The 7 Away Luggage Pieces We Recommend Most

By Rachel Chang

A collage.

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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.

A suitecase.

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.

away travel red luggage

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.

away travel red luggage

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.”

away travel red luggage

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.

away travel red luggage

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.

away travel red luggage

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.

Away FAR Pouch in small

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 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.

pink away suitcase

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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

The Carry-On

Away The Bigger Carry-On

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 .

Image no longer available

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.

an empty away carry on laid open flat on a white table, good housekeeping's luggage review

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 .

preview for How to pack 20 outfits in one hand-luggage suitcase

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.

The Carry-On: Aluminum Edition

Away The Carry-On: Aluminum Edition

The Carry-On Flex

Away The Carry-On Flex

The Medium

Away The Medium

The Large

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!

The Large Everywhere Bag

Away The Large Everywhere Bag

The Insider Packing Cubes (Set of 6)

Away The Insider Packing Cubes (Set of 6)

F.A.R Convertible Backpack 45L

Away F.A.R Convertible Backpack 45L

The Everywhere Zip Backpack

Away The Everywhere Zip Backpack

Headshot of Emma Seymour

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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Away Travel Carry-On Luggage Review [Worth Buying?]

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Away Travel Carry-On Luggage Review [Worth Buying?]

Away Travel Luggage

Style and look, size and compartments, durability and materials, lock and zippers, warranty and customer service, away carry-on alternative sizes, away travel luggage with a pocket, kids’ carry-on, the aluminum range, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Luggage these days is much more than just a way to carry your stuff from home to the hotel and back again. Rebooted and redesigned, suitcases are now more stylish than ever, with smart features and sleek upgrades that have made them Instagram-famous and utterly desirable.

American luggage brand Away has gone back to basics with bags and cases that are designed to work with you and offer creative solutions that help you enjoy your travel experience better.

Every piece in its collection has been thoughtfully designed to function perfectly and provide practical solutions to real-life travel problems.

From carry-ons to checked luggage and daypacks to a garment bag, every piece from Away has an attractive minimalist aesthetic on the outside, complemented by interiors that will transform the way you carry your belongings.

Bottom Line: With compression compartments to maximize your luggage load, hardshell exteriors that can be thrown around and still look super chic, and even a hidden battery to charge your devices on the go, the people at Away may just have created the ultimate suitcase.

Away Travel Carry-On Luggage Review

Away Luggage

With a hard, impenetrable shell, The Carry-On looks sleek and minimalist , and will never be out of place being pulled through any cosmopolitan metropolis or high-tech airport.

Unlike most monotone hipster carry-alls, The Carry-On is available in a range of colors, including navy, coast grey, sky blue, green, asphalt, white, sand, blush, and violet. Finding the right color to suit your personality shouldn’t be a problem.

Away Luggage compartments

Sized to fit in the overhead luggage compartments of most major airlines , this is practically the perfect carry-on . Measuring 21.7 x 13.7 x 9 inches on the outside, you can stow above or below every time you fly.

On the inside, you’ll find 2 separate compartments. A large zippered compartment to one side will deftly house your shoes, toiletries, and other hard objects. While to the other side, there is an impressively large open space for your clothing. The internal measurements are 20 x 13.5 inches with a total capacity of 39.8 liters.

Away Luggage compression straps

Want to fit more in? One of the absolute best bits of the Away brand cases is the unique interior compression system .

Much more than just a couple of straps to pull around a bulging clothes pile, this offers an entire semi-rigid panel on top that squashes down to give you those all-important extra inches of interior space when you need it.

Away luggage pocket

If that wasn’t enough, the case also comes with a washable laundry bag that folds up when not in use. While the bag isn’t huge, it’s fine to keep dirty items separate over a long weekend.

Away Luggage hard shell

Made from an impenetrable shell that bends under pressure, but never breaks, The Carry-On offers first-class construction.

The sturdy, hard-wearing polycarbonate outer shell can take its fair share of knocks and bangs, while the softly lined interiors and genuine leather luggage tags and hinges give it a luxury feel that belies its functional form and price tag.

Bottom Line: By cleverly blurring the lines between a traditional hardshell suitcase and a flexible nylon/canvas one, The Carry-On offers rigid durability alongside complete adaptability.

Away Carry-On Luggage Black

This smart little case can charge cell phones, tablets , e-readers , and anything else that’s powered by a USB cord. With enough energy tucked away to fully charge your iPhone up to 4 times, The Carry-On is the ultimate companion for the tech-savvy traveler.

You can even fly with your electable suitcase battery as it’s compliant with current airline policies, FAA, TSA, and DOT regulations and meets UN/DOT 38.3 requirements. When you reach your destination, plug it in and let it recharge before you set off once again.

Be aware that while it can be carried in the cabin, checked luggage cannot contain lithium batteries. The Carry-On battery can be removed in a matter of seconds and carried with you in the cabin.

These sorts of design features add value to you as the passenger and set the Away brand miles apart from the competition.

Hot Tip: If the charging capability isn’t your thing or you already own a power bank, you can opt to purchase the case without a battery, which will make the case lighter and increase the interior space. Just know that if you opt for this you can’t add a battery later on.

Away Luggage wheels

With 4 360-degree spinning Japanese Hinomoto wheels, The Carry-On makes light work of long runways and endless terminal buildings. Agile and incredibly easy to maneuver, you can guide the case with just a single fingertip should you need to.

Away luggage wheels

The pull-along handle is light and smooth and effortlessly extends or retracts to suit the height of the carrier. Made from superior materials, the telescopic handle is just like any other suitcase handle, only that bit better.

Away Luggage TSA lock

With not one, but 2 zippers for easy opening and closing, The Carry-On does away with the need for separate locks by offering an integrated combination lock. Just activate a 3-digit combination and the mechanism secures the zippers in seconds.

As the lock is part of the actual suitcase, you never run the risk of losing your travel lock again, and even more impressive, the lock is TSA-approved to allow agents access when they need it.

All Away Carry-On cases come complete with a limited lifetime warranty that covers any damage to the shell, wheels, handles, zippers, or anything else that functionally impairs the luggage.

The electronic components are guaranteed for 2 years. That said, the good folks at Away do offer replacement batteries should you experience any issues outside of this warranty period.

Impressive credentials and an even more impressive Instagram campaign have made the Away cases some of the most sought-after in the travel sector. But, while they may be both pretty and practical, there are just a couple of really tiny downsides, too.

If you want to recharge your case to keep your phone topped up, you’re realistically looking at an overnight charge in your hotel before it has enough power to start charging your devices again.

While these cases are incredibly durable and designed to last a long time, they’re best suited to vacations and tourist travel . What is essentially a lifestyle brand with an excellent social media following, it attracts travelers who want to see the world without roughing it.

Globetrotting adventurers who plan to stray from the road less traveled may find a backpack or duffel bag more practical and hard-wearing.

Finally, the telescopic handles are a bit on the shaky side. While adept enough to wheel your case through the airport, you can still feel a slight tremor when you walk.

Bottom Line: All of these are minor gripes, and for the most part, The Carry-On from Away is an excellent suitcase that delights in providing both form and function to give you a good-looking case with on-trend extras.

Other Away Travel Luggage

Concerned that The Carry-On isn’t right for you? Away offers a full collection of luggage essentials to suit every traveler and every journey.

  • The Bigger Carry-On — This carry-on is just like the standard one, but is a little bit bigger. Measuring up at 22.7 x 14.7 x 9.6 inches, this little beauty was designed to squeeze into the cabin bag containers found at check-in and to give the user some all-important extra internal inches. It also has just over 8 liters of extra space compared to the standard-sized The Carry-On.
  • The Medium — This midsize suitcase is designed to be checked in the hold when you travel and offers enough space for all those extra outfits, as well as the same unique compression system and high-quality polycarbonate construction. It measures 26 x 18.5 x 11 inches and has 68.8 liters of storage space.
  • The Large — Away’s biggest suitcase yet, this full-size family case has the same attractive and durable polycarbonate shell, interior compression system, and removable laundry bag. Just as impressive as The Carry-On, only much bigger! It measures 29 x 20.5 x 12.5 inches and has 99.2 liters of storage space.

Away Carry-On Luggage With Pocket

  • The Carry-On with Pocket  — Like a regular carry-on , only better, this is still the perfect size for overhead storage bins, but with an extra, useful pocket. The nylon front pocket is big enough and protective enough to carry your boarding passes and travel documents, without eating into that all-important interior space.
  • The Bigger Carry-On with Pocket — This suitcase offers an external nylon pocket that’s perfect for carrying your vacation documents, magazines, or other useful bits of kit close by your side when you travel.
  • The Daily Carry-On with Pocket — A new release by Away, this carry-on is slightly smaller than its other carry-on counterparts and is geared towards short trips and business travel. The pocket provides easy access to your daily essentials.

Make it a family affair with The Kids’ Carry-On . Just like the regular version, your mini-me can enjoy a shell that never breaks, a battery that charges their phone or tablet, and a versatile interior with a compression system and separate laundry bag.

This is the very same as the grown-up version but is just a little bit smaller in size at 18 x 12 x 9 inches with a 31-liter capacity.

Away Carry-On Luggage Aluminum

  • The Carry-On: Aluminum Edition — Made with a durable aluminum shell and leather-wrapped, slow-release handles, this little beauty offers the same standards as the regular The Carry-On, but this time is made of even more robust stuff.
  • The Bigger Carry-On: Aluminum Edition The Carry-On — Sized up but still made from aluminum, this is the bigger of the 2 carry-on cases. It offers all the same great features but in a slightly larger package.
  • The Medium: Aluminum Edition — With the same beautiful curved lines and an attractive aluminum shell, the medium-size case is perfect for those who want more than a carry-on but don’t crave a full-size case.
  • The Large: Aluminum Edition — With enough room for all the family, the trusty aluminum shell will protect everything inside. Shoehorn even more in with the interior compression system, and as you have come to expect, bring home your dirties in the removable laundry bag.

Modern-day luggage is fast becoming a reflection of the way we travel and indeed, where we travel to.

Away not only creates beautifully designed, cleverly crafted suitcases and bags that are more than fit for purpose, but it is also one of the few brands that take a holistic approach to modern-day travel. It offers practical solutions to the rigors of reaching your next destination with ease.

Hardshell exteriors, internal compression systems, and the ability to charge almost every kind of device on the go makes the Away cases some of the very best, and most thoughtful, on the market today.

For reviews on other types of luggage and travel bags, check out these pieces:

  • The Best Checked Luggage Bags for Any Traveler
  • The Best Carry-On Luggage Bags for Any Traveler
  • The Best Laptop Backpacks To Buy for Travel
  • The Best Travel Duffel Bags on the Market
  • All Our Best Travel Product Reviews – In One Place

Frequently Asked Questions

Is away luggage tsa-approved.

Away luggage is compliant with the FAA and is TSA-approved as the lithium batteries can be ejected and removed from the luggage during your flight.

How much does Away luggage cost?

The standard carry-on luggage by Away costs $225 and includes an ejectable battery. The bigger carry-on costs $245 and the medium and large checked luggage costs $275 and $295 respectively.

Is Away luggage banned?

Most airlines instituted a ban on smart luggage in 2018. This means that luggage with a lithium battery that cannot be removed is banned. However, Away luggage comes with an ejectable battery which means you can check your luggage and take the battery with you as a carry-on.

How much does The Carry-On from Away weigh?

The Away Carry-On weighs 7.6 pounds, but if you opt for one without a lithium battery it weighs 7.1 pounds.

Was this page helpful?

About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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The Best Away Luggage of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Away is one of the best brands in the business, so we tried more than 20 pieces to see why.

away travel red luggage

In This Article

  • Our Top Picks

Other Away Luggage We Liked

Our testing process.

  • Tips For Buying
  • Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

If you look around any airport, you'll likely see at least one Away suitcase in the crowd of travelers hustling to catch their flight. Our team of travel editors is often asked if Away luggage is worth it, so we tested various pieces of Away luggage in our Travel + Leisure lab and on our travels to find out if it's worth the hype.

We packed each suitcase and bag, wheeled them through obstacle courses, threw them off of tabletops, and hit each bag with a baseball bat. We also recreated an airplane in our lab to lift carry-ons into overhead bins and place personal items underneath seats. After we completed our rigorous testing, it was clear which bags stood out and which fell flat, and we will continue testing each bag for a period of six months to make sure our favorites hold up. From carry-ons and checked bags to duffels and backpacks, here is the best Away luggage, according to testing.

Best Carry-on

Away the carry-on.

The bag is compact, but it can fit a surprising number of items.

It's not expandable, so you have to be intentional about what you pack.

Away has several different carry-on options, but nothing is as good as the original. The brand's iconic carry-on bag blew us away in testing due to its inconspicuously large interior that fit everything on our packing list with room to spare. We were able to neatly organize and pack enough clothing, shoes, and accessories for a week-long trip. The clamshell-style suitcase has two spacious compartments with a compression flap on one side and a large mesh pocket on the other flap. Measuring 21.7 x 14.4 x 9 inches, this carry-on is more compact than others on the market, but the tough polycarbonate exterior has plenty of give to pack it full, despite not having expandable zippers. The lightweight suitcase rolls like a dream with 360-degree spinning wheels, and the handles on the top, side, and bottom make it a breeze the lift the bag in the most convenient way. If you're in search of a carry-on, this champion bag is worth every penny in our opinion.

The Details: 21.7 x 14.4 x 9 inches | 7.5 pounds | 39.8-liter capacity | Polycarbonate | Not expandable

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Best Checked Bag

Away the medium flex.

  • Organization 5 /5
  • Maneuverability 5 /5
  • Durability 5 /5

The expandable zipper adds extra space when needed.

It scuffed a bit during testing.

While Away has several sizes for checked bags, we are obsessed with the Medium Flex after it proved to have superior versatility compared to other sizes. It's small enough to not feel cumbersome to roll or lift, but the expandable zipper adds tons of space if needed for a longer trip. We had no issues packing the bag with enough clothing for up to two weeks of traveling with the help of the expanding zipper and compression flap on one side of the clamshell suitcase. When the bag was packed full, the 360-degree spinner wheels rolled effortlessly across smooth and rough surfaces, and the adjustable handle was sturdy enough to push and pull the packed bag with ease. The polycarbonate exterior sustained a few minor scuffs in testing, but luckily, the suitcase comes with a sponge to buff out scuffs, so we still applauded the durability of the bag. The bag is quite popular since its recent launch, so it's currently out of stock but will come back soon.

The Details: 26 x 18.5 x 11 inches | 10.8 pounds | 68.8-liter capacity; 75.7-liter capacity when expanded | Polycarbonate | Expandable

Away The Trunk

  • Capacity 5 /5
  • Design 5 /5

The unique 30/70 design makes it easy to pack bulky items in the deeper section of the bag.

With a 107-liter capacity, it's easy to overpack the bag with more than 50 pounds.

Don't let the unique shape of Away's trunk prevent you from giving it a try because once you start using it, you might not want to go back to a regular checked bag (trust us, we know from experience). The 30/70 split design means one side is much deeper, which is super helpful for packing bulky items like jeans, shoes, and jackets, or filling it with packing cubes . The tall, narrow shape makes the bag impressively easy to maneuver between obstacles, and it's much easier to store in a storage closet since it takes up less room. Best of all, it has a whopping 107-liter capacity for storing enough items for a two- to three-week-long trip. However, you'll want to keep an eye on the baggage weight as you pack since it can be easy to go over the 50-pound limit with the massive capacity.

The Details: 31.3 x 17 x 13.7 inches | 12.1 pounds | 107-liter capacity | Polycarbonate | Not expandable

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Best Aluminum

Away the bigger carry-on: aluminum edition.

Away Travel

  • Organization 4.8 /5
  • Maneuverability 4.8 /5
  • Durability 4.5 /5

The aluminum material is protective and effortlessly stylish.

Aluminum is prone to denting and quite heavy.

If you're looking to travel in style, this stunning aluminum carry-on is the perfect balance of polished and protective. In testing, we found that the bag could fit everything in our packing list for a week's worth of traveling, and while it is spacious, you cannot overpack it because it has latches instead of zippers, so it doesn't have any expandability. This suitcase also has impressive features like a charging port (USB charger included) to charge your portable devices and slow-release handles. Despite the heavier weight of the aluminum bag, the spinner wheels handle the extra bulk with ease, and the suitcase rolls just as smoothly. When we hit the suitcase with a metal baseball bat to test durability, the shell dented fairly easily. However, since that is the nature of aluminum, we didn't shave off any points in that category because the material is also the most reliable and protective, so we deemed it a fair trade-off.

The Details: 22.7 x 14.5 x 9.6 inches | 11.2 pounds | 40.9-liter capacity | Aluminum | Not expandable

Best Weekender

Away the everywhere bag.

  • Portability 3.5 /5

The bag is sleek, stylish, and lightweight enough to carry through a busy airport.

The 20-liter capacity might not be big enough for more than a weekend away, but it also comes in a larger size.

Whether used as a personal item or overnight bag, this duffel boasts the brand's minimalist and sleek aesthetic. Ideal for a night or two away from home, the 20-liter bag has a long zipper that extends down the sides, which makes it easy to see what you're placing inside the main compartment. The weekender has various pockets for staying organized, including a padded laptop pocket up to 15 inches wide, a key leash, and several slip pockets for earbuds or pens. Made with a lightweight but durable nylon material, this bag is extremely lightweight and comfortable to carry with the top tote handles or slung over the shoulder with the longer, removable strap. We included the 20-liter Everywhere Bag in this list, but it also comes in two larger sizes, so you can choose the size that is best for you.

The Details: 16.3 x 10.2 x 7.3 inches | 2.75 pounds | 20-liter capacity | Nylon, leather | 15-inch laptop pocket

  • Travel + Leisure/Joy Kim

Best Duffel

Away f.a.r. duffle 70l.

  • Organization 4 /5
  • Design 4.5 /5

The recycled materials are designed to weather harsh conditions.

You may want to use packing cubes to organize items in the large duffel.

Away's F.A.R line — the acronym stands for "For All Routes" — offers excellent durability for use outside of leisurely traveling. Ideal for more rugged use like camping or safaris , the fully recycled polyester material boasts both water- and abrasion-resistant abilities to keep your belongings safe no matter what Mother Nature (or baggage handlers) throws your way. In the lab, we loved that the 70-liter bag could fit tons of clothing items for a lengthy trip, and the various pockets and internal compression straps helped pack items down. Due to the large size of the bag, we think using packing cubes would help travelers stay more organized. One of our favorite aspects of this duffel is that it's extremely lightweight — weighing just three pounds — but if it ever feels to heavy to carry with the tote straps, it comes with a trolley sleeve and removable backpack straps to effortlessly convert the duffel to a backpack as needed.

The Details: 5.7 x 27.5 x 11.8 inches | 3 pounds | 70-liter capacity | 100 percent recycled polyester

Best Backpack

Away the everywhere zip backpack.

The backpack has a wrap-around zipper to open it up clamshell-style.

It could have a bit more padding for comfort.

Simple, sleek, and functional, this backpack features nearly everything we look for in a high-quality backpack. In testing, we appreciated the various pockets on the interior for staying organized — a feature particularly helpful for commuting or air travel. The designated laptop pocket can store tablets up to 15 inches wide, and the interior boasts a water bottle-specific pocket and numerous other pockets for smaller items. The best part of this backpack is the wrap-around zipper to open up the bag like a clamshell suitcase for packing the main compartment with ease. During our durability tests, the water- and abrasion-resistant nylon showed zero signs of damage after we tossed it off a table several times. While the back panel and straps could use a bit more padding, the backpack was still comfortable to wear for long periods of time.

The Details: 12 x 5.9 x 17.7 inches | 2.45 pounds | 20-liter capacity | Nylon, leather | 15-inch laptop pocket

Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph

Best Convertible Bag

Away the outdoor convertible backpack 45l.

It's the perfect backpack for carrying your belongings with ease.

It felt a bit bulky to carry when packed full.

If your future travels include multiple legs or moving accommodations frequently, then this convertible bag should go in your cart ASAP. The 45-liter pack is basically a mini suitcase with superior portability since you can toss it on your back for hands-free travel thanks to the hidden backpack straps. In testing, we loved that the straps can easily be tucked away without hanging out so you can choose to carry it as a tote or duffel bag with a removable shoulder strap. We fit clothing, shoes, and accessories from a week-long packing list and there was even room left for a few extra items, so don't be fooled by the seemingly small look of the bag. Best of all, after we tossed the backpack on the ground many times, the laptop (dummy, of course) didn't get physically damaged, so the ample padding is helpful for both protection and comfort.

The Details: 21.7 x 13.6 x 9.5 inches | 3.32 pounds | 45-liter capacity | Recycled polyester | 15-inch laptop pocket

Away The Packable Carryall

The lightweight bag can pack down to a fraction of its original size.

The nylon material is thin, so the bag may look lumpy when full.

This packable tote from Away lives up to its name as the perfect "carry-all" bag to use while traveling. It folds up into a tiny pouch so you can toss it into your suitcase without worrying about it taking up space, only using it if necessary on your return journey. Or you can use it as a gym bag, a beach bag, or a shopping bag. Since the bag can be packed down so small, it doesn't offer much structure. We think it's worth it to be able to bring the tote along with you on all types of adventures. After testing the bag for several months, our favorite feature is the zipper top that ensures the packed items are safely tucked away whether around your shoulder or in an overhead bin.

The Details: 15 x 19.7 x 9 inches | 8 ounces | 43-liter capacity | Nylon | Not expandable

Best Pet Carrier

Away the pet carrier.

  • Quality 5 /5
  • Comfort 5 /5
  • Portability 5 /5

The bag has both a trolley sleeve and car seat straps for any mode of transportation.

It's structured, so it takes up a decent amount of space to store it.

Traveling with pets isn't always easy (been there, done that), but Away's pet carrier makes the trip pass by much more smoothly for both pets and owners. It boasts both a trolley strap and car seat straps for locking in the carrier to a suitcase in the airport or into a car for road trips. The carrier is water-resistant to help with any accidents, and there is a removable, washable faux-shearling bedding inside for extra comfort. The nylon exterior is super durable and easy to clean after a long trip, and the tote straps and longer shoulder strap make it actually comfortable to schlep a pet through a crowded airport. One thing to note is that the carrier is structured, so it's a little difficult to store, but it does come with a handy dust bag to keep it in tip-top shape before the next trip.

The Details: 18.7 x 10.8 x 10.75 inches | 4.3 pounds | Nylon, leather

Travel + Leisure / Alessandra Amodio

Travel + Leisure / Anna Popp

Best Packing Cubes

Away the insider packing cubes.

  • Design 3 /5
  • Quality 3 /5

The cubes are specifically designed to fit into Away suitcases.

They don't feature any compression abilities.

Away's packing cubes are specifically designed to fit inside the suitcases, which is a huge perk for staying organized while traveling. The set of four cubes comes in varying sizes so you can pack an array of clothing types in the cubes or you can pack by outfit to stay extra organized. Our favorite part of the cubes is that they are made with a lightweight and durable nylon material with mesh opening flaps so we could easily see what was packed in each cube. While they aren't compression packing cubes , they make it easy to save space and stay organized.

The Details: 10 x 4.1 x 4.3 inches (Small); 10 x 4.1 x 8.25 inches (Medium); 13 x 4.1 x 10 inches (XL); 13 x 4.1 x 6.9 inches (Large) | 8 ounces combined | Interior capacity varies | Nylon

Here are some other notable options from Away that we tested.

Away The Carry-on Flex : We love that this suitcase has expandable zippers to add extra space, but the wheels didn't roll as smoothly as other suitcases going over rough surfaces like carpet.

Away The Bigger Carry-On : This is a seriously spacious carry-on bag, so it's perfect for a longer vacation, but you'll want to check with airlines on carry-on restrictions since it could be too large.

Away The Large : This massive bag was surprisingly easy to maneuver through obstacles and over rough surfaces, but we thought the medium size was a little more manageable to stay under airline weight limits. One thing to note is that the glossy finish of this suitcase scuffed and scratched more easily during our tests when compared to the matte style, but it's available in both.

While we've tried plenty of Away luggage between dozens of tests for suitcases and travel accessories, we performed a test specifically for Away luggage in our New York City lab. After trying an additional 13 pieces of Away luggage, we were able to compare and contrast the older and newer luggage collections to update this article accordingly.

We packed each bag full of items from designated packing lists and wheeled the bags through various obstacle courses and over different floor textures to make sure the wheels and handles worked smoothly. We tossed the bags off of tabletops and hit each one with a baseball to check the durability.

We lifted carry-ons into overhead bins on our airplane set to get a feel for how heavy or light they felt and to try out special features like Away's underside grab handles. From carry-ons and checked bags to backpacks and duffels, the highest-scoring Away luggage earned spots in our list for the very best Away luggage to shop, according to our thorough testing.

Tips for Buying Away Luggage

Think about where you travel the most.

Picking the right size suitcase for your intended travels can be the most difficult part of luggage shopping. For those who fly airlines with relatively strict regulations, you may want to opt for the Carry-on, Convertible F.A.R Backpack, or the small Everywhere Bag since those are smaller pieces of luggage. For a bit more versatility, consider getting the Carry-on Flex or Medium Flex suitcases that boast expandable zippers for adding more space when needed. And of course, overpackers or those embarking on a longer trip should opt for the Medium, Large, or Trunk to get the most room in a suitcase.

Consider organizational features

Most of the Away suitcases have an extremely similar layout when it comes to organization. Only one side has a compression flap with a pocket or two and the other has a zipper closure with a pocket. The only exception to this is the aluminum collection that boasts a dual compression system. In general, the duffel bags have several pockets for storage, but you may want to get packing cubes to stay extra organized. We found that the weekender bags and backpacks offered excellent organization for commuting and traveling.

Classic versus Flex collections

Before buying an Away suitcase, be sure to browse the various collections the brand offers. The Classic collection includes Away's original suitcase designs with two sizes of carry-ons, a medium checked, a large checked, and the newly launched trunk. The Flex collection is most notable for featuring expandable zippers on every size of the Classic suitcases except the trunk. And of course, the stunning Aluminum collection features two sizes of carry-ons — a medium and a large — with latch closures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Away luggage is only sold by Away, either online or in one of its brick-and-mortar stores across the U.S. and in Toronto, Canada. You can find the list of in-person stores here .

Start by deciding between carry-on and checked bags — which are you more likely to use? Overall, we think it's a great idea to have one of each. (Plus, the carry-ons nest inside the checked bags, so you don't need to worry about finding extra storage space at home for a second bag.) Also, be sure to check your preferred airline's restrictions on sizes to get a better idea of which suitcase would be best if you're between the carry-on or checked bag sizes offered by Away.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Anna Popp is a commerce writer at T+L where she writes most of the team's tested content. She has tested dozens of suitcases and personally owns Away's The Trunk and the Pet Carrier. Anna spent the day in the lab testing Away luggage and combed through testing notes to compile this list of the very best Away luggage.

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suitcase, hand luggage, baggage, product, luggage and bags, bag, rolling, travel, wheel, cylinder,

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

Take a look at the three bright shades below, and stay tuned for the two additional colors coming later this month. Start shopping our favorites styles from Away's limited-edition Nordstrom Pop-In here:

AWAY The Carry-On Hard Shell Suitcase in Yellow

The Carry-On Hard Shell Suitcase in Yellow

AWAY The Bigger Carry-On Hard Shell Suitcase in Red

The Bigger Carry-On Hard Shell Suitcase in Red

AWAY The Medium Hard Shell Suitcase in Blue

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AWAY The Insider 6-Piece Packing Cubes Set

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Away The Large Hard Shell Suitcase in Red

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AWAY x Mr. Kiji Around the World Austin Taco Truck Leather Luggage Sticker

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AWAY x Mr. Kiji Around the World San Francisco Leather Luggage Sticker

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Maggie Maloney is the Site Director of Oprah Daily. She previously worked at Town & Country, Elle DECOR, and Something Navy. 

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I’ve Been Using Away Luggage For Years — Here’s Why I Recommend It

By Morgan Greenwald

Morgan Greenwald

If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Rolling Stone may receive an affiliate commission.

If you’ve done any sort of research on popular luggage brands or have spent some time scrolling through Instagram, odds are you’ve come across Away , the trendy, DTC luggage brand known for its sleek suitcases and vibrant colorways. The polycarbonate shell suitcases have maintained their popularity almost a decade after their launch and social media virality, but for those who may be hesitant to spend upwards of $300 on a piece of luggage, the question remains: Is Away really worth the hype (and price tag)?

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

  • Editor’s Choice: Away The Carry-On Flex
  • Large Carry-on Pick: Away Bigger Carry-On
  • Also Consider: Away Large Suitcase

As a journalist and avid traveler, I have used Away’s Carry-On Flex , Bigger Carry-On , and Large suitcase since 2018 to travel everywhere from Spain and France to California and Vermont. During this time, I’ve tried other suitcase brands like Monos and Samsonite , but Away has remained my top choice thanks to its roomy interior and lightweight shell. There are some drawbacks to the bags — notably, the lighter colors scuff pretty easily and it can be hard to find your suitcase on a conveyor belt full of Away bags — but ultimately the pros far outweigh the cons, especially if you travel often.

In This Article

What is away luggage, what makes away luggage so unique.

  • Away Luggage Pros & Cons

How Does Away Luggage Compare to Competitors?

  • Is Away Luggage Worth it?

Away was founded in 2015 by Jen Rubio and Steph Korey, who previously worked together at Warby Parker. They originally launched with a single product — the Carry-On — but later expanded their suitcase offerings and eventually branched out into accessories, totes, and other travel-related essentials. 

Since its launch in 2015, Away has taken customer feedback to heart, and the brand’s suitcases have evolved significantly: Among other things, the bags now have a grab handle under the wheels that make them easier to carry, and previously existing handles now protrude less. The carry-on pieces were previously offered with built-in battery packs, but these have since been phased out based on customer feedback. (As someone who owns one of the older battery pack models, I agree that while the battery pack was convenient, it’s just as convenient to bring a portable charger with you on the plane.)

There are a lot of things to appreciate about Away’s suitcases . All of the brand’s signature carry-ons and checked bags are protected by a polycarbonate hard shell that, according to Travelpro , is sturdier and more crack-resistant than other common hardside materials like polypropylene. Thanks to the hard shell, it’s also easy to fill the suitcase to the brim without worrying about whether it will fit in an overhead compartment. “I am an overpacker through and through, and I love that the shell is hard but also flexible, so I can pack as much as I want into this bag that fits into a carry-on compartment,” says Becca Higgins , Rolling Stone ’s senior producer of artist relations who has been using her Bigger Carry-On for years.

The bags are also secured by a three-digit, TSA-approved combination lock that’s built directly into the suitcase. (A word to the wise, though: Do not forget your lock combination. More on that later.)

From a size standpoint, the Away bags also offer a lot of bang for your buck. All of the suitcases have an interior compression system that keeps your belongings compartmentalized while condensing them down. If you tend to be an overpacker, the Flex suitcases also come with zipper expansions that enlarge the interior to give you more packing space. 

Away The Carry-On Flex Review

Away carry-on flex.

Specs: • Measurements: 21.7″ x 13.7″ x 9″ (exterior) and 20” x 13.5” (interior)
 • Weight: 8.15 lbs
 • Capacity: 39.8 L (46.7 L when expanded)


Away’s The Carry-On is the bag that first helped the company rise to prominence in 2015. The smallest suitcase option in Away’s lineup, the bag has deep compartments on either side that are secured with either a zippered mesh sleeve or a buckled mesh compression divider.

“The square shape maximizes the usable storage in all bag sizes,” says Jessica Seib , Rolling Stone ’s VP of Commerce who owns several Away bags. “The mesh zip compartments and divider built-ins also make sorting clean and dirty or delicate clothing and shoes within one bag a breeze.”

When I used my Carry-On Flex for a four-day trip to Lake Placid, I had no trouble packing six outfits, a few sweaters, and all of my toiletries; however, there wasn’t any room left to pack a second pair of shoes, so I would recommend The Bigger Carry-On Flex (which has a 55.7-liter capacity) if you want to pack larger items like sneakers or a hair styling tool.

Away The Bigger Carry-On Review

Away the bigger carry-on.

Specs: • Measurements: 22.7″ x 15.4″ x 9.6″ (exterior) and 20.9″ x 15″ x 7.9″ (interior)
 • Weight: 7.9 lbs
 • Capacity: 47.9 L


The Bigger Carry-On has been my go-to travel companion since I first bought it in 2018. Though it’s just slightly bigger than the Carry-On Flex at its full capacity, I have found that it offers more room for larger items like shoes, jackets, and heavy sweaters. I have relied on my Bigger Carry-On alone for week-long work trips, bachelorette trips, and more; on average, I can fit up to eight or nine outfits in my bag, but that number gets smaller depending on how many larger items I need to bring with me. 

Away The Large Review

Away the large.

Specs : • Measurements: 29″ x 20.5″ x 12.5″ (exterior) and 26.9″ x 19.7″ x 10.6″ (interior)
 • Weight: 12.1 lbs
 • Capacity: 99.2 L


Away’s checked bag offerings include The Medium, The Large, and The Trunk, as well as Flex and Aluminum versions of the first two. The Large , which remains relatively lightweight at 12.1 pounds, has a shockingly sizeable interior; on a recent two-week trip across Germany and Denmark, I was able to fit everything into my Large suitcase without having to bring a carry-on (on top of my usual outfits, I had to pack gym clothes and a dirndl for Oktoberfest!).

The Large is easily my favorite Away suitcase of all the ones I own thanks to how reliable it is on longer trips. My light pink shell is pretty scuffed up after years of use, but there isn’t any damage that would compromise the integrity of the suitcase. The other thing that I love about The Large is that, when I’m not traveling, my Bigger Carry-On can be stored inside of it so the two suitcases aren’t taking up as much space inside my closet.

Away Luggage Pros:

• The Away suitcases are relatively lightweight, which makes them easier to lift into overhead bins and makes it easier to stay under the weight limit.
 • The suitcases’ 360-degree wheels hold up well after several years of use and easily glide across all types of surfaces, from carpeting to asphalt — “the wheels are 360-degree magic and so smooth,” Higgins says.
 • Away’s customer service is excellent and the lifetime limited warranty covers most major damage.
 • The myriad pockets (and optional packing cubes ) allow for maximized use of the interior space.


Away Luggage Cons:

• The polycarbonate shell scuffs relatively easily, especially in the lighter colorways.
 • The combination lock is impossible to reset if you forget the code.
 • The suitcases are on the pricier side, so they may not make sense for people who don’t travel as often.
 • Since Away bags are so popular, it can be easy to mix your bag up with someone else’s. “My suggestion: Buy an Away suitcase and then pick up one of these cheap accessories to help differentiate your bag from someone else’s,” says Tim Chan , PMC’s associate VP of editorial and commerce.


While I have found that the Away suitcases best fit my travel needs, some of the other popular luggage brands may be a better option depending on how often you travel and the type of travel you’re doing. If you’re looking for something to use for work travel, for instance, I am a fan of Monos’ Carry-On Pro ; in addition to boasting many of the features of the Away bag — like a polycarbonate shell, combination lock, and 360-degree spinning wheels — it also has an exterior pocket that can hold a laptop, notebooks, and other work travel essentials. A more affordable alternative that Chan is also a fan of is Brandless’ Checked Luggage : “It features a suitcase with vertical lines (Away has horizontal lines) so I can always pick my bag out of a crowd,” he says.

Though many of the popular luggage retailers offer similar features, one of the biggest selling points when it comes to Away is the company’s customer service. Most Away bags come with a lifetime limited warranty , which covers everything from cracks and unusable wheels to broken zippers and fabric tears. “My first Medium Bag zipper was damaged by an airline bag handler when it was brand new. I brought the bag to an Away store in Brooklyn and received a brand new bag within minutes,” Seib recalls.

So, Is Away Luggage Worth it?

Away’s luggage isn’t going to make sense for everybody; for those who travel less often, something more affordable might make more sense, and if you’re mostly traveling for work, you might want to consider a carry-on that offers easy access to your laptop, notebook, and electronics. However, if you travel regularly and are looking for a durable, sleek suitcase that’s easy to organize, the Away bags are well worth the price tag when you consider how long they last and the brand’s lifetime warranty. “I basically overstuff my suitcase and put it through the wildest conditions and it comes out unscathed,” Higgins notes. Away even has a 100-day free return policy on unused bags, so if you’re on the fence, you can order one to test out at home before you fully commit.

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Away Carry-On luggage review: After 5+ years of testing this suitcase, we still think it's worth the hype

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Away makes the "it" suitcase that many travelers love and even more want: a colorful, hard-shell roller bag that's spawned countless imitators. But is at all hype, or is its flagship carry-on the real deal?

Before trying the Away Carry-On, my go-to suitcase was a purple polka dot bag I received for Christmas 10 years ago. Using Away's bag has completely revolutionized my packing and traveling routine. I can honestly say that this suitcase deserves its social media buzz. In fact, I've found that Away has done the seemingly impossible and made packing and carrying a suitcase downright enjoyable.  

Since former Business Insider senior reporter Connie Chen originally wrote this review, I've had the chance to retest the Carry-On to update our thoughts. You can find my review, along with Chen's thoughts, below. We've also tested many of Away's other products, which you can read about in our Away luggage review , best carry-on guide, and guide to the best luggage .

Design and specs

The mere seven-and-a-half-pound Carry-On is a particularly good buy for travelers who embark on frequent, shorter trips and want a smart solution.

The Carry-On features a strong yet light outer shell, 360-degree rotating wheels, interior compartments designed to help you pack smarter, TSA-approved locks, and more. At just under 22 inches, including wheels, it will fit in almost any overhead bin. As an added plus, it comes with a 100-day trial period and a lifetime warranty.

The exterior is made from a durable polycarbonate, and its minimalistic design with subtle horizontal lines gives it a sleek look. Inside, it has a liner that's easy to wipe down in case anything spills.

The Carry-On comes in numerous color options, ranging from black and olive green to bright orange and pink. The brand also often offers limited-edition colors and prints that sell out quickly.

What it's like to use

You can very easily fit enough clothes for a weekend trip with Away's carry-on. While some reviewers say they've been able to pack an entire week's worth of clothes into this carry-on, I'd say four to five days of clothes is attainable for most travelers. 

In the zippered mesh compartment, I can pack one toiletry bag, one makeup bag, two pairs of shoes (sneakers and heels), one purse, and one hairbrush. These are usually the problem items since they're strangely shaped and take up a lot of space.

On a practical level, the physical separation makes sense: shoes are dirty and toiletry bags carry the risk of accidental spills. On a mental organization level, I now know that all my accessories are in one place and my clothes are in another. This has saved me so much time, since I don't have to sift through an entire suitcase to find one item.

Meanwhile, the inner compartment, which is just as roomy, is designed for clothing. Dividing the two is a sturdy, lined layer for your small items that are typically awkward to pack. I was able to fit a week's worth of underwear and socks in these pockets. Fully packed, the bag was easy to close (I didn't even have to sit on it to zip it).

If you want to be even more organized, you can get one of our picks for the best packing cubes to store similar items together and make space out of thin air. Away sells its own packing cubes with fashionable colors to match your Carry-On. 

Tucked into a pocket at the bottom of the suitcase is a nylon laundry bag, which was a small, but thoughtful touch. It probably won't fit all of your laundry for a four to five-day trip, but it is a handy feature if a piece of clothing gets particularly muddy or sweaty. It's as wide as the suitcase itself and keeps your dirty clothes appropriately separated from everything else. It compresses when you buckle down the layer above it.

The outside of the bag has a number of noteworthy features. The TSA-approved built-in combination lock, for one, is an innovation. The two zippers slot into this combination lock, deterring potential thieves from using creative methods to get into your bag. The combination takes seconds to set and since the lock is part of your actual suitcase, there's no way you can lose it and waste money on buying a new one for every trip. I love the peace of mind that the lock provides—it is a small but useful feature that reduces my travel stress.

Unfortunately, Away no longer includes what was once one of its most defining features in its bags: a removable battery. Many airports now have outlets or dedicated charging stations in the terminals, but you can't always rely on them — they might all be taken or simply don't work. Having a portable battery right in your bag was such a convenient feature, so I am disappointed that it was removed. If a removable battery is important to you, you might want to check out our review of July's Carry On .

The exterior of Away's Carry-On did develop some scuffs in testing but, for the most part, the bag is in good shape. There were no major dents or dings in the shell. The suitcase also comes with a useful sponge to clean up minor scratches or scrapes.

What makes the Away Carry-on stand out

With their glossy and matte hard shells and eye-catching color options, Away suitcases already look distinctive. As a lover of bright colors, I am a huge fan of Away's color selection. You can make one truly your own by adding up to three letters of personalization via digital monogramming to the Carry-On itself or a stamped luggage tag . 

Taken individually, features like a laundry bag or compression straps aren't necessarily new or revolutionary, but it's the combination of all the little things travelers care about and use the most that has made the suitcases stand out among the many we've tried.

While most of the bag's accessories are smooth, the zippers feel stiff compared to other suitcases that I have tested. The zippers can get stuck, which can make proper closing difficult. 

As mentioned before, the brand no longer offers its suitcases with the option to add a portable charger. I think this is a lost attribute that really made the brand stand out, especially considering that its competitors still offer this feature.

What are your alternatives?

Away makes several other suitcases that might be a better fit if the standard Carry-On feels too small. The Bigger Carry-On offers 7 liters more space and will fit on most domestic flights, but it likely will not meet requirements for smaller jumper planes and budget flights within Europe. The Carry-On Flex is expandable, which is a nice option if you want to save room in your suitcase for souvenirs. It's the brand's most versatile carry-on, but it does not meet carry-on size requirements when fully expanded. You might be able to get away with carrying it on while fully expanded on some airlines, but others may require you to check it. Finally, there's the Bigger Carry-On Flex , which offers the most space of them all, but has the greatest chance of being checked if you try to carry it on while fully expanded. 

The bottom line

After testing the Carry-On, I believe the hype surrounding Away's suitcases is completely deserved. It's hard not to be a fan of Away's smart design decisions and high-quality travel products. With a starting price of $275, it's also an excellent value since many suitcases of similar quality are far pricier. If you hate packing like me, I recommend the Away Carry-On to make traveling a breeze.

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The Away Carry-On has a slim, unobtrusive profile and a hard outer shell. Lauren Savoie/Business Insider

Away The Large Review

There’s a lot to love about Instagram’s favorite suitcase

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

Away The Large

TripSavvy / Charlene Petitjean-Barkulis

 Lightweight

360-degree spinning wheels

Smart clamshell design

Hard to maneuver on uneven surfaces

Lighter colors may not be easy to clean

From its smart clamshell design to its mobility, Away’s The Large suitcase has everything you want in a luxury suitcase, but for half the price.

  • Portability
  • Maneuverability
  • Return Policy and Warranty
  • Competition
  • Final Verdict

We purchased the Away The Large suitcase so our reviewer could thoroughly test and assess it while traveling with her family. Keep reading for our full product review.

If you have an Instagram account, chances are that your feed is filled with images of Away suitcases. The company originally gained momentum with its Carry-On suitcase , which boasts an ejectable battery to charge your phone, but has since launched other, bigger suitcases. My family traveled with one of the brand’s latest additions, The Large, to find out if it was worth the hype. Read on for our insights.

Design: A smart clamshell design for easy organizing

Made of a hard polycarbonate shell, The Large suitcase is sleek, durable, and thoughtfully made. With a capacity of 99.2 liters, the design allows users to pack a surprising amount of stuff.

More specifically, the clamshell design helps optimize its packing capacity . It has two big compartments: one to store clothes and one for items like shoes and toiletries. For example, using packing cubes on one side, I was able to pack 10 days’ worth of clothes for my kids and myself. On the other side, I brought four pairs of adult shoes, five pairs of toddler shoes, my toiletries, and two curling irons. 

Using packing cubes on one side, I was able to pack 10 days’ worth of clothes for my kids and myself.

Away also includes a compression pad that sits on top of the clothes compartment. Once I was done packing my clothes, I buckled it down to compress them, which freed up some space. This was particularly helpful on our way back home when we had to pack dirty clothes in the laundry bag, which is included in the suitcase and tucked away to the side of the clothes compartment. The dirty clothes took up a lot of room, but I was able to flatten the laundry bag with the compression pad, which allowed me to add a few items (kids’ books and toys) that I’d purchased during my trip. Overall, I loved how sturdy this suitcase feels, and though it doesn’t actually have an extension zipper, it has enough flexibility to allow for even more packing.

Color-wise, the suitcase comes in nine different hues: black, navy, green, asphalt, coast, white, sand, blush, and brick. All the color options are neutral, muted, and timeless. Away also offers special-edition varieties, like black trimmed with leather.  

I’d recommend choosing a darker color, especially if you like to keep things looking new.

I’d recommend choosing a darker color, especially if you like to keep things looking new. For my testing, I chose sand, which is a gorgeous lighter color but got scuffs and nicks after the first flight. Overall, though, the suitcase withstood the ins and outs of airport travel, and I was able to wipe it clean with the included scuff eraser—a magic eraser of sorts. 

Portability: Very lightweight, especially for a hard-case luggage 

The Large Away measures 29 x 20.5 x 12.5 inches. Although it’s a big, hard-case piece of luggage , it’s also lightweight, weighing just 11.2 pounds. Even when filled, it was pretty easy to carry around.

Although it’s a big, hard-case piece of luggage, it’s also lightweight.

In addition to the telescopic retractable handle, the Large features two other handles: one at the top, and one on the side. This is pretty standard, but it allowed me to transfer the suitcase from the baggage carousel to the airport cart with ease. When maneuvering it up and down the stairs, my husband had to flip it 90 degrees. 

Maneuverability: A smooth ride but hard to maneuver on uneven surfaces

The Large, like other Away suitcases, comes with four 360-degree spinning wheels. All four of them rotate without snagging for a smooth ride on almost all surfaces. The wheels, along with how light the suitcase actually is, made it a breeze to steer it from my New York City apartment to my parents’ place in Paris. 

That said, the suitcase was a bit more challenging to steer on uneven surfaces, like cobblestones or cracked streets, because you don’t have the option to lock the wheels. It also would be convenient to have lockable wheels so that the suitcase doesn’t roll down a slanted street or the floor of a moving subway.

Features: Easy-to-use TSA-approved combination lock

Away thought of everything—even a TSA-approved lock to secure your belongings while also giving access to security personnel, as needed. Once you get your suitcase, you’ll want to set up your lock, which is a cinch; simply come up with your own combination code. After you finish packing, you can slide the two zippers into the combination lock, and voilà—your suitcase is locked and ready to go. Once you get to your destination and are ready to unpack, all you have to do to release the zippers open is enter your combination. 

Return Policy and Warranty: If you don’t like it, you can return it

If you decide that The Large suitcase isn’t for you, you can return it up to 100 days after your purchase. All Away suitcases also come with a limited lifetime warranty (aside from the Mini, which, according to the brand, isn’t subject to the same wear and tear as its full-size suitcases). This warranty covers any damage to the shell, wheels, handles, zippers, or anything else that functionally impairs your luggage. This doesn’t concern The Large, but the electronic components (found in models like The Carry-On) all have a two-year warranty. 

Price: Luxury luggage at a bargain price 

Sure, $295 seems like a lot of money for a suitcase. After all, there are many options out there for a lot less. But the Large suitcase feels and performs like a piece of luxury luggage—so, given that high-quality luggage can sell for more than $600 and up, we vote it’s absolutely worth the price. 

Away The Large vs. Tumi Worldwide Trip Packing Case

The Away and Tumi’s Worldwide Trip Packing Case have a lot in common. They both feature four 360-degree rotating wheels for effortless maneuverability, a clamshell design for easy and optimized packing, and a TSA-approved lock. Overall, they’re both big, hardshell suitcases, though the Tumi is slightly bigger and can thus hold more than the Away (130 liters instead of 99.2 liters). For their size, both suitcases are remarkably light, though the Away is lighter than the Tumi (11.2 pounds versus 12 pounds). 

The Tumi features a hanger bracket in one of the clamshell compartments, which is a nice touch for those who are traveling for business or a special occasion. On the other side, the Tumi boasts a tie-down strap, which is more conventional and less useful and practical than the Away’s compression pad. Overall, the Away comes complete with smarter features to keep travelers organized, and considering that it’s much cheaper than the Tumi packing case, it is a better investment in the long run. 

Interested in reading more reviews? Check out our list of the best checked luggage .

Away has developed a cult following, and with good reason. From its smart design to its good looks, Away’s The Large has all the attributes that you’d want in a luxury suitcase, but for half the price (at least). Overall, it’s an excellent and stylish investment.

  • Product Name The Large
  • Product Brand 11.6
  • Price $295.00
  • Weight 11.6 lbs.
  • Product Dimensions 29 x 20.5 x 12.5 in.
  • Color Black, navy, green, asphalt, coast, white, sand, blush, brick
  • Material Polycarbonate shell
  • What’s Included Suitcase, black leather luggage tag, laundry bag, address tag, TSA-approved combination lock
  • Warranty Limited lifetime
  • Capacity 99.2 L

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The coolest Away luggage colors of the year are out now

Summer Hull

Update: Some offers mentioned below are no longer available. View the current offers here .

'Tis the season for Away to release its coolest limited-edition edition shades yet.

(Photo by Wyatt Smith/The Points Guy)

You know all about the Away luggage line . You know about the optional removable battery that can charge your devices on the go, the almost-indestructible polycarbonate shell and how new card holders can get a $100 statement credit on an Away purchase with the new American Express® Green Card (through Jan. 15, 2020). You probably even know the bags come in kid-sizes . So if you know all this already — why yet another post about Away?

The information for the Amex Green Card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Short version: This is the time of year when Away routinely releases its coolest limited-edition color collections of the year. In 2018, it was Away's Northern Lights-inspired collection that caught our attention -- and even found its way under my own tree.

(Photo by Wyatt Smith/The Points Guy)

This year, Away is dropping a "Luminous" line with limited-edition suitcases in shimmery jewel tones, some of which I'm willing to bet will sell out fast. You can take a peek at Away's website and decide if Jade, Jewel Blue, Moonstone, Amethyst, Amber or Mirror are calling your name. These shiny shades are all available in the standard Carry-On size, the Bigger Carry-On, the Medium suitcase and the Large.

Mirror, Amethyst and Moonstone are all especially tempting to me, but the bad news is these limited-edition colors cost more than the standard line-up ($50 more in most cases, and a whopping $150 more for the silvery Mirror-colored suitcase). More bad news for fans of the distinct mirror-like finish? You can't purchase this suitcase with an ejectable battery. But gosh, it does look nice on the outside!

(Photo by Wyatt Smith/The Points Guy)

If you're still bummed about missing last year's Northern Lights collection, take a look at the Everywhere Bag in limited-edition Winter Night-colored leather . Like the suitcases, the Everywhere Bags are also available in new jewel-tone hues. Consider the Garnet Sateen in water-resistant nylon or the smooth topaz leather.

Travelers can also shop garnet, topaz, and Winter Night-colored leather passport covers and jewelry boxes .

OK, I'm stepping away from the keyboard before I accidentally order anything, but if you're truly in the market for a new Away bag, I'll cheer you on from the sidelines. (And if you want to order an extra, I'm a size Carry-On in Mirror.)

AFAR Logo - Main

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..

  • Copy Link copied

Away's two limited-edition Holiday Chrome suitcases in rose gold and cranberry red with a pink confetti backdrop

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 Away Luggage in two sizes

“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).

Luggage tag and small circular pouch from Away's 2023 Holiday Collection

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

Away's limited-edition Magenta suitcases in an alpine scene

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 .

Away luggage in Magenta in three sizes

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.

Away Bigger Carry-On in multicolored Alpine Luggage pattern

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.

A view of stone walls and lakes over Sky Road in Galway County

Every product on this page was chosen by a Harper's BAZAAR editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

a model with a luggage set at street style lfw february 2023

The 13 Best Luggage Sets for Frequent Fliers

Pull up to the airport in style

In the game of fashionable travel, what really puts you in the lead is the quality of your bags. Aesthetics are merely the start of what makes a luggage set worthy of your investment. “When purchasing luggage, I look for high-quality, durable materials,” says Sara Banks, founder of SteamLine Luggage. Banks suggests opting for hard-sided luggage, as hard-shell exteriors are often built to last. “I would also avoid luggage made from cheap, thin materials, as you don’t want your luggage splitting open or breaking,” she adds.

If you have any upcoming vacations marked on your calendar, and you’re in need of a new luggage set, look no further. Ahead, shop the best luggage sets from compact carry-ons to capacious cases—all guaranteed to get noticed at the gate.

Our Favorite Luggage Sets for 2024

Stamford 2.0 Set in Berry Red

Best Spinner Luggage Set

Antler stamford 2.0 set in berry red.

2-Pc. Bundle

Best Minimal Luggage Set

Kenneth cole 2-pc. bundle.

The Starlet Check In Spinner

Best Retro Luggage Set

Steamline luggage the starlet check in spinner.

 Voltage DLX 2 Piece Set

Best Luggage Set for Families

Samsonite voltage dlx 2 piece set.

3-Piece Set Hardside Spinner

Best Affordable Luggage Set

Amazon basics 3-piece set hardside spinner.

Classic Family Set

Best Standard Luggage Set

July classic family set.

Terminal 1 Luggage Set

Best Monogrammed Luggage Set

Mark & graham terminal 1 luggage set.

Make It a Set

Best Hard-Sided Luggage Set

Away make it a set.

Sky Max 2.0

Best Soft-Sided Luggage Set

Delsey sky max 2.0.

Softshell Luggage

Most Durable Luggage Set

Herschel supply co. softshell luggage.

Glide through airport terminals with Antler’s Stamford 2.0 collection, which features three spinner suitcases. The innovative wheels swivel in all directions, so navigating crowds of travelers to reach your destination won’t be a problem.

If you’re a minimalist traveler who packs lightly, Kenneth Cole’s polished two-piece bundle will fulfill all your needs. Carry your laptop, passport, and wallet in the padded tote bag, and store all of your larger items within the pockets and panels of the hard-shell suitcase.

The structured shape, ivory straps, and gold hardware on this SteamLine suitcase gives it a charming retro flair. This case is the largest out of the entire Starlet collection, which includes seven other pieces ranging in size and style.

This stunning blue set includes two bags: one large and one petite. It’s ideal for someone traveling with their child, as the smaller bag can be easily wheeled around while the bigger one gets checked.

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For those of you who are in a hurry to purchase a luggage set, you can count on Amazon Basics to deliver the best. For under $200, this hardside spinner set includes three suitcases crafted with a scratch-resistant ABS exterior and a fully lined 150D-polyester interior.

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This set has its name for a reason. It features four of Paravel’s bestsellers—a checked bag, a carry-on, a packing cube quad set, and a weekender—and an extra duffel that folds up neatly. As a bonus, all of Paravel’s products are composed of recycled materials.

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A carry-on, a bigger carry-on, and a checked case cover all of the bases. Drawing from traditional African black-and-white block prints, the striking design is complemented by practical elements like water-repellent zippers, compression boards, and TSA-approved locks.

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This bag is the king of all hard-shell cases, plus Bloomingdale’s home fashion director Kelley Carter’s favorite select. Rimowa’s lightweight suitcases make a bold statement with their tough matte exteriors. The tech features are also impressive, including a height-adjustable divider inside the suitcase and smooth wheels for easy steering through TSA. A full Rimowa set is an investment, but with a lifetime warranty, it’s well worth it.

.css-p3fpzg{font-family:NewParisTextBook,NewParisTextBook-roboto,NewParisTextBook-local,Georgia,Times,Serif;font-weight:normal;letter-spacing:-0.015rem;margin-bottom:0.625rem;margin-top:0.625rem;}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-p3fpzg{font-size:2.25rem;line-height:1.1;}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.css-p3fpzg{font-size:2rem;line-height:1.1;}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-p3fpzg{font-size:2.625rem;line-height:1.1;}}.css-p3fpzg b,.css-p3fpzg strong{font-family:inherit;font-weight:bold;}.css-p3fpzg em,.css-p3fpzg i{font-style:normal;font-family:NewParisTextItalic,NewParisTextItalic-roboto,NewParisTextItalic-local,Georgia,Times,Serif;} Meet The Experts

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  • Sara Banks is the founder of SteamLine Luggage, a Dublin-based company that was created to bring elegance back to modern travel.
  • Kelley Carter is the home fashion director at luxury department store Bloomingdale’s.

What is the most reliable checked luggage?

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Always choose a brand you can trust for checked luggage. Carter is partial to Tumi’s soft-side luggage . Its “special weave and coating make it extremely durable. And because it is a soft-side, there is more packing capacity,” she explains. “If you’re like me and need lots of options, this gives you the freedom to pack all your looks and edit when you get to your destination.”

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Gaby Keiderling is a freelance writer, working on fashion, lifestyle, travel, and sports features.

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Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow: The Best of Moscow!

I just got back from one week in Moscow. And, as you might have already guessed, it was a mind-boggling experience. It was not my first trip to the Russian capital. But I hardly ever got enough time to explore this sprawling city. Visiting places for business rarely leaves enough time for sightseeing. I think that if you’ve got one week in Russia, you can also consider splitting your time between its largest cities (i.e. Saint Petersburg ) to get the most out of your trip. Seven days will let you see the majority of the main sights and go beyond just scratching the surface. In this post, I’m going to share with you my idea of the perfect travel itinerary for one week in Moscow.

Moscow is perhaps both the business and cultural hub of Russia. There is a lot more to see here than just the Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral. Centuries-old churches with onion-shaped domes dotted around the city are in stark contrast with newly completed impressive skyscrapers of Moscow City dominating the skyline. I spent a lot of time thinking about my Moscow itinerary before I left. And this city lived up to all of my expectations.

7-day Moscow itinerary

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow

Day 1 – red square and the kremlin.

Metro Station: Okhotny Ryad on Red Line.

No trip to Moscow would be complete without seeing its main attraction. The Red Square is just a stone’s throw away from several metro stations. It is home to some of the most impressive architectural masterpieces in the city. The first thing you’ll probably notice after entering it and passing vendors selling weird fur hats is the fairytale-like looking Saint Basil’s Cathedral. It was built to commemorate one of the major victories of Ivan the Terrible. I once spent 20 minutes gazing at it, trying to find the perfect angle to snap it. It was easier said than done because of the hordes of locals and tourists.

As you continue strolling around Red Square, there’s no way you can miss Gum. It was widely known as the main department store during the Soviet Era. Now this large (yet historic) shopping mall is filled with expensive boutiques, pricey eateries, etc. During my trip to Moscow, I was on a tight budget. So I only took a retro-style stroll in Gum to get a rare glimpse of a place where Soviet leaders used to grocery shop and buy their stuff. In case you want some modern shopping experience, head to the Okhotny Ryad Shopping Center with stores like New Yorker, Zara, and Adidas.

things to do in Moscow in one week

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To continue this Moscow itinerary, next you may want to go inside the Kremlin walls. This is the center of Russian political power and the president’s official residence. If you’re planning to pay Kremlin a visit do your best to visit Ivan the Great Bell Tower as well. Go there as early as possible to avoid crowds and get an incredible bird’s-eye view. There are a couple of museums that are available during designated visiting hours. Make sure to book your ticket online and avoid lines.

Day 2 – Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, the Tretyakov Gallery, and the Arbat Street

Metro Station: Kropotkinskaya on Red Line

As soon as you start creating a Moscow itinerary for your second day, you’ll discover that there are plenty of metro stations that are much closer to certain sites. Depending on your route, take a closer look at the metro map to pick the closest.

The white marble walls of Christ the Saviour Cathedral are awe-inspiring. As you approach this tallest Orthodox Christian church, you may notice the bronze sculptures, magnificent arches, and cupolas that were created to commemorate Russia’s victory against Napoleon.

travel itinerary for one week in Moscow

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Unfortunately, the current Cathedral is a replica, since original was blown to bits in 1931 by the Soviet government. The new cathedral basically follows the original design, but they have added some new elements such as marble high reliefs.

Home to some precious collection of artworks, in Tretyakov Gallery you can find more than 150,000 of works spanning centuries of artistic endeavor. Originally a privately owned gallery, it now has become one of the largest museums in Russia. The Gallery is often considered essential to visit. But I have encountered a lot of locals who have never been there.

Famous for its souvenirs, musicians, and theaters, Arbat street is among the few in Moscow that were turned into pedestrian zones. Arbat street is usually very busy with tourists and locals alike. My local friend once called it the oldest street in Moscow dating back to 1493. It is a kilometer long walking street filled with fancy gift shops, small cozy restaurants, lots of cute cafes, and street artists. It is closed to any vehicular traffic, so you can easily stroll it with kids.

Day 3 – Moscow River Boat Ride, Poklonnaya Hill Victory Park, the Moscow City

Metro Station: Kievskaya and Park Pobedy on Dark Blue Line / Vystavochnaya on Light Blue Line

Voyaging along the Moscow River is definitely one of the best ways to catch a glimpse of the city and see the attractions from a bit different perspective. Depending on your Moscow itinerary, travel budget and the time of the year, there are various types of boats available. In the summer there is no shortage of boats, and you’ll be spoiled for choice.

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If you find yourself in Moscow during the winter months, I’d recommend going with Radisson boat cruise. These are often more expensive (yet comfy). They offer refreshments like tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and, of course, alcoholic drinks. Prices may vary but mostly depend on your food and drink selection. Find their main pier near the opulent Ukraine hotel . The hotel is one of the “Seven Sisters”, so if you’re into the charm of Stalinist architecture don’t miss a chance to stay there.

The area near Poklonnaya Hill has the closest relation to the country’s recent past. The memorial complex was completed in the mid-1990s to commemorate the Victory and WW2 casualties. Also known as the Great Patriotic War Museum, activities here include indoor attractions while the grounds around host an open-air museum with old tanks and other vehicles used on the battlefield.

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The hallmark of the memorial complex and the first thing you see as you exit metro is the statue of Nike mounted to its column. This is a very impressive Obelisk with a statue of Saint George slaying the dragon at its base.

Maybe not as impressive as Shanghai’s Oriental Pearl Tower , the skyscrapers of the Moscow City (otherwise known as Moscow International Business Center) are so drastically different from dull Soviet architecture. With 239 meters and 60 floors, the Empire Tower is the seventh highest building in the business district.

The observation deck occupies 56 floor from where you have some panoramic views of the city. I loved the view in the direction of Moscow State University and Luzhniki stadium as well to the other side with residential quarters. The entrance fee is pricey, but if you’re want to get a bird’s eye view, the skyscraper is one of the best places for doing just that.

Day 4 – VDNKh, Worker and Collective Farm Woman Monument, The Ostankino TV Tower

Metro Station: VDNKh on Orange Line

VDNKh is one of my favorite attractions in Moscow. The weird abbreviation actually stands for Russian vystavka dostizheniy narodnogo khozyaystva (Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy). With more than 200 buildings and 30 pavilions on the grounds, VDNKh serves as an open-air museum. You can easily spend a full day here since the park occupies a very large area.

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First, there are pavilions that used to showcase different cultures the USSR was made of. Additionally, there is a number of shopping pavilions, as well as Moskvarium (an Oceanarium) that features a variety of marine species. VDNKh is a popular venue for events and fairs. There is always something going on, so I’d recommend checking their website if you want to see some particular exhibition.

A stone’s throw away from VDNKh there is a very distinctive 25-meters high monument. Originally built in 1937 for the world fair in Paris, the hulking figures of men and women holding a hammer and a sickle represent the Soviet idea of united workers and farmers. It doesn’t take much time to see the monument, but visiting it gives some idea of the Soviet Union’s grandiose aspirations.

I have a thing for tall buildings. So to continue my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow I decided to climb the fourth highest TV tower in the world. This iconic 540m tower is a fixture of the skyline. You can see it virtually from everywhere in Moscow, and this is where you can get the best panoramic views (yep, even better than Empire skyscraper).

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Parts of the floor are made of tempered glass, so it can be quite scary to exit the elevator. But trust me, as you start observing buildings and cars below, you won’t want to leave. There is only a limited number of tickets per day, so you may want to book online. Insider tip: the first tour is cheaper, you can save up to $10 if go there early.

Day 5 – A Tour To Moscow Manor Houses

Metro Station: Kolomenskoye, Tsaritsyno on Dark Green Line / Kuskovo on Purple Line

I love visiting the manor houses and palaces in Moscow. These opulent buildings were generally built to house Russian aristocratic families and monarchs. Houses tend to be rather grand affairs with impressive architecture. And, depending on the whims of the owners, some form of a landscaped garden.

During the early part of the 20th century though, many of Russia’s aristocratic families (including the family of the last emperor) ended up being killed or moving abroad . Their manor houses were nationalized. Some time later (after the fall of the USSR) these were open to the public. It means that today a great many of Moscow’s finest manor houses and palaces are open for touring.

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There are 20 manor houses scattered throughout the city and more than 25 in the area around. But not all of them easily accessible and exploring them often takes a lot of time. I’d recommend focusing on three most popular estates in Moscow that are some 30-minute metro ride away from Kremlin.

Sandwiched between the Moscow River and the Andropov Avenue, Kolomenskoye is a UNESCO site that became a public park in the 1920’s. Once a former royal estate, now it is one of the most tranquil parks in the city with gorgeous views. The Ascension Church, The White Column, and the grounds are a truly grand place to visit.

You could easily spend a full day here, exploring a traditional Russian village (that is, in fact, a market), picnicking by the river, enjoying the Eastern Orthodox church architecture, hiking the grounds as well as and wandering the park and gardens with wildflower meadows, apple orchards, and birch and maple groves. The estate museum showcases Russian nature at its finest year-round.

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If my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow was a family tree, Tsaritsyno Park would probably be the crazy uncle that no-one talks about. It’s a large park in the south of the city of mind-boggling proportions, unbelievable in so many ways, and yet most travelers have never heard of it.

The palace was supposed to be a summer home for Empress Catherine the Great. But since the construction didn’t meet with her approval the palace was abandoned. Since the early 1990’s the palace, the pond, and the grounds have been undergoing renovations. The entire complex is now looking brighter and more elaborately decorated than at possibly any other time during its history. Like most parks in Moscow, you can visit Tsaritsyno free of charge, but there is a small fee if you want to visit the palace.

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Last, but by no means least on my Moscow itinerary is Kuskovo Park . This is definitely an off-the-beaten-path place. While it is not easily accessible, you will be rewarded with a lack of crowds. This 18th-century summer country house of the Sheremetev family was one of the first summer country estates of the Russian nobility. And when you visit you’ll quickly realize why locals love this park.

Like many other estates, Kuskovo has just been renovated. So there are lovely French formal garden, a grotto, and the Dutch house to explore. Make sure to plan your itinerary well because the estate is some way from a metro station.

Day 6 – Explore the Golden Ring

Creating the Moscow itinerary may keep you busy for days with the seemingly endless amount of things to do. Visiting the so-called Golden Ring is like stepping back in time. Golden Ring is a “theme route” devised by promotion-minded journalist and writer Yuri Bychkov.

Having started in Moscow the route will take you through a number of historical cities. It now includes Suzdal, Vladimir, Kostroma, Yaroslavl and Sergiev Posad. All these awe-inspiring towns have their own smaller kremlins and feature dramatic churches with onion-shaped domes, tranquil residential areas, and other architectural landmarks.

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I only visited two out of eight cities included on the route. It is a no-brainer that Sergiev Posad is the nearest and the easiest city to see on a day trip from Moscow. That being said, you can explore its main attractions in just one day. Located some 70 km north-east of the Russian capital, this tiny and overlooked town is home to Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, UNESCO Site.

things to do in Moscow in seven days

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Sergiev Posad is often described as being at the heart of Russian spiritual life. So it is uncommon to see the crowds of Russian pilgrims showing a deep reverence for their religion. If you’re traveling independently and using public transport, you can reach Sergiev Posad by bus (departs from VDNKh) or by suburban commuter train from Yaroslavskaya Railway Station (Bahnhof). It takes about one and a half hours to reach the town.

Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius is a great place to get a glimpse of filling and warming Russian lunch, specifically at the “ Gostevaya Izba ” restaurant. Try the duck breast, hearty potato and vegetables, and the awesome Napoleon cake.

Day 7 – Gorky Park, Izmailovo Kremlin, Patriarch’s Ponds

Metro Station: Park Kultury or Oktyabrskaya on Circle Line / Partizanskaya on Dark Blue Line / Pushkinskaya on Dark Green Line

Gorky Park is in the heart of Moscow. It offers many different types of outdoor activities, such as dancing, cycling, skateboarding, walking, jogging, and anything else you can do in a park. Named after Maxim Gorky, this sprawling and lovely park is where locals go on a picnic, relax and enjoy free yoga classes. It’s a popular place to bike around, and there is a Muzeon Art Park not far from here. A dynamic location with a younger vibe. There is also a pier, so you can take a cruise along the river too.

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The Kremlin in Izmailovo is by no means like the one you can find near the Red Square. Originally built for decorative purposes, it now features the Vernissage flea market and a number of frequent fairs, exhibitions, and conferences. Every weekend, there’s a giant flea market in Izmailovo, where dozens of stalls sell Soviet propaganda crap, Russian nesting dolls, vinyl records, jewelry and just about any object you can imagine. Go early in the morning if you want to beat the crowds.

All the Bulgakov’s fans should pay a visit to Patriarch’s Ponds (yup, that is plural). With a lovely small city park and the only one (!) pond in the middle, the location is where the opening scene of Bulgakov’s novel Master and Margarita was set. The novel is centered around a visit by Devil to the atheistic Soviet Union is considered by many critics to be one of the best novels of the 20th century. I spent great two hours strolling the nearby streets and having lunch in the hipster cafe.

Conclusion and Recommendations

To conclude, Moscow is a safe city to visit. I have never had a problem with getting around and most locals are really friendly once they know you’re a foreigner. Moscow has undergone some serious reconstruction over the last few years. So you can expect some places to be completely different. I hope my one week Moscow itinerary was helpful! If you have less time, say 4 days or 5 days, I would cut out day 6 and day 7. You could save the Golden Ring for a separate trip entirely as there’s lots to see!

What are your thoughts on this one week Moscow itinerary? Are you excited about your first time in the city? Let me know in the comments below!

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24 comments.

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Ann Snook-Moreau

Moscow looks so beautiful and historic! Thanks for including public transit information for those of us who don’t like to rent cars.

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MindTheTravel

Yup, that is me 🙂 Rarely rent + stick to the metro = Full wallet!

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Mariella Blago

Looks like you had loads of fun! Well done. Also great value post for travel lovers.

Thanks, Mariella!

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I have always wanted to go to Russia, especially Moscow. These sights look absolutely beautiful to see and there is so much history there!

Agree! Moscow is a thousand-year-old city and there is definitely something for everyone.

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Tara Pittman

Those are amazing buildings. Looks like a place that would be amazing to visit.

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Adriana Lopez

Never been to Moscow or Russia but my family has. Many great spots and a lot of culture. Your itinerary sounds fantastic and covers a lot despite it is only a short period of time.

What was their favourite thing about Russia?

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Gladys Parker

I know very little about Moscow or Russia for the\at matter. I do know I would have to see the Red Square and all of its exquisite architectural masterpieces. Also the CATHEDRAL OF CHRIST THE SAVIOUR. Thanks for shedding some light on visiting Moscow.

Thanks for swinging by! The Red Square is a great starting point, but there way too many places and things to discover aside from it!

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Ruthy @ Percolate Kitchen

You are making me so jealous!! I’ve always wanted to see Russia.

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Moscow is in my bucket list, I don’t know when I can visit there, your post is really useful. As a culture rich place we need to spend at least week.

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DANA GUTKOWSKI

Looks like you had a great trip! Thanks for all the great info! I’ve never been in to Russia, but this post makes me wanna go now!

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Wow this is amazing! Moscow is on my bucket list – such an amazing place to visit I can imagine! I can’t wait to go there one day!

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The building on the second picture looks familiar. I keep seeing that on TV.

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Reesa Lewandowski

What beautiful moments! I always wish I had the personality to travel more like this!

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Perfect itinerary for spending a week in Moscow! So many places to visit and it looks like you had a wonderful time. I would love to climb that tower. The views I am sure must have been amazing!

I was lucky enough to see the skyline of Moscow from this TV Tower and it is definitely mind-blowing.

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Chelsea Pearl

Moscow is definitely up there on my travel bucket list. So much history and iconic architecture!

Thumbs up! 🙂

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Blair Villanueva

OMG I dream to visit Moscow someday! Hope the visa processing would be okay (and become more affordable) so I could pursue my dream trip!

Yup, visa processing is the major downside! Agree! Time and the money consuming process…

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Home > Where To Stay In Moscow – Best Hotels In Moscow Included!

Where To Stay In Moscow – Best Hotels In Moscow Included!

Post author SJ

Written by our local expert SJ

Sarah-Jane has lived in Croatia for 10+ years. SJ, as she is known, has been traveling the Balkans & beyond since 2000. She now shares her passion for traveling with her husband & kids.

Written by travel writer Ivan Tannenberg . Ivan is an independent traveler, history junkie, and techno-geek. 

In this post, I’ll try to answer the question ‘where is the best place to stay in Moscow?’ as best as I can!

Russia’s sprawling capital, one of the must-visit cities in the country , has long been known as an expensive city for hotel rates. While the situation has improved significantly over the past several years, the authorities are still adding accommodation in Moscow to suit every taste and budget .

Moscow is rapidly becoming a city that caters to a well-heeled clientele and travelers on a tight budget . After several trips to Moscow, I’ve noticed that many people tend to stay near the Kremlin. It is definitely convenient but adds up quickly. In this post, I’ll try to answer the question ‘where is the best place to stay in Moscow?’ as best as I can!

Central District

  • Kitay-Gorod:  The very heart of Moscow, arguably the best area to stay in Moscow for tourists
  • Basmanny: Best place to stay in Moscow with kids
  • Krasnoselski:  Home to several railway stations and other transportation options
  • Presnensky: This area to stay in Moscow if you’re short on cash
  • Tverskoy: A central Moscow nightlife district and the best place to stay in Moscow to experience the night scene
  • Zamoskvorechye:  Historic district in central Moscow, just across the Moskva River from the Kremlin

Western District

  • Dorogomilovo: Nice area of Moscow to stay for Stalinist architecture and other monumental buildings

Eastern District

  • Izmailovo:  Quieter area home to gorgeous historic architecture and markets

Russia Travel Blog_Where To Stay In Moscow

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Best Accommodation In Basmanny District, Moscow

1. mercure hotel baumanskaya – 4 stars.

Russia-Travel-Blog_Things-to-do-in-Russia_Where-to-Stay-in-Moscow_Mercure-Hotel-Baumanskaya

This hotel is a short walk from Baumanskaya metro station, the Epiphany Cathedral at Yelokhovo, and the Yauza River. This quiet and small hotel has free WiFi, and it didn’t feel like staying in a branded hotel (Accorhotels).

The interior is done up in a modern style, while the rooms are equipped with plentiful amenities. The hotel restaurant offers a delicious variety of international cuisine. Additionally, there is a wide variety of dining establishments in the area nearby.

The staff is friendly and fluent in English (unlike many other hotels in Moscow). All public areas in the hotel were designed to provide effective wide-spectrum air cleaning, so lung disorder sufferers are sure to breathe easily here. Complimentary bottled water in rooms is likewise provided for those staying at this hotel, which is one of the best places to stay in Moscow, Russia’s capital for couples and families.

Click here for more information and the latest prices.

2. Pokrovka 6 Hotel – 3 Stars

Russia Travel Blog_Things to do in Russia_Where to Stay in Moscow_Pokrovka 6 Hotel

This small but lovely hotel occupies an attic in a building with oddly shaped rooms. Located some 12 minutes’ walk from the Red Square and just 7 minutes from the Kitai-Gorod metro station, Pokrovka 6 Hotel has its clean and up-to-date rooms decorated in light and bright colors.

Chistoprudny Boulevard and the area around it are filled with several excellent restaurants, so make sure to visit some of them.

Best Accommodation In Krasnoselsky District, Moscow

3. hilton moscow leningradskaya – 5 stars.

"Russia

This typical Hilton hotel is situated in one of Stalin’s Seven Sister skyscrapers and has everything you need for a comfortable stay. Although it is close to the busy Leningradsky and Kazansky railway stations, the hotel’s Moscow city area is not grotty. Hilton Moscow Leningradskaya provides easy access to all major transportation hubs with several business centers and various governmental institutions around.

I have stayed here many times and always had excellent service from pleasant and helpful staff. As one of the top Moscow hotels, it also has very comfortable beds, a swimming pool, restaurants, and bars and is a short ride from the Red Square, one of the absolute top sites in Moscow.

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Best accommodation in presnensky district, moscow, 4. red brick hotel – 3 stars.

Russia Travel Blog_Things to do in Russia_Where to Stay in Moscom_Red Brick Hotel

While there are plenty of mid-range hotels in Moscow’s historical center, the Red Brick Hotel is my favorite one. Located within walking distance of Kitai-Gorod metro station and the Pryanik Museum, the hotel has some of its rooms decorated with brick walls and, in general, look very stylish. Some of the rooms may be smaller than in other hotels around, but they were recently renovated and are very cozy.

The staff was accommodating and knowledgeable, and they even offered me some valuable tips for exploring the area around . I enjoyed their food in a casual atmosphere, great value for money.

If you’re searching for where to stay in Moscow as a tourist, this district and hotel is always a good choice!

Best Accommodation In Tverskoy District, Moscow

5. four seasons hotel moscow – 5 stars.

Russia Travel Blog_Things to do in Russia_Where to Stay in Moscow

I will be honest; Four Seasons Hotel is one of the best hotels in Moscow. Overlooking the Manezhnaya Square is just three minutes walk from the Red Square and the State Historical Museum.

Okay, this hotel near Red Square Moscow is not very far from the Kremlin walls. Still, with 180 elegant rooms, monumental Stalinist architecture, and over-the-top amenities, it offers a wide range of excellent facilities and the best service.

6. Arium Hotel – 4 Stars

Russia Travel Blog_Things to do in Russia_Where to Stay in Moscow_Arium Hotel

With 60 small no-frills rooms, this accommodation in Moscow is not just a hotel or a B&B, but the owners refer to it as an attractive hotel for business and savvy travelers alike! Located in the Tverskoy District (with exceptional city access and cool and trendy bars in the area), Arium Hotel features a restaurant that serves Caucasian cuisine and a 24-hour gym. The rooms come with complimentary free WiFi. They also provide a roundtrip airport shuttle for a surcharge.

Additionally, the Tverskoy District is also home to renowned Tverskaya Street, the main boulevard and one of Moscow’s best streets. It’s a magnificent road to walk on, flanked by impressive buildings and countless shops. The country’s most expensive street is Russia’s counterpart of other famous boulevards like Oxford Street or the Champs-Élysées.

7. Vagabond Hostel – Moscow Budget Accommodation

Russia Travel Blog_Things to do in Russia_Where to Stay in Moscow_Vagabond Hostel

With a cool and catchy business name, the Vagabond hostel was founded by two nomads who have a reputation for being avid travelers. Their hostel is yet another fantastic place to stay while backpacking Moscow, where you can relax, chat with fellow backpackers and find travel buddies to hang out with. If you’re looking for things to do at night in Moscow, your fellow guests will be able to give you some tips.

It is a really well-thought-out hostel that features a kitchenette, extra luggage storage for your backpacking gear , a shared lounge, and bathrooms. Situated just two metro stops away from Belorusskaya railway station (where Aeroexpress trains from Sheremetyevo arrive) near the monument of Pushkin, this hostel is definitely not to be missed while in Moscow.

Additionally, Vagabond Hostel lies in a popular nightlife area in Moscow, too. So, if you’re trying to figure out where to stay in Moscow for nightlife, this would be a great choice. This is arguably the best place to stay in Moscow for backpackers and budget travelers.

Best Accommodation In Zamoskvorechye District, Moscow

8. swissotel krasnye holmy – 5 stars.

Russia Travel Blog_Things to do in Russia_Where to Stay in Moscow_Swissotel Krasnye Holmy

Located just a stone’s throw away from Paveletskaya metro station and Paveletsky railway terminal, where trains from Domodedovo airport arrive, Swissotel Krasnye Holmy is a top-notch hotel with a mind-boggling 360-degree panoramic view of Moscow and the river. It takes a couple of seconds to get to the top of the 34-story tower to enjoy dinner and a view on the rooftop terrace .

This area of Moscow is tranquil despite the proximity of the railway station. The hotel has clean and contemporary rooms and suites, a fitness center, a sauna, and outstanding service.

9. Hotel Baltschug Kempinski Moscow – 5 Stars

"Russia

One of the most luxurious hotels in Moscow, the Hotel Baltschug Kempinski building dates back to 1898. Situated in the middle of Baltschug Island, the hotel is within walking distance of major tourist attractions in Moscow, including the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour and the Red Square. Just cross the bridge to find yourself near the best places to visit in Moscow, Russia.

From the moment you step into the lobby, you will be welcomed by the courteous omnipresent staff. Within seconds, you feel remarkably relaxed and comfortable, like a home away from home. The Kempinski hotel has 225 opulent rooms decorated with curtains and other soft furnishings made from sumptuous fabrics. If you’re figuring out where to stay in Moscow, who’s luxurious and high-end, this is a superb choice.

10. Comrade Hostel – Moscow Budget Accommodation

Russia Travel Blog_Things to do in Russia_Where to Stay in Moscow_Comrade Hostel

Perhaps one of Moscow’s best hostels for socializing is its central location, proximity to a wide range of tourist attractions, and accommodating English-speaking staff. Located on the third floor of a historical building in the Russian capital’s very heart, the Comrade Hostel is really clean.

While the lack of an elevator may cause some inconvenience, you shouldn’t worry. Ask the staff to help with your luggage , and they will gladly do just that. The hostel offers laundry and self-catering facilities.

Best Accommodation In Dorogomilovo District, Moscow

11. radisson royal hotel moscow – 5 stars.

"Russia

Set in one of the wealthiest Moscow neighborhoods, next to Kutuzovsky Avenue and the Russian Government’s main office, this high-rise is one of the two Joseph Stalin skyscrapers you can actually get into. And it is well worth the effort.

Like its sisters, the Radisson Royal Hotel Moscow, formerly known as the Hotel Ukraine, is unique in its grandeur. The interior underwent a comprehensive renovation in 2010. Now, the hotel is regarded as one of the best in Moscow.

Besides its spectacular collection of arches, stained glass windows, and a painted ceiling, the hotel also has a restaurant serving delicious mouth-watering food. A fleet of all-weather luxury tourist boats cruises the Moscow River even in the dead of winter, definitely one of those cool things to do in Moscow.

  • One Week In Moscow Travel Itinerary

Best Accommodation In Izmailovo District, Moscow

12. vega izmailovo hotel – 4 stars.

Russia Travel Blog_Things to do in Russia_Where to Stay in Moscow_Izmailovo Tourist Hotel Complex

One of the most budget-friendly Moscow accommodation options, the Izmailovo complex comprises five interconnected blocks, which are very popular with big groups of travelers. Each of the five blocks has its own name, but service and prices are often quite similar.

Although not necessarily located in the central Moscow districts, the hotel is situated right beside Partizanskaya metro station. It takes about 20 minutes to reach Red Square by metro. The Izmailovo Kremlin and the area locals call the Vernissage (an otherwise large shopping area and the flea market) were just a bonus to staying at this hotel .

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Other Good Hotels In Moscow

13. loft hotel h11.

If you’re traveling with kids , the Loft Hotel in Basmanny is the best central Moscow hotel. This low-key hotel in the center of town is ideal. Basmanny is an area in Moscow known for its chilled vibe and clean, safe streets.

14. Hotel Nikolsky Red Square

Just a five-minute walk to Moscow’s heart near the Kremlin and Red Square, this is where to stay in Moscow if you are short on time and don’t want to spend time commuting to the key sights.

15. Invite City House

This boutique hotel is where to stay in Moscow if you’re on a budget and want a simple room (breakfast included), but you are okay to take a subway ride to and from the city center.

More Cheap Hostels In Moscow

  • City Hostel
  • Godzillas Hostel
  • Napoleon Hostel
  • Good News Hostel

When choosing where to stay in Russia’s capital Moscow, comparing prices at various hotel search engines and booking apps is always important. Also, consider what Moscow is known for and try to stay close to the main attractions.

Thus, if you plan a trip to Moscow, I recommend using price-comparison search engines such as Booking.com or Ostrovok.ru.

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just on a practical note, there are no budget or 3* hotels close to the Kremlin.

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Behind the HYPE: How Rimowa Transformed the Travel Suitcase Into the Ultimate Luxury Staple

Rimowa transcends luggage with aesthetic and functional designs trusted by affluent jet setters..

Across its collection of duffles, backpacks and suitcases,  Rimowa ’s subtle, sophisticated aesthetic — recognized by a unique, grooved shell — has transcended ordinary luggage styles, becoming a coveted accessory for discerning travelers.

Brought to you by the All-Electric Acura ZDX , the latest installment of Behind the HYPE investigates the rise of luxury luggage and travel brand Rimowa. Founded in Cologne, Germany, in 1898 by suitcase-maker Paul Morszeck and Heinrich Görtz, Rimowa started as a manufacturing company specializing in wood trunks.

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    4. Red Brick Hotel - 3 Stars Photo Credit: Red Brick Hotel. While there are plenty of mid-range hotels in Moscow's historical center, the Red Brick Hotel is my favorite one. Located within walking distance of Kitai-Gorod metro station and the Pryanik Museum, the hotel has some of its rooms decorated with brick walls and, in general, look ...

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