AWAY Luggage Review: Pros, Cons & Should You Buy It?

Looking for an AWAY luggage review? Read on to learn more about my experience with the brand.

When you’re planning your next trip, one thing you can’t compromise on is good luggage. Whether you’re navigating airports, hopping on trains, or rolling your bag down cobblestone streets, your suitcase needs to be reliable, functional, and stylish.

That’s where the Away Bigger Carry-On comes in. As someone who values organization, durability, and a touch of style in everything I pack, I had to see if this popular carry-on could live up to the hype.

In this review, I’ll walk you through my experience with the Away Bigger Carry-On, from its durability and functionality to whether it’s really worth the investment.

I’ve taken this piece to Disney twice, Frankfurt, Munich and Nuremberg in Germany, as well as Salzburg, Austria, Tulum, Massachusetts, Hawaii, San Francisco and it’s still going strong!

About AWAY Luggage Review

AWAY was founded in 2015 by Jen Rubio and Stephanie Korey, two former Warby Parker executives. The idea for the brand was born when Jen experienced a suitcase breaking while traveling, leading to a conversation about the lack of affordable, high-quality luggage options. They set out to create modern, stylish, and functional luggage at a more accessible price point compared to luxury brands.

AWAY’s first product, the Carry-On, launched in 2016 through a successful crowdfunding campaign on Kickstarter, raising over $2.5 million. The company quickly gained popularity for its direct-to-consumer model, offering high-quality luggage with thoughtful features, such as a built-in battery for charging devices, durable polycarbonate shells, and a sleek, minimalist design.

Since then, AWAY has expanded its product line to include larger suitcases, travel bags, and accessories, as well as collaborations with celebrities and designers. Today, AWAY is recognized as a major disruptor in the travel industry, known for its innovation, customer-centric design, and social media-savvy marketing.

Their best sellers are:

• The Bigger Carry-On
• The Carry-On
• The Bigger Carry-on Flex
• The Insider Packing Cubes
• The Everywhere Bag

First Impressions

When the Away Bigger Carry-On arrived, my first thought was how sleek and minimalistic it looked. The matte black finish gives it a modern, polished vibe that feels stylish without being too flashy — perfect for both business trips and vacations. The packaging was impressive too, with a dust bag for storage, which is a nice bonus for keeping it organized when not in use.

Beyond its looks, I noticed the lightweight feel immediately. For a carry-on designed to pack more than your average size, it’s impressively easy to lift and maneuver, even before I’d packed it.

Durability and Materials

The Away Bigger Carry-On is made from a durable polycarbonate shell, known for being both lightweight and strong. Polycarbonate is ideal for frequent travelers because it’s impact-resistant—it can flex under pressure without cracking. That’s particularly useful when your luggage is squeezed into overhead bins or tossed into trunks.

While the matte finish looks sleek, I did notice that it can show minor scuffs after a few uses. These are easy to wipe off but something to keep in mind for those who want their luggage looking pristine.

For someone like me who takes multiple trips a year, the balance between durability and weight is a huge plus. It’s tough enough to withstand frequent travel but still light enough to carry without hassle.

Functionality and Packing Features

One of my favorite features of the Away Bigger Carry-On is its well-thought-out interior. The compression system is a game-changer, especially if you love to stay organized and fit a few extra outfits in. The interior has a zippered mesh divider and compression straps that keep everything secure. Plus, it has a laundry bag tucked into one corner for separating dirty clothes—small but incredibly helpful for longer trips.

In terms of space, this carry-on fits more than I expected. I packed for a 9-day trip and managed to fit everything with strategic packing. While it doesn’t have an expandable feature, it still manages to accommodate a lot for its size.

The 360-degree spinner wheels glide effortlessly on both smooth and rough surfaces, including cobblestone streets in Europe. Whether you’re rushing through an airport or navigating busy city streets, this bag handles it all with ease.

Travel Experience: How It Performs on the Road

After taking the Away Bigger Carry-On on several trips, I can confidently say it holds up extremely well. It fit perfectly in overhead bins on flights, and the lightweight design made it easy to carry up stairs or roll through crowded areas. The telescoping handle is sturdy and adjusts smoothly, with no wobbling or sticking like other carry-ons I’ve used.

Even after some rough handling from airport staff, the polycarbonate shell protected everything inside. While it did pick up a few scuff marks, they were easy to clean off, and the YKK zippers stayed smooth and secure even when fully packed.

One of the best things about this carry-on is how it makes stress-free travel a reality. I never had to worry about the bag—it stayed organized inside, glided smoothly, and looked good even after a long trip.

Style and Design

The Away Bigger Carry-On in black is perfect for someone who likes a timeless, sleek look without compromising on functionality. The matte black finish is modern and chic, making it versatile enough for both business trips and leisure travel. It’s stylish but not flashy, so it fits right in no matter where you’re headed.

If you’re someone who likes to travel with a carry-on that looks good and performs well, the design of this bag will not disappoint. Plus, the black color makes it easy to pair with any travel wardrobe or accessories.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Durable polycarbonate shell that’s lightweight but tough
• Spacious interior with a smart compression system
• Smooth-gliding 360-degree wheels that make it easy to transport
• Sleek, modern design in a versatile matte black finish
• TSA-approved lock for added security
• Built-in laundry bag for easy organization
• Easy to fit in overhead compartments

Cons:

• Minor scuffs can appear on the matte finish after several uses
• Price point may be on the higher end for some travelers

Is It Worth the Investment?

For travelers like you who value organized, efficient travel without compromising on style, the Away Bigger Carry-On in black is definitely worth the investment. The durability and smart packing features make it ideal for frequent travelers. While the price might be on the higher end, it’s an investment that pays off in convenience, reliability, and style.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Away Bigger Carry-On fit under an airplane seat?
No, the Away Bigger Carry-On is designed to fit in the overhead bin of most major airlines but is too large to fit under an airplane seat. For under-seat storage, you may want to consider a smaller carry-on or a personal item like the Everywhere Bag.

Does the Away Bigger Carry-On meet airline size restrictions for carry-on luggage?
Yes, the Away Bigger Carry-On is accepted by most airlines as a carry-on. However, for some stricter airlines (especially budget airlines in Europe), it’s a good idea to double-check their specific size regulations to ensure compliance.

Is the Away Bigger Carry-On expandable?
No, the Away Bigger Carry-On does not have an expandable feature. Despite this, it has a spacious interior and comes with a built-in compression system to help you fit more into your suitcase.

Is the Away Bigger Carry-On waterproof?
While the polycarbonate shell is water-resistant and can withstand light rain or spills, it is not fully waterproof. For extra protection, you may want to store electronics and valuables in waterproof bags or pouches.

How easy is it to clean scuffs off the matte finish?
The matte finish can show minor scuffs after a few trips, but they’re typically easy to clean. A soft cloth with water or a magic eraser can usually do the trick, leaving the suitcase looking good as new.

Can I lock the Away Bigger Carry-On?
Yes, the Away Bigger Carry-On features a TSA-approved lock built into the suitcase, providing extra security for your belongings while traveling.

Does the Away Bigger Carry-On come with a battery for charging devices?
Yes, the carry-on comes with an optional removable battery that allows you to charge your phone or other devices on the go. It’s TSA-approved, so you can travel with it without worry.

What’s the difference between the Bigger Carry-On and the regular Away Carry-On?
The Bigger Carry-On is slightly larger, designed for travelers who need extra packing space. However, it may not fit in the overhead bins of smaller aircraft or stricter airlines. The regular Carry-On is a bit smaller but still offers excellent capacity for most trips.

Final Thoughts and Recommendation

If you’re looking for a carry-on that’s both stylish and functional, the Away Bigger Carry-On should be at the top of your list. It’s perfect for everything from weekend getaways to longer trips, helping you stay organized while looking chic.

I also purchased the Everywhere Bag, , and I have to say, it’s the perfect companion to the carry-on. The bag is designed to fit neatly on top of the Away Bigger Carry-On’s telescoping handle, which makes navigating airports or train stations super easy without juggling multiple bags.

Plus, the Everywhere Bag is incredibly spacious—despite its sleek design, it can hold essentials like a laptop, charger, toiletries, and even an extra pair of shoes. It also has several compartments, making it ideal for keeping smaller items like your passport, wallet, or headphones organized and within easy reach during travel.

Another feature I love about the Everywhere Bag is that it’s built with high-quality materials, just like the Bigger Carry-On, so it’s both stylish and durable.

It’s great for shorter trips as a standalone weekender, but when paired with the Away Bigger Carry-On, you’ve got an unbeatable duo that makes traveling hassle-free. Whether I’m heading on a short business trip or a week-long vacation, this combination keeps me organized and stress-free.

I recently flew on Spirit Airlines and this bag IS sized to fit as a carry-on. And when I flew Lufthansa on the Airbus A319, my luggage did not fit wheels first overhead – it had to be turned side-ways to fit the sapce.

Ready to upgrade your travel gear? This carry-on might be the perfect addition to your routine.

XOXO,
Katie

Liked this review? Share it on Pinterest!