- Bottom Line
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We believe the size and durability of the Away Bigger Carry-On make it an excellent choice for seasoned travellers.
- Pros
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This suitcase offers 48 litres of storage, which is sufficient for a week’s trip and fits in most international overhead compartments. We particularly appreciated the effortless glide of the wheels over different surfaces and the superb interior organisation.
- Cons
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A few users feel that the price might be steep for those who travel infrequently.
About the Product
A reliable carry-on for regular travellers
The Away Bigger Carry-On is a top-selling suitcase from a renowned luggage brand. Slightly larger than the standard carry-on, it provides extra room for belongings while still complying with cabin luggage regulations across many airlines.
To determine if its high price is justified, we rigorously tested the Bigger Carry-On, assessing its durability, manoeuvrability, storage, and design, and we were impressed with its performance in all categories. Perfect for longer trips, it delivers excellent value through its reliability and reputation.
What is the Away Bigger Carry-On?
Product specifications
Dimensions: 15.4″ W x 9.6″ D x 22.7″ H | Capacity: 47.9 L | Weight: 7.9 lb | Material: Polycarbonate | Expandable: No
The Away Bigger Carry-On features a hardside design, ensuring it fits into the overhead bins of most airlines, despite exceeding TSA recommendations for carry-on dimensions. During our testing, we had no issues boarding with it. Its lightweight yet durable polycarbonate shell is available in numerous stylish colours, with limited-edition shades frequently added.
Offering nearly 48 litres of space, the suitcase is not expandable. Inside, it features two compartments: one with a full-zip divider and the other equipped with compression straps/”>traps and a compression panel, each featuring zip pockets. A laundry/shoe bag is also included in the lining. It glides effortlessly on four double spinner wheels and features grip handles on the top, side, and bottom, along with a soft-grip extendable trolley handle. Additionally, it comes with a TSA-compatible lock.
See how it stacks up against other options in its category—check our reviews of the best carry-on luggage.
Price and Where to Buy
The Away Bigger Carry-On retails for $315 and can only be purchased directly from Away.
Why We Like It
Protective
During our testing, we found the Away Bigger Carry-On to be impressively protective. It survived significant drops without any structural damage, providing peace of mind for valuable contents.
Smooth Wheels
We appreciated the smooth and manoeuvrable spinner wheels, which performed well on various terrains, from airports to city streets and even cobblestones.
Spacious
With ample space, we managed to pack over a week’s worth of cold-weather clothing without feeling overstuffed.
What We Don’t Like
Lacks Specialised Compartments
While the suitcase includes some zip pockets, we would have preferred additional specialised compartments, such as wet bags or extra pockets. It also does not feature an expandable zipper.
May Not Fit All Airlines
Although we successfully boarded several airlines, restrictions may vary, and this suitcase might not be accepted on some smaller aircraft or stricter carriers.
Price
While we feel the Away Bigger Carry-On justifies its higher price, it is still more expensive than many other reputable luggage brands.
Durability and Build Quality
This suitcase boasts a hardside polycarbonate shell, combining strength with flexibility, which is highly desirable in modern luggage. In our tests, it showed remarkable durability, surviving tumbles and extensive travel with only minimal cosmetic wear.
The wheels and trolley handle also proved robust during our overseas journey, remaining secure and stable throughout various travel conditions, including city streets and public transport. We felt confident that the Bigger Carry-On could withstand being tightly packed without any risk of damage.
Design and Features
Away suitcases are known for their chic minimalism, and the Bigger Carry-On exemplifies this aesthetic. Its polycarbonate shell and sleek lines exude sophistication, and its vibrant colours are sure to turn heads. The subtle crosswise grooves add both visual appeal and structural strength, while the contrasting black zippers, handles, and wheels enhance its overall design.
The suitcase provides effective compression with its adjustable straps and compression panel. Its clamshell design features two main compartments, one for bulkier items and another for clothing. Unlike some competitors, the Bigger Carry-On includes a handy grab handle on the underside, making it easier to retrieve from overhead bins. The TSA lock secures its contents while allowing for easy access during security checks. Please note that previous models included a removable battery and USB ports, which are no longer available.
Maneuverability and Travel Convenience
The manoeuvrability of the Away Bigger Carry-On was evident during our tests. The four double spinner wheels rotated freely, allowing it to glide alongside or behind us effortlessly. The recessed wheels reduce the risk of damage while enhancing fit in overhead compartments.
We tested the suitcase on various surfaces, including airport terminals and city streets, where it rolled smoothly. Despite its larger size, we encountered no issues boarding the Bigger Carry-On, and it fit comfortably in overhead bins.
Comparisons with Other Luggage
When comparing the Bigger Carry-On with its smaller sibling, the standard Away Carry-On, we preferred the larger model for its additional 15% capacity, which accommodates more than a week’s worth of clothing. It maintains the same attractive durable shell and features as the smaller version. Additionally, we found it slightly less organised than the Briggs & Riley softside expandable carry-on but more manoeuvrable.
Testing the Away Bigger Carry-On
We put the Away Bigger Carry-On through its paces on an extended trip involving multiple international flights. We successfully packed two weeks’ worth of cold-weather clothing without overstraining the suitcase. Our tests included manoeuvring it through bustling airport terminals, escalators, and city streets, as well as assessing its resilience by dropping it down an escalator.
Should You consider the Away Bigger Carry-On?
While the Away Bigger Carry-On is on the pricier side, we believe it offers excellent value. It combines style, durability, and ample interior space, making it a pleasure to use in airport settings. With its compatibility for overhead compartments on many airlines, we recommend it if its price fits within your budget.