At the time of writing this review I was unable to “test drive” an Away Carry-on direct from them but, I have a friend who has one and she very kindly loaned to me for research purposes of course!
Away was founded in 2015 by Stephanie Korey and Jennifer Rubio and was an overnight success but not as a luggage company, they like to describe themselves, a travel company. Designed by travellers for travellers their ethos was to “make each and every journey more seamless”.
With countless celebrities owning or being seen using Away luggage including Harry Styles, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle to name a few, these sleek suitcases appeal to most and were dubbed “the little black dress of luggage in August 2017”.
All produced are made from recyclable polycarbonate, aluminium, and waterproof nylon.
My borrowed bag was the Bigger Carry-On. Apparently, this was developed on the feedback of a focus group and with 47.9L of packing space is airline friendly, but I would also check size allowance in any event. There are three additional sizes available in this range.
This hard sided clam shell carry on has one zipped section with mesh divider and the otherside has compression straps and includes a removable 34-watt lithium-ion battery to charge electronic devices. There is an extra charge to upgrade to the charger and not all colours contain this option – luckily mine did!
There is also a laundry bag included which is perfect to pack your swimsuit from that last minute swim before leaving for the airport.
The locks are TSA compliant and available with a set of international plugs so any device can be charged wherever you travel. This should appeal to those business travellers so don’t have to search for charging points. The battery must be removed for security, but it is very easy to do so and also recyclable.
All products are designed to work together to enable you to build your own luggage bundle. Away offer free returns or exchanges to unused items within 100 days and each piece has limited warranty that covers damages including wheels, handles and zippers.
Away designed this Carry on and gave it a rigorous testing from dropping, banging, throwing, dragging. It’s 360° spinner wheels tested on every surface, sturdy handles which have two heights and an underside grab handle to help removing from the carousel.
My test drive was a weekend break to Seville. It fitted perfectly into the overhead locker, comfortable to manoeuvre over cobbled streets, light enough to carry upstairs and big enough for all my clothes.
Am I converted? Although quite pricey, but for how often I travel, it is worth the investment and a stylish accessory, definitely on my shopping list!