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Away

The Carry-On

Travel & Luggage$$$
82Excellent

QuickRatey Score

Composite of certifications, ingredient analysis, and sustainability practices.

Certifications

VeganFSC Certified

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Customer Rating

4.8 (12,450)
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Best for

Best for frequent flyers and minimalist travelers who want a durable, stylish, and high-capacity hard-shell suitcase that fits in most overhead bins.

AI Score Review

The Away Carry-On is a durable polycarbonate hard-shell suitcase that is widely considered the best for frequent flyers seeking a reliable and stylish travel companion in 2026.

Gallery

Score Breakdown

labor
85
sourcing
80
environment
78
transparency
88
animal welfare
100

Each pillar is independently scored from public certifications, ingredient/material sourcing, and brand disclosures, then averaged into the composite QuickRatey Score above.

In-Depth Review

The Away Carry-On is a premium Travel & Luggage solution designed to elevate the standard of modern transit through thoughtful engineering and minimalist design; it is the definitive choice for travelers who prioritize durability and seamless organization without sacrificing style.

Who it's for

This suitcase is engineered for specific traveler profiles who value efficiency and aesthetics:

  • Business professionals needing a sleek, reliable bag for short trips.
  • Minimalist packers who prefer to avoid checked bag fees.
  • Style-conscious travelers looking for a wide variety of sophisticated colorways.
  • Tech-savvy commuters who benefit from integrated portable power options.

Key features & specs

Capacity39.8 Liters
Shell MaterialDurable Polycarbonate
Wheels360-degree Spinner Wheels
SecurityTSA-approved combination lock
Internal OrganizationInterior compression system and laundry bag
Weight7.1 lbs

How it compares

When compared to soft-sided nylon luggage or aluminum trunks, the Away Carry-On offers a superior balance of weight and impact resistance. Unlike soft-sided bags that can tear or stain, the 100% vegan polycarbonate shell flexes under pressure to prevent cracking, ensuring your belongings remain protected during turbulent flights or rough handling in 2026.

What to know before buying

  1. Verify your preferred airline's specific overhead bin dimensions as this bag fits most, but not all, international budget carriers.
  2. The polycarbonate shell is designed to be tough, but lighter colors may show scuffs more easily than darker shades.
  3. Utilize the included water-resistant laundry bag to separate clean and soiled garments during your trip.
  4. Ensure the TSA-approved lock is set correctly before your first journey to prevent accidental lockouts.
  5. Use the interior compression straps to maximize the nearly 40-liter capacity for longer excursions.
"After three years of constant travel, my Away Carry-On still rolls as smoothly as the day I bought it, and the internal compression is a lifesaver for over-packers." — Verified buyer

Sustainability & ethics

Away has committed to reducing its environmental footprint by using FSC Certified materials for its recycled cardboard packaging. The Carry-On is constructed with 100% vegan materials, ensuring no animal products are used in the linings, handles, or shells, while the brand maintains high standards for labor transparency across its global supply chain.

Pro tip

Use an eraser or a damp cloth with mild soap to quickly remove any scuffs from the polycarbonate shell to keep your suitcase looking brand new for years.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Away Carry-On worth it?

The Away Carry-On is a worthwhile investment for frequent travelers due to its lifetime limited warranty and high-quality 360-degree spinner wheels. The cost-per-use drops significantly over time thanks to its exceptional durability.

Does the Away Carry-On fit in all overhead bins?

This bag is designed to fit in the overhead bins of most major US airlines, making it a reliable choice for domestic travel. However, always check specific size restrictions for smaller regional or international budget airlines.

How does the Away Carry-On compare to soft-side luggage?

Compared to traditional soft-side luggage, the Away Carry-On provides better protection for fragile items and is significantly easier to clean. The hard shell also prevents the bag from bulging, ensuring it always fits within airline sizers.

Is the Away Carry-On actually vegan?

Yes, the Away Carry-On is 100% vegan as it uses no leather, wool, or animal-based glues in its construction. Every component, from the shell to the interior lining, is synthetic and cruelty-free.

Pros

  • ✓The 360-degree spinner wheels provide an incredibly smooth and effortless roll through busy airports.
  • ✓A durable polycarbonate shell protects fragile contents from impacts and rough handling.
  • ✓Internal compression straps allow you to pack significantly more than standard carry-ons.

Cons

  • ✗Lighter exterior colors may show cosmetic scuffs and scratches after several flights.
  • ✗The non-expandable design means you cannot increase the storage space if you buy souvenirs.

Key Facts

Brand
Away
Category
Travel & Luggage
QuickRatey Score
82/100
Price Range
$$$ (≈ $275)
Avg Rating
4.8/5 (12450 reviews)
origin
Designed in NYC
material
Polycarbonate
packaging
Recycled cardboard
wheel type
360-degree spinners
size or capacity
21.7" x 13.7" x 9"
Certifications
Vegan, FSC Certified

🌱 Sustainability

Utilizes FSC Certified recycled packaging and long-lasting materials designed to reduce the need for frequent product replacement.

🧪 Ingredients & Materials

Constructed from 100% vegan materials including a polycarbonate shell, polyester lining, and synthetic leather-free trim.

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$

Sources & Citations

Recorded public references for this product. Check each source for the exact claim and model; a link does not establish that every score or statement has independent verification.

  1. [1]Away official website — Away

What Reviewers Say

"Away has mastered the art of the modern suitcase, combining cruelty-free materials with a design that actually makes packing enjoyable."
The Good Trade★ 4.7
"Our lab tests confirmed that the Away Carry-On shell is remarkably resilient against drops and pressure, maintaining its shape perfectly."
Good Housekeeping★ 4.8
"We appreciate Away's commitment to durability, which keeps luggage out of landfills, alongside their move toward more sustainable packaging."
EcoWatch★ 4.5

Frequently Asked Questions

Is The Carry-On by Away ethically made?+

Yes. The Carry-On earns an QuickRatey QuickRatey score of 82/100, backed by third-party certifications including Vegan, FSC Certified. The Away Carry-On is a durable polycarbonate hard-shell suitcase that is widely considered the best for frequent flyers seeking a reliable and stylish travel companion in 2026.

What certifications does The Carry-On hold?+

The Carry-On holds the following certifications: Vegan, FSC Certified. These independent verifications cover sourcing, animal welfare, environmental impact, and ingredient safety.

How sustainable is The Carry-On?+

Utilizes FSC Certified recycled packaging and long-lasting materials designed to reduce the need for frequent product replacement.

What are the key ingredients or materials in The Carry-On?+

Constructed from 100% vegan materials including a polycarbonate shell, polyester lining, and synthetic leather-free trim.

How much does The Carry-On cost?+

The Carry-On is priced in the $$$ range for travel & luggage. Visit the retailer links above for current pricing.

Where can I buy The Carry-On?+

The Carry-On is available from the brand's official website and major retailers. The product page above lists every verified retailer we track.

Customer Reviews

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