As with many everyday goods in the last ten years, carry-on luggage has been direct-to-consumer-ified. Now, countless luggage brands offer as many options (in as many colors) as possible. But two suitcases stand out from that crowd: the Away and Monos carry-on.
The brands have quite a bit in common: the blanding associated with DTC brands, an extensive selection of colorways, add-ons, and sizing, and a similar pricepoint — plus front pockets. However, there are a few key differences. Here's what I found — and which carry-on I would take on a trip again.
Monos Vs. Away: What We Think
At $295, the Monos Carry-On Pro is cheaper than Away's Carry-On — and although it has a couple of liters less storage in the main compartments, thanks to its smart storage, I was able to fit just as many of my belongings as I did in the Away. The Monos Carry-On Pro is lighter, rolls more quickly, feels more durable, and has more color options than its competitor.
Don't get me wrong: Away's entry into the carry-on luggage category works just fine. But while I did appreciate the extra storage, I couldn't get over the flimsy handle. For anyone debating between the two, here's my two cents: just get the Monos.
How We Tested
Whether for work or pleasure, I'm on the road at least once a month. Over the past year and a half, each of these suitcases has traveled thousands of miles with me to locations like San Francisco, Orlando, Patagonia, Phoenix, Amsterdam, Paris, Montana, and more. My extensive travel informed my opinion of how these specific carry-on suitcases perform.
To learn more about our testing methodology and how we evaluate products, head here.
Away Carry-On
Key Specs
- Capacity: 38 L
- Weight: 7.7 pounds
- Materials: Polycarbonate hard shell, leather details
My first experience with this experiment was with Away. Founded in NYC in late 2015, the brand was touted as a female-founded, DTC phenom with ample funding and potential, with the Carry-On as its signature product. By late 2020, one of the co-founders was ousted, and a toxic company culture was exposed — yet the Carry-On continued to resonate with consumers and dominate the market. Today, Away manufactures and sells a whole suite of travel products, from a selection of polycarbonate luggage to backpacks, organizers and wellness items.
I decided to try the brand's original Carry-On; I'm a light packer and enjoy taking just the right amount of clothing on a trip. Plus, I appreciated features like the built-in charging capability and the light weight of the suitcase.
The Away Carry-On Comes With a Charger (For Extra)
My favorite aspect of the Away Carry-On is the integrated lithium-ion battery (available for $20 more), which can power your phone or tablet as you travel. Outlets are hard to come by in the airport, and being without a portable charger isn't an option if you work from your phone like I do. Taking my power source with me, without carrying yet another accessory like a portable charger, felt (literally and figuratively) empowering.
The Extending Handle Feels Flimsy
The most noticeable thing I didn't like about Away's case was its handle — it feels flimsy and at odds with the rest of the construction. When the suitcase is packed, pushing it by the handle leaves you feeling like it's about to snap off; it doesn't feel sturdy when stationary.
Monos Carry-On Pro
Key Specs
- Capacity: 36 L
- Weight: 7.01 pounds
- Materials: German polycarbonate hard shell, Hinomoto Lisof Silent Run 360° wheels, 350D anti-microbial interior fabric, YKK reverse coil zippers.
Arguably Away's biggest competition, Vancouver-based Monos debuted on the travel scene in 2018 and sells design-forward suitcases and accessories in Canadian and U.S. markets. Since its launch four years ago, Monos has expanded beyond luggage and offers convenience and quality-based items, including clothing and accessories. The brand leverages the name recognition of Away and claims to build upon that model with a greater focus on quality and design.
Therefore, I decided to pit the Monos Carry-On Pro against Away's counterpart.
A More Premium Feel
Upon first impression, I couldn't help but agree with Monos' marketing claim: Its carry-on is lighter, smoother, and more durable. The most immediate takeaway was the telescopic handle — using it brought a welcome feeling of security and stability after using the Away case, and made a lasting impression as I made my way through the airport. I also appreciated the interior organization. I thought it was put together more practically and intuitively, and offered more division for my items. The Monos Carry-On Pro also came with two shoe bags, something the germaphobe in me celebrated.
A Disappointing Front Pocket & Scuff-Prone Material
Although my first impression of the Monos made me consider it the superior case, it has some significant drawbacks. The first is the front compartment. Monos markets this as the major upgrade between its Pro and standard Carry-On, but in reality, it doesn't expand very well — and when I did put my laptop, sunglasses, keys, and a slim book inside, it was tough to close. As a result, I found myself using it to store soft goods that could squish down, like a t-shirt or extra socks.
The other drawback to the Monos was the scuffing. On my first trip, after I pulled it out of the overhead compartment, I had two large white scuffs down the side of the case. Since then, I've unintentionally added about three more, even when I try to baby the case through my trip. My carry-on is black, so maybe the lighter colorways don't have this issue, but it was annoying to see the marks after just one use.
