Comparing July and Away Luggage: Which Is Best for You?

Our Findings: July vs. Away

After extensive testing of both July and Away luggage, we were impressed by the features and durability of each brand. Our team put both brands through rigorous tests, including dropping them from heights and rolling them over various surfaces, to see how they would withstand real-world travel conditions.

Both brands are made from polycarbonate, ensuring they are resilient and lightweight. However, we noticed that July bags are generally lighter, and their carry-on models include a built-in battery for charging devices, while Away tends to be more budget-friendly. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your specific travel needs and preferences.

Strengths of July Luggage

• Durable Construction: July bags are crafted from aerospace-grade polycarbonate, making them robust against impacts. We were particularly impressed with the Checked Trunk, which showed no signs of damage after rigorous testing.
• Travel-Friendly Design: The July bags feature quiet double wheels and a comfortable multi-stop handle, which we found made navigating through crowded areas effortless.
• Responsive Customer Service: July’s customer service is proactive, taking feedback into account and offering assistance via social media or their website.
• Compression System: The Y-Strap compression system effectively maximises packing space, which we found particularly useful for longer trips.

Strengths of Away Luggage

• Lightweight and Durable: Away bags are made from strong polycarbonate, and during our tests, only a few minor scratches were noted, showing that they hold up well under pressure.
• Ease of Movement: The 360-degree spinner wheels made it easy to manoeuvre the luggage, even when fully loaded.
• Security Features: The TSA-approved locks provide peace of mind while travelling, ensuring your belongings are protected.
• Interior Organisation: Away bags include a compression pad, making it easier to pack efficiently for trips.

Drawbacks to Consider

While both July and Away have their strengths, there are some limitations to be aware of before making a decision.

July Drawbacks

• Scuff Marks: The included “magic” eraser did not effectively remove all marks from our drop tests, particularly paint scuffs, although it worked well for fingerprints.
• Pricing: July products are on the higher end of the price spectrum, although they do offer comparable quality to luxury brands.

Away Drawbacks

• Scratch Prone: Similar to July, Away bags can scratch easily, and while the eraser is effective for fingerprints, it falls short on deeper marks.
• No Battery Feature: The removal of the built-in battery in newer models has disappointed some users who relied on this feature.
• Limited Handle Settings: The adjustable handle offers only two height settings, which may not accommodate all users comfortably.

Conclusion: Which Should You Choose?

In our testing, we found both July and Away to be excellent options for travellers seeking stylish and functional luggage. Away tends to be more affordable, while July offers unique features like the ejectable battery. Your decision should reflect your travel habits and personal preferences. If you prioritise charging capabilities, July may justify the higher cost; otherwise, Away provides a fantastic balance of quality and value.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.