Away Luggage Review 2026: Is This Premium Suitcase Worth the Investment?

Away luggage review 2026 reveals a brand that delivers on design and functionality when everything works, but with durability concerns that have frustrated some frequent travelers. There's something compelling about how Away has positioned itself: it offers premium mid-luxury luggage with clean minimalist design and useful features, but real-world performance shows that shells can crack, zippers can fail, and handles can break under heavy use.

The brand's hard-shell models are constructed from 100% polycarbonate—a strong synthetic material prized for its ability to absorb impact without cracking like cheaper plastics. However, common issues reported include shells cracking under extreme impact, zippers splitting from shells, and handles breaking due to aged or weak plastic components.

What Is Away Luggage?

Away is a premium luggage brand known for its minimalist design, smooth-rolling 360° spinner wheels, and integrated features like TSA-approved locks and compression panels. The brand offers hard-shell polycarbonate models and an aluminum line, positioning itself as premium mid-luxury luggage that blends durability with aesthetics.

Away luggage is designed for frequent travelers who want a suitcase that looks good and functions well, with features like laundry bags, compression panels, and dividers built into the interior. The brand emphasizes clean design and useful features over flashy aesthetics.

Design & Hardware

Design is one of Away's strongest areas. Smooth rolling 360° spinner wheels are widely praised for comfort and maneuverability. TSA-approved integrated locks, lightweight shell designs, and well-thought interior features like laundry bags, compression panels, and dividers add value.

However, there are limitations: no external pockets on hard-shell models limits quick access storage, and lighter or glossy finishes tend to show scuffs, scratches, and dirt more visibly. The gloss finishes are particularly prone to noticeable wear, which can be frustrating for customers expecting pristine appearance.

Durability & Real-World Performance

Durability is where Away's reputation is most mixed. OutdoorGearLab gave Away's "The Large" checked suitcase strong scores for capacity, build quality, design, and transport, calling it "not what we would consider a bargain bag, but a great value." The standard "The Carry-On" model also received solid marks, especially for construction quality and usability.

However, common issues reported include shells cracking under extreme impact (especially hollow or flex-style ones), zippers occasionally splitting from shells or ripping away from material, and handles breaking due to aged or weak plastic components. For backpacks and larger checked bags, handle functionality is one of the components more likely to fail.

Warranty & Customer Support

Away provides a limited lifetime warranty that covers functional issues: broken shells, non-working zippers, handles, wheels—but not cosmetic damage like scuffs or dents. The return/refund period is 100 days to return or exchange an UNUSED suitcase. After use, claims are possible for functional defects but refunds (if used) are harder to get.

Users report mixed experiences: when Away replaces defective items, it can be fast and smooth; other times, it's a longer process, especially for non-key parts like handles or small hardware. The warranty coverage for functional issues is good, but cosmetic damage isn't covered, which can be frustrating given the visibility of scuffs on lighter finishes.

Pricing & Value

Away is positioned as a premium mid-luxury brand. Hard-shell carry-ons generally start around $275–$400, far less expensive than ultra-luxury aluminum brands but much more than budget travel cases. For frequent flyers or people who travel heavily, Away offers high quality, style, and durability that many find worth the investment.

However, for occasional travelers, the cost may feel steep. The value proposition is strongest for frequent travelers who can justify the investment through regular use, but occasional travelers may find better value in more budget-friendly options.

Who Is Away Luggage Best For?

Away luggage is ideal for:

• Frequent Travelers: Those who travel regularly and want a suitcase that blends durability with aesthetics
• Smooth Rolling Prioritizers: Users who value smooth rolling, clean minimalist design, and useful interior features
• Warranty Seekers: Customers who want a warranty that covers real functional defects, even after heavy use
• Design-Conscious Travelers: Those who want luggage that looks good and functions well

Potential Limitations

Away luggage may not be ideal for:

• Extreme Travel Conditions: Handling cobblestone and very rough travel tends to damage wheels or finish over time
• External Pocket Needs: No external pockets on hard-shell models limits quick access storage
• Cosmetic Perfection Seekers: Many Away pieces "earn their battle scars"—scuffs and scratches are visible, especially on lighter finishes
• Budget-Conscious Occasional Travelers: The cost may feel steep for occasional use

Final Verdict

Away luggage represents a solid option for frequent travelers who want a suitcase that blends durability with aesthetics. The brand's smooth rolling, clean minimalist design, and useful interior features make it appealing for users who travel regularly and can justify the investment. The warranty coverage for functional issues provides peace of mind, even if cosmetic damage isn't covered.

However, durability concerns including shells cracking, zippers failing, and handles breaking mean that Away may not be ideal for extreme travel conditions or users who expect perfect appearance after heavy use. The brand is worth it for frequent travelers who prioritize functionality and design, but occasional travelers or those seeking maximum durability may find better options elsewhere.

Away is particularly well-suited for frequent flyers who want premium luggage without ultra-luxury pricing. However, those seeking extremely rugged luggage, external storage pockets, or perfect cosmetic appearance may find better alternatives.

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