I bought my first Away suitcase back in 2017 and it has basically been glued to my side ever since. I’ve lugged it across California small towns, wheeled it through Copenhagen cobblestones, dragged it on and off trains in London, and even packed it for a week in the Maldives. If a suitcase could rack up frequent flyer miles, mine would have status by now.
So, is Away luggage really worth the hype? After almost a decade of using their Large Checked Suitcase, I have a lot to say.
Pros and Cons of Away Luggage
Pros
- Durable wheels – glide smoothly even after years of cobblestone streets and airport carpets.
- Warranty that actually works – Away replaced my damaged suitcase quickly when Qatar Airlines refused to.
- Smart interior design – compression straps, mesh divider, and even a built-in laundry bag.
- Sleek, modern look – the minimalist style photographs beautifully and feels elevated compared to bulky traditional suitcases.
- Built-in TSA-approved lock – no fumbling with extra locks at security.
- Variety of colors – fun shades like blush pink and cherry red stand out on luggage carousels.
Cons
- Shows scuffs easily – lighter colors (like my pink suitcase) pick up dirt, though Magic Eraser helps.
- Pricey for some budgets – at around $300–$400, it’s an investment piece.
- Carry-on size can be tricky – some budget airlines have stricter bin rules, so double-check if you’re flying them often.
- No external pockets – I sometimes wish there was a quick-access spot for a boarding pass or charger.
My First Away Suitcase
My first Away Large suitcase was my darling pink suitcase that I’ve had since around 2017. I loved how sleek it looked compared to the clunky, traditional luggage I had before. It came with me everywhere until this fall when Qatar Airlines put a hole in my luggage and refused to compensate me.
But here’s where Away impressed me: I contacted them about the damage, and they immediately replaced it without hassle. Their warranty really does work.
My Current Blush Pink Suitcase
I’ve had my blush pink Large Checked Away suitcase for years, and it’s my favorite travel companion. The color makes it easy to spot on a baggage carousel, though I’ll admit it gets dirty easily. Once a year I give it a scrub with a Magic Eraser sponge and it looks brand new again.
I’ve taken this bag literally everywhere: on planes, trains, cars, and even boats. It has survived being checked dozens of times, tossed around by baggage handlers, and dragged through old European streets. The wheels still glide like butter, even over carpet or cobblestone.
When I pack for a bigger trip, this bag has never let me down. It always fits everything on my packing list, from fashion staples to my toiletries bag. I sometimes carry a backpack as my personal item and keep my electronics in there, but my Away suitcase does the heavy lifting.
What I Love About The Design
- Interior Layout: One side is open, the other is closed with a mesh zipper. I usually tuck shoes and toiletries behind the zipper and keep clothes on the open side. There are built-in compression straps that help squish everything down if I overpack. Away even includes a laundry bag inside, which is perfect for separating dirty clothes mid-trip.
- Packing Cubes: While I don’t always use insider packing cubes, I’ve tried them and they do fit really well inside the Large Checked bag. If you love the neatness of a packing cube system, the Away interior works seamlessly with them. Some people swear by the Insider Packing Cubes from Away, and I get why. They keep things tidy and make it easier to unpack when you get home.
- TSA-Approved Lock: Built into the top of the suitcase, so I never have to fumble with separate locks. This makes going through airport security stress-free.
- Handle: The telescoping handle slides up smoothly every time and doesn’t get stuck, even after 6+ years of use.
- Wheels: This is honestly the standout feature. The suitcase rolls so easily, even when fully stuffed. I’ve pushed it across London’s Tube stations, overhead bins on the plane, and narrow cobblestone streets, and it didn’t wobble once.
I don’t really need packing cubes since the layout works well for me, but if you love extra organization, the Away Insider Packing Cube set is a nice upgrade.
Away Downsides To Know
Honestly, there aren’t many. The only drawback I’ve noticed is that lighter colors (like my blush pink) show dirt easily. But as I mentioned, a quick clean with a Magic Eraser does the trick.
Another small thing: if you’re using Away’s smaller carry-on bags, you’ll want to double-check dimensions before your flight. Some airlines are strict about what fits in overhead bins. I haven’t personally tried their carry-ons, but I’ve read insider reviews that mention they can be a tighter fit on budget airlines.
The Away Warranty Experience Review
One of the reasons I keep coming back to Away is because their warranty actually delivers.
The warranty covers cracks in the shell, broken wheels, handles, or zippers. Basically, if the suitcase stops working the way it should from normal travel, they’ll repair or replace it. For frequent travelers like me, that peace of mind is huge. Luggage is an investment, and knowing the brand stands behind its products makes the price feel even more worth it.
Then, in 2025 when Qatar Airways put a hole in my suitcase and refused to replace it (apparently, they think a giant hole in a hardshell is normal wear and tear *insert eye roll*) I reached out to Away, and they replaced my suitcase!
Can’t beat that customer service.
Would I Buy Again?
Absolutely. After eight years of heavy use, Away’s Large Checked Suitcase has proven itself again and again. I would 10/10 buy it again. In fact, they just launched a red color that I have my eye on.
While I haven’t personally tested their carry-on bags, I’ve used other carry-on brands like Paravel. In my opinion, Away’s durability and design make it the stronger choice. The price point is fair for the quality, especially considering the warranty coverage and the fact that the wheels, zippers, and shell hold up better than most bags I’ve owned.
Extra Travel Tips From Years Of Use
- Luggage Tag: Don’t forget to add a sturdy luggage tag, especially if you’re checking bigger bags. It makes it so much easier to track down your suitcase if the airline misplaces it.
- Over vs. Check: If you’re debating carry-on vs. checked luggage, Away has options for both. I personally rely on the Large Checked bag for longer trips, but if I only need a weekend bag, I’ll bring a smaller carry and keep my essentials with me.
- Photo Tip: Away luggage is pretty photogenic. I’ve taken so many travel photos with mine because the minimalist design just looks good in pictures. My branding for my blog, Whimsy Soul, is blush pink (like my suitcase!) and cherry red. I plan to get a bigger carry-on in cherry red soon so I can be even more on brand.
- Security: Always lock your suitcase when you’re checking it, even if it’s just a short flight. Away’s built-in lock is one of my favorite features.
- Home Storage: When I’m not traveling, I use my Away suitcase to store out-of-season fashion pieces at home. It’s sturdy and doubles as bonus storage space.
My Away Hanging Toiletry Bag
Along with my suitcase, I also use the Away Hanging Toiletry Bag, and it’s the best toiletry organizer I’ve ever owned. I have an older model in black, and since then they’ve upgraded the design with more compartments and a sleeker look.
The bag is made from water-repellent nylon with a spill-proof interior, and the built-in hook makes it easy to hang on a bathroom door or towel rack. The multiple mesh pouches, detachable clear compartment, and exterior zipper pocket make it super easy to keep my skincare and makeup organized while traveling. At $85 it’s not the cheapest, but it’s held up for years and is still my go-to toiletry bag for every trip.
Away Luggage FAQ
Is Away luggage worth the price?
Yes. I’ve owned my Away Large Checked Suitcase since 2017, and after dozens of international and domestic trips it still looks and functions beautifully. Between the sturdy wheels, TSA-approved lock, and warranty that actually works, the price is more than fair for the quality.
Does Away luggage fit in overhead bins?
Away carry-on bags are designed to fit in most overhead bins, but some budget airlines are strict about sizing. If you fly budget often, double-check the dimensions before your trip. Personally, I stick to the Large Checked Away suitcase for longer trips and then bring a backpack as my personal item.
Do you need packing cubes with Away luggage?
You don’t need them, since the interior compression straps and mesh divider already keep things organized. That said, the Away Insider Packing Cubes are a great option if you like super tidy packing or want to unpack quickly once you’re home.
Does Away luggage come with a laundry bag?
Yes! Every suitcase comes with a laundry bag tucked inside. I love it for keeping dirty clothes separate mid-trip, especially on longer journeys.
What does the Away warranty cover?
The warranty covers cracks in the shell, broken wheels, handles, or zippers. When Air Canada and later Qatar Airways damaged my suitcase, Away replaced it with no hassle. It’s one of the most generous luggage warranties out there.
How do you clean Away luggage?
If you get a lighter color like blush, expect it to scuff. I wipe mine down with a Magic Eraser once a year, and it looks brand new.
Which Away suitcase should I buy first?
If you want to start with one, I recommend the Large Checked Away suitcase. It’s big enough for international trips, sturdy enough for baggage handlers, and has been my reliable travel companion for nearly a decade.
Away Is Worth It
If you’re someone who travels often and needs luggage that can take a beating, Away is worth the investment. Between the sleek design, thoughtful interior, sturdy wheels, and the fact that their warranty actually works, I can confidently say it’s the best suitcase I’ve ever owned.
If you’re shopping for luggage, I recommend starting with the Large Checked Away suitcase. It has been my reliable travel partner for nearly a decade, and I’m excited to keep rolling it with me on new adventures. Whether you’re packing for a quick trip or a bigger international journey, it’s a suitcase that truly delivers.
