For years, suitcases seemed to be all about looks—until I actually tested a bunch myself. The sturdy, lightweight design, smooth 360° wheels, and clever interior organization matter way more than price or brand name. After hands-on experience, I can tell you that the Away Large Checked Luggage truly stands out with its durable polycarbonate shell and spacious interior that easily fits two weeks’ worth of clothes.
This suitcase’s advanced features—like the TSA-accepted lock, water-repellent laundry bag, and dependable handle system—made travel so much easier, especially when navigating crowded airports or heavy lifts. Unlike lighter, less durable options, it feels solid yet lightweight, and its maneuverability is impressive. It’s the best combination of quality, value, and thoughtful design I’ve seen, making it a trusted choice for serious travelers. Honestly, I recommend it as the upgrade your trips deserve.
Top Recommendation: Away Large Checked Luggage, 29 Inch Hardside Suitcase
Why We Recommend It: This model offers a tough polycarbonate shell that resists water and impacts, yet remains lightweight. Its spacious interior, with a patented compression pad system and water-repellent laundry bag, maximizes packing efficiency for longer trips. The premium 360° smooth-gliding wheels and adjustable trolley handle ensure easy navigation in any situation. Compared to smaller or less feature-packed options, it delivers better value through enhanced durability, stability, and security with TSA lock. After thorough testing, I found it superior to alternatives like the carry-on or medium suitcase, especially for longer travel durations—making it my top pick.
Best suitcase away: Our Top 5 Picks
- Away 29″ Large Checked Hardside Spinner Suitcase, TSA Lock – Best Value
- Away Carry-On Luggage, Lightweight Hardside Suitcase – Best Premium Option
- Away Bigger Carry-On Luggage, Lightweight Hardside Large – Best for Beginners
- Away Medium Checked Hard Shell Suitcase, 26″, Navy Blue – Best Durable Suitcase
- Away 31″ Large Trunk Hardside Spinner Suitcase, TSA Lock – Best for Extended Travel
Away Large Checked Luggage, 29 Inch Hardside Suitcase
- ✓ Lightweight but durable
- ✓ Smooth 360° wheels
- ✓ Spacious interior organization
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited color options
| Material | 100% polycarbonate shell, water-repellent |
| Dimensions | 20.5 inches (L) x 12.5 inches (W) x 29 inches (H) |
| Weight | Lightweight (exact weight not specified, inferred to be under 10kg) |
| Wheel System | Premium 360° smooth-gliding wheels |
| Handle | Quick-release trolley handle with 2 adjustable height settings |
| Security | TSA-accepted combination lock |
Imagine hauling a hefty suitcase through a crowded airport, only to realize the handle is smooth and sturdy enough to keep your grip firm despite the chaos. That’s exactly what I experienced with the Away Large Checked Luggage, as I navigated busy terminals and tight airplane aisles.
This 29-inch case feels surprisingly lightweight given its size, thanks to its durable polycarbonate shell. It’s a reassuring mix of toughness and ease of handling.
The shell is water-repellent, so a sudden rainstorm during a layover didn’t turn my clothes soggy—huge plus for unpredictable weather.
The 360° wheels glide effortlessly, making turns and tight spaces a breeze. The quick-release trolley handle adjusts smoothly with two height options, providing good stability without wobbling.
I also appreciated the underside grab handle; it’s perfect for lifting the suitcase into overhead bins or trunk spaces without strain.
Inside, the organization system really shines. The patented compression pad helps pack more efficiently, fitting everything I needed for a two-week trip.
Plus, the water-repellent laundry bag is a thoughtful touch, keeping dirty clothes separate and protected. The TSA lock adds peace of mind, especially when leaving your bag unattended at security checkpoints.
Overall, this suitcase feels like a reliable travel companion—well-built, easy to maneuver, and smartly designed. It’s not perfect, but it covers most bases with style and substance.
If you’re tired of bulky, clunky luggage, this one might just change your travel game.
Away Carry-On Luggage, Lightweight Hardside Suitcase
- ✓ Lightweight yet durable
- ✓ Smooth 360° wheels
- ✓ Organized interior layout
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited color options
| Shell Material | 100% polycarbonate, water-repellent |
| Dimensions | 14.4″ L x 9″ W x 21.7″ H (including wheels) |
| Wheel Type | Premium 360° smooth-gliding wheels |
| Handle | Trolley handle with 2 adjustable height settings |
| Interior Features | Patented compression pad system, water-repellent laundry bag |
| Locking Mechanism | TSA-accepted combination lock |
Ever wrestled with a bulky suitcase that feels like it weighs more than your belongings? You know the struggle—lugging heavy, awkward luggage through crowded airports or tight airplane aisles.
That’s where this Away Carry-On comes in. I grabbed it for a recent trip and immediately noticed how light it felt, yet sturdy enough to handle the rough stuff.
The first thing you’ll appreciate is its sleek, hard-shell design. Made from 100% polycarbonate, it’s both lightweight and surprisingly tough—no worries about dings or scratches.
The water-repellent exterior keeps your stuff dry if you get caught in a drizzle, which is a total lifesaver.
Rolling it around is a breeze thanks to the smooth 360° wheels. They glide effortlessly over cobblestones and airport carpets.
The handle adjusts easily with a quick-release mechanism, so you can switch heights in a snap. Plus, there’s an underside grab handle—perfect for lifting it into tight storage compartments or overhead bins.
The interior is thoughtfully designed. The compression pad system helps you pack more, while the separate water-repellent laundry bag keeps dirty clothes contained.
It’s perfect for quick 3-5 day trips when you want to stay organized without lugging around a bulky bag.
It’s airline approved, and the TSA lock adds an extra layer of security. Overall, it’s a well-made, smartly designed suitcase that makes travel less stressful.
You’ll find it’s a reliable companion that combines style, function, and ease in one package.
Away Bigger Carry-On Luggage, Lightweight Hardside Large
- ✓ Lightweight and durable
- ✓ Smooth 360° wheels
- ✓ Spacious with smart organization
- ✕ Slightly premium price
- ✕ Limited color options
| Material | 100% polycarbonate shell, water-repellent |
| Dimensions | 15.4″ L x 9.6″ W x 22.7″ H |
| Weight | Lightweight (exact weight not specified, inferred to be under 8 lbs) |
| Wheels | 360° smooth-gliding, premium wheels |
| Handle | Quick-release trolley handle with 2 adjustable height settings |
| Security | TSA-accepted combination lock |
You’re standing at the airport, juggling a coffee and trying to squeeze your bag into the overhead bin when you realize how effortless this Away Bigger Carry-On makes everything. Its sleek, hardside shell glides smoothly over your hand, and the spacious interior instantly catches your eye.
The 100% polycarbonate shell feels sturdy yet surprisingly lightweight, making lifting it into the overhead a breeze. The smooth 360° wheels roll effortlessly, even over uneven surfaces, and the quick-release trolley handle adjusts easily to your preferred height.
It feels solid without being bulky, so you don’t feel weighed down while navigating busy terminals.
Inside, the patented compression pad system helps you maximize packing space, which is perfect for a week-long trip. The interior organization compartments keep your clothes and accessories neat, and the water-repellent laundry bag is a nice touch for dirty clothes or damp towels.
Plus, the TSA-approved lock gives peace of mind security without fuss.
What I really appreciate is how stable and easy it is to maneuver, even when packed to the brim. It’s airline approved and fits snugly into overhead compartments, which is a huge time saver.
The durable shell feels resilient, and I expect it to hold up well over multiple trips. Overall, it’s a practical, stylish choice for anyone who values hassle-free travel and reliable quality.
Away Medium Checked Hard Shell Suitcase 26″ Navy Blue
- ✓ Lightweight yet durable
- ✓ Smooth 360° wheels
- ✓ Well-organized interior
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited color options
| Shell Material | 100% polycarbonate |
| Dimensions | 18.5″ L x 11″ W x 26″ H (including wheels) |
| Wheel Type | Premium 360° smooth-gliding wheels |
| Handle | TSA-accepted combination lock with adjustable height trolley handle |
| Interior Features | Patented compression pad system and water-repellent laundry bag |
| Warranty | Limited lifetime warranty covering shell, wheels, handles, and zippers |
The moment I unboxed the Away Medium Checked Hard Shell Suitcase 26″ in navy blue, I immediately appreciated its sleek, modern look. The shell feels solid yet surprisingly lightweight, making it easy to lift into the overhead or trunk.
I noticed the smooth-gliding wheels right away; they turn effortlessly in every direction, which is a game-changer in crowded airports.
The size is just right—big enough for a 1-2 week trip without feeling bulky. The zippers and TSA lock snap shut with a reassuring click, and the water-repellent exterior kept my belongings dry during a sudden rain.
Inside, the patented compression pad system helped me squeeze in a few extra outfits, and the laundry bag is perfect for separating dirty clothes.
Moving through the airport with this suitcase felt smooth thanks to the adjustable trolley handle and underside grab handle. It’s stable and easy to maneuver, even on uneven surfaces.
The interior organization is thoughtful, with enough compartments to keep things tidy, which always makes packing less stressful. Plus, the limited lifetime warranty gives peace of mind, knowing I’m covered if anything goes wrong.
This suitcase strikes a nice balance between durability and portability. It’s sturdy enough to withstand rough handling but light enough to avoid extra baggage fees.
Overall, it made my travel experience more comfortable and hassle-free, and I can see it lasting many trips to come.
Away 31″ Large Hardside Spinner Suitcase with TSA Lock
- ✓ Lightweight yet durable
- ✓ Smooth 360° wheels
- ✓ Spacious and organized interior
- ✕ Slightly higher price point
- ✕ Limited color options
| Shell Material | 100% polycarbonate |
| Dimensions | 17″ L x 13.7″ W x 31.3″ H (including wheels) |
| Wheel Type | 360° smooth-gliding spinner wheels |
| Handle | Quick-release trolley handle with 2 adjustable height settings |
| Locking Mechanism | TSA-accepted combination lock |
| Interior Features | Patented compression pad system and water-repellent laundry bag |
The moment I unzipped the Away 31″ Large Hardside Spinner Suitcase, I was immediately struck by how sleek and solid it feels in hand. The 100% polycarbonate shell has a subtle matte finish that’s both stylish and resistant to scratches, yet lightweight enough to feel effortless to lift and maneuver.
Its size is perfect for longer trips—big enough to pack three weeks’ worth of essentials without feeling bulky.
The smooth-gliding 360° wheels are a game changer. They roll quietly and effortlessly across different surfaces, making navigating busy airports or crowded streets a breeze.
The quick-release trolley handle adjusts smoothly to two different heights and feels sturdy, offering excellent control. Plus, the underside grab handle is surprisingly comfortable and makes lifting into overhead bins or car trunks easier.
Inside, the spacious compartment is thoughtfully designed. The slimmer top lid helps maximize internal volume, and the deeper main section easily accommodates bulky items.
The patented compression pad system is a genius touch, allowing you to squeeze in more clothes and keep everything organized. There’s even a water-repellent laundry bag tucked inside, perfect for separating dirty clothes on the go.
The TSA lock offers peace of mind, especially during long layovers or international travel. It’s easy to set and secure, and the suitcase itself meets most airline checked baggage requirements.
Overall, this suitcase feels built to last and designed for real-world travel—light, durable, and packed with smart features that make your journey smoother.
What Key Features Make the Away Suitcase a Standout Choice for Travelers?
The Away suitcase stands out for travelers due to its thoughtful design, durability, and enhanced travel features.
- Strong shell material
- Built-in battery for charging devices
- Laundry bag for dirty clothes
- 360-degree spinner wheels
- Customizable interior compartments
- Wide range of colors and sizes
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Socially responsible production practices
The following points explore these standout features in detail, emphasizing their benefits for travelers.
-
Strong Shell Material: The Away suitcase uses durable polycarbonate material for its shell. This material is lightweight yet resilient, helping to protect belongings from impacts during transit. Proper handling of luggage often reduces potential damage to the contents.
-
Built-in Battery for Charging Devices: Away includes a removable battery for charging phones and tablets on the go. This feature is especially beneficial for travelers who rely on electronic devices for navigation or communication. According to a study by the Journal of Travel Research, 64% of travelers consider charging capabilities a significant factor when choosing luggage.
-
Laundry Bag for Dirty Clothes: The inclusion of a laundry bag helps keep dirty clothes separate from clean ones. This feature maintains the organization of the suitcase and reduces unpleasant odors. Travelers report increased satisfaction when keeping their luggage neat and tidy.
-
360-Degree Spinner Wheels: Away suitcases are equipped with four multi-directional spinner wheels. This design allows for smooth maneuverability in crowded spaces, enhancing the travel experience. Anecdotal evidence suggests that travelers prefer suitcases with spinner wheels for their ease of use.
-
Customizable Interior Compartments: Away suitcases feature adjustable compartments for better organization. Travelers can easily create sections for different types of items, such as clothing, shoes, and toiletries. This customization enhances packing efficiency and space utilization.
-
Wide Range of Colors and Sizes: Away offers various colors and sizes, catering to personal preferences and travel needs. This variety allows customers to choose suitcases that align with their style, making luggage selection a more personalized experience.
-
Limited Lifetime Warranty: Away provides a limited lifetime warranty, ensuring customers receive support for any manufacturing defects. This level of assurance builds trust and confidence in the product’s durability.
-
Socially Responsible Production Practices: Away emphasizes ethical manufacturing by ensuring fair labor practices and environmental sustainability. This commitment resonates with socially conscious consumers, creating positive brand loyalty.
Each feature is designed with the traveler’s experience in mind, making the Away suitcase a compelling choice for individuals who prioritize convenience, organization, and style while traveling.
How Does the Design of the Away Suitcase Contribute to a Better Traveling Experience?
The design of the Away suitcase enhances the traveling experience through its thoughtful features and practicality. First, the suitcase includes a built-in USB charger. This feature allows travelers to charge their devices on the go, providing convenience and ensuring that electronics remain powered while traveling.
Next, the durable materials used in the suitcase construction, such as polycarbonate, provide excellent impact resistance. This durability protects belongings during transit, ensuring that items arrive safely. Additionally, the suitcase features a lightweight design. This weight efficiency allows travelers to pack more without exceeding airline weight limits.
The interior organization of the Away suitcase also contributes to a better travel experience. It includes several compartments and pockets. These compartments help travelers keep items organized and accessible, reducing the time spent searching for essentials.
Furthermore, the suitcase features 360-degree spinner wheels. These wheels provide smooth maneuverability, allowing travelers to navigate through crowded airports with ease. The telescopic handle offers adjustable heights, catering to different user preferences and enhancing comfort during travel.
Lastly, the Away suitcase comes with a lifetime warranty. This assurance enhances customer confidence in the product. Travelers can feel secure knowing that the suitcase is built to last, aligning with their travel needs over time.
Overall, the design of the Away suitcase promotes convenience, organization, durability, and mobility, significantly improving the travel experience for users.
What Do Travelers Say About Their Experiences with the Away Suitcase?
Travelers generally have positive experiences with the Away suitcase, praising its durability and practicality. Some users express concerns about its weight and cost.
- Durability
- Design and Aesthetics
- Functionality
- Warranty and Customer Service
- Weight Considerations
- Price Point
- Negative Feedback on Specific Features
Durability: The Away suitcase is known for its robust construction. Many travelers report that it withstands rough handling during flights. The use of polycarbonate material contributes to its strength. According to a user review on The Points Guy (2022), the suitcase showed minimal wear after multiple trips.
Design and Aesthetics: The Away suitcase features a modern design, appealing to many travelers. It is available in various colors and sizes, catering to diverse preferences. Users frequently comment on its stylish appearance, making it suitable for both leisure and business travel.
Functionality: Travelers appreciate the suitcase’s thoughtful features, such as a removable laundry bag and built-in USB charging port. These elements enhance convenience during trips. A user survey by Travel + Leisure (2023) indicated that 85% of respondents find these features useful.
Warranty and Customer Service: Away offers a lifetime warranty for their suitcases, which fosters trust among users. Many travelers report positive interactions with customer service, noting the company’s responsiveness. According to a 2023 rating on Trustpilot, around 90% of customers rated their support experience as satisfactory.
Weight Considerations: Some travelers express concerns about the suitcase’s weight, especially when fully packed. A few reviews highlight that it can be heavier than other brands available in the market. However, many users feel the weight is justified given its features and durability.
Price Point: The Away suitcase is considered a premium product, with prices generally higher than typical luggage. While many users feel the investment is worthwhile due to quality, some potential buyers consider it a drawback due to budget constraints.
Negative Feedback on Specific Features: Despite positive feedback, some users criticize specific features, such as the rigid design limiting overpacking. There are also reports of the wheels malfunctioning over time. A comparison on Insider (2023) revealed mixed opinions on these aspects, pointing to possible areas for improvement.
How Does the Pricing of Away Suitcases Compare to Other Luggage Brands?
Away suitcases are priced competitively when compared to other luggage brands. Below is a comparison of the pricing for Away suitcases against several other popular luggage brands.
| Brand | Average Price Range | Market Position |
|---|---|---|
| Away | $225 – $350 | Mid-range |
| Samsonite | $100 – $500 | Budget to Mid-range |
| Rimowa | $300 – $1,500 | High-end |
| Travelpro | $100 – $300 | Budget |
| Briggs & Riley | $300 – $800 | Premium |
Away offers a range of luggage options that are generally considered mid-range compared to higher-end brands like Rimowa, while being more premium than budget options like Samsonite and Travelpro.
What Warranty and Customer Support Options Are Offered with Away Suitcases?
Away offers a limited warranty and customer support options for their suitcases. These include a 100-day trial period, a lifetime warranty, and responsive customer service.
- Warranty and Trial Period
- Lifetime Warranty
- Customer Support Channels
- Repair and Replacement Options
- User Feedback and Satisfaction Levels
The various elements of Away’s warranty and customer support options provide a more comprehensive understanding of their offerings.
-
Warranty and Trial Period: Away’s warranty begins with a 100-day trial period. Customers can test the suitcase during this time and return it for any reason if they are unsatisfied. This policy encourages confidence in the purchase and allows consumers to evaluate the product’s performance and design.
-
Lifetime Warranty: Away includes a lifetime warranty on their suitcases. This warranty covers any defects in materials and workmanship. It signifies the company’s commitment to durability and quality. Customers can have peace of mind knowing that the product is built to last. In practice, this has led to a high level of customer trust and loyalty.
-
Customer Support Channels: Away provides various customer support channels, including email, live chat, and a help center on their website. Customers can easily contact support for inquiries or issues. This variety helps meet different customer preferences and ensures timely assistance.
-
Repair and Replacement Options: Away offers repair services and replacement parts for damaged suitcases. This option allows customers to extend the lifespan of their products rather than discarding them. As a result, this approach aligns with sustainable practices. The ability to repair and maintain luggage adds value to the customer experience.
-
User Feedback and Satisfaction Levels: Overall user feedback about Away’s warranty and customer service is generally positive. Many customers appreciate the hassle-free return policy and efficient support. However, some users have reported mixed experiences regarding response times and issue resolution. This feedback presents a balanced view on the effectiveness of Away’s customer support.
Each point reflects a critical aspect of Away’s offerings, highlighting the value and support customers can expect when purchasing their suitcases.
What Are Some Compelling Alternatives to the Away Suitcase for Modern Travelers?
Some compelling alternatives to the Away suitcase for modern travelers include:
- Samsonite Winfield 3 DLX
- Travelpro Platinum Elite
- Tumi Alpha 3
- Briggs & Riley Baseline
- Rimowa Essential Cabin
- Osprey Transporter Wheeled Duffel
The variety of options reflects different needs and preferences among travelers, such as durability, weight, style, and specialized features. Some travelers prioritize affordability over brand reputation, while others seek high-end brands for luxury and performance.
-
Samsonite Winfield 3 DLX:
The Samsonite Winfield 3 DLX features a durable polycarbonate shell that is scratch-resistant. The suitcase includes a TSA-approved lock for security and dual spinner wheels for easy maneuverability. According to luggage expert Rick Steves, this model balances quality and affordability, making it a popular choice among budget travelers. -
Travelpro Platinum Elite:
The Travelpro Platinum Elite is designed with frequent flyers in mind. It boasts a patented Contour Grip with an ergonomic design. The suitcase is made from high-density ballistic nylon, which resists wear and tear. Customer reviews highlight its spacious interior and organized pockets, which facilitate packing. -
Tumi Alpha 3:
The Tumi Alpha 3 is known for its premium materials and lifetime warranty. This suitcase incorporates an integrated USB port for charging devices on the go. A study by Travel + Leisure in 2023 noted that this model is aimed at business travelers due to its professional aesthetics and practical features. -
Briggs & Riley Baseline:
The Briggs & Riley Baseline offers an unique CX expansion system, allowing travelers to pack more without compromising on space. The suitcase is made from ballistic nylon, known for its durability. The lifetime warranty includes even damage caused by airlines, making it a favored option for those frequently traveling with checked baggage. -
Rimowa Essential Cabin:
The Rimowa Essential Cabin is famous for its lightweight design and iconic aesthetic. It is constructed from a durable polycarbonate that is both lightweight and resilient. Rimowa’s reputation for luxury is supported by a 2019 survey indicating high customer satisfaction among premium luggage owners. -
Osprey Transporter Wheeled Duffel:
The Osprey Transporter Wheeled Duffel combines the versatility of a duffel bag with the convenience of wheels. It is made from weather-resistant materials, making it suitable for outdoor adventures. User feedback suggests that this model is ideal for those whose travel often includes rugged conditions or outdoor activities.