Monos, Away, or good old Samsonite? I live in Toronto and I need a suitcase that can fit in an overhead compartment for trips of up to 4 days. Any thoughts
I’ve tried all those brands, plus Level 8. The Monos is by far the most durable and easy to use. The wheels stay smooth even after they get wet. The telescopic handle is really sturdy and extends just the right amount.
I fly about 250 domestic flights a year and my Monos has lasted me 4 years without a single problem. No rips inside, wheels haven’t fallen off, and the handle is still intact. The lock works perfectly and the zippers are in great shape.
I can fit 3 suits, workout clothes, 4 shirts, and shoes in the Monos. If you need more space, go for the carry-on. Just a heads up, the Carry-on Pro loses some space because of the laptop section in front.
Plus, they are a Canadian company since you’re from Toronto. Hope this helps
@Kirby
250 flights a year? Wow
Perry said:
@Kirby
250 flights a year? Wow
It’s not as crazy as it sounds. About half of them are short flights, 1 to 3 hours. Some of my team members fly so much more that my count seems low.
@Kirby
I’ve used Monos, Away, and Level 8. I sent back all of them except for the Level 8. Mainly because the inner compartments were better on the Level 8 in my opinion. The one I have now has held up really well, rides smoothly, and I recently went on a 10-day trip where I could fit all the clothes I needed along with my backpack.
@Kieran
I liked the Level 8 too. I had an issue with a wheel coming off within the first month of using it, and that’s when I switched to Monos. I’ve been loyal to it ever since. I’ve definitely seen lots of people who travel a lot with the Level 8, so I believe it’s sturdy. Their warranty is great too; I got a replacement suitcase almost immediately, it just took a few weeks to get it sent to me.
Monos is great for durability and quality. My issue is that I’ve learned hard-sided suitcases aren’t for me. I have a hard time accessing parts of the interior without opening the whole suitcase.
Need to get one small item out? That could take a while. And trying to stuff in your jacket at the airport? Good luck with that!
If that’s not an issue for you, then go with Monos. Bonus points for being a Canadian company.
How often will you use it? If it’s just 1-2 times a year, you might as well buy something cheaper.
If you travel regularly, consider investing in a Briggs & Riley suitcase.
- They have a lifetime warranty.
- Free repairs for life, even if the airline damages it.
- Solid build and good durability.
- Classic look and good colors; nothing too flashy that will go out of style.
- Great features, I really like the ratcheting compression in their Baseline bags.
@Hart
Thanks for this, much appreciated
I really like all of my Away suitcases. They have a beautiful blue limited edition one out right now.
I’m committed to my Away bags now. I’ve tried many brands. Away offers an excellent warranty and even replaced a suitcase when the zipper broke, no questions asked. Their customer service is worth it to me!
For price to performance, the Travelpro Maxlite series is a great choice. Plus, it comes with an amazing warranty.
Mal said:
For price to performance, the Travelpro Maxlite series is a great choice. Plus, it comes with an amazing warranty.
Seconding that if you’re after value. There are better suitcases out there, but you’ll be hard-pressed to find better price/value than TravelPro Maxlites. You can also find them at places like Kohl’s for cheaper than direct from the brand, if colors don’t bother you.
If you’re flying to Europe or Asia, make sure to go for the International versions because the size standards can be too big for many non-US airlines.
I really like my Monos suitcase; the quality seems great and it rolls smoothly.
I travel a lot and mostly do carry-on. I just use Samsonite. If I have an issue, which happens every 10 years or so, I just buy a new Samsonite. Other luggage may look good, but I can’t see paying 2 to 10 times more just for looks.
My Monos suitcase has the best wheels I’ve ever had. The extending handle is very sturdy and doesn’t wobble. It’s super light. But I have to say, the outer shell was damaged after my first flight. It looks a bit worn now.
Tumi is a luxury brand, but I’ve had my carry-on for 20 years and it still looks good and functions well after many international and domestic trips. I like the professional look, but I know some prefer a different style.
@Hart
Thanks for this recommendation
If you rarely travel, go cheap. Travel often? TravelPro is solid. Travel often and have more to spend? Go with Briggs & Riley. Travel often, have lots of money, and want to show off? Choose Rimowa.
My TravelPro roll-aboards have survived a lot. I have two with 2-wheel options, one for the US and another for EU/Canada. I prefer soft luggage with backpack straps if I’m on a smaller plane without a proper overhead compartment.
I used to get samples for really cheap from a ski friend who worked for High Sierra. They’ve got wheeled duffels and large wheeled suitcases.