Is Away Luggage Worth it? I Tried it to Find Out!

Are you on the hunt for the perfect luggage that combines style, durability, and functionality? I found myself in the same situation when not one but two of my suitcases broke over the course of one summer of travels.

Done with cheap suitcases that can’t be replaced, I started looking into the best ones with a lifetime warranty. Away popped up as one of the best brands for the midrange budget, so I bought one to test out. It’s now been on several trips with me and I love the space-to-weight ratio (because I’m a chronic over packer now that I travel with a toddler).

Here’s everything to know before you buy an Away Suitcase:

Away’s Design and Durable Build

Let’s start with the aesthetics. Away luggage has a minimalist design that I prefer since I like to stay away from being flashy when I travel, both for safety and practicality. The suitcases are available in a range of chic colors, from classic black to petal pink and even sorbet orange. Gone are the days of wondering which bag on the conveyor belt is yours if you opt for one of those!

But it’s not just about looks – Away luggage is built to last. Crafted from premium materials like polycarbonate and aluminum, these suitcases can withstand the rigors of being checked luggage.

When reading reviews, this is the main reason why I chose Away. It seemed like people really put these to the test and they came out fully functional after years of travel. That’s exactly what I wanted – something that did its job over the long-term.

Sizes of Away Suitcases

Away has two styles of suitcase – the polycarbonate and aluminum. I have the polycarbonate and chose it due to it’s lighter weight. Both collections have the following size options:

• The Carry-On is perfect for short trips or minimalist packers, offering ample space for your essentials while still meeting airline size restrictions. The polycarbonate measures 21.7″ x 13.7″ x 9″ and weighs 8.15 lbs.
• Need a little extra room? Opt for the Bigger Carry-On, which provides additional space without sacrificing portability. The polycarbonate measures 22.7″ x 14.7″ x 9.6″ and weighs 8.55 lbs.
• For longer adventures, the Medium and Large suitcases offer generous packing capacity without being unwieldy. Plus, with thoughtful features like interior compression systems and hidden laundry bags. The medium polycarbonate measures 26″ x 18.5″ x 11″ and weighs 10.8 lbs and the large measures 29″ x 20.5″ x 12.5″ and weighs 12.25 lbs.

Smart Features of Away Suitcases

What sets Away luggage apart from the competition is the spaciousness and ease of use. The 360-degree spinner wheels ensure smooth maneuverability through crowded terminals, while the TSA-approved combination lock keeps your belongings secure without the hassle of a traditional padlock.

There’s also a focus on organization. Inside each suitcase, you’ll find a few compartments and pockets to keep your belongings neatly organized (however they have fewer than Monos). Many of the designs can also be expanded, if you’re like me and love buying clothes as souvenirs when you travel.

From mesh pockets for smaller items like socks and underwear to zippered compartments for toiletries or documents, there’s a designated spot for almost everything. Plus, the interior compression system helps maximize packing space while minimizing wrinkles, so you can avoid the dreaded iron while on vacation with that perfect dress for the perfect photo shoot (I KNOW it’s not just me who cares about this!).

When you’re back from your trip, the carry ons will nest into the Medium or Large suitcases, making storage easier. You can also save by buying a set of luggage.

Compare Options Here

Away Durability and Warranty

Away doesn’t just talk the talk when it comes to durability – they back it up with a lifetime warranty. If your suitcase suffers any damage from airlines or handling, Away will repair or replace it free of charge.

But a warranty is only as good as the company backing it up, which is why I read plenty of reviews before buying mine. It seems like people have had genuinely great experiences with Away customer service.

The most common complaint is around scuffing on the suitcase, but there is no way a checked bag will make it out ‘alive’ without some scuffing. regardless of what I’ve used, there’s always been scuffing. If that bothers you, a black color is the way to go.

That said, the scuffing is not as bad as on my Monos trunk since the material is a bit different and hardier.

Comparing Away to Other Top Luggage Brands

Now, let’s take a moment to compare Away luggage to some other top brands in the market:

Monos: Monos luggage shares some similarities with Away in terms of sleek design and durability. Both brands offer smart features like built-in chargers and TSA-approved locks. However, Monos tends to be slightly pricier and buyers complain about how easily it scuffs. I actually own the Monos trunk and while I think it’s a great suitcase, I can confirm, it scuffs and dents easily.

Rimowa: Rimowa is synonymous with luxury travel, known for its iconic aluminum suitcases and timeless design. While Rimowa’s craftsmanship is unparalleled, it comes with a hefty price tag that may not be within everyone’s budget. Away offers a more affordable alternative without compromising on quality or style.

Tumi: Tumi is another premium luggage brand known for its durability and functionality. Like Away, Tumi offers a range of sizes and styles to suit different travel needs. However, Tumi tends to be more expensive, making Away a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing quality.

Read more of the best luggage brands with a lifetime warranty here.

In a sea of luggage options, Away stands out for its winning combination of style, durability, and functionality.

So, if you’re ready to elevate your travel game and say goodbye to easily broken, unreliable luggage, do yourself a favor and invest in an Away suitcase. Your future adventures will thank you for it!

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