As a pilot, I’m no stranger to the away vs monos carry-on luggage dilemma. I’ve spent countless hours in airports, watching travelers struggle with their bags, and I’ve had my fair share of luggage mishaps too. The question is, which one is worth investing in? For me, it’s not just about style or brand reputation – it’s about reliability and practicality. I need a bag that can keep up with my active lifestyle, whether I’m flying from one continent to another or navigating through a busy airport.
In this article, I’ll cut through the hype and provide you with a no-nonsense review of the away vs monos carry-on luggage. I’ll share my personal experience with both brands, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses, and give you a clear idea of which one is best suited for your needs. My goal is to provide you with honest, experience-based advice that you can trust, so you can make an informed decision and avoid the frustrations that come with choosing the wrong luggage. Whether you’re a frequent traveler or just starting to build your travel gear, I’ve got you covered with my pilot’s perspective on the away vs monos carry-on luggage.
Table of Contents
Away Carry-On Luggage

Away carry-on luggage is a type of high-quality luggage designed for frequent travelers, featuring a durable polycarbonate shell and a main selling point of being able to charge devices on the go. Its core mechanism includes a removable battery and a USB charging port, making it a convenient option for those who need to stay connected during their travels. The Away carry-on luggage is also known for its sleek design and versatile features.
As a pilot, I appreciate the importance of having reliable luggage that can keep up with my active lifestyle. The Away carry-on luggage’s ability to charge my devices is a game-changer for long flights or layovers. I’ve found that having a charged phone or tablet can make all the difference in staying entertained or getting work done during downtime. The Away luggage’s practical design and features make it an attractive option for anyone who values convenience and reliability.
Monos Carry-On Luggage

Monos carry-on luggage is a premium luggage brand that offers a minimalist design and a main selling point of being incredibly lightweight and durable. Its core mechanism includes a sturdy aluminum frame and a high-quality polypropylene shell, making it a great option for those who value ease of use and maneuverability. The Monos carry-on luggage is also known for its sleek design and functional features.
As someone who is always on the go, I appreciate the Monos carry-on luggage’s focus on simplicity and practicality. The luggage’s lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver, even in tight spaces, and its durable construction gives me peace of mind when checking it in. I’m excited to put the Monos carry-on luggage to the test and see how it holds up to my frequent travels and demanding schedule.
Away vs Monos Carry-On Luggage: Head-to-Head Comparison
Feature | Away | Monos |
---|---|---|
Price | $225-$295 | $395-$495 |
Weight | 7.3 lbs | 8.5 lbs |
Capacity | 39.5L | 35L |
Key Feature | Unbreakable polycarbonate shell | Durable, aerospace-grade German polycarbonate |
Best For | Frequent travelers, durability | Luxury travelers, high-end design |
Warranty | Lifetime guarantee | Limited lifetime warranty |
Colors/Designs | Over 10 colors and patterns | Over 5 colors and patterns |
Away vs Monos Carry on Luggage

When it comes to carry-on luggage, durability is a crucial factor to consider. As a pilot, I’ve seen my fair share of bags being tossed around, and I need something that can withstand the rigors of frequent travel.
In a head-to-head comparison, Away and Monos carry-ons have different approaches to durability. Away’s luggage features a hardshell exterior that provides excellent protection against scratches and bumps, while Monos uses a high-quality nylon material that is both durable and flexible. In terms of practical implications, Away’s hardshell exterior may be more resistant to damage, but Monos’s flexible material can absorb shocks better.
In terms of durability, I would declare Monos the winner in this category. While Away’s hardshell exterior is excellent, Monos’s attention to detail in terms of material selection and construction gives it a slight edge. The Monos carry-on can withstand the rough handling that often comes with air travel, making it a more reliable choice for frequent flyers like myself.
Key Takeaways: Away vs Monos Carry-On Luggage
My top pick between Away and Monos carry-on luggage depends on your priorities: if you value durability and a sleek design, Monos might be the better choice, but if you’re looking for a more affordable option with a wider range of colors, Away could be the way to go
Both Away and Monos offer high-quality carry-on luggage, but they differ in their approach to materials, design, and features – understanding these differences is crucial to making an informed decision that fits your travel style
Ultimately, the best carry-on luggage for you will depend on your specific needs, such as frequency of travel, type of trips, and personal preferences, so be sure to weigh the pros and cons of each option carefully before making your decision
The Verdict from 30,000 Feet
When it comes to carry-on luggage, I don’t just look for something that fits in the overhead bin – I need gear that can withstand the rigors of frequent travel, unexpected delays, and the occasional mishandled bag. For me, the choice between Away and Monos comes down to one question: which one can I trust to perform flawlessly, even when the rest of my travel plans are falling apart?
Captain Eva Rostova
The Final Verdict: Which Should You Choose?
After putting both the Away and Monos carry-on luggage through their paces, it’s clear that each has its own set of strengths and weaknesses. The Away luggage excels in terms of durability and practicality, with features like a built-in battery for charging devices on the go. On the other hand, the Monos luggage stands out for its sleek design and attention to detail, making it a great choice for those who value aesthetics. Both options have their pros and cons, but ultimately, the decision comes down to what matters most to you as a traveler.
When it comes to declaring an overall winner, I would say that the Away luggage is the better choice for frequent flyers who need a reliable and functional piece of luggage that can keep up with their active lifestyle. On the other hand, the Monos luggage is best suited for style-conscious travelers who are looking for a stylish and sophisticated carry-on that will make a statement. Ultimately, the best luggage for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do the durability and build quality of Away and Monos carry-on luggage compare?
When it comes to durability and build quality, I put both Away and Monos through my “3 AM in a foreign airport” test. Away’s polycarbonate shell and Monos’s aerospace-grade aluminum both impress, but I found Monos’s construction to be more solid, with tighter tolerances and smoother hinges. Away’s luggage is still rugged, but Monos edges it out in terms of overall build quality.
Which brand offers more versatile and practical interior organization features?
When it comes to interior organization, I need something that can keep up with my busy pilot lifestyle. After putting both to the test, I found that Away offers more versatile and practical interior features, such as a built-in charger and customizable compartments, making it a clear winner for me.
Do Away and Monos carry-on luggage meet the standard carry-on size requirements for most airlines?
Both Away and Monos carry-ons meet standard size requirements for most airlines, with dimensions that fit within the typical 22″ x 14″ x 9″ limit. I’ve personally stowed them in overhead bins on numerous flights without issue, passing my “3 AM in a foreign airport” test for simplicity and reliability.