Travel Smart: The Ultimate Review of the Away Carry-On

Have you ever found yourself sprinting through the airport, zigzagging between fellow travelers like you’re the star of your very own action movie, only to be betrayed by your clunky, old carry-on that handles about as well as a shopping cart with a wonky wheel? If the answer is a resounding “yes,” then you’re in for a treat—because today, we’re diving into a luggage piece that claims to be the trusty sidekick every traveler deserves.

Meet the Away The Carry-On, a suitcase that doesn’t just bring a dash of sophistication to the baggage carousel but promises durability and functionality to boot. Buckle up because we are all about getting down to the nitty-gritty to see if this little number is the game-changer you need for your adventures. 

But before diving deeper, let’s touch on our process. We’ll be assessing the luggage based on several key aspects and discussing each in detail to help you make an informed decision. Now, let’s roll right into the heart of this ultimate carry-on review and see what it’s made of.

First Impressions and Design Aesthetics

When it comes to travel gear, your carry-on isn’t just a vessel for your essentials; it’s also a reflection of your personal style. With the Away The Carry-On, you’re hitting the road with a piece that’s got style. Let’s break down what makes this suitcase stand out from the overhead bin crowd:

• Polycarbonate Shell: The Carry-On’s shell is made from premium polycarbonate, known for its resilience and ability to withstand the rigors of travel.
• Color Palette: Available in a variety of colors, the navy blue option projects sophistication and hides scuffs well.
• Matte Texture: The matte finish not only looks classy but also provides a level of scratch resistance, keeping the suitcase looking newer for longer.

Design is not just about appearance; it’s about how it makes you feel when you handle it. And the Away Carry-On, with its modern aesthetics, does not disappoint. From the moment you lay hands on it, you sense that this could very well be the travel companion you’ve been looking for.

Detailed Specifications

The Carry-On is our compact suitcase, designed for all overhead bins and quick trips. It has a tough, lightweight shell, a compression system for packing, and convenient handles. Travel better. Here are the specifications for the Away Carry On: 

Dimensions:

• Exterior measurements 21.7″ x 14.4″ x 9″
• Interior measurements 20.1″ x 13.9″ x 7.5″
• Weight 7.5 lbs
• Capacity 39.8 L

Airline Compliance

The Away Carry-On complies with many airline carry-on requirements due to its size, weight, and design. Its exterior measurements of 21.7 x 14.4 x 9 inches comply with most US and International airlines. It is designed to fit in the overhead bin without any issues.  Away has tested their carry-ons at JFK, EWR, LHR, and LGW to see how each size fits. However, it weighs 7.5 pounds, which may be an issue for those airlines weighing carry on bags.  

Luggage	Height (in)	Width (in)	Depth (in)	Height (cm)	Width (cm)	Depth (cm)
Away Carry On	21.7	14.4	9	55.1	36.6	22.9
Air France Allowance	21.7	13.8	9.8	55	35	25
British Airways Allowance	22	18	10	56	45	25
Lufthansa Allowance	22	16	9	55	40	23
Delta Airlines Allowance	22	14	9	55.9	35.6	22.9
American Airlines Allowance	22	14	9	56	36	23

Durability and Structure

In today’s travel environment, security is as crucial as packing your favorite pair of socks. The Away The Carry-On isn’t just concerned with keeping your shirts crease-free; it’s also got your back when it comes to safeguarding your stuff.

• Material Strength: The polycarbonate shell stands up to stress tests with flying colors, rebounding from impacts that would leave lesser materials cracked or broken.
• Zipper Quality: While the functional zipper keeps everything secure, it’s worth noting there’s a bit of give between the two halves when the case is full. However, it is a trade-off for flexibility.  The design of the zipper location has also led to issues of the zipper getting stuck.
• Resistance to Elements: Whether it’s a downpour at the tarmac or a spill at the terminal cafe, the hard-sided casing ensures your belongings remain dry and unscathed.

While the Away Carry-On showcases commendable durability, it’s always in the finer details that true quality is revealed. For instance, the play in the zipper area is something to consider. While this doesn’t compromise the safety of your items, it might introduce a slight wobble. This speaks volumes about the real-life usage conditions considered in its design.

Let’s keep in mind, nothing is indestructible, but the Carry-On is built to endure the average wear-and-tear travelers can dish out, making it a reliable choice for frequent flyers.

Security Features

Your peace of mind while traveling hinges greatly on the security of your belongings. The Away Carry-On doesn’t take this lightly, incorporating features to keep your items as secure as an airline cockpit.

Let’s unlock the security details:

• YKK Zippers: Known for their robustness, the Away Carry-On sports YKK zippers that are less prone to breakage or being pried open, a common vulnerability in lesser quality luggage.
• TSA-Approved Combination Lock: This integrated lock allows for a keyless convenience while ensuring that TSA agents can access your bag if necessary, without damaging the lock.
• Secure Closure: The zipper’s play is deliberate, providing flexibility; however, once the lock is engaged, the luggage halves are tightly secured, minimizing any worries about in-transit tampering.

Imagine walking through a busy terminal or having your bag out of sight; knowing it’s equipped with these safety precautions gives a significant confidence boost. It’s like having a silent, sturdy guardian for your gear.

Handling the Carry-On

A carry-on is your closest travel companion—it should be as comfortable to hang out with as your best pal. The Away The Carry-On seems to have taken this friendliness seriously, particularly when it comes to its maneuverable features.

Here are the details on what to expect when you’re on the go:

• Adjustable Telescopic Handle: Crafted for travelers of varying heights, the handle extends smoothly and locks at different levels, ensuring a comfortable stroll for every user.
• Ergonomic Grip: With a design focused on comfort, the handle is pleasant to hold for extended periods, a respite for those long walks to the farthest airport gates.
• Battery Bank Compartment: Conveniently hidden under the handle is a nifty compartment for an ejectable battery bank. Though a brilliant idea, some users might find the compartment’s latch could be more secure. It seems sturdy, but under certain conditions, might pop open unexpectedly.

When you’re traversing the vast corridors of the modern airport or navigating narrow aisles of a train, the Away Carry-On makes a reliable companion. Its handle and grip are engineered to reduce arm strain, making each move as effortless as possible. And while the battery compartment is great for keeping your devices charged, it would be wise to check its latch before and during your journey to avoid accidents.

Maneuverability

Glide, swivel, dash – the wheels on your carry-on can turn an airport sprint into a graceful pirouette. The Away Carry-On boasts 360-degree spinner wheels that promise effortless navigation through the tight corners and endless passageways of transit hubs. Let’s roll through the details:

• Spinner Wheels: These allow the carry-on to move in any direction with ease, making it an excellent partner for quick changes in direction and smooth rolling alongside you.
• Performance on Different Surfaces: On glossy airport floors, these wheels are silent performers, but they may exhibit less finesse on cobblestones or uneven paths, which is a common trait among such wheels.
• Stability: Despite potential challenges on rough terrain, the wheeled base is solid and minimizes side-to-side wobble, adding to the luggage’s maneuverability.

With wheels that spin as smoothly as a DJ’s turntable, the Away Carry-On offers a near-frictionless experience when moving across smooth surfaces. It’s important to remember, though, no wheel performs perfectly on every type of terrain. When faced with rougher ground, the wheels are durable but might require a little more effort.

Interior Organization and Capacity

The exterior may have the flair, but the inside of a carry-on is where the real magic happens. It’s the Mary Poppins bag of the travel world—it needs to fit everything without a bulge or a squeeze. The Away The Carry-On steps into the ring with some neat interior tricks up its sleeve.

• Clamshell Opening: This design provides two distinct compartments for effortless packing and access. The ability to organize your belongings without rummaging is priceless during transit.
• Compression System: With neat nylon straps to keep your clothing in place, the compression system maximizes the space, allowing you to pack more while reducing the volume.  The compression system is one of the best qualities of this bag.
• Dividers and Pockets: A mesh divider on one side enables visibility and breathability, while additional pockets ensure smaller items are easily reachable and neatly tucked away.

The Carry-On’s packing efficiency doesn’t just rely on space; it’s the intelligent use of that space. It ensures that every cubic inch is at your disposal, effectively separating your dress shoes from your dress shirts. Here are some additional organizational stars:

• Separate Compartments: For items that you want to keep isolated, like toiletries or tech gadgets, there’s a designated space to prevent any unpleasant mingling.
• Laundry Bag: Included within the luggage is a laundry bag that snaps in and out easily, providing a home for your worn outfits and keeping them separate from the clean ones.

By setting you up with a place for everything, traveling becomes less about clutter and more about the journey. The Away Carry-On elevates itself from a simple storage solution to a mobile wardrobe.

Unique Features

Finding your travel groove sometimes comes down to the little things—the extras that move your experience from good to great. Away’s Carry-On is no minimalist when it comes to these added touches.

Let’s explore these distinctive characteristics:

• Mesh Pocket with Snap-In Laundry Bag: Instead of allowing your dirty laundry to intermingle with unused items, this detachable laundry bag keeps things organized and odor-contained, which is a thoughtful addition for those long trips.
• Ejectable Battery Bank: Despite its security flaw, this feature is a traveller’s day-saver, providing a charge for your devices when you’re far from an outlet. Just remember to eject it when checking your luggage for a flight, as per airline regulations.

These features aren’t just about convenience; they’re about acknowledging the realities of travel. With essentials like a phone or tablet often doubling as our travel guides and boarding passes, having power on hand is more a necessity than a luxury.

Final Verdict – Is the Away Carry-On Right for You?

Every journey needs a faithful companion, and at the end of our deep dive, the moment has come to ask: Could the Away The Carry-On be the one that sticks by your side, from red-eye flights to sun-drenched resorts? Here’s our take, distilled into a nutshell.

Pros:

• Durable polycarbonate shell ready for the rough and tumble of travel.
• An impressive compression system that allows you to squeeze in that little extra into your bag.
• TSA-approved lock and a well-engineered YKK zipper to secure your belongings.
• Adjustable handle with a cleverly integrated, albeit slightly finicky, battery bank for on-the-go charging.
• Smooth 360-degree spinner wheels for effortless airport sashays.
• The variety of pockets including a snap-in laundry bag for ultimate organization.
• Limited lifetime warranty indicating a commitment to quality.

Cons:

• The handle’s battery compartment may be prone to opening unexpectedly.
• Wheels, despite their ease on smooth surfaces, might not be best suited for rougher terrains.
• The zipper area shows some flexibility which may be of concern when overpacked.
• The weight of the bag may be an issue if you pack a lot and the airline weighs your carry on.

In light of our expedition through every crevice, cavity, and contour, The Away Carry-On stands up as a robust, functional, and stylish choice for the modern traveler.

It is not just a piece of luggage; it’s a testament to where you’ve been and where you’re headed. If you value reliability wrapped in elegance and aren’t deterred by the premium investment, this carry-on could elevate not only your travel wardrobe but your entire travel experience.

So, is The Away Carry-On right for you? If you’re after a travel partner that blends security, durability, and organizational mastery with a dash of tech savvy, then, by all means, it’s a hearty “yes” from us.

Conclusion

The runway has ended, and so has our voyage through the apexes and troughs of The Away Carry-On review. We’ve endeavored to lay all the facts bare, so whether or not this suitcase finds its way into your travel story, you’re stepping forward informed and ready. 

While it might not be flawless (with considerations for the battery compartment’s security and wheel performance on rougher surfaces), it overwhelmingly checks the boxes that matter most.

In the end, the choice is personal, as every traveler has unique needs. But for those looking for a carry-on that rises to the occasion, the Away Carry-On might just be the ticket. Safe travels, and may your journeys be as stress-free as the packing and organization this suitcase brings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When considering the Away The Carry-On for your travel needs, you likely have questions about its features, warranty, and care instructions. We’ve compiled a few FAQs to help you make the most informed decision.

Q – How does the warranty work?

A – Away offers a limited warranty that covers any damage to the shell, wheels, handles, zippers, or anything that impairs your luggage’s functional purpose.

Q – Can the battery be taken onto flights?

A – Yes, the battery is TSA-approved, but always remember to eject it from the suitcase before checking your bag or when instructed by airline staff.

Q – How should you clean your Away Carry-On?

A – A simple mixture of mild soap and warm water will do the trick. Use a soft cloth to gently clean the surfaces and let it air dry.