Away Baggage Assessment: Hype or Price It?

Away Baggage might be probably the most disruptive baggage model available on the market right this moment. They provide superbly designed, high-quality, sturdy suitcases that include top-of-the-line warranties presently 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 is Away Baggage actually well worth the hype? Or are they only actually good at advertising?

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 a great funding.

(Spoiler: when you’re searching for a suitcase designed with clear strains and clean surfaces that’s ALSO extremely sensible and can final the take a look at of time, Away is totally value it!)

Away Baggage First Impressions

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

I used to be drawn to their merchandise even earlier than I knew a lot concerning the model. They do an awesome job of speaking their imaginative and prescient of considerate journey and the best way their suitcases may also help you reside out that imaginative and prescient.

The corporate positions itself as providing modern baggage and carry options, created by vacationers for vacationers. Every little thing the model places out communicates their perception that journey ought to be extra seamless and fewer worrying, stuffed with intention and function.

The aesthetics are top-notch, with easy and fashionable designs. They provide quite a lot of sizes and colours. It’s clear the designers paid lots of consideration to the looks, however I wasn’t certain if the standard would maintain as much as different, extra established manufacturers.

My expertise with the carry-on baggage, particularly their unique Away Carry-On, exceeded my expectations. After over a 12 months of use, the baggage nonetheless appears to be like virtually new! This actually shifted my perspective of the model; it’s greater than only a nice-looking suitcase.

Away makes use of high-quality development methods and excessive finish supplies for all its merchandise that stand the take a look at of time. Their suitcases and luggage are produced from polycarbonate, aluminum, and waterproof nylon.

Sure, their designs are modern, however they’re additionally sturdy and high-performing.

On high of that, their consideration to element and creativity in issues just like the built-in USB ports for charging units, sturdy and useful inner compression, and detachable laundry luggage, make for an total clean consumer expertise.

Away Baggage Execs and Cons

Okay, let’s discuss specifics.

Like many suitcases available on the market, Away provides a sturdy design (a non-negotiable for the trendy traveler). All their suitcases have clean multi-directional spinner wheels, which make it straightforward to navigate by tight areas. The wheels are additionally very quiet, which is a should in my e-book.

The Away Carry-On and Checked luggage include a TSA-approved mixture lock that can assist you maintain your belongings safe. Once more, fairly commonplace as of late however nice to have. 

Exterior of the merchandise themselves, Away’s has a popularity for top-notch customer support, a formidable return coverage, and a strong restricted lifetime guarantee. Should you ever harm your suitcase, they may restore or change it for you. I respect firms that stand behind their product: it reveals so much about their dedication to constructing the perfect suitcase doable.

On the identical time, nevertheless, Away won’t be for everybody.

Away baggage is heavier than most hard-shell suitcases available on the market. Should you’re searching for one thing ultra-lightweight this is probably not your best option.

The costs can be increased in comparison with different related manufacturers like Monos and July. The type choices Away provides are restricted, so when you’re not a fan of their total model feel and appear, don’t anticipate finding one thing radically completely different when digging by their web site.

Who’s Away Baggage?

The corporate was based in New York Metropolis by two ladies, Jen Rubio and Steph Korey. In actual fact, it’s one of many highest-funded female-backed startups thus far.

After Jen 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, Jen teamed up with Steph Korey from Warber Parker to develop a hard-shell suitcase that’s each stunning and sturdy: Baggage for the trendy traveler.

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

Away Baggage Assessment

Supplies

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

Polycarbonate is a thermoplastic that’s extremely immune to affect and scratches. It’s a light-weight materials that can also be versatile, which implies it might probably soak up the shock of bumps and knocks throughout journey.

Polycarbonate suitcases are light-weight and extremely sturdy, making them superb for frequent vacationers who need a dependable suitcase that’s straightforward to hold. 

Aluminum is a light-weight steel that’s extremely resistant to wreck and put on. It’s heavier than polycarbonate, nevertheless it offers 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. They are perfect for anybody who needs probably the most luxurious and complex suitcase for his or her travels.

Aesthetic

Away luggage are identified for his or her trendy and fashionable look. The model has develop into a well-liked selection for anybody who needs baggage that’s each useful and aesthetically pleasing.

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

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

Group

Away baggage is designed with a considerate group system supposed to make packing and touring extra environment friendly. And it really works nice!

The suitcases are designed with quite a lot of inner compartments and pockets, which you should utilize to maintain every part organized and accessible.

The inside of the suitcase encompasses a zippered compartment, which you should utilize to retailer smaller gadgets comparable to toiletries, socks, and underwear.

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

Away baggage additionally contains compression straps. That is nice for maximizing area in your suitcase.

Along with the inside compartments and compression straps, some Away carry-on luggage even have an exterior pocket, which you should utilize to retailer gadgets that should be simply accessible, comparable to passports, boarding passes, or electronics.

Sturdiness

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

The model’s signature hard-shell suitcases are produced from high-quality polycarbonate materials. This materials is designed to resist the damage and tear of journey. It’s light-weight but sturdy. It’s also immune to scratches and dings, which may also help the suitcase keep its look even after frequent use.

The graceful-rolling 360-degree spinner wheels are designed to face as much as impacts and use on tough surfaces.

Away baggage can also be designed with bolstered corners and zippers. These assist stop harm and make sure that the suitcase can face up to the trials of journey.

On high of this, Away provides a restricted lifetime guarantee for its suitcases, which is a testomony to its confidence within the sturdiness and longevity of its merchandise. 

Away Baggage Dimensions & Specs

Away’s core assortment is accessible in 5 completely different sizes. This contains The Each day Carry-On, The Carry-On, The Larger Carry-On, The Medium, and The Massive. 

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” dimension. For instance, you should purchase The Carry-On Flex. Because of this the suitcase could be expanded utilizing an exterior zipper to accommodate extra gadgets when wanted. 

Away Baggage Options

After I take into consideration baggage options, I wish to discover components that improve the usage of the baggage. These could possibly be distinctive storage or packing methods, completely different handles, and straps, or any artistic options the producer provides to the product.

Easy-Rolling Wheels

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

Should you’re coming from extra fundamental baggage manufacturers, you’ll instantly discover the distinction with these wheels. These high-end wheels are whisper-quiet and really effectively constructed. They really feel very premium in comparison with the flimsy plastic wheels you’ll discover on cheaper baggage.

Compression System

Away’s inside compression system permits you to 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 gadgets, 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 after I was packing cumbersome gadgets like sweaters or jackets, which are inclined to take up lots of room.

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

Detachable Laundry Bag

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

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

Constructed-In Battery

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

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

It’s value noting that this characteristic is accessible solely on the Away Carry-On and Larger 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 issues about safety or restrictions.

Within the case that you just resolve to examine 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

Should you’re searching for a baggage mannequin that has an exterior pocket, you’ll wish to go for the aptly named Away “Carry-On with Pocket.”

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

There’s a padded sleevefor a laptop computer or pill, which may maintain a tool as much as 15 inches in dimension. This pocket is lined with a delicate, 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 variety of smaller compartments for storing gadgets like telephones, chargers, passports, boarding passes, and different journey necessities.

Away Baggage Equipment

Should you’re keen on including extra performance and magnificence to your journey gear, Away has an assortment of equipment that may assist you optimize your journey expertise.

Packing Cubes

Certainly one of 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 necessary because you’ll need completely different choices on your pants vs. your socks. 

They’re designed with a mesh panel on high, making it straightforward to determine the contents inside with out having to unpack or open every part. That is nice for once you’re in a rush or don’t wish to disrupt the remainder of your packed gadgets.

The largest 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 area.They can be saved flat when not in use, which is a superb space-saving characteristic.

Though packing cubes aren’t crucial for everybody, they undoubtedly make the packing course of extra handy and fewer worrying for me. 

Garment Sleeve

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

Made with waterproof nylon, this garment sleeve is ideal for safeguarding  fits, attire, or every other hanging garments that you just wish to maintain wrinkle-free. The fabric additionally feels sturdy and well-made, giving me confidence that my garments will probably be secure and guarded throughout transit.

One of many issues I respect concerning the garment bag is its potential to clip inside The Larger Carry-On baggage. This can be a game-changer for these of us who wish to maintain our baggage organized and tidy. No extra scuffling with a number of luggage or having to hold a further garment bag. 

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

One other characteristic I like about this garment sleeve is its inner 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 high additionally is useful for simply hanging the bag up upon arrival.

Shoe Cube

Should you’re like me, packing footwear could be 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 respect concerning the shoe cubes is the collapsible divider, which lets you retailer and separate a number of pairs of footwear. This makes it straightforward to maintain your footwear organized, clear, and simple to entry once you want them. The deal with can also be a pleasant contact, making it straightforward to hold or grasp the cubes when wanted.

I’ve simply used a plastic bag for years, and it is a big improve total! 

The very last thing value 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 house, even when not touring. 

Toiletry Bag

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

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

The waterproof nylon physique and coated wipeable inside make this bag straightforward to scrub in case of any spills.

Contained in the bag, there are two separate clear and mesh inside pockets, excellent for retaining 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 area for many of my travel-sized toiletries. It’s additionally light-weight, which is necessary once you’re attempting to maintain your baggage weight down.

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

The place to Purchase Away Baggage

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

Away provides free transport on all orders inside the US, in addition to free returns inside 100 days of buy.

Whereas Away is primarily an internet retailer however they do have retail areas in main cities across the US and UK. Should you 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 baggage in individual. You’ll be able to try the complete record of their bodily areas on their website.

Away Baggage Options

Away has develop into a well-liked baggage model lately, however there are a number of different choices accessible when you’re searching for related merchandise.

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

Away vs. Monos

Away and Monos are two standard baggage manufacturers that provide related merchandise. Each manufacturers promote modern, hard-shell suitcases with spinner wheels.

One of many most important variations is of their design. Away has a extra minimalist and modern aesthetic with a give attention to streamlined performance, whereas Monos has a extra traditional and stylish design with a give attention to sturdiness.

When it comes to supplies, each manufacturers use high-quality supplies comparable to polycarbonate for the hardshell exterior of their suitcases, however Monos additionally makes use of aircraft-grade aluminum reinforcement for added power.

Each manufacturers’ suitcases are remarkably related 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.

Away is mostly a bit extra inexpensive than Monos.

Finally, the selection between Away and Monos comes down to private desire and journey wants. Each manufacturers provide high quality baggage choices with distinctive options, so you might wish to think about components comparable to design, colour, and options when making a choice.

Away vs. July

When it comes to design, Away and July luggage have an analogous look however there are some refined variations between them as effectively. For example, Away suitcases are ribbed whereas July suitcases are much less textured and have a clean exterior with one dividing line. Moreover, July baggage has a wider vary of colour choices accessible and just a little little bit of a sporty really feel, whereas Away provides a minimalist subdued colour pallet.

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

One characteristic that units July aside is personalization. Whenever you buy a bag from July, you may request a customized personalization printed in your carry-on or checked bag. This could possibly be your title or a enjoyable phrase to be printed in your bag. The personalization will all the time make it straightforward to search out your bag on the luggage carousel.

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

In my eyes, there’s no clear winner in the case of evaluating Away and July baggage – it relies on your particular person wants and preferences. 

Away vs. Samsonite

Away and Samsonite are two standard 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 moderen model that has gained reputation lately.

Samsonite tends to be extra inexpensive than Away. Samsonite provides a variety of baggage at completely 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 elementary carry-on suitcase.

Design-wise, each manufacturers provide a variety of choices, however their aesthetics are very completely different. Samsonite’s designs are typically extra conventional and conservative, with a give attention to sturdiness and performance.

Away’s designs are extra fashionable and classy, with a give attention to minimalism and practicality. Away’s baggage options hard-shell exteriors in a variety of colours, whereas Samsonite provides each exhausting and soft-shell exteriors and is available in extra old-school kinds and colours.

General, Samsonite luggage is an effective possibility for these searching for inexpensive, conventional baggage with a give attention to sturdiness. Away is an effective possibility for these searching for trendy, fashionable baggage with distinctive options to make journey extra handy.

Away Baggage FAQs