Travel
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Away launched in 2016 and pretty much rewrote the modern carry-on playbook — direct-to-consumer pricing, smart features, and a built-in battery in the front pocket that became a viral selling point. A decade later, premium competitors like Rimowa, Tumi, and Monos have caught up and arguably matched Away on aesthetics. Is the Away Carry-On still the best carry-on you can buy in 2026? After testing the current lineup, here’s our honest verdict.
1. Design & build
The design details that made Away famous remain excellent. The compression system in the main compartment holds clothing firmly in place during transit, the laundry bag in the lid is genuinely useful for separating worn from clean clothes, and the TSA-approved lock integrates seamlessly into the zipper pulls. The 360-degree spinner wheels glide effortlessly across every surface from airport tile to cobblestone streets. The Away Carry-On is one of the most thoughtfully designed bags in its class.
2. The (re-engineered) battery
The original removable battery in the front pocket was eventually phased out due to airline regulations around lithium batteries in checked bags. Away responded with a new ejectable battery design that can be removed for checked bag compliance. For carry-on travelers who keep their bag in the cabin, the battery charges phones and earbuds during travel — still genuinely useful for long travel days, even if less revolutionary than it once was.
3. How it holds up
Durability is an area where Away performs well but with some caveats. The polycarbonate shell resists flex and impact effectively for most travel scenarios, and the spinner wheels and handle mechanism are notably good. However, some users report that the polycarbonate develops fine scratches relatively quickly with regular use. Away’s lifetime warranty provides strong long-term protection, and their repair service addresses most common issues.
4. Vs Monos, Rimowa & Tumi
How does Away compare in 2026? Rimowa’s Hybrid and Essential lines offer similar quality at a higher price with more prestige brand recognition. Monos has emerged as a strong competitor with comparable quality at slightly lower prices and a compelling aesthetic. Tumi’s entry-level bags provide higher-end materials but at premium pricing. The Away Carry-On sits comfortably in the sweet spot of quality, features, and value — but the gap between Away and its best competitors has narrowed considerably.
5. The verdict
Away still makes one of the best carry-on bags available in 2026. The combination of thoughtful design, practical features, good durability, and competitive pricing continues to justify its popularity. If you’re buying your first premium carry-on, the Away Carry-On is an excellent choice that will serve you well for years. If you already own an Away in good condition, there’s little compelling reason to upgrade. And if you’re considering alternatives, Monos offers similar quality with a fresh aesthetic that some travelers find more compelling.
Should you buy Away?
Buy if you want a thoughtfully designed premium carry-on with a useful USB battery and a lifetime warranty backing it. Skip if you already own a great bag in good condition, or if Monos’s design language appeals to you more. Either way, you’re in the top tier of carry-on options available right now.
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, we may earn commission from qualifying purchases. Prices current at time of publication and subject to change.
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