When it comes to travel gear, Away has become a household name. In this Away Travel review, I’ll share my hands-on experience with their luggage and accessories, highlight expert opinions, and break down why this brand has captured the hearts of frequent flyers.

What Makes Away Travel So Popular?

Founded in 2015, Away quickly rose to prominence with its minimalist hard-shell suitcases that promise style and functionality. According to Forbes, “Away has built a cult-like following thanks to its direct-to-consumer model and thoughtfully designed luggage.” (Forbes).

I first came across Away a couple of years ago when planning a cross-country trip. Tired of my old suitcase’s flimsy zippers and squeaky wheels, I was drawn to Away’s sleek aesthetic and the promise of built-in charging for my phone—a feature that felt like a game-changer.

My Hands-On Experience with Away Luggage

I opted for the Bigger Carry-On in the color “Coast,” a muted blue that stands out just enough at the airport. The first thing I noticed was how smooth the 360-degree spinner wheels were—I glided through LAX like a breeze.

Packing and Space

Away’s signature compression system in the main compartment really impressed me. I was able to pack a week’s worth of clothes, plus my running shoes and a few accessories, without feeling like I was cramming things in.

Durability and Daily Use

The polycarbonate shell feels sturdy—after three trips, there’s still no sign of cracks or major scuffs. The built-in battery pack was a lifesaver at the airport during layovers. I didn’t realize how convenient it was until I didn’t have to hunt for an outlet near crowded gates!

What the Experts Are Saying

✅ Travel + Leisure praises Away for “combining good looks with practical design, making it a great choice for modern travelers.” (Travel + Leisure)
✅ The New York Times’ Wirecutter highlighted Away’s durability and easy maneuverability in their carry-on suitcase testing.

Pros and Cons of Away Travel

Pros

• Sleek, minimalist design that stands out
• Built-in battery pack in carry-on models
• Sturdy, lightweight polycarbonate shell
• Compression system maximizes packing space
• Smooth spinner wheels and easy maneuverability
• 100-day trial and lifetime limited warranty

Cons

• Higher price tag compared to traditional luggage brands
• Limited color selection for some sizes
• Battery pack must be removed to check the bag (per FAA rules)

Who Is Away Travel For?

✅ Frequent travelers who want a balance of style and function
✅ Digital nomads and commuters who value convenience (hello, built-in battery!)
✅ Minimalists who love clean lines and smart design

Final Verdict – Is Away Travel Worth It?

After several trips with my Away Bigger Carry-On, I’ve become a believer in the hype. The suitcase feels like a reliable companion—it’s lightweight yet tough, and it’s just as functional as it is pretty. The built-in battery pack might seem like a gimmick, but it’s genuinely handy when you’re on the go.

Expert reviews back this up: both Forbes and Travel + Leisure consistently highlight Away’s dedication to balancing form and function. For me, that balance meant I never had to worry about my luggage breaking mid-trip or struggling to find a power outlet at a crowded gate.

Of course, the price is on the higher side—but if you’re a frequent traveler or someone who wants to invest in luggage that will last, Away feels like a smart choice. I’d rather spend a bit more upfront for a suitcase that glides effortlessly through terminals and still looks great after years of use.

So yes, if you’re in the market for a carry-on that’s thoughtfully designed, durable, and stylish, the Away Bigger Carry-On (or any of their other luggage options) is absolutely worth it.