Away Luggage Review 2026: Is It Still Worth the Hype?

If you are shopping for a new suitcase in 2026, you have probably seen Away luggage everywhere. From airport terminals to Instagram feeds, these polycarbonate beauties are hard to miss.

But do they actually live up to the hype? This Away luggage review covers everything from build quality and wheel performance to price and warranty.

This guide will help you decide if Away deserves a spot in your travel setup. Keep reading to find out which Away suitcase fits your needs best.

Key Takeaways

• Away luggage uses 100% polycarbonate shells on its hardside models. This material is lightweight, impact resistant, and flexible enough to absorb pressure without cracking. You can expect years of use from a single bag.
• The 360 degree spinner wheels are a standout feature. Every Away suitcase rolls smoothly on carpet, tile, cobblestone, and rough airport floors. Testers at Travel + Leisure confirmed the wheels perform well under heavy loads too.
• Pricing starts around $275 for the Carry-On and goes up to $475 or more for trunk models. This puts Away in the mid premium range, more affordable than Rimowa but pricier than budget brands like Coolife or Amazon Basics.
• Away offers a limited lifetime warranty that covers structural damage to the shell, wheels, handles, and zippers. The brand also provides a 100 day trial period so you can test the bag on real trips before committing.
• Color and style variety is a major selling point. Away offers over 10 colors in 2026, including seasonal limited edition shades. They also launched special collections like the White Lotus collaboration and a Sabrina Ionescu partnership.
• Some users report zipper issues over time. Multiple Reddit reviewers mentioned zipper failures after one to two years of heavy use. Away does replace defective bags, but this is worth knowing before you buy.

Away The Carry On Review

The Away Carry-On remains the brand’s best seller in 2026. It measures 21.7 x 14.4 x 9 inches and weighs just 7.5 pounds. The 39.8 liter capacity is enough for a five to seven day trip if you pack smart.

The clamshell design splits into two equal compartments. One side has a compression flap that holds clothes flat. The other side features a large mesh zip pocket for accessories and toiletries. I found this layout easy to organize and quick to access.

The polycarbonate shell feels sturdy but has enough flex to absorb impact. Travel + Leisure testers hit it with baseball bats and dropped it off tables. It survived without cracks. The TSA approved lock is built into the frame, which saves space and adds security.

One downside is the lack of an expandable zipper. You are limited to the fixed interior space. If you tend to overpack, the Bigger Carry-On may be a better fit.

Away The Bigger Carry On Review

The Away Bigger Carry-On adds about one extra inch in each dimension. It measures 22.7 x 15.4 x 9.6 inches and still fits most domestic overhead bins. The capacity jumps enough to make a real difference for longer trips.

This model uses the same 100% polycarbonate shell and 360 degree spinner wheels as the standard Carry-On. The extra room lets you bring another pair of shoes or a few more outfits. It also weighs slightly more, but the difference is barely noticeable.

Over 500 Amazon buyers purchased this bag in the past month alone. Most reviewers praise the smooth wheel action and clean design. It comes in multiple colors including Jet Black, Navy Blue, Sea Green, and Blush Pink.

Keep in mind that some budget airlines may not accept this bag as a carry on. If you fly internationally often, check your airline’s size limits before choosing this model.

Away The Medium Checked Luggage Review

The Away Medium measures 26 x 18.5 x 11 inches and weighs 10.8 pounds. It holds about 68.8 liters, which is enough for a one to two week trip.

I liked the balance between size and portability. It is big enough for extended travel but light enough to lift into car trunks and onto luggage scales without strain. The dual spinner wheels roll effortlessly, even when the bag is packed full.

The compression system inside works well. One side has a padded flap with straps to hold clothes tight. The other side has a large mesh pocket for shoes, toiletries, and accessories. This keeps items separate and reduces wrinkling.

Away also offers this bag in the Medium Flex version. The Flex model adds an expandable zipper that increases capacity to 75.7 liters. If you want the flexibility to pack more, the Flex is worth the small price bump.

Top 3 Alternatives for Away Luggage

The Samsonite Freeform Carry-On is a popular choice. It features a polycarbonate shell, double spinner wheels, and an expandable zipper that Away’s standard Carry-On lacks. It frequently goes on sale for under $150.

The Travelpro Maxlite 5 is a softside spinner that weighs under 6 pounds. It is a favorite among flight crews and road warriors. The price sits well under $200, making it an excellent value pick.

The Monos Carry-On Pro competes directly with Away. It uses aerospace grade polycarbonate, a built in TSA lock, and has a padded front pocket for laptops up to 16 inches. It is slightly pricier but adds features Away does not include.

Away The Large Checked Luggage Review

The Away Large is built for two week plus trips. It measures 29 x 20.5 x 12.5 inches with a capacity of over 90 liters. The shell is the same durable polycarbonate found in the Carry-On models.

I noticed the wheels handled the extra weight well. Even when I packed the bag close to the 50 pound airline limit, the spinner wheels moved smoothly across airport floors. The telescoping handle felt solid with no wobble.

Interior organization is the same clamshell layout you find across the entire Away lineup. A compression pad on one side and a zippered mesh divider on the other. A laundry bag is also included, which is a nice touch for separating dirty clothes.

The main consideration here is weight. The bag itself weighs around 11 to 12 pounds empty, so you lose some of your 50 pound allowance before adding a single item. Pack carefully.

Away Softside Bigger Carry On Review

Away expanded into softside luggage with a full collection of nylon bags. The Softside Bigger Carry-On measures 23 x 15.7 x 9.1 inches and weighs 9.8 pounds.

The expandable zipper is a major advantage over hardside models. It increases capacity from 38.3 to 44.3 liters. This gives you extra room for souvenirs or bulkier items on the return trip.

Travel + Leisure editors tested this bag with baseball bats, drops, and stomps. The high strength nylon exterior showed zero damage. The puffy padded front panel also gives it a modern, stylish look.

A small front pocket holds a phone, passport, or boarding pass. The 360 degree stealth wheels are quieter than those on the hardside models. If you value expansion and a softer aesthetic, this is a solid pick.

Away Luggage Build Quality and Durability

Away uses 100% virgin polycarbonate on all hardside models. This material is the same type used in bulletproof glass and astronaut helmets. It is light, flexible, and resists cracking under pressure.

The YKK zippers are another quality indicator. YKK is the industry standard for luggage zippers. However, some long term users report zipper failures after heavy use. This seems to be the most common complaint across Reddit forums.

The handles are spring loaded and snap back into place when released. The telescoping handle locks at multiple heights, which is useful for travelers of different statures. Grab handles on the top, side, and bottom make lifting easy from any angle.

Overall, the build quality sits above most direct to consumer competitors. It is not quite at the level of Rimowa or Briggs & Riley, but it costs significantly less.

Away Luggage Wheel Performance

The 360 degree dual spinner wheels are one of Away’s strongest features. Each suitcase has four sets of double wheels that rotate freely in any direction.

I tested the wheels on tile, carpet, gravel, and cobblestone. They performed well on every surface. The suitcase stayed upright during quick turns and stops. There was no pulling to one side or sticking on rough ground.

The softside models use “stealth wheels” that are noticeably quieter. If you often roll your suitcase through hotel hallways late at night, the softside lineup might appeal to you.

One thing to note is that the wheels are not replaceable at home. If a wheel breaks, you need to contact Away’s customer service for a repair or replacement. The limited lifetime warranty does cover wheel damage.

Away Luggage Interior Organization

Every Away suitcase uses a clamshell design that opens flat into two halves. This layout gives you full access to both sides of the bag.

One half features a nylon compression system with adjustable straps. You press clothes down and tighten the flap to maximize space. The other half has a zippered mesh pocket that holds smaller items in place.

Both checked models and the trunk include a removable laundry bag. This is helpful for keeping dirty clothes separate from clean ones during longer trips. Packing cubes also fit well inside both compartments.

The main thing missing is a dedicated shoe compartment. Some competitors like Monos include separate shoe pockets. With Away, you need to pack shoes alongside clothing or use separate shoe bags.

Away Luggage Pricing and Value

Away luggage prices start at $275 for The Carry-On and go up from there. The Bigger Carry-On costs around $295. The Medium starts at $325, and the Large is priced at $375. Trunk and Flex models cost more.

These prices place Away in the mid premium segment. You pay more than brands like Samsonite or Travelpro. You pay less than luxury brands like Rimowa, Tumi, or Briggs & Riley.

Away frequently runs sales throughout the year. In January 2026, the brand offered discounts of up to 54% on select items. If you are not in a rush, waiting for a sale can save you $50 to $100 or more.

The 100 day trial and limited lifetime warranty add real value. You can return the bag within 100 days for a full refund. The warranty covers defects in materials and craftsmanship for the life of the product.

Away Luggage Color and Style Options

Away offers over 10 colors across its lineup in 2026. Core colors include Jet Black, Navy Blue, Cloud Gray, Coast Blue, and Sea Green. Seasonal options include Cherry Red, Blush Pink, Olive Green, and Sorbet Orange.

The brand also launched limited edition collections. The White Lotus collaboration features raffia inspired exteriors and floral print linings. A partnership with WNBA player Sabrina Ionescu introduced a new collection expected to drop later in 2026.

All colors use the same materials and hardware. There is no quality difference between a black bag and a sea green one. The color choice is purely about personal style and visibility at the luggage carousel.

If you want a bag that stands out, go with a brighter color. If you prefer something classic and discreet, Jet Black or Navy Blue will serve you well for years.

Away Luggage Warranty and Customer Service

Away provides a limited lifetime warranty on all luggage. This covers defects in the shell, wheels, handles, zippers, and other structural components. Normal wear and tear, scratches, and cosmetic damage are not covered.

The brand also offers a 100 day trial period. You can use the bag on real trips and return it for a full refund if you are not satisfied. This is one of the most generous return policies in the luggage industry.

Customer service responses vary based on reviews. Some users report fast replacements and helpful support. Others mention delays during peak travel seasons. If you experience an issue, contacting Away through their website chat tends to be the fastest route.

Repairs are handled through mail. You ship the bag to Away’s service center, and they repair or replace it. This process can take several weeks, so plan accordingly if your bag needs work before an upcoming trip.

Who Should Buy Away Luggage

Away is a strong choice for frequent travelers who value style and durability. The polycarbonate shell holds up well over dozens of trips. The clean, minimalist design looks good in any setting.

Budget travelers may find better value elsewhere. Brands like Travelpro and Samsonite offer similar performance at lower prices. If you care more about function than aesthetics, those options might suit you better.

Business travelers will appreciate the Flex and Front Pocket models. The expandable zippers and laptop pockets add practical features for work trips. The TSA lock and smooth wheels make airport transitions fast.

If you travel once or twice a year, a lower priced alternative may be the smarter investment. Away makes the most sense for people who travel five or more times per year and want a bag that lasts.

FAQs

Is Away luggage worth the price in 2026?

Away luggage offers good value in the mid premium range. You get durable polycarbonate construction, smooth spinner wheels, and a limited lifetime warranty. If you travel frequently, the quality justifies the cost. Budget travelers may find similar features for less from brands like Samsonite or Travelpro.

Does Away luggage scratch easily?

The polycarbonate shell can pick up minor scuffs during normal use. Away includes a small sponge with each bag to buff out light scratches. Deep gouges from rough handling are harder to fix but do not affect the bag’s performance.

Can the Away Bigger Carry-On fit in overhead bins?

The Bigger Carry-On fits most domestic overhead bins in the United States. Some budget airlines and international carriers have stricter size limits. Always check your airline’s carry on dimensions before flying with this model.

Does Away luggage come with a battery charger?

Away removed the built in battery from its standard lineup. Some older models and select editions still include a removable USB battery pack. Check the specific product listing to confirm whether a battery is included with your purchase.

How long does Away luggage last?

Most users report three to five years of regular use before any issues appear. The most common problem is zipper failure after heavy use. The limited lifetime warranty covers structural defects, so Away will repair or replace the bag if the issue is covered.

Where can I buy Away luggage?

You can buy Away luggage directly from the Away website, Amazon, and select retail stores. Amazon offers the same colors and models with the added benefit of fast shipping and easy returns through their platform.

Last update on 2026-04-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API