After a decade of travel and over 45 countries visited, one writer shares why Away luggage has become the only brand they trust. From a saltwater dunk in Bora Bora to a zipper failure in Munich, they have tested numerous suitcases and found Away to be the most reliable.
The Turning Point: A Ferry Ride in Bora Bora
The moment that solidified loyalty to Away occurred on a ferry in Bora Bora. The bag fell into a puddle of saltwater and engine grease. Although the shell looked damaged, it did not crack, and the mess was easily cleaned with a melamine sponge included with certain suitcases. This incident demonstrated the bag's resilience.
Building a Collection
The journey began with the Bigger Carry-On in blush pink, later upgraded to the expandable version in black. For longer trips, The Large was added, and most recently, The Medium became the go-to checked bag for adventurous itineraries. The interior compression system is praised for squeezing a week's clothes into a carry-on without straining zippers. Packing cubes from the brand are recommended for organization.
The lifetime warranty has proven valuable, with minor repairs handled efficiently by customer service after rough international flights.
The Graveyard of Suitcases Past
The Bargain Bin
Inexpensive hardside bags from stores like Marshalls or Costco often fail. Zippers jam, handles rattle, and one bag burst open at Munich Airport, scattering laundry across the terminal. This experience led to a decision to avoid budget luggage.
The Crew Classics
Brands like American Tourister and Samsonite are durable but heavy, eating into weight limits before packing. Their wheels glide on marble but struggle on other surfaces, making them less suitable for frequent travelers.
The $1,000 Luxury Flex
Rimowa aluminum shells are sturdy but heavy and unforgiving. They do not allow for slight bulging to accommodate extra souvenirs. The high price did not justify the inconvenience for an overpacker.
The Instagram Competitors
Monos, July, Beis, and similar brands offer polycarbonate designs but lack the long-term reliability of Away. Details like handle durability and wheel performance on cobblestones become noticeable after years of use.
Final Verdict
Away is not perfect; a cushier handle and quieter wheels would be welcome. However, for trips requiring zero drama and a bag that handles dirt tracks in Patagonia as easily as an airport lounge, Away has earned its place. Since switching, there have been no more sock-chasing incidents in German airports.
