Searching for a travel-friendly carry-on that balances trendy design, smart packing, and premium build quality? We tested the popular Away Bigger Carry-On on multiple trips and have scoured verified customer reviews in-depth, so read on for our takeaways before you buy.
Build Quality & Materials
Made of 100% polycarbonate, the Away Bigger Carry-On strikes a nice balance between lightweight portability and rugged durability. At just under 8 lbs, it’s feather-light when empty but doesn’t feel at all flimsy. The hardshell construction repels water and is surprisingly resistant to everyday scuffs and scratches, and Away even includes a soft eraser on the top corner to buff out marks.
The minimalist design exudes premium quality. The muted Navy, Cloud Gray, and Coast Blue options make for a relaxed yet sharply refined style. Integrated curved outer zippers lay flush into the TSA lock mechanism, which makes for sleek looks and tight security. However, some travelers mentioned that the curved zip path is a bit more resistant to gliding open/closed vs. more traditional straight-line luggage zippers.
The Away hardshell is better in every single way for me…sturdy handles, rubberized wheels. The hardshell is secure and looks sharp.
Rolling & Handling
Away claims that this carry-on features 360° smooth-gliding spinner wheels and we’d say that they keep their promise. In real-world use cases on airplane aisles, airport floors, and cobblestone streets, these units roll silently and effortlessly. The rubberized design allows for smooth tracking with little vibration or noise, and we predictably stayed on track whether pushed upright on all four wheels, or dragged behind on two.
The telescopic handle includes two separate height adjustments with a firm lock that holds tight with minimal flex. The underside features an additional grab handle to make lifting and loading easier, and the fabric side/top handles are comfortable to use in any orientation.
The wheels roll silently with very little effort, and on the bottom a ‘hand notch’ to help when lifting the bag. Really like this.
Interior Organization & Capacity
The interior is the real star of the show here and showcases the Away’s best features. Split clamshell-style open into two perfectly symmetrical halves, you’ll find:
- A compression pad system with straps on one side and a duo of mesh pockets, perfect for efficiently compressing bulky items.
- On the opposite side, a full-zip mesh panel covers a large external front pocket for loose items or soft accessories.
- A separate, removable, and water-resistant laundry bag for dirty clothes is included.
- Away has opted not to natively use compression cubes, but the built-in mesh panel serves the same purpose extremely well.
The Away unfolds into 2 equal compartments and feels massive compared to my other roller bag…This carry on replaced a larger roller bag and still fit more gear than the larger thanks to its smart interior design.
Capacity-wise, this is a carry-on approved for most U.S.-based airlines, but the width/handling might fall afoul of more restrictive international airlines.
Tech & Travel Features
- TSA-approved combination lock seamlessly built into the side of the carry-on.
- Removable battery bank feature on some previous model versions but not always included on newer models.
- Water-resistant laundry bag included, as is the silicone luggage tag.
- No USB port or smart tracking system is embedded or default, unlike some other high-end competitors starting to offer these. That said, not having those tech features is also not a dealbreaker. The simplicity is arguably the point, and fewer electronics means less that can potentially break or need troubleshooting.
Real-World Use Cases
In our real-world use, Away Bigger Carry-On frequently earns mentions for easy rolling, a minimalist yet sleek look, and excellent interior organization. This suitcase in particular is a favorite to pop up in reviews for things like:
- Work trips: Compact enough to easily slide under the seat, yet sleek enough to hold a suit, all your tech, and toiletries organized.
- Weekend getaways: Ample space for 3-4 outfits, shoes, and “extras” depending on packing strategy.
- International travel: Easily within U.S. carry-on limits, but smaller airlines may still require you to check it in due to stricter size restrictions.
I’ve taken this through carry on to Europe three times so far. Wheeling it around train stations, dragging it on cobbled streets, shoving it around trains, and pulling it by its handle. It’s holding up like a champ.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Super modern, sleek, minimalist design in stylish colorways
- Lightweight but durable all-polycarbonate shell
- Premium compression system allows efficient packing
- Quiet 360° spinner wheels
- Underside grip handle for easy loading into overhead bins
- Built-in TSA lock
Cons
- Premium price (prices typically start at $295+)
- Zippers can catch slightly at the curved locking mechanism
- No built-in tech (like smart tracking or USB charging) in current versions
- Size might exceed carry-on restrictions for ultra-restrictive international airlines
Comparison Table
| Feature | Away Bigger Carry-On | Samsonite Omni PC | TUMI Continental Dual |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shell Material | 100% Polycarbonate | Micro-Diamond Polycarbonate | FXT Ballistic Nylon |
| Spinner Wheels | Yes (4, rubberized) | Yes (4) | Yes (4) |
| TSA Lock | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Compression System | Yes (built-in) | No | Yes |
| Battery Charging Port | Optional (select models) | No | Yes (USB-C) |
| Interior Laundry Bag | Yes | No | Yes |
| Price Range | $$$ | $$ | $$$$ |
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Final Verdict
Overall, the Away Bigger Carry-On is a fantastic example of a premium suitcase balancing form and function. While it may not have all the bells and whistles some of its more direct competitors offer, it excels in the areas that matter for most travelers: fluid mobility, intuitive interior organization, and a durable shell that can both protect and keep pace with your gear.
If you’re a frequent traveler looking for a new bag to see you through your next adventure, look no further. It’s no small investment, but for those that travel often, the Away Bigger Carry-On is one that will feel like it grows old with you, not the other way around.
Overall Ratings: 4.6
Did you have the chance to use the Away Bigger Carry-On in real-life travel? Share your experiences and help others know what they’re getting with this bag on the road.
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