Away’s signature carry on combines a tough polycarbonate shell with one of the smartest interiors in luggage, but the price keeps climbing.
Product Image: Away
8.2
KADS SCORE
Quick Take
The Carry On is Away’s best selling suitcase for a reason: a dent resistant polycarbonate shell, genuinely smooth 360 degree spinner wheels, and an interior compression system that squeezes 5 to 7 outfits into airline friendly dimensions. It weighs about 7.1 pounds, includes a TSA approved lock, and comes backed by a 100 day trial and lifetime warranty. The standard model lacks external pockets and expansion, so overpackers should look at the Flex version instead.
What We Like
- Durable polycarbonate shell that resists dents and cracks
- Interior compression system packs more without wrinkles
- Smooth 360 degree spinner wheels glide through terminals
- TSA approved combination lock built into the shell
- 100 day trial and lifetime warranty for peace of mind
What We Don’t Like
- No exterior pockets for quick access items
- Standard model has no expansion, limiting souvenir trips
- Light colors scuff and show marks quickly
- Some owners report zipper durability issues over years of use
Product Details
Full Review
Quality
Away molds the shell from polycarbonate, a material reviewers consistently praise for flexing under impact instead of cracking. The 360 degree spinner wheels roll quietly and track straight, and the interior compression panels, laundry bag, and AirTag pocket show real attention to packing detail. Build quality complaints cluster around zippers and handles on heavily used bags, though Away’s lifetime warranty covers functional failures. Overall it feels a clear step above budget hardside luggage in materials and finish.
Value
At $275 the Carry On costs more than competent polycarbonate rivals from brands like Monos or Samsonite, which often sell for less with similar shells. Away justifies the premium with the compression system, the warranty, and the design polish that made it a status bag. If you fly monthly, owners say the cost per trip quickly becomes reasonable. If you fly twice a year, a cheaper hardside case gets you 90 percent of the function.
Who Should Buy It
Frequent travelers who live out of a carry on and want a light, good looking bag that fits most overhead bins.
Who Should Skip It
Overpackers who need expansion or exterior pockets, and budget travelers who will not use the warranty enough to justify $275.
FINAL VERDICT
The Carry On remains the default recommendation for premium carry on luggage: tough, smartly organized, and backed by a warranty few brands match. It is not the cheapest path to a good hardside case, and the missing pockets bug some travelers. For the weekly flyer, though, it is an easy yes.
8.2 / 10
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