Away Baggage Evaluate: Hype or Price It?

Away Baggage was essentially the most disruptive baggage model in the marketplace once they first launched in 2016. They have been providing superbly designed, high-quality, sturdy suitcases that got here with top-of-the-line warranties supplied by any baggage model on the market.

They gained immense reputation by their sturdy social media presence, with a myriad of influencers and celebrities selling the model on social media platforms.

However has Away Baggage maintained their model positioning and high quality over time?

On this Away Baggage evaluation, I put their merchandise to the take a look at to find out whether or not or not they’re nonetheless worthy of the hype.

Away Baggage First Impressions

I first realized about Away in my Instagram feed. Their advertising is undeniably nice! They’re notoriously often known as the suitcase model that took over Instagram.

I used to be drawn to their merchandise even earlier than I knew a lot in regards to the model. They do a fantastic job of speaking their imaginative and prescient of considerate journey and the best way their suitcases can assist you reside out that imaginative and prescient. They appeared so wonderful on the display, and I used to be excited to verify one out in actual life.

After I lastly bought one in every of their instances (the Away Carry-On), the very first thing that stood out to me was how good it appears in particular person. The styling may be very trendy and the colours look nice. The one detractor was that I don’t love the feel on the hardshell: it’s a bit tough (nearly pebbly) and simply appears a bit low-cost and overdone to me. I consider the explanation for it’s to cover scratches, however I nonetheless don’t like the way it feels and appears up shut. They in all probability may have gotten away with one thing a bit subtler that seemed approach higher.

Past appears, it feels pretty well-made, but it surely doesn’t fairly stand as much as another suitcases I’ve tried. The polycarbonate shell appears sturdy sufficient, however I may get it to flex fairly a bit by pushing on the edges. The telescopic deal with feels sturdy (approach higher than a budget rattley ones I’ve used) but it surely’s nothing out of the extraordinary. I’ve positively used higher baggage handles earlier than. The wheels rolled easy and quiet round my kitchen, however they do really feel a bit gentle and plasticky. I’m positive they’ll maintain up effectively on easy concrete, however rougher surfaces could be a distinct story.

Lastly, once I opened it up the quantity of group options made me smile. I’d been utilizing a less expensive suitcase for some time that had one mesh pocket and some flimsy straps to carry issues in place. The Away Carry-On (like all Away instances) was loaded with dividers, pockets, and a beefy compression system that works superior at maintaining all the pieces neat. There’s even an included laundry bag to maintain your soiled garments separate!

Away Baggage Professionals and Cons

Away baggage has quite a bit going for it. It’s stunning, sturdy, and full of options. Away owas one of many first startup direct-to-customer manufacturers that aimed to promote luxury-level polycarbonate suitcases at extra inexpensive value than manufacturers like RIMOWA.

On the identical time, nevertheless, Away won’t be for everybody. Extra manufacturers have stepped into the scene and are are providing very comparable hardside suitcases at even higher costs.

The reality is, whereas Away baggage is fashionable, practical, and sturdy, different baggage firms like Monos and July have stepped in to supply higher merchandise at the same or cheaper value level.

Who’s Away Baggage?

The corporate was based in New York Metropolis by two girls, Jen Rubio and Steph Korey—previously executives at Warby Parker. In truth, Away is without doubt one of the highest-funded female-backed startups so far.

After Rubio had a suitcase fail catastrophically in a Swiss airport, she began trying to find extra dependable baggage. When she couldn’t discover something that met her expectations, Rubio teamed up with Korey to develop a hard-shell suitcase that’s each stunning and sturdy: Baggage for the fashionable traveler.

Away’s strategy to baggage design is influenced by their real-world experiences as vacationers. They goal to know the wants of contemporary vacationers and create merchandise that cater to those wants.

Away Baggage Evaluate

Supplies

Away suitcases are primarily supplied in two supplies: polycarbonate and aluminum.

Polycarbonate is a thermoplastic that’s extremely proof against affect and scratches. It’s a light-weight materials that can be versatile, which suggests it may possibly take up the shock of bumps and knocks throughout journey.

Polycarbonate suitcases are light-weight and extremely sturdy, making them supreme for frequent vacationers who desire a dependable suitcase that’s straightforward to hold. That’s why polycarbonate is the fabric of selection for hardside luggage nowadays.

Aluminum is a light-weight steel that’s extremely resistant to break and put on. It’s heavier than polycarbonate, but it surely gives a degree of safety that’s unmatched by different supplies.

Away’s aluminum suitcases are heavier and really costly, however they supply extra safety and a extra premium look. I don’t advocate shopping for an aluminum suitcase except you actually will need to have essentially the most luxurious and complex suitcase for his or her travels.

Away finishes of their materials selections with an ultra-soft stain-resistant inside lining cloth, high-quality YKK zippers, and real leather-based trim, together with a black leather-based baggage tag. These little particulars actually spherical out the general high-end feel and look.

Aesthetic

Away luggage are identified for his or her fashionable and trendy look. The model has change into a preferred selection for anybody who desires baggage that’s each practical and aesthetically pleasing.

There are 9 customary colours to select from—navy, petal, and asphalt are my favourite. With all of the choices it’s fairly straightforward to discover a shade that matches your private type.

The model’s signature suitcases have a hard-shell exterior, with a minimalist design and a easy and ribbed end that provides them a complicated look.

I do assume there are different manufacturers which have a extra minimal, dialed-in aesthetic, although. I feel Monos baggage appears much less cluttered and clunky and has a extra smooth look general.

Group

Away baggage is designed with a considerate group system meant to make packing and touring extra environment friendly. It’s not essentially the most progressive and misses just a few options that different manufacturers ship, but it surely works fairly effectively.

The suitcases are designed with quite a lot of inside compartments and pockets, which you need to use to maintain all the pieces organized and accessible.

The inside of the suitcase incorporates a zippered compartment, which you need to use to retailer smaller objects akin to toiletries, socks, and underwear.

There’s a mesh panel on the inside of the suitcase to separate objects and forestall them from shifting throughout journey.

I actually wish to see extra pockets on the within, although. There’s sufficient right here that will help you keep a bit extra organized, but it surely’s nonetheless fairly minimal. Pockets, please!

Away baggage additionally consists of compression straps. That is nice for maximizing house in your suitcase.

Along with the inside compartments and compression straps, some Away carry-on luggage (just like the Carry-On with Pocket) even have an exterior pocket, which you need to use to retailer objects that should be simply accessible, akin to passports, boarding passes, or electronics.

Sturdiness

Prior to now few years, Away baggage has constructed a repute for its sturdiness and high-quality building, along with its design.

My expertise with the carry-on baggage, particularly their authentic Away Carry-On, exceeded my expectations. After over a yr of use, the bags nonetheless appears good general. I’ve positively put some scratches and dents in it although, so know that Away baggage isn’t bomb-proof.

The model’s signature hard-shell suitcases are produced from high-quality polycarbonate and are designed to resist the wear and tear and tear of journey. It’s light-weight but sturdy. Away additionally created a customized scratch-resistant texture on their shells, which can assist the suitcase keep its look even after frequent use.

The sleek-rolling 360-degree spinner wheels are designed to face as much as impacts and long-term use. Nonetheless, they positively wouldn’t be my first choose if I’ll be touring over cobblestone streets in Europe. They simply really feel a bit too gentle and low-cost to be used on actually tough surfaces.

Away does supply a restricted lifetime guarantee for its suitcases, which is a testomony to their confidence within the sturdiness and longevity of its merchandise. 

Worth

For those who’re looking for new baggage, value goes to be an vital think about your choice. You need to be sure to get a suitcase that delivers the very best bang on your buck.

Away was particularly began to supply the identical high quality and options you see in luxury-level baggage, simply at a extra attainable value. Firms like RIMOWA and Briggs & Riley have been providing polycarbonate suitcases because the early 2000’s, however it’s a must to pay an arm and leg for them. Away baggage makes use of the identical materials, identical manufacturing strategies, and comparable options, however their baggage is half the price.

Till not too long ago, I’d say that Away was the best choice for a high-value trendy suitcase, however now different manufacturers have stepped into the market.

Monos is one other model that began just a few years later than Away and makes a really comparable product. All the things between these two model may be very comparable (Monos even has some benefits in group and high quality testing), however Monos is considerably cheaper.

So, does Away supply good worth? Sure, but it surely isn’t the very best anymore.

For those who don’t want the very best baggage and need to avoid wasting extra money, you may take a look at our listing of the best affordable luggage.

Away Baggage Dimensions & Specs

Away’s core assortment is offered in 5 totally different sizes. This consists of The Daily Carry-On, The Carry-On, The Bigger Carry-On, The Medium, and The Large. 

To get technical, right here’s the precise comparability of fashions based mostly on their dimensions:

A number of of the fashions are additionally accessible in a “flex” measurement. For instance, you should purchase The Carry-On Flex. Because of this the suitcase could be expanded utilizing an exterior zipper to accommodate extra objects when wanted. 

Away Baggage Options

After I take into consideration baggage options, I need to discover components that improve the usage of the bags. These may very well be distinctive storage or packing methods, totally different handles, and straps, or any inventive options the producer provides to the product.

Clean-Rolling Wheels

Away’s 360-degree spinner wheels are a key function of the model’s checked and carry-on baggage. They’re designed to offer a easy and quiet rolling expertise, and may rotate in any course. 

For those who’re coming from extra fundamental baggage manufacturers, you’ll instantly discover the distinction with these wheels. They really feel very premium in comparison with the flimsy plastic wheels you’ll discover on cheaper baggage. Nonetheless, in case you’ve tried different high-end suitcases, it’s possible you’ll be a bit disenchanted. These wheels simply aren’t as quiet and easy as some rivals, and so they don’t really feel practically as sturdy.

Will they do the job? Completely. Nonetheless, I’d be a bit hesitant taking them wherever with actually tough surfaces like cobblestone or brick streets.

Compression System

Away’s inside compression system means that you can pack extra effectively and with much less effort. It consists of a folding divider with a set of straps that may be tightened to compress the contents of the suitcase.

By compressing your garments and different objects, this method holds them securely in place and helps create more room in your suitcase, permitting you to pack extra effectively. This was particularly useful once I was packing cumbersome objects like sweaters or jackets, which are inclined to take up numerous room.

I discovered the Away compression straps in my carry-on very straightforward to make use of. I merely packed my objects within the suitcase as I usually would, then coated them with the inside divider and used the straps to compress the contents.

It’s actually nothing extraordinary, but it surely works.

Detachable Laundry Bag

The Away detachable laundry bag is a particular function of Away’s bigger suitcases (checked baggage luggage). This detachable laundry bag is a handy method to maintain your damp or soiled garments separate from the remainder of your packed objects.

The laundry bag is principally a detachable pouch that attaches to the inside of the suitcase. It’s produced from a waterproof materials to stop any moisture or odor from spreading to different objects in your baggage. It’s excellent for holding any soiled or damp garments, akin to bathing fits or exercise garments.

Constructed-In Battery

The built-in battery pack might be my favourite function. The battery pack is constructed instantly into the Away carry-on bag and could be accessed by a handy exterior USB port.

With this function, you may simply cost your cellphone, pill, or different digital units whereas on the go. It has sufficient capability to completely cost a cellphone a number of occasions. I can’t inform you how way more handy that is than looking for an open outlet within the airport. I really like having the ability to plug in my cellphone regardless of the place I’m.

It’s price noting that this function is offered solely on the Away Carry-On and Greater Carry-On fashions. 

The battery pack is designed to adjust to all main airline insurance policies and is TSA-approved. You’ll be able to take it with you in your travels with none considerations about safety or restrictions.

Within the case that you just resolve to verify your Away carry-on, the battery pack could be eliminated. The system may be very straightforward—it comes out by merely clicking the eject button.

Exterior Pocket

For those who’re in search of a baggage mannequin that has an exterior pocket, you’ll need to go for the aptly named Away “Carry-On with Pocket.”

This carry-on suitcase consists of an exterior pocket to offer further space for storing for anybody who wants fast entry to important objects throughout their journey. The pocket is situated on the entrance of the suitcase and is secured with a sturdy zipper.

There’s a padded sleeve for a laptop computer or pill, which might maintain a tool as much as 15 inches in measurement. This pocket is lined with a gentle, protecting materials that helps to maintain your system secure and safe throughout transit.

Along with the laptop computer sleeve, the outside pocket additionally has a spread of smaller compartments for storing objects like telephones, chargers, passports, boarding passes, and different journey necessities.

Away Baggage Equipment

For those who’re fascinated about including extra performance and elegance to your journey gear, Away has an assortment of equipment that may assist you optimize your journey expertise.

Packing Cubes

One in all their hottest equipment are the Away packing cubes, which are available in units of 4 or six, and are designed to suit completely inside their suitcases. 

The units embrace cubes of various sizes. That is vital because you’ll need totally different choices on your pants vs. your socks. 

They’re designed with a mesh panel on prime, making it straightforward to determine the contents inside with out having to unpack or open all the pieces. That is nice for once you’re in a rush or don’t need to disrupt the remainder of your packed objects.

The most important benefit of the packing cubes is their compatibility with Away suitcases. The cubes are designed to fill an Away suitcase and work with their compression straps, so you may actually maximize your packing house. They may also be saved flat when not in use, which is a good space-saving function.

Though packing cubes aren’t essential for everybody, they positively make the packing course of extra handy and fewer hectic for me. 

Garment Sleeve

One other accent supplied by Away is the garment sleeve, which you need to use to retailer and transport formal put on or different delicate clothes objects. 

Made with waterproof nylon, this garment sleeve is ideal for shielding  fits, clothes, or another hanging garments that you just need to maintain wrinkle-free. For those who’re touring with a go well with, this can be a excellent addition to any men’s luggage. The fabric additionally feels sturdy and well-made, giving me confidence that my garments shall be secure and guarded throughout transit.

One of many issues I admire in regards to the garment bag is its capacity to clip inside The Greater Carry-On baggage. It is a game-changer for these of us who prefer to maintain our baggage organized and tidy. No extra scuffling with a number of luggage or having to hold an extra garment bag. 

The organizational particulars of the bag additionally assist maintain all the pieces as a replacement, with tiered loops that may match a number of hangers and two zippered pockets for storing equipment or jewellery.

One other function I really like about this garment sleeve is its inside construction. It helps to maintain garments safe and wrinkle-free throughout transit. The bag opens vertically, making it straightforward to pack and entry my garments with out having to dig by layers of clothes. 

The steel hook on prime additionally is useful for simply hanging the bag up upon arrival.

Shoe Cube

For those who’re like me, packing sneakers is usually a little bit of a problem when touring. That’s why I used to be excited to check out the Away Shoe Cubes. 

Just like the packing cubes and garment bag, the shoe cubes are additionally produced from waterproof nylon.

One of many options I admire in regards to the shoe cubes is the collapsible divider, which lets you retailer and separate a number of pairs of sneakers. This makes it straightforward to maintain your sneakers organized, clear, and simple to entry once you want them. The deal with can be a pleasant contact, making it straightforward to hold or cling the cubes when wanted.

I’ve simply used a plastic bag for years, and this can be a large improve general! 

The very last thing price noting is that the shoe cubes could be saved flat when not in use. Though, I discover myself utilizing the storage bag in my closet at residence, even when not touring. 

Toiletry Bag

The Away Toiletry Bag is a small zippered case that displays Away’s practical design and a focus to element. It has an array of options that make it excellent for maintaining your toiletries organized on the go.

One of many options I admire in regards to the Away Small Toiletry Bag is its exterior zip pocket. That is nice for storing grab-and-go objects, making them simply accessible throughout your travels.

The water resistant nylon physique and coated wipeable inside make this bag straightforward to wash in case of any spills.

Contained in the bag, there are two separate clear and mesh inside pockets, excellent for maintaining your merchandise organized and simple to entry. The clamshell opening additionally makes it straightforward to pack and entry your necessities shortly and effectively.

Whereas that is the small model of the toiletry bag, it nonetheless has loads of house for many of my travel-sized toiletries. It’s additionally light-weight, which is vital once you’re attempting to maintain your baggage weight down.

It’s price noting that Away additionally sells a larger version and a hanging version of this toiletry bag. These are nice in case you journey incessantly or wants a bit more room on your toiletries.

The place to Purchase Away Baggage

Total, buying from Away’s web site is the simplest and most direct approach to purchase their baggage. Their suitcases could be bought directly from their website. 

Away presents free delivery on all orders inside america, in addition to free returns inside 100 days of buy.

Whereas Away is primarily a web-based retailer however they do have retail places in main cities across the US and UK. For those who occur to be in a big metropolis like New York or London, it may be enjoyable to pop into the shop and get a really feel for the bags in particular person. You’ll be able to take a look at the total listing of their bodily places on their website.

Away Baggage Alternate options

Away has change into a preferred baggage model lately, however there are a number of various choices accessible in case you’re in search of comparable merchandise.

The highest manufacturers I’d advocate wanting into as alternate options are Monos, July, and Samsonite.

Away vs. Monos

Monos presents a spread of hardside suitcases which are very corresponding to Away. Whereas Away suitcases are nice, Monos outperforms them in nearly each approach. Monos baggage is more durable, has higher inside group, and even prices much less throughout the board.

Each manufacturers’ suitcases are remarkably comparable within the options they provide. Each have inside group methods with folding dividers and compression straps, well-engineered spinner wheels, built-in TSA-approved locks, and durable aluminum handles. Each use high-quality supplies akin to polycarbonate for the hardshell exterior of their suitcases, however Monos additionally makes use of aircraft-grade aluminum reinforcement for added energy.

All in all, I feel you’ll be significantly better off with a suitcase from Monos than one from Away. Monos places their suitcases by some ridiculous durability testing, and the distinction actually reveals within the high quality. If you would like a suitcase that may final endlessly, Monos is a better option than Away.

To study extra, take a look at our full Monos luggage review.

Away vs. July

By way of design, Away and July luggage have the same look however there are some delicate variations between them as effectively. For example, Away suitcases are ribbed whereas July suitcases are much less textured and have a easy exterior with one dividing line. Moreover, July baggage has a wider vary of shade choices accessible and a bit little bit of a sporty really feel, whereas Away presents a minimalist subdued shade pallet.

Each Away and July luggage include a number of handy options akin to built-in USB chargers and TSA-approved locks.

One function that units July aside is personalization. While you buy a bag from July, you may request a customized personalization printed in your carry-on or checked bag. This may very well be your identify or a enjoyable phrase to be printed in your bag. The personalization will at all times make it straightforward to seek out your bag on the bags carousel.

On the subject of price, Away’s merchandise are barely cheaper than these from July.

In my eyes, there’s no clear winner relating to evaluating Away and July baggage – it depends upon your particular person wants and preferences. 

Away vs. Samsonite

Away and Samsonite are two widespread baggage manufacturers with distinct variations in value, design, and options. 

Samsonite is a well-established model that has been round for over 100 years, whereas Away is a more recent model that has gained reputation lately.

Samsonite tends to be extra inexpensive than Away. Samsonite presents a variety of baggage at totally different value factors, together with budget-friendly choices. In distinction, Away’s baggage tends to be costlier, with costs beginning round $200 for his or her most simple carry-on suitcase.

Design-wise, each manufacturers supply a spread of choices, however their aesthetics are very totally different. Samsonite’s designs are usually extra conventional and conservative, with a give attention to sturdiness and performance.

Away’s designs are extra trendy and trendy, with a give attention to minimalism and practicality. Away’s baggage options hard-shell exteriors in a spread of colours, whereas Samsonite presents each onerous and soft-shell exteriors and is available in extra old-school types and colours.

Total, Samsonite luggage is an efficient possibility for these in search of inexpensive, conventional baggage with a give attention to sturdiness. Away is an efficient possibility for these in search of fashionable, trendy baggage with distinctive options to make journey extra handy.

Away Baggage FAQs