks to keep your belongings protected.

Starting at $275 for the Carry-On, Away luggage isn't cheap. But for the cost, you get a sleek suitcase made with durable high-quality materials and a well-organized interior for easy packing. At a similar price to our other top-tested luggage brands, like TravelPro and Samsonite , Away carry-ons aren't the most expensive suitcases I've tested either. (Both Tumi and Rimowa carry-ons start at $650, for example.) The brand also boasts an impressive 100-day return period on unused products, so you have lots of time to decide if it's the right fit for you. Note that personalized products and final sale items are not eligible for returns or exchanges.

If you love its chic appearance and durable polycarbonate shell, Away luggage can be worth the investment. But if you're ultimately in the market for something more affordable, I suggest checking out our top-tested picks from Target and Amazon Basics .

Besides the famous carry-ons, the brand offers a few other styles of suitcases. There are checked sizes of the polycarbonate luggage as well as aluminum styles. The checked bags are made with the same durable polycarbonate material as the carry-ons and match in appearance if you're looking to create a stylish set.

I haven't yet tested Away's aluminum carry-ons , but I am wary of the higher price tag (starting at $675) and additional weight (10.1 lbs compared to 7.5 lbs for the polycarbonate version). Beyond that, it does feature an overall similar design with 360° wheels and a telescopic handle.

Away also offers Flex styles of its polycarbonate suitcases. These suitcases expand for an additional 2.25" of space to fit all the extra goodies you bought on vacation. However, when the suitcase is fully expanded, it no longer works as carry-on luggage and must be checked. Note that this style has a higher price tag than the brand's traditional polycarbonate carry-ons.

Away The Carry-On: Aluminum Edition

Away The Carry-On Flex

Away The Medium

Away The Large

In addition to the brand's suitcases, GH analysts have tested a variety of travel products from Away. We were especially impressed by Away's Everywhere Bag (available in standard , medium and large sizes), which held an impressive amount in our Lab tests and was a favorite among testers for its sleek look and roomy, well-organized interior. The brand recently launched a trendy quilted version too!

Away The Large Everywhere Bag

Away The Insider Packing Cubes (Set of 6)

Away F.A.R Convertible Backpack 45L

Away The Everywhere Zip Backpack

Emma Seymour (she/her) is a senior product analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she has led testing for luggage, pillows, towels, tampons and more since 2018. She graduated from Cornell University with a bachelor of science in fiber science and apparel design and a minor in gerontology, completing research in the Body Scanner Lab on optimizing activewear for athletic performance. 

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The Complete Guide to Away Luggage: All Models, Explained

Away’s line of modern luggage shook up the industry with its millennial appeal, inclusive branding and direct-to-consumer prices.

By Monica Mendal and Evan Malachosky

Every product is carefully selected by our editors. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission.  Learn more

When it comes to luggage, few brands come to mind. Most of those that do bear remembering are often storied, legacy brands with top-tier price tags. Luxury brands like Hermés, Globetrotter and Rimowa have built their brands on craftsmanship and exclusivity; their customers occupying an income bracket that rarely finds itself flying coach. But in recent years one brand has flipped the luggage market on its head. That brand is Away .

Products in the Guide

The carry-on, the carry-on with pocket, the bigger carry-on, the bigger carry-on with pocket, the daily carry-on with pocket, the carry-on flex, the bigger carry-on flex, the medium flex, the large flex, the aluminum carry-on, the aluminum bigger carry-on, the aluminum medium, the aluminum large, f.a.r duffle 40l, f.a.r duffle 55l, away f.a.r duffle 70l, f.a.r backpack 26l, f.a.r messenger 16l.

Best Travel Bag for Trips With Cell Service

F.A.R Tote 45L

The small toiletry bag, the large toiletry bag, the hanging toiletry bag, the tech case, the large tech case, the shoe cube, the everywhere bag, the large everywhere bag, airline approved pet carrier, away, from 2015 to now.

Started by Stephanie Korey and Jennifer Rubio in 2015, Away changed the market by viewing itself as not a luggage company, but a travel company. They’ve pivoted the stale notions of what a luggage brand traditionally had been and turned it into a lifestyle that was enviable yet inclusive, appealing to the millennial market through clever social media strategies. The lifestyle harps less on a luxury jetsetting way of travel and more on the worldly experience of travel itself. Away’s editorial arm, Here Magazine , reinforces the brand’s lifestyle approach, offering insightful city guides coupled with essays on travel and interviews.

Undoubtedly the previous experience at eyewear brand Warby Parker had some influence on Away’s approach and decision to go direct-to-consumer. This model, as many other modern DTC brands are quick to point out, circumvents the need for third-party vendors (the middleman), cutting the traditional retail markup from the equation; the customer gets a premium product for almost half of what they would have expected to pay. For Away, that means hard shell luggage with 360-degree spinning wheels and modern amenities like rechargeable batteries to juice up your electronics on your travels.

Its strategy has proven extremely successful and Away has experienced lightning-fast growth in its short existence, achieving a company evaluation of $1.4 billion valuation in 2019.

What to Look for

If you’re new to Away, begin your relationship with a suitcase and you’ll immediately understand the appeal. Airports worldwide are inundated with the brand’s sleek, lightweight, durable and affordable hardshell suitcases, which you can buy as a set if you’re hoping to save money.

This is a luggage brand where you can bundle two or three suitcases for the price of what one might cost you with other brands. Buy a carry-on and add a Medium or Large to save $50 or buy the full set of three and save $100. Most items, like the pet carrier and the brand’s best-selling Everywhere Bag can even be personalized for the low price of $35.

Away’s first outdoor travel line, the extensive F.A.R. collection is a worthy option for adventure travelers seeking outdoor travel gear that is both functional and sustainable yet affordable.

Polycarbonate Suitcases

Away’s first line of luggage came was its suite of hard shell luggage bags, each made with a tough and lightweight polycarbonate shell. Each bag comes in a variety of sizes and feature combination locks, 360-degree spinning wheels, leather luggage tags, an interior compression system to keep your belongings secure and a hidden laundry bag.

• $295.00 at Away

The Carry-On comes in 13 color options, including several limited-edition colorways. It can fit in most airplanes and can come with a removable 34-watt lithium-ion battery to charge your electronic devices.

• Exterior: 21.7″ x 13.7″ x 9″
• Interior: 20″ x 13.5″
• Weight: 7.1 lbs / 8.1 lbs with battery
• Capacity: 39.8L

The Carry-On with Pocket

• $325.00 at Away

This version of the Carry-On comes with an exterior zip pocket, available in either nylon or a soft pebbled leather. The pocket features a lockable zipper, an easily-accessible exterior pocket and convenient interior pockets sized to fit phones and passports. The pocket can fit a laptop up to 15 inches.

• Weight: 7.7 lbs / 8.7 lbs with battery
• Capacity: 38L
• Pocket: 15.75″ x 10.6″ x 1″

• $3,237.00 at Away

Slightly bigger than the Carry-On, the Bigger Carry-On can hold about nine more liters than its little brother. It comes in 15 different colorways and also has the option for a battery.

• Exterior: 22.7″ x 14.7″ x 9.6″
• Interior: 21″ x 14.5″
• Weight: 7.4 lbs / 8.4 lbs with battery
• Capacity: 47.9L

• $345.00 at Away

The Bigger Carry-On also includes a version with its own exterior pocket and comes in five colorways for both the nylon and the leather pockets.

• Interior : 21″ x 14.5″
• Weight: 8.1 lbs / 9.1 lbs with battery
• Capacity: 46L
• Pocket: 16.5″ x 11.25″ x 1″

The Daily Carry-On with Pocket

• $245.00 at Away

The Daily Carry-On with Pocket is made for the traveler who makes frequent short trips. It’s Away’s smallest adult-sized bag and features a convenient removable accordion which can fit laptops up to 15 inches.

• Exterior: 16.5″ x 17″ x 9″
• Interior : 16.1″ x 15″ x 7.5″
• Weight: 8.1 lbs
• Capacity: 36.9 L
• Pocket: 13″ x 11″ x 1″

The Medium features a capacity of 68.8 liters and is available in 15 different colorways.

• Exterior: 26″ x 18.5″ x 11″
• Interior: 24″ x 17.5″
• Weight: 9.9 lbs
• Capacity: 68.8L

• $375.00 at Away

At just over 99 liters, this is the largest bag Away makes. It comes in 12 different colorways

• Exterior: 29″ x 20.5″ x 12.5″
• Interior: 27″ x 19.5″
• Weight: 11.6 lbs
• Capacity: 99.2L

Expandable Suitcases

These suitcases offer a little extra room, which is ideal for overpackers. Plus, while earlier iterations were softsided, these are made from polycarbonate.

The Carry-On Flex allows you to travel light to your destination and gives you the option to expand for your return home, should you pick up souvenirs on your trip. As this is the smallest carry-on, depending on the size of the plane, you may be able to carry it on even when it’s fully flexed.

• Weight: 8.15 lbs
• Capacity: 39.8 or 46.7L

The Bigger Carry-on Flex

This is a good option if you need slightly more space for the ride there with the option to expand into a checked bag for when you’re traveling home with that bottle of wine you picked up in Tuscany.

• Weight: 8.55 lbs
• Capacity: 47.9 or 55.7L

• $395.00 at Away

You’ll need more space in the winter months so consider traveling with The Medium Flex, big enough to store a pair of boots and your winter coat, while also providing additional expansion for your return.

• Weight: 10.8 lbs
• Capacity: 68.8 or 75.7L

• $340.00 at Away

The Large Flex is the solution for extended stays. Traveling for over a month? This suitcase will get you there with all of your necessities and provides you the flexibility to expand because we know how much you’ve accumulated in souvenirs throughout your month-long excursion.

• Weight: 12.25 lbs
• Capacity: 99.2 or 107.8L

Aluminum Suitcases

This is Away’s most premium line of luggage, with each size of its popular suitcases rendered in a lightweight and ultra-durable aluminum shell. Each bag comes features the same details as its Softside Suitcases with the addition of a clip-in pocketed panel. While each is available in four slick colorways, only the Carry-On bags have the optional battery.

The Carry-On: Aluminum Edition

• $625.00 at Away

A sleek and durable design for a short trip, the aluminum carry-on also features a removable battery.

• Exterior: 21.5″ x 13.5″ x 9″
• Interior: 19″ x 12.5″
• Weight: 10.1 lbs / 10.7 lbs with battery
• Capacity: 35L

The Bigger Carry-On: Aluminum Edition

• $645.00 at Away

Offering slightly more space than its smaller counterpart, the aluminum bigger carry-on also features a removable battery.

• Exterior: 22.7″ x 14.5″ x 9.6″
• Interior: 20″ x 13″
• Weight: 10.6 lbs / 11.2 lbs with battery
• Capacity: 40.9L

The Medium: Aluminum Edition

• $725.00 at Away

The aluminum medium is durable enough to handle the behind-the-scenes chaos of baggage handlers and is lightweight with 360 degree spinner wheels that’ll allow for smooth transitions across airports and city streets.

• Interior: 23.2″ x 17″
• Weight: 13.3 lbs
• Capacity: 64.6L

The Large: Aluminum Edition

• $745.00 at Away

The aluminum large is for the heavy packers who still want to look sleek gliding to your destination.

• Interior: 26.3″ x 19.2″
• Weight: 16 lbs
• Capacity: 95.1L

Away F.A.R.

Away’s F.A.R. collection stands for For All Routes and is Away’s first outdoor travel line designed for all sorts of adventure travel. Featuring an expansive line of duffles, backpacks, messenger bags, pouches and totes, each item in the F.A.R. collection is dynamic and functional and is made from recycled water- and abrasion-resistant materials.

F.A.R. Duffle 40L

• $150.00 at Away

The 40L duffle is the most compact duffle in the F.A.R. line and fits belongings for up to a four-night trip.

• Exterior: 12.2″ x 21.7″ x 9.8″
• Weight: 2.3 lbs
• Capacity: 40L

F.A.R. Duffle 55L

The 55L duffle is large enough for a week-long trip and also comes in a large assortment of colors.

• Exterior: 14.2″ x 25.6″ x 11″
• Weight: 2.8 lbs
• Capacity: 55L

F.A.R. Duffle 70L

The Duffle 70L is the largest of the F.A.R. duffles and fits as much as a checked suitcase.

• Exterior: 15.7″ x 27.5″ x 11.8″
• Weight: 3 lbs
• Capacity: 70L

F.A.R. Backpack 26L

The ideal backpack for hikes, outdoor excursions and exploring a new city, the F.A.R. Backpack 26L is lightweight and functional, featuring two water bottle holders to stay hydrated on-the-go.

• Exterior: 19″ x 12.6″ x 7.7″
• Weight: 0.78 lbs
• Capacity: 26L

F.A.R. Messenger 16L

• $44.00 at Away $80.00 (45% off)

This lightweight messenger bag comes with a trolley sleeve ideal for travel days and is made from lightweight polyester, making it a comfortable accessory for daily use exploring a new city.

• Exterior: 11.8″ x 15″ x 3.2″
• Weight: 0.95 lbs
• Capacity: 16L

F.A.R. Convertible Backpack 45L

Away F.A.R Convertible Backpack 45L

• $220.00 at Away

This lightweight backpack with padded straps converts to a duffle and features interior and exterior compression systems that help hold up to five-days’ worth of travel essentials.

• Exterior: 21.7″ x 13.6″ x 9.5″
• Weight: 3.32 lbs
• Capacity: 45L

F.A.R. Tote 45L

• $3,237.00 at Away $140.00 (-2212% off)

Perfect for a day trip or as a personal item aboard a flight, this spacious 45L tote features interior and exterior pockets and a top buckle closure to keep all of your valuables secure.

• Exterior: 14.8″ x 23.6″ x 9″
• Weight: 1.77 lbs

This sleek, small toiletry bag is a compact option ideal for short trips.

• Exterior: 8.3″ x 3.15″ x 5.5″
• Weight: 6 oz
• Capacity: 2.3L

If you have a more extensive skincare routine, opt for the large toiletry bag, which features three compartments and an exterior pocket.

• Exterior: 10.2″ x 3.7″ x 5.9″
• Weight: 8.8 oz
• Capacity: 3.6L

• $75.00 at Away

If you’re traveling somewhere with minimal surface space, the hanging toiletry bag is your best solution.

• Exterior: 9.6″ x 3.74″ x 6.6″
• Weight: 13 oz
• Capacity: 3L

• $44.00 at Away $55.00 (20% off)

There will be no more tangled cables with Away’s simple, yet functional tech case.

• Exterior: 6.3″ x 4.7″ x 2.95″
• Weight: 3.7 oz
• Capacity: 1.4L

Traveling abroad and need to pack an assortment of adapters? You’ll likely need more space.

• Exterior: 8″ x 3.2″ x 5.5″
• Weight: 6.7 oz
• Capacity: 2L

The Insider Packing Cubes

Maximize your packing space using Away’s packing cubes, which will help compress and organize everything inside your suitcase so nothing’s left behind. It comes in a set of four and six .

• Small Wide: 10″ x 4.1″ x 8.25″
• Medium Slim: 10″ x 4.1″ x 4.3″
• Medium Wide: 13″ x 4.1″ x 10″
• Large Slim: 13″ x 4.1″ x 6.9″

• $35.00 at Away

Separate your shoes (up to two pairs) from your clothes using Away’s handy storage cube.

• Exterior: 8.66″ x 5.1″ x 13.8″
• Capacity: 10L

• $165.00 at Away

The Everywhere Bag comes in two styles and colors: a water-resistant blue nylon and a durable pink leather style, both featuring a 15” laptop pocket, an umbrella pocket and a roomy interior ideal for your one personal item.

• Exterior: 16.3″ x 7.3″ x 10.2″
• Interior: Fits a 15″ laptop
• Weight: 2.6 lbs
• Capacity: 20L

The Everywhere Bag (New)

• Exterior: 16.3″ x 10.2″ x 7.3″
• Weight: 2.75 lbs
• Capacity: 19L

The updated version to the brand’s original silhouette features a wrap-around zip opening for easy access and a trolley sleeve that fits over any Away carry-on. It also comes in an assortment of five neutral colorways.

• Exterior: 20.9″ x 11.8″ x 9.4″
• Weight: 3.8 lbs

• $225.00 at Away

A stylish pet carrier that comes in two colorways and an option for customization also features trolley sleeves to slide over your suitcase and latches to fasten into a car seat belt to keep your pet safe. It also comes with a fuzzy fleece bed and water-resistant lining to keep them cozy.

• Exterior: 18.7″ x 10.8″ x 10.75″
• Weight: 4.3 lbs
• Capacity: Fits pets up to 18 lbs

Softside Suitcases

Away introduced its line of Softside Suitcases in 2019 as a lightweight and expandable counterpart to its line of hard shell suitcases. They’ve since been discontinued, despite clear audience demand. “I spoke to [someone at] the store and they said people ask for it every day,” Caitlyn Shaw, Gear Patrol’s Associate Director, Product and Marketing, says.

Related Topics

The 7 Away Luggage Pieces We Recommend Most

By Rachel Chang

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

I distinctly remember the moment I first laid my eyes on an Away suitcase . One of my coworkers had been talking nonstop about her new carry-on, and before heading out of town one day, she rolled the hard-shell spinner into the office. Like a proud new homeowner, she took our team on a tour through its features, leaving me mesmerized by its built-in compression straps and portable battery pack, as well as its stylish and sturdy design.

Though awestruck, I didn't immediately purchase my own; I was never one to invest in baggage—and the introductory price—$225 when it first hit the market—was beyond what I thought luggage was worth at the time. Following an ill-fated journey to Australia , in which I found my checked bag split open on the baggage carousel, the zipper having burst after I overstuffed it, I knew it was time to upgrade.

My first Away bag was The Bigger Carry-On , and despite having previously thought of luggage as glorified boxes to transport my travel essentials, I was immediately obsessed. For an overpacker, I was surprised how much I could stuff into the suitcase. Constantly slipping in “just one more” thing in, the zipper always held tight and the shell showed no signs of bulging. While on the go, the light glide of the wheels could tackle any surface, even cobblestone streets. Plus, the sleek, minimalist design just jived with me.

Shown in green

Being the space hog I am, I later upgraded to The Bigger Carry-On Flex , which added an extra 2.25 inches of expansion, meaning even I was able to go on a two-week trip with just a carry-on . As much as I’ve banged it around and overstuffed it, it’s remained impervious to my abuse.

These days, I often see other brands trying to mimic Away's features—a sign of just how much it’s changed the luggage industry. What makes it all the more surprising is that Away is still a relatively new company, having roared onto the market in 2015, with one simple goal: understanding travelers.

“From the beginning, we set out to expand the conversation around travel, solving real world travel pain points by keeping an incredibly close pulse on our customer’s needs,” Away’s chief marketing officer Carla Dunham says. “We dissected and developed a solution to all of the common headaches of travel while revolutionizing what it meant to be a travel brand.”

Founded by two female former Warby Parker executives, including Jen Rubio, who still serves as the CEO, Away was sparked by her own broken baggage disaster, noticing there was a hole in the market for luggage that was fun and functional.

After talking to hundreds of travelers, the initial carry-on was designed to meet all the most common needs—a lighter and stronger hard-side with an impact-resistant polycarbonate shell that moved easily with premium 360-degree wheels, with thoughtful features like a snap-in mesh laundry bag to keep clean to separate clean and dirty laundry, and a removable battery pack to eliminate the fight for the airport outlets.

The result wasn’t just success—the brand quickly entered the zeitgeist. Stars from Margot Robbie to Mandy Moore were spotted toting them , and Meghan Markle is believed to have given 17 Away bags as party favors at her baby shower. They've turned up on screen, too. Dunham says her favorite pop culture moment was when Portia tossed her Away away in The White Lotus. “It seemed so natural that she had an Away suitcase and that spoke to the brand’s unique position in culture and continued relevance.”

Since launch, the price points for the standard editions—which now start at $315 for The Carry-On and go up to $475 for the newly introduced The Trunk —have gone up, and are a notch above what casual or new travelers may be used to paying, but are still fairly reasonably priced for the suitcases' quality.

The brand has ventured into other travel accessories since launch, too, with both hits ( packing cubes ) and misses (travel pillows, now discontinued)—and added an outdoor collection, F.A.R., last year . It continues to evolve based on the needs of the moment. With the growing number of power outlets available on flights and around airport terminals these days, Away just phased out its distinctive built-in battery charger from its core product last month, as part of its first major refresh of its original classics line .

“Each update is incredibly intentional—from the improved features like a redesigned zipper shape, additional interior organization, and an updated trolley system, to the fresh color palette and new gloss finish, underscores how we obsess over every detail to make the journey smoother for our customers,” Dunham says.

As the brand continues to evolve, more updates and new products are sure to come, but some of the products remain staples. Here, we round up the Condé Nast Traveler team’s most-used Away bags and accessories.

This article is part of Condé Nast Traveler' s first-ever Luggage Week , for which dozens of suitcases, backpacks, and weekender bags were road-tested by our editors.

Weight: 7.9 lbs. Dimensions: 23" x 15" x 10" Capacity: 47.9L

A recent convert from a larger suitcase that often had to be checked, editorial assistant Jessica Chapel says the refreshed Bigger Carry-On suitcase “does wonders,” especially since she can fit almost as much in this more compact hardside spinner, which she recently took on a five-day trip with plenty of room to spare. She’s already traveled with the 7.9-pound bag by plane, bus, and car, and put it to the test when delays allowed her only 15 minutes to get between gates. She swiftly pulled the bag out of the overhead compartment thanks to “the perfect mix of convenient handle placements and the texture of the luggage,” put the bag on top of her head—an unconventional carrying method, to be sure—and sailed through the crowd. “It's the little things, including the unique placement of the luggage's underside handle—with a small dash of adrenaline—that certainly does the trick for easy access without any shuffle, which is exactly what's needed in an airport rush,” Chapel says. (She made her connecting flight in the knick of time.)

Also notable, she says: the interior lining, mesh, and drawstring laundry for dirty clothes (no longer snapped, as part of the refresh), are made of recycled polyester. Deputy global editorial director Jesse Ashlock concurs, having depended on the classic version for more than three years now, calling it a “solid workhorse polycarbonate bag that suits a lot of different trip styles.” I recently tried the updated version of The Bigger Carry-On, and was able to pack enough for a weeklong California getaway; I am especially loving the additional inner pockets to keep my essentials more organized.

Weight: 10.4 lbs. Dimensions: 26" x 19" x 11" Capacity: 68.8L

During a two-week car trip to Rhode Island and Martha’s Vineyard, destinations editorial assistant Charlie Hobbs brought along the “perfectly light” 10.4-pound medium check-in sized hardside, able to fit enough in to not have to do laundry the entire getaway. The interior of the upgraded version—which he found “unassuming”—includes more storage pockets: The compression flap, which used to have just one large zipper mesh compartment, is now divided into two zippered sections on one side with an added large pocket on the backside. Additionally, the zipper closure for the top half of the suitcase now has a zippered pocket on it. He also noticed what’s perhaps the most commonly called-out downfall of Away’s hardsides: “Despite only ever being in the car, this bag is already quite scuffed up,” he said. (When I was in Estonia with two other travel writers last month, looking at our three Away bags, we commented the same thing.) Each suitcase does come with Away's own version of a Magic Eraser that helps remove light scuffs, though a bit of elbow grease might be needed to get them out. That said, Hobbs found the 360-degree wheels rolled “perfectly well” and appreciated the new ergonomic curved zippers. Like Chapel, he found the luggage easy to lift up in a bind, when he had to put it on the roof of a Toyota for a ferry ride, noting it was easy to sling it up, “thanks to the side handles.”

Weight: 8.15 lbs. Dimensions: 22" x 14" x 9" (not expanded) Capacity: 39.8L

“The joy of this luggage is its simplicity,” global director of audience development Lara Kramer says. At 8.15 pounds, this model has the expandable 2.25-inches of zipper space going from 39.8 liter capacity to 46.7 liters, providing “the luxury of expanding to add more room if needed,” she adds. She and her husband both use it as their carry-on suitcase—in part because it moves so well, “gliding smoothly and easily with its 360-degree spinner wheels.” Otherwise, she finds the other features “pretty straightforward,” also noting the issue of the exterior scuffing “very easily,” especially noticeable on a dark suitcase. “They're generally surface scuffs and not hard to buff out, but against the black color, it can look pretty jarring,” she adds. That said, Kramer says, “I still truly love this piece and it has continued to hold up despite many uses.”

Weight: 2.45 lbs. Dimensions: 12" x 6" x 18" Capacity: 20L

Simplicity comes first with this water-resistant nylon backpack, available in five subtle monochromatic shades, that CNT editors have called “functional” with “a classic look that you won’t tire of.” As a freelancer whose backpack is her office, that timeless look also means the backpack strikes the right balance of being professional (I’ve toted it to business meetings and events), travel-friendly (I’ve also taken it on day trips to the Jersey Shore and Long Island), and casual (it’s also doubled as my exercise bag for spin class). When I got caught in the rain at the US Open in New York, the raindrops wicked right off, and the bag's contents stayed dry. But my two favorite magic tricks of this bag are the extended clamshell-style zipper, which opens the main compartment and makes it just as easy to take something out of the bottom as the top, and the bag's weight distribution. Whether it’s the padded straps or the mesh back panel, it somehow makes the contents feel lighter—I’ve stopped at least twice to make sure my laptop was actually inside the 15-inch sleeve. Plus, the thoughtful number of pockets are great for storing little essentials.

Weight: 1.74 lbs. Dimensions: 19" x 13" x 8" Capacity: 26L

When it comes to travel backpacks, I’m far pickier than with luggage. I need an uber-spacious main compartment and every zipper and pocket needs to be just in place—so much so that I used the same ratty old Vans Off the Wall one for well over a decade. While I recently tested out a new Tumi backpack, I never liked the placements of its pockets. Enter the F.A.R. Backpack 26L. The main compartment is deep and wide open, yet still has a slip pocket in the back for my laptop. Hidden behind it is another zippered compartment that fits a 15-inch device. The front pocket is surprisingly roomy too, with tons of organizational pockets—plus, there are two water bottle side pockets, each able to hold a 32-ounce container. Add to that the fact the entire bag is only 1.74 pounds and it still fits under the seat in front of me on planes.

While the Everywhere Zip may be sufficient for day trips, personally, I do need the space of the 26-liter bag to fit my basic travel essentials for anything that includes an overnight stay. Plus the shell is tougher for more rugged travels, whether it's outdoor adventures or multi-stop itineraries, where it may be subject to more use. That said, I am still learning to trust mine completely. On two occasions, the zipper has opened on its own and I didn't realize until contents spilled out. But both times were when I was leaving hotels in a rush, so it's possible I didn't properly zip it.

Weight (full set): 0.7 lbs.

Dimensions: Small: 10" x 4" x 8" Medium slim: 10" x 4" x 4" Medium wide: 13" x 4" x 10" Large: 13" x 4" x 7"

Before I tried Away’s packing cubes, I was a skeptic of the travel accessory as a whole. Other cubes I had seen were either bulky, or felt rough, cheap, and pointless. Admittedly, when I first saw this innocuous set from Away, I was still doubtful. But as it turns out, this set of four nylon water-resistant zip bags with one mesh side are as subtle as they are useful. In the smallest one, I’m able to stuff in all my “just in case” accessories—a foldable running cap, beanie, scarf, gloves, and swimsuit, and tuck it into a teeny corner of the suitcase. The medium slim is perfect for organizing my underwear, packing them vertically, Marie Kondo–style , while the medium wide fits my bras, tanks, and socks. The final one, the large slim, rotates between storing pairs of shoes or other bulky items. They all fit together like Legos in my suitcase, weighing a combined 0.7 pounds—well worth it for keeping me organized on the go.

Weight: .8 oz. Dimensions: 6" x 8" x 3" Capacity: 0.5 gal.

When I first got this bag, I didn’t think I’d ever use it. It wasn’t quite a dry sack, it wasn’t quite a travel pouch. It was an in-between hybrid that I saw no practical use for. But then one day when I was running out the door, holding too many chargers in my hands, I tossed them in there—and it’s become my go-to tech accessories bag, traveling with me both on trips and in my everyday life. Made of water-resistant recycled ripstop nylon, it repels accidental spills (mostly coffee, in my case), but is so thin and sturdy that it doesn’t take up much space. The recycled nylon handle also makes it easy to grab when I’m trying to fish it out of my bag. Use it for chargers and cords, toiletries, or any other odds and ends, and know that there are small and large versions if you want a full set.

Away Medium Vs. Large Luggage: A Comprehensive Review

Choosing the right luggage can be as critical as planning your itinerary for that perfect vacation. The quest for the perfect travel companion brings us to Away, a renowned brand known for their stylish, durable, and innovative suitcases.

Today, we’ll compare the Medium and Large luggage sizes from Away to help you make the best choice for your travel needs.

A Brief Comparison Table

Away medium luggage: compact yet capacious.

The Medium suitcase from Away can be the ideal choice for you if you’re planning a week-long trip or even an extended weekend getaway.

Designed to be checked, the Medium stands at a neat 26″ x 18.5″ x 11″, offering ample space without the hefty size.

Pros of Away Medium Luggage

• Perfect Balance Between Size and Capacity: With a capacity of 68.8 liters, the Medium offers a good balance between portability and packing space. You can comfortably pack outfits for a week, making it perfect for most travelers.
• Lightweight: Weighing only 9.9 pounds, the Medium suitcase allows you to pack more without worrying too much about hitting weight limits.

Cons of Away Medium Luggage

• Limited Space: For those who love having plenty of outfit choices or travel with family, the Medium suitcase might fall short on space.

Also Read: Differences Between Showkoo And Coolife Luggage .

Away Large Luggage: Go Big or Go Home

On the other hand, the Large suitcase from Away stands at a significant 29″ x 20.5″ x 12.5″.

It’s made for those extended trips where you need to carry your world with you.

Pros of Away Large Luggage

• Spacious: The Large suitcase boasts a whopping 99.2 liters of packing space. If you’re the type who packs for every possible scenario, this is your go-to suitcase.
• Ideal for Families: Traveling with kids? You’ll appreciate the extra space. You can pack your whole family’s vacation needs in just one suitcase.

Cons of Away Large Luggage

• Weight: The Large suitcase weighs 11.2 pounds when empty. That’s almost a kilogram more than the Medium suitcase, potentially limiting what you can pack before reaching airline weight limits.
• Less Manageable: Given its size, the Large suitcase may be harder to maneuver in crowded spaces or narrow hotel hallways.

Key Differences Between Away Medium and Large Luggage

While both the Medium and Large luggage from Away promise top-tier functionality, their differences often make a critical impact on your travel experience.

Understanding these differences will not only help you in optimizing your packing but also in managing your travels more efficiently.

• Size and Capacity

The primary distinction between the two models lies in their dimensions and capacity.

The Medium suitcase stands at 26″ x 18.5″ x 11″ offering a volume of 68.8 liters, while the Large model measures a more significant 29″ x 20.5″ x 12.5″, providing a whopping 99.2 liters of packing space.

The Medium suitcase can comfortably pack a week’s worth of outfits, making it perfect for solo travelers or those who pack light.

On the other hand, the Large suitcase, with its extra 30.4 liters of space, is the ideal choice for extended trips, people who love having numerous outfit options, or family vacations.

Another crucial difference between the Medium and Large luggage from Away is their weight. The Medium weighs in at 9.9 pounds, while the Large tips the scales at 11.2 pounds.

Though a difference of just over a kilogram might seem insignificant, it can be the deciding factor when airlines impose strict weight limits.

• Maneuverability

The size of your suitcase can dramatically impact how easy it is to get around. The Medium suitcase, being smaller and lighter, is relatively easier to manage in crowded airports or narrow hotel corridors.

In contrast, the Large suitcase can be a bit more cumbersome to maneuver because of its size, especially when fully packed.

• Suitability for Trips

Depending on the type and length of your trip, you might find one size more suitable than the other. The Medium suitcase is best for trips of a week or less. The Large suitcase, with its ample space, shines for extended trips, especially those lasting more than a week.

It’s also the better choice for family vacations where one suitcase needs to pack for multiple people.

• Value for Money

While the Large suitcase costs more than the Medium, the value for money each offers depends on your individual needs. If you travel frequently and need extra space, then the Large suitcase, despite its higher price, offers excellent value. But if you’re a light packer or don’t travel as often, the Medium suitcase will serve your needs perfectly without the extra cost.

Also Read: Comparison of Cordura And X-Pac Backpacks .

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Choosing between Medium and Large luggage from Away really depends on your specific travel needs. If you are a light packer or travel solo, the Medium suitcase might be all you need. However, for extended trips or family vacations, the Large suitcase will give you the extra room you need.

The Medium suitcase measures 26″ x 18.5″ x 11″ and the Large suitcase measures 29″ x 20.5″ x 12.5″. This difference might not sound significant, but it translates into an extra 30.4 liters of space in the Large suitcase.

The best size for an Away suitcase varies depending on the individual’s needs. The Medium is ideal for solo travelers or light packers, while the Large is perfect for longer trips or family holidays.

If you’re a frequent traveler who requires extra packing space, the Away Large luggage is absolutely worth it. Its durable design and generous capacity make it a great investment for the frequent traveler.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, both the Medium and Large luggage from Away have their unique advantages.

By analyzing your travel needs and understanding the benefits and drawbacks of each size, you can make an informed decision that will best cater to your adventures.

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Away Large vs Medium (2021): Which Luggage Size Should You Buy?

Choosing which checked bag size to get from Away? The Large and The Medium from Away both provide plenty of space for extended trips, though you’ll likely find one size to be more suited for your needs. Here’s how to decide which one to get.

The Large is the biggest checked bag from Away. Made with durable polycarbonate shell, it's a suitcase built to last. Features 360° spinner wheels and a hidden laundry bag.

Away Large vs Medium Suitcase Comparison Chart

Design and size, storage space, packing and handling.

Both the Away Large and Medium suitcases have identical designs.

Away’s line of hardsided carry-ons and checked suitcases all feature the same distinctive design that catapulted the brand into social media stardom. With a sleek polycarbonate shell that’s both light and tough, Away luggage stands out among the competition, no matter which color you go for.

The only difference, of course, is their sizes. The photo above should help you visualize exactly how much larger The Large is over The Medium. The weight difference shouldn’t be too much of a concern since you’ll be loading it up and rolling it along with all the extra weight of its contents. What’s likely to matter is how well you’ll be able to maneuver them around, in which case The Medium should be much easier to guide than The Large.

The Large has a lot more space than The Medium.

It might not seem like it, but The Large has roughly 50% more packing space than The Medium. That’s a lot, and it might be more than what you might need for shorter trips. Depending on clothing thickness, you should be able to fit enough clothes for three weeks or more in The Large, while The Medium should be sufficient to hold two to three weeks’ worth.

The Medium from Away features a polycarbonate hard shell, whisper-quiet 360-degree spinner wheels, and TSA-approved combination lock for durability, ease of use and security.

This will of course vary depending on your personal preferences when packing. As such, those who like to feel prepared and bring more items than the essentials will want the extra capacity of The Large.

Just like their exteriors, the interiors of The Large and The Medium are identical. The compression system should help you squeeze every available cubic inch of space in the bottom compartment while the zippered top half should hold shoes and other items in place through transit.

The Medium will be easier to handle than The Large.

Perhaps the biggest consideration you’ll need to make when choosing between The Large and The Medium is how long (or short) your next trip is, and whether any future ones would be similar. The Large is definitely the pick if you’ll be away for a month or so or if you need to bring thicker clothes for colder climes. Otherwise, it’s too big for trips that only last a week or two.

If you tend to pack light, The Medium will afford a lot of room and it’s just the right size for optimal storage space and handling. Still, if you have the tendency to bring a lot of souvenirs back home, then you’d appreciate having the extra room of The Large.

As mentioned earlier, the larger size and added weight of a fully packed Away Large suitcase will be a bit more challenging to guide through crowded terminals and busy city streets. The 360 degree spinner wheels will prove their worth here, making even heavily loaded bags smooth to walk.

The Large is the safer checked luggage pick over The Medium.

A larger suitcase is simply a much safer purchase if you need your luggage to be big enough to hold clothes for several weeks. The Large from Away is a bit more flexible whether you need a hardside suitcase for an extended trip or a longer one, whereas you might find yourself wishing for more space if you acquired The Medium and end up going on a long vacation in the future.

That said, those who pack light and are certain they won’t be needing to bring too much when traveling will find The Medium from Away much easier to bring along while still providing plenty of space.

Choosing between the Medium or the Large Away suitcase largely depends on how long your trips tend to be and how much you feel comfortable packing. The Medium is more than sufficient for shorter travels, though the Large can be the safer pick when you do need to go on a longer trip.

For carry-ons, 29-inch suitcases are too large for both domestic and international flights. Luggage of this size needs to be checked, so you’ll want suitcases that are roughly 21-22 inches to get through carry limits on most airlines.

Each airline has its own rules in enforcing luggage size limits. Most will use rigid metal sizers to check whether a passenger’s bags can fit within the airline’s carry-on limits.

The Large luggage from Away weighs 11.6 pounds or 5.26 kg.

Derick Bondoc

Managing Editor at Compare Before Buying. Writer and researcher passionate about gadgets, gaming and snacks.

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Away Vs. Paravel: Which Suitcase Is Best?

I’ve been a longtime fan of Away Travel’s medium size suitcase . It’s been my go-to suitcase for years, and is, at this point, well -used. I’m such a fan that I had stopped even looking at other suitcase brands — I was done. Lately, however, we’ve been getting more and more questions about suitcases because there are now a ton of brands making chic hardside suitcases, all very similar to Away.

So. In this video , I’m comparing my well-used Away suitcase (in size medium) to Paravel’s Aviator Grand suitcase (one size only, but similar).  

A Hardside Suitcase Comparison: Away ‘The Medium’ Vs. Paravel ‘Aviator Grand’ Checked Luggage

There’s a price difference (Away’s medium suitcase is $325, Paravel is $425), a slight size difference, and Paravel boasts some sustainability claims, as well as a seriously beautiful package inside & out.

So…which one do I recommend?

You might be surprised. 🙂

Products featured in the video:

Away Suitcase , Medium, $325 (in white)

Paravel, Aviator Grand , Checked Luggage, $425

Away garment bag , Medium/Large, $85

Away packing cubes , set of 6 (in ‘coast’), $65

Paravel packing cubes , set of 4 (in ‘safari green’), $65

What I Look For In A Suitcase

Just as a little background, when I’m looking for suitcases for air travel, there are a few things I’ve determined to be non-negotiable: 

1. It needs to be a hard-side suitcase. Soft suitcases or — worse — duffels(!!) leave too much up to the Airline Baggage Gods. Squished shoes and bags, broken toiletries…no thanks. It’s gotta be hardsided.

2. The suitcase has to be big enough to fit everything I need for two-three weeks…but lightweight enough so I’m not in danger of going over airline weight limits. The size suitcase that I tend to be the most happy with is around 26″ X 18.5″ X 11″.

3. When the suitcase is opened, I’m looking for an internal design where each side of the suitcase is completely secured — zippered panel, compression panel, something . That way, if I ever need to open up my suitcase in the airport, my belongings aren’t exploding out everywhere.

My Away suitcase was one of the first suitcases on the market to meet all of my requirements: it’s a perfect size, it’s lightweight, and it has a compression panel and a zippered side panel. Additionally, I’ve been really impressed with their customer service, too. When a corner of my Away suitcase got cracked during travel, they replaced it immediately (overnighting the new one so I would have it in time for my next trip). 

That said, Paravel suitcases also meet my requirements. They have the most gorgeous interiors I’ve ever seen, and they make some sustainability claims. The shell is recycled polycarbonate, the zippers are recycled, the lining is made from 15 recycled plastic bottles*, the leather details are recycled vegan leather, and the telescopic handle is made from recycled, aircraft-grade aluminum.

* Side note: when plastic bottles get recycled into more plastic bottles….this loop is continuous, and works. But when fashion (or suitcase companies) remove plastic bottles from this working system and put them into a suitcase…the plastic can no longer be recycled. And recycled plastic is actually cheaper than virgin plastic, so I’m not totally convinced this isn’t some form of greenwashing. That said, this is a super-complicated issue, and Paravel is certainly making other moves in this area that are laudable. I just couldn’t let the plastic bottle thing go without pointing it out.  Here’s an article that explains this issue well.

Anyway, if any of you guys own one of these suitcases, I’d love to know what you think. Or if there’s another other suitcases you’d like me to review (I’ve been hearing more & more about Monos ), let me know!

Happy adventures…

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The bottom line

Away flex luggage review: i wish away had made its hardshell suitcases expandable years ago — now they're perfect.

When you buy through our links, Business Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

A quick glance at our Away luggage review and our guides to the best luggage and best carry-on bags will show you that we're big fans of Away luggage. So when the direct-to-consumer startup launches a new product, it grabs our attention.

Most recently, that was the Polycarbonate Flex , Away's line of expandable hard-sided luggage that launched in 2021 in both carry-on and checked sizes. I tried the Medium Flex to see how the new features worked, and whether the expandable option meant this habitual over-packer could fit everything needed without opting for the largest suitcase possible.

Here's what you should know about the Flex line and how mine held up over the course of a cross-country trip, multiple hotel stays, and moving homes.

Design and specs   

The Flex offers the durability of Away's original hard shell combined with a built-in exterior zipper that provides an additional 2.25" for carry-on sizes and 1.75" for checked baggage.

That's pretty cool, but it's important to note that when fully expanded, the carry-on will be too large to fit overhead and must be checked, according to airline baggage guidelines.

These Flex suitcases have all of the same smart features you've come to expect from Away, like a TSA-approved combination lock, 360° spinner wheels, an interior compression system, an underside grab handle, a hidden laundry bag, an eraser for tackling any scuffs, and a removable, washable lining. 

No matter the size you choose, these features come standard with a sleek and durable exterior that looks exactly like the original polycarbonate hard shell bag from Away , just with the addition of the expandable zipper.

In fact, all the basic measurements for every Flex bag are the same as its original counterpart, aside from the expandable feature, which adds a bit of weight.

For example, with the Medium Flex, the exterior and interior measurements are exactly the same as Away's original Medium bag, at 26" x 18.5" x 11" for the exterior and 24" x 17.5" on the inside. 

Both have a capacity of 68.8 liters, too. That is, until the Flex expandable zipper is utilized, which brings the limit to 75.5 liters. As such, the Flex weighs about a pound more, 10.8 pounds compared to 9.9 pounds for the original Medium.

So, whether you choose the Carry-On Flex , the Bigger Carry-On Flex , the Medium Flex , or the Large Flex , you'll have the same dimensions as the original, just with the option to add more room.

What it's like to use

I used the Medium Flex as one of my checked suitcases when I moved cross country with my family. So, as you can imagine, I had a lot to pack.

I used the Flex to pack most of my daughter's belongings, which included clothes, baby towels and burp cloths, toys, books, diapers, and more. It made its way through two airports and multiple hotels where it was packed and unpacked with different items, such as mine and my husband's clothes and toiletries. 

As such, it went through a lot of use and was packed to the brim on more than one occasion. 

I found the interior to be roomy and able to fit a lot, even when I forgot to use my trusty packing cubes. The compression panel helped secure my items, but when I over packed the side with a zipper panel, I struggled to close it.

Had I purchased the original Medium with no expandable option, I'm confident I would not have been able to fit everything I needed or more likely, close the bag at all. The expandable, heavy-duty zipper was what made it possible. 

Once we were on our way, the suitcase was easy to push, pull, and spin the bag as I navigated my airline check-in with multiple bags and a baby stroller in tow.

I really appreciated the soft touch of the handle as well, which had a subtle button feature that felt more sophisticated than a traditional one.

Fully packed to the brim, my suitcase came in around 40ish pounds at check-in. I'm confident that if I used the Large Flex, I would have packed too much with the expansion function leading to an overweight bag and that embarrassing struggle at the airline counter to pull things out and rearrange to avoid a surcharge. 

But since the Medium weighs less and is smaller than the Large, I appreciated the inadvertent safeguard from truly overpacking.

The TSA-approved lock was easy to set and secure and I had no problem locking my bags and dropping them off at security. I did notice that once I reached my destination the locks had been opened by security and not locked again. However, that is likely more a result of the TSA agents' actions as opposed to an issue with the bag itself.

My navy blue shell came out with a few scuffs along the way, including some white marks. I used the provided Magic Eraser-style sponge to buff them out, and while it did lighten them, it did not remove them altogether. But in all, the bag held up extremely well.

What makes the Away Flex stand out

All of the Away Flex bags are functional, thoughtfully designed, and in this case, provide more space than a standard-size suitcase thanks to the expandable zipper. It's the only line of Away hard luggage with this feature.

Signature Away features are also included, such as a TSA-approved combination lock, 360° spinner wheels, an interior compression system, a hidden laundry bag, and a removable, washable lining.

Starting at $260 and $276 for carry-on sizes and $316 and $340 for the Medium and Large Flex sizes respectively, it's similarly priced to other mid-tier premium competitors and designed to last for life. 

All Away bags come with a 100-day trial and free shipping and returns, so long as it's not personalized (which incurs an extra $50 fee), in which case it may not be returned unless there is a defect covered under the lifetime warranty.

The expandable feature comes in handy when you have a lot to pack. However, it may also be a risk if you're flying on a major commercial airline and exceed the weight limit for checked bags. So, keep that in mind when you're throwing everything possible into your Flex. I know that if I had the Large Flex, I absolutely would have gone overweight. This is, of course, less of a problem with smaller bags that weigh less.

Additionally, when fully expanded, carry-on sizes cannot be placed in overhead bins and must be checked. That seems to defeat the purpose of choosing a carry-on unless you don't plan to use it primarily for air travel. 

Away's polycarbonate Flex bag is the suitcase we've been waiting for since day one. Now you can enjoy all the features of their signature hardshell suitcase with the option to expand for more space. 

Just be careful with overpacking the Large, lest you pay overweight airline baggage fees, and know that both carry-ons can't be placed overhead on an airplane when fully expanded.

Pros: Sleek design, expandable feature, adjustable handle, 360 spinner wheels, included laundry bag, option for personalization

Cons: Carry-on Flex must be checked when fully expanded, scuffs easily, Flex suitcases weigh more than original options

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Away’s New Holiday Suitcases Will Brighten Up the Baggage Carousel—and They’re 20 Percent off Right Now

Savings on the sparkly suitcases in the luggage brand’s limited-edition holiday collections start at $63 off..

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The Holiday Collection launched November 9 with a metallic two-tone color combo.

Courtesy of Away

Away is having its biggest suitcase sale ever November 16 through 27, 2023. Save 20 percent off all suitcases , including the ones in its two limited-edition holiday collections. The discount is automatically applied at checkout.

Throughout the year, there’s a rainbow of colors to pick from in Away’s lineup of popular polycarbonate suitcases. But the limited-edition shades in the direct-to-consumer luggage brand’s annual holiday collections tend to be some of its best—and the most likely to sell out. Last year, Away introduced a shiny, iridescent finish in its Y2K-inspired line , while in 2021, glittery suitcases in glossy red, black, and yellow hues were the items to grab. In 2020, the brand introduced an ombre style, and a lucky few were able to grab a limited-edition chrome suitcase in 2019 .

On November 9, Away launched the second part of its limited-edition luggage collection for the 2023 holiday season. (The first release came out on October 24—and is still on sale.) Prices originally ranged from $35 for organizational pouches to $455 for checked luggage, but Away is marking down all suitcases 20 percent—including the ones in these holiday collections—between November 16 and 27, 2023.

Find out more about each new collection below.

The Holiday Collection

Away’s second holiday drop (out November 9) features the brand’s Bigger Carry-On and Medium polycarbonate suitcases in a metallic, high-shine finish in a color combo called “Holiday Chrome” with a dark cranberry hue on the back shell and pearlescent rose gold on the front shell. A corresponding two-tone packing cube set is also available.

“Holiday Chrome” is a two-tone combo of shimmery rose gold and dark cranberry.

Holiday Chrome polycarbonate suitcases and travel accessories

• Buy now: The Bigger Carry-On, $252 (was $315), awaytravel.com
• Buy now: The Medium, $292 (was $365), awaytravel.com
• Buy now: The Insider Packing Cubes, $55, awaytravel.com

The November 9 release also includes a Circle Zip Pouch and the Luggage Tag & Charm Duo in festive metallics called “Glitz” (silver) and “Glam” (gold).

Away’s 2023 Holiday Collection includes several accessories like the luggage tag and small pouch seen here in “Glam” (gold) and “Glitz” (silver).

Glitz and Glam travel accessories

• Buy now: “Glitz” Circle Zip Pouch, $40, awaytravel.com
• Buy now: “Glitz” and “Glam” Luggage Tag & Charm Duo, $30, awaytravel.com

The Magenta Collection is still available to shop.

The Magenta Collection

The Magenta Collection was released on October 24 with one new color and one new pattern for Away. Magenta is a bold, glossy shade of hot pink that will be nearly impossible to confuse for another suitcase at the baggage carousel. It’s available in Away’s Bigger Carry-On , Large , and Trunk sizes, as well as a few select travel accessories like the brand-new Quilted Everywhere Crossbody and the Circle Zip Pouch .

Magenta is available in three suitcase sizes, including the new extra-large checked “Trunk” bag.

Magenta polycarbonate suitcases and accessories

• Buy now: The Large, $316 (was $395), awaytravel.com
• SOLD OUT: The Trunk, $364 (was $455), awaytravel.com
• Buy now: Quilted Everywhere Crossbody, $65, awaytravel.com
• Buy now: Circle Zip Pouch, $35, awaytravel.com

Alpine Landscape, meanwhile, is a multicolored-style pattern that Away says is inspired by nature; it feels like the halfway point between camouflage and a marbleized print in pops of blue, green, magenta, and yellow. This pattern is available in just one size of the suitcase— the Bigger Carry-On —as well as a few select accessories.

The “Alpine Landscape” pattern in this holiday collection is available in the Bigger Carry-On suitcase.

Alpine Landscape polycarbonate suitcase and accessories

• Buy now: Circle Zip Pouch, $40, awaytravel.com

 All of the suitcases and travel accessories are sold online and at Away’s 16 brick-and-mortar stores everywhere from Washington, D.C. to Los Angeles. You’ll want to act fast, though: These limited-edition items have been known to sell out faster than Santa can down milk and cookies.

This article was originally published in October 2023; it was updated on November 16, 2023, with current information.

The 5 Best Hard-sided Luggage Picks of 2024

I n the world of luggage there are many factors to consider: the price, the size(s) you'll want for your journeys and the key features. One of the first decisions to make is if you prefer hard-sided or soft-sided luggage . If you like a sturdy, sleek and water-resistant exterior that you can easily wipe off, a hard-sided suitcase may be your perfect match.

From carry-ons to checked bags, there are countless hard-sided luggage options. To help narrow the choices, our editors tested dozens of bags on a variety of trips and surfaces. Read on to find the best hard-sided luggage options, tested and reviewed by our team of travel experts.

Category Navigation Box Enhancement : Table of Contents - Travel - The Best Hard-sided Luggage

(Note: Prices were accurate at the time this article was published; they may fluctuate due to demand or other factors. Original photos were taken by our editors during luggage testing.)

Polycarbonate vs. polypropylene vs. ABS

• Good – ABS: ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) is a durable, cost-effective material; however, it doesn't handle high temperatures or general misuse as well as its counterparts. ABS luggage works for those who travel infrequently.
• Better – Polypropylene: Polypropylene is lightweight and durable but has a lower impact resistance than polycarbonate. It's also a more cost-effective option.
• Best – Polycarbonate: Widely considered the best material for hard-sided luggage, polycarbonate is a hardy form of plastic. It's so durable that it's actually used in bullet-resistant glass. Polycarbonate luggage is essentially damage-proof.

Best Carry-on: ROAM Carry-On Front Pocket

Photo Gallery Enhancement : Travel - Photo Carousel - ROAM Carry-on Front Pocket

Price: $625 or less

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Constructed with durable polycarbonate in your personalized choice of colors, this suitcase was selected by U.S. News as the overall best piece of carry-on luggage . It has rounded corners for added durability and a flexible zipper for when you need just a tad more room. The front pocket is padded with foam to keep your laptop safe, and there's a zippered pocket, a key fob and a mesh pocket for easy access while traveling. The internal compartment has two removable compression panels with mesh pockets, and contents are kept secure with a TSA-approved lock.

Note: This carry-on is currently on closeout with limited color availability.

What our editors say:

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Best Checked: Away The Medium

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Price: $345 or less

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Away has mastered the recipe for hard-sided luggage that lasts: A 100% polycarbonate shell and sleek design combine to create ultra-lightweight bags that are virtually indestructible – and just plain pretty. Away's checked luggage encompasses The Large , The Large Flex (with expandability), The Trunk , The Medium Flex and finally The Medium – our personal favorite.

The Medium can accommodate at least a week's worth of clothing or more, depending on how you pack. Inside you'll find interior compression and plenty of compartments for organization. Other features include an underside grab handle (especially useful when pulling your bag off the belt at baggage claim), 360-degree wheels and a TSA combination lock.

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Raw HTML : Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Best Budget: Amazon Basics 20-Inch Hardside Spinner

Photo Gallery Enhancement : Travel - Photo Carousel - Amazon Basics 20-Inch Hardside Spinner

Price: $80 or less

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This affordable Amazon hard-sided carry-on piece is made of ABS, which means it's versatile and lasts even if exposed to inclement weather like rain and snow. The hard-sided textured design of this carry-on also means scuffs, scratches and dents are less likely to show on the exterior. Additional standout features on this bag include smooth double-spinner wheels, an additional zipper for expandability, interior pockets for organization and compression straps to allow you to fit as much as you need into it.

Text Callout : Travel - The Best Hard-sided Luggage - Amazon Basics 20-Inch Hardside Spinner

Best Lightweight: July Carry On Light

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Price: $245 or less

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Combining durability with lightweight construction, the July Carry On Light is one of the lightest hard-sided suitcases on the market. The exterior shell is made of aerospace-grade German polycarbonate. The bag also features a twin bar three-stop telescopic handle and double spinner wheels for balance and durability. The interior is divided into two compartments, separated by lightweight zippered mesh panels, and completed with a water-resistant nylon lining.

Text Callout : Travel - The Best Hard-sided Luggage - July Carry On Light

Best Expandable: Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On Hardside Spinner

Photo Gallery Enhancement : Travel - Photo Carousel - Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On Hardside Spinner

Price: $369.99 or less

Button Enhancement : Travel - Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On Hardside Spinner

The Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On Hardside Spinner is a high-quality suitcase that packs a punch. Made with a 100% polycarbonate, ultra-strong shell, the bag also sports aluminum corner guards for extra protection. The expansion zipper grants an extra 2 inches of packing room and includes a pocket for holding a power bank (not included) to connect to charging ports on the side of the bag.

This Travelpro luggage is equipped with a range of other helpful features as well, like self-aligning magnetic wheels, a TSA zipper lock and more. Inside the bag you'll find two large compartments and three pockets, so you'll have plenty of room to fit all your belongings even before using the expansion zipper.

Text Callout : Travel - Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On Hardside Spinner

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Our team of travel experts tested an array of hard-sided luggage across a variety of price points. We packed and took them on a variety of adventures, including weekend getaways and trips abroad. In addition to packability, the wheels and maneuverability were checked on multiple surfaces including asphalt, cobblestones, escalators, carpet and tile. We utilized our findings along with comparing unique features and our travel expertise to curate this list.

You might also be interested in:

• Hard vs. Soft Luggage: Which Type Is Right for You?
• The Best Luggage Sets
• The Best Luggage Brands
• The Best Checked Luggage
• Things You Should Always Pack in Your Carry-on Bag

Copyright 2024 U.S. News & World Report

This article may contain affiliate links that Microsoft and/or the publisher may receive a commission from if you buy a product or service through those links.

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The 50 Best Luggage Deals From the Amazon Big Spring Sale — Save Up to 72% on Samsonite, Travelpro, and More

But act quick, because these deals won’t last forever.

Best Carry-On Suitcase Deals

Best checked bag deals.

• Best Luggage Set Deals

Best Backpack and Duffel Bag Deals

Best crossbody, purses, and belt bag deals.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Reese Herrington

It’s officially spring and the first day of Amazon’s Big Spring Sale , and to say that I can’t contain my excitement would be an understatement. The deals are genuinely in a league of their own during the sale, and while everything from comfortable clothes to travel accessories have been marked down, some of the biggest savings are happening on luggage and travel bags . 

We’re talking about the Rockland Melbourne 2-Piece Set being discounted by a jaw-dropping 72 percent and duffel bags ringing in at as little as $10. Whether you’re on the hunt for a new carry-on ahead of your next trip or you’re looking to overhaul your travel gear for spring, you’ve come to the right place. I’ve rounded up the 50 best deals this week on suitcases, weekenders, crossbody bags, and more at Amazon that you won’t want to miss before the sale ends on Monday, March 25.

As an avid traveler, I can confidently say that everyone needs a good carry-on — but they're not all made equally. They need to be sleek yet incredibly spacious so you can get your personal belongings to your destination safe and sound. I personally was stoked to see my favorite Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable 21-Inch Carry-on on sale this week, but I’m also eyeing the TPRC Smart Underseat Carry-on that’s on sale for $53 today (and seamlessly fits underneath most airplane seats). 

• Rockland London Hardside Spinner Carry-On Luggage , $57 (originally $120) 
• Samsonite Underseat Carry-On , $105 (originally $145)
• Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable 21-Inch Carry-On , $149 (originally $180) 
• Tprc Smart Underseat Carry-On , $53 (originally $59)
• Wrangler Hardside Carry-On Suitcase , $40 (originally $50)
• AmazonBasics Hardside Spinner 20-Inch Carry-On , $73 (originally $79)
• Kensie Alma Hardside Spinner Carry-On Suitcase , $68 (originally $82)
• Kenneth Cole Reaction Lightweight Carry-On Suitcase , $70 (originally $90)
• Delsey Paris Helium Aero Hardside Carry-On Suitcase , $150 (originally $160)
• Ben Sherman Nottingham 20-Inch Carry-On , $50 (originally $90) 

Wrangler Hardside Carry-On Suitcase

Larger checked suitcases are imperative for international travel or longer vacations, but they need to be durable, roomy, and easy to maneuver. And for that, I recommend checking out the Samsonite Omni Checked Medium Suitcase that features a hardshell exterior and a secure, built-in TSA-approved lock. But that’s not all that’s on sale — consider the top-rated Travelpro Crew Versapack Softside Checked Medium Suitcase while it's $80 off this week, too. 

• Samsonite Freeform Checked 28-Inch Suitcase , $181 (originally $270) 
• Travelpro Crew Versapack Softside Checked Medium Suitcase , $240 (originally $320)
• Travelers Choice Pagosa Hardshell Expandable Checked Suitcase , $98 (originally $137)
• Samsonite Omni Checked Medium Suitcase , $125 (originally $200)
• U.S. Traveler Born Polycarbonate Checked Large 30-inch Suitcase , $89 (originally $100)
• Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside Expandable Checked Luggage , $366 (originally $430)
• Coolife Expandable Checked 24-Inch Suitcase , $90 (originally $100)
• AnyZip Hardside Lightweight Checked-Medium Suitcase , $85 (originally $100) 
• Sunnytour Lightweight Checked 24-Inch Suitcase , $90 (originally $110)
• American Tourister Checked Medium Suitcase , $96 (originally $150)

American Tourister Checked Medium Suitcase

Best luggage set deals .

While there are tons of carry-on and checked luggage deals to peruse, Amazon also has plenty of top-rated luggage sets on major sale for those hoping to revamp their collections entirely. The beauty of luggage sets is that not only do you score multiple bags, but they’ll also look incredibly sleek together. One of the best luggage sets that I’m seeing on sale is the Rockland Melbourne 2-Ppiece Set , which includes a carry-on and a checked bag for just $111. But this isn’t the only stellar deal of the week; snag the Wrangler Smart Luggage Set while it's only $61 or the Travelers Club 5-piece Luggage Set that features five pieces for just $150. All I know is that with these deals, you may never have to make another luggage purchase for a long, long time. 

• Samsonite Centric Hardside 2-Piece Luggage Set , $312 (originally $367)
• Coolife 3-Piece Luggage Set , $90 with on-site coupon (originally $100) 
• Rockland Expandable Softside 2-Piece Luggage Set , $40 (originally $95) 
• Rockland Journey Softside 4-Piece Luggage Set , $118 (originally $219)
• Rockland Melbourne 2-Piece Set , $111 (originally $400)  
• Travelers Club 5-Piece Luggage Set , $163 (originally $198)
• Steve Madden 4-Piece Luggage Set , $330 (originally $360) 
• Wrangler 2-Piece Smart Luggage Set , $61 (originally $75)
• Kenneth Cole Reaction Lightweight 3-Piece Luggage Set , $200 (originally $300)
• American Tourister Softside 3-Piece Luggage Set , $150 (originally $330)    

Steve Madden 4-Piece Luggage Set

Over the years, duffel bags and backpacks have risen as travel superstars, proving themselves to be ideal options for shorter trips and smart personal items to avoid checked bag fees. If you don’t already have a few go-to options in your travel repertoire, consider these sales your sign to change that, starting with the Narwey Foldable Travel Duffel Bag that's on sale for just $10 and the top-rated Matein Carry-On Travel Backpack available for $34 this week. 

• Matein Carry-On Travel Backpack , $34 with on-site coupon (originally $52)
• S Zone Duffel Bag , $43 (originally $90)
• Lovevook Weekender Bag , $17 (originally $24)
• Shrradoo Extra-Large Travel Backpack , $28 (originally $33)   
• Etronik Weekender Bag , $36 (originally $50)
• Coowoz Large Travel Backpack , $34 (originally $37)
• JanSport Superbreak Backpack , $32 (originally $36) 
• Maelstrom Hiking Backpack , $36 with on-site coupon (originally $40)  
• Narwey Foldable Travel Duffel Bag , $10 (originally $15)
• Under Armour Medium Duffel Bag , $40 (originally $60) 

Shrradoo Extra-Large Travel Backpack

We’ve rounded up the best deals to get your personal belongings from point A to point B, but what about when you’ve arrived at your destination? Everyone needs a great bag to roam around with, and fortunately, Amazon has tons of crossbody bags, belt bags, and much more to choose from. I’m particularly eyeing the Lanul Belt Bag while it's on sale for a mere $10, and I’m adding the $20 Montana West Shoulder Bag to my cart for nights out on the town. 

• Montana West Shoulder Bag , $20 (originally $23)
• Maxtop Large Crossbody Bag , $15 (originally $20) 
• Valleycomfy Casual Corduroy Tote Bag , $14 (originally $16)
• Haoguagua Clear Shoulder Bag , $5 (originally $9)    
• Lanul Belt Bag , $10 (originally $17) 
• Etidy Waterproof Crossbody Bag , $26 (originally $38)
• Westbronco Crossbody Bag , $25 (originally $32)  
• FashionPuzzle Small Crossbody Bag , $16 (originally $25)
• Filoto Running Belt Fanny Pack , $11 (originally $13)
• Venture 4th RFID-Blocking Travel Money Belt Bag , $22 (originally $30)

Venture 4th RFID-Blocking Travel Money Belt Bag

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Moscow - Sheremetyevo Airport (SVO) transfer to Moscow - Vnukovo Airport (VKO)

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Aeroexpress with a suitcase - Moscow Forum

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Aeroexpress with a suitcase

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Thank you all in advance for your help.

> Can anybody tell me if there is a limit for the size of luggage one can carry on to aeroexpress trains?

3.1Each fare-paying or child passenger is entitled to transport hand luggage in passenger section of the carriage of up to 36 kg, and of height-width-length dimensions of no more than 180 cm. The hand luggage must be placed on luggage racks, irrespective of its type and contents. Hand luggage of up to 50 kg may be conveyed aboard the train for an extra fee defined by the fare rate.

> can anybody advise me if it would be a hassle to travel with aeroexpress + metro from SVO to my hostel? I am arriving SVO at 10am and my hostel is five minutes walk from Kitay-gorod

It kind of depends on your personal definition of hassle, but you will be traveling well clear of the rush hour. I would not call that hassle.

I would have the hotel pick me up at the Bello station. You would be at the metro after rush hour, but a bag as big as you say is not easy getting around the metro with. I do not believe there is a bag limit size for the Aeroexpress as many people would have several of them to carry on? AIM.

Marassa and AIM,

Thank you very much for your advise. I will see if my hostel offer a pick-up service for reasonable price. If not, I will just use the metro; I am glad to know using the metro with my luggage would not be too much of a hassle.

First of all, read the Metro how-to to see what you are up against

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Travel-g298484-c79491/Moscow:Russia:How.To.Use.The.Metro.html

Also from Bello to K Gorod you will have to transfer twice, the signs are all in Russian, so not very informative... fast escalators... multiple station exits which can put you far away from where you want to be if you pick the wrong one... this is a hassle in my book.

Wow, a hostel which will pick one up? Go for it! I do seem to recall hearing this before...

I also agree with Vladchan...the Metros can be a bit daunting at first...if you only had a straight shot, maybe...but there are also often bunches of stairs to be negotiated, etc. NOT fun with even the smaller amount of luggae you mention...

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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