Away The Carry-On Review

Noticeable quality and performance set this carry-on apart from others I've tested. And, when I factor in the price point, it's simply one of the best deals out there.

Capacity

A slightly heavier weight negatively impacted my scores for this metric, but I can't say enough about this bag's excellent packing system and decent packing volume.

As stated, a denser polycarbonate shell causes the Away The Carry-on to tip the scales a little more. However, for me, this was a non-issue after my first experience with how well it stores its cargo. The Away's clam-shell design offers a fully enclosed zippered compartment on one side and an impressive compression panel on the other, which securely sandwiches clothing into place like a flower press. The result is a storage system that keeps everything secure and fairly immovable. In my years of testing luggage, I've only seen this type of packing system in high-end luggage that costs much more than the Away.

I hand-measured the Away and calculated its storage volume to be 35.5 liters. This certainly isn't the largest cargo bay of the bunch, but its ability to compress its contents allowed me to pack a little more than a typical bag of its size. Another thing I loved about the Away is its overall measurements. Its height, width, and depth are smaller than most international airline requirements, so I never had an issue with it fitting into any overhead compartment — including those on smaller European commuter jets. International requirements are generally smaller than those in the US, so this bag fits well in most planes. The only drawback I noted was that this version of the Away doesn't have an expansion zipper — though the Away The Carry-On Flex solves that problem.

Ease of Transport

Smooth double-spinner wheels, spring-back grab handles, and a wobbly, but decent, trolley handle earned the Away very respectable scores for this metric. It's also very balanced and rarely tips over.

After circling the globe with this bag for nearly two years, I feel it's one of the more reliable hardshell carry-ons on the market. During my in-home “walk-the-line” tests, it did tend to veer to the right a little bit, but overall, this bag runs straight and smooth.

I feel its two-inch wheels could be a little taller, and that this would help with bumpier terrain, like cobblestone streets. But, overall, I found the Away's wheels to produce a vibration-less, pleasant ride. It's also well-balanced, so it stands on its own without tipping, and it's easy to lift above my shoulders and head.

From shorter trips to Arizona to long-haul adventures in Tibet, this bag has been loaded onto and off of dozens of flights, and it still rolls just as smoothly today as it did on its maiden voyage. The only small negative I noted focused on its grab handles. When not in use, they sit tightly against the shell. This was great for keeping them from catching on railings or airline seats, but their spring-back design made it difficult to needle my fingers into place. There just isn't a lot of room for larger hands.

Construction Quality

A dense polycarbonate shell is one of this carry-on's flagship features. It feels thicker than other models I've tested, and it does an excellent job of taking a punch while protecting your stuff. Overall, its craftsmanship is noticeably a cut above, earning it excellent scores for this metric.

The Away has a stitched rubber trim, a quality TSA combo lock, sturdy grab handles, solid wheels, and a rugged, protective shell with a matte finish that hides scuffs and scratches. Top-notch zippers and fabrics pull the entire bag together into a solid product that is built for the rigors of domestic or international travel. My only negative note for this metric targeted its trolley handle. Although strong and reliable, it's been a little wobbly since the day my Away arrived on my doorstep.

Water resistance also isn't this bag's forté. Yes, the shell itself provides a perfect barrier against rain or snow. However, the weak link is the zipper. After drenching this bag in my backyard water tests, I realized quickly that water can seep through the zipper and zipper ribbon. Although not uncommon for hardshell carry-ons, there was more water than I initially anticipated.

Design and Functionality

I've used the Away The Carry-On for both business and leisure travel. I love its clean lines and understated, timeless look. I've also noticed more of this brand popping up in airports around the world — proof that I'm not the only one who likes how it looks.

The first thing I noticed when ordering my Away was the amazing color options available. It's easy to pick a color that suits your style — something I really appreciated. This bag's impressive storage system also allows it to carry a wide variety of payloads in several different configurations. On a recent trip to the Czech Republic, I even used the compression panel to secure my laptop, which freed me from needing a separate laptop bag. After asking friends and associates about their opinions on the Away, the only negative feedback received was that it lacks an expansion zipper. So, if you like having the ability to make extra room, you may want to take a look at the Away The Carry-On Flex.

Should You Buy the Away The Carry-On?

If you like to spend your money wisely, odds say you'll be adding the Away The Carry-on to your short list of baggage options. It's not the least expensive bargain out there, but when you consider the overall quality you're receiving for the money spent, you'll be glad you paid a little extra — I know I was. This bag can do the business travel thing just as well as a weekend getaway. Its understated but modern lines appeal to a wide audience, and its performance and function are on par with just about any piece of quality luggage. So, if you want to maximize your dollar, the Away is one of the best buys you can find.

What Other Carry-On Luggage Should You Consider?

If price is still your key concern, no problem. There are several less-expensive options that I've tested that also have a quality and value element. The Samsonite Freeform Spinner is a close second to the Away, and it doesn't cost quite as much. I also like the Delsey Paris Helium Aero and the Coolife Hardside Expandable 20". Both are decent bags, but they don't offer nearly the same construction quality or performance.