Last Updated: March 29, 2022
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Best Away Luggage Alternatives

Close your eyes and imagine a scene from the early 20th-century. Ladies with feathered hats and well-dressed gentlemen are lugging heavy suitcases and hat boxes up the gangplank to board a passenger liner and travel abroad. Now imagine the same scene at modern airport check-in. They would owe a fortune in check-on fees if they ever got through security.

The average price of a check-on is $25 and each additional is $35. For a family of four on a two-week trip abroad, that’s at least $200 added to the price of your ticket. That’s where innovative ideas like the Away Luggage Collection come in, allowing you to pack more in sturdy, secure luggage.

Our Top Picks

If you’ve been checking them out, you’ve noticed the Away carry-ons and check-ins are pretty pricey. But wait, you can find less expensive alternatives just as sleek, smart, and sexy as the Away luggage.

Top Product Overview

Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable with Double Spinner Wheels, Carry-On 21-Inch, Navy
  • lightweight and durable
  • double spinner wheels for maneuverability
SEE ON SAMSONITE →SEE ON AMAZON →
Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels, Carry-On 20-Inch, Teal
  • extremely scratch-resistant
  • easy to maneuver
SEE ON SAMSONITE →SEE ON AMAZON →
Amazon Basics 26-Inch Hardside Checked Luggage, Hardshell Suitcase With Wheels, Expandable For Up to 15% More Space, With Scratch-Resistant Surface, Four Multi-directional Wheels, Black
  • highly-durable and quality-tested
  • can carry-on for most international flights
SEE ON AMAZON →
Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels, Checked-Large 28-Inch, Caribbean Blue
  • scratch-resistant finish
  • quality at a fair price
SEE ON SAMSONITE →SEE ON AMAZON →
Coolife Luggage 3 Piece Set Suitcase Spinner Hardshell Lightweight TSA Lock
  • ABS and corner guards deflect shock
  • varying sizes for travel options
SEE ON AMAZON →
DELSEY Paris Helium Aero Hardside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels, Titanium, Checked-Large 29 Inch
  • holds a week's worth of gear
  • tough,hardshell exterior
SEE ON AMAZON →
Kenneth Cole REACTION Out of Bounds Lightweight Hardshell 4-Wheel Spinner Luggage, Rose Gold, 3-Piece Set (20', 24', & 28')
  • durable and water-resistant
  • corner guards absorb shock
SEE ON AMAZON →
Rockland Melbourne Hardside Expandable Spinner Wheel Luggage, Charcoal, 2 Piece (20/28)
  • durable and lightweight
  • expansive choice of colors
SEE ON AMAZON →
CHESTER Minima Carry-On Luggage / 22'x14'x9' Lightweight Polycarbonate Hardshell/Spinner Suitcase/TSA Approved Cabin Size (Surf (Sky Blue), Carry-On Luggage)
  • spacious yet lightweight
  • carry-on for domestic and international flights
SEE ON AMAZON →
Travelers Club Chicago Hardside Expandable Spinner Luggage, Rose Gold, 20' Carry-On
  • expands for extra packing
  • approved carry-on for all airlines
SEE ON AMAZON →

Best Away Alternatives in 2020


Samsonite Freeform Spinner Carry-On

Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable with Double Spinner Wheels, Carry-On 21-Inch, Navy

The 21-inch Samsonite Freeform Spinner carry-on gives you maximum packing space for a weekend on the go. It’s also available as a checked-large (28 inches) and a checked-medium (24 inches). You’ll have 19.5 x 14.5 x 10 inches of packing with a capacity of 49 liters and even more space with the checked baggage.

The Samsonite Spinner comes in 6 attractive colors and is scratch-resistant to look good for a long time.

Keep your belongings organized in multiple pockets with a cross ribbon and divider. The case expands for added capacity, and compression helps prevent clothes from wrinkling.

Several features make the Samsonite Freeform Spinner easy to maneuver such as a push-button for locking handles and 4 double spinner wheels that roll in multiple directions for 360-degree upright rolling. This means no weight on your arms and shoulders. The locking handles give you ease in storing the case when not in use.

Other features include a built-in ID tag, soft fabric lining, and a settable 3-digit TSA-approved lock that can be opened only with the TSA key. No more keeping up with a key.

Samsonite is known for ensuring quality through rigorous testing, and they offer a 10-year limited warranty.

Pros

  • lightweight and durable
  • double spinner wheels for maneuverability
  • TSA-approved combination lock
  • 10-year warranty

Cons

  • report of wheel coming off after light use
SEE ON SAMSONITE
SEE ON AMAZON

Most Durable Luggage

Samsonite Omni Hardside Carry-On

Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels, Carry-On 20-Inch, Teal

The 20-inch Omni Hardside carry-on meets the size requirements for domestic travel. With dimensions of 19 x 14.5 x 9.5 and a capacity of 41 liters, you’ll have plenty of packing space for a long weekend trip, yet it’s lightweight at just under 7 lbs. And when your travels expand, the Omni is available in medium and large check-in sizes.

The Omni is made of 100 percent polycarbonate with a soft polyester lining and is available in attractive colors like Caribbean blue and burnt orange. The Micro Diamond polycarbonate outer texture gives extreme scratch resistance to keep your luggage looking great trip after trip. Check into hotels effortlessly with spinner wheels that rotate 360 degrees.

A retractable handle and push-button locking make it a breeze to maneuver and store. A side-mounted built-in TSA-assessable lock deters thieves. Only you and the TSA agent can access your gear.

The Omni opens like a book with a mesh divider on one side to manage your packed items. The inside also has a zippered modesty compartment. Use the red zipper inside for expandability to pack more and use it as a check-in.

Pros

  • extremely scratch-resistant
  • easy to maneuver
  • side-mounted lock

Cons

  • closes with zipper, no latch
  • may not fit as carry-on for regional planes
SEE ON SAMSONITE
SEE ON AMAZON

AmazonBasics Hardside Suitcase

Amazon Basics 26-Inch Hardside Checked Luggage, Hardshell Suitcase With Wheels, Expandable For Up to 15% More Space, With Scratch-Resistant Surface, Four Multi-directional Wheels, Black

The 21. 6-inch AmazonBasics Hardside carry-on with a capacity of 39 liters is ideal for a weekend or two-day business trip. Most international flights accept it as a carry-on. It’s also available in a 26-inch or 30-inch check-in for longer trips. Get it in classic black or choose from three other vibrant colors.

The Hardside is made of extra-thick ABS material with a scratch-resistant finish for long-lasting good looks. A vigorously tested short handle is extra-strong for stability. These two features together make the AmazonBasic more durable than other similar products.

The AmasonBasic’s interior is fully lined with super-strong 150D polyester. Cross straps hold folded clothing neatly in place, and you’ll have 3 zippered pockets for your phone card, charger, and other accessories. A strong zipper provides reliable closure and the expansion feature allows you to pack up to 15 percent more gear.

A telescoping handle locks into place and then collapses for easy storage or stowing in your car’s trunk. Four double spinner wheels make it easy on your arms and shoulders to maneuver.

AmazonBasic’s high level of quality product testing should ensure protection for rough and tumble travel, and the price is low.

Pros

  • highly-durable and quality-tested
  • can carry-on for most international flights
  • low price

Cons

  • no lock included
SEE ON AMAZON

Samsonite Omni Hardside Checked-Large Luggage

Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels, Checked-Large 28-Inch, Caribbean Blue

The Samsonite Omni Check-Large is a great choice for longer trips. With packing dimensions of 28.5 x 20.5 x 13.5, it offers plenty of packing power, yet is lightweight at just over 10 lbs. It comes in an array of colors like teal and silver and is also available in basic black.

The Omni Checked-Large is constructed of polycarbonate and has a scratch-resistant Micro Diamond finish. The book-opening style case has a main compartment with a mesh divider, cross straps, and a zippered modesty pocket. It’s expandable to pack more, and compression keeps your belongings neatly packed.

Like other Samsonite hard cases, the Omni checked-large features 360-degree turn spinner wheels and push-button locking handles for easy maneuvering. A second handle on the side is useful for carrying the case up flights of stairs. A side-mounted TSA lock keeps your possessions safe while allowing access for the TSA agent.

The Omni is also available in carry-on and medium-checked sizes. The price is fair, and you’ll rest easy with Samsonite’s 10-year warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.

Pros

  • scratch-resistant finish
  • quality at a fair price
  • easy to maneuver and store

Cons

  • closes with zipper, no latch
  • needs more pouches for smaller items
SEE ON SAMSONITE
SEE ON AMAZON

Best For Longer Travel

Coolife Spinner 3-Piece Luggage Set

Coolife Luggage 3 Piece Set Suitcase Spinner Hardshell Lightweight TSA Lock

The Coolife Hardshell luggage set gives you maximum packing power for a very “cool” price. The 3 piece set includes 20, 40, and 28-inch uprights that can nestle together for easy storage. The sizes in this set give you great options for trips of varying lengths. The smallest case has a capacity of 38 liters.

The medium-sized case holds 60 liters, and the largest can pack in 93 liters. Use the smallest as a weekend carry-on, or carry them all on that long-awaited post-retirement trip.

The Coolife Spinners are constructed of lightweight, sturdy, 100 percent ABS material, and added corner guards absorb and deflect shock. No more worries about your luggage getting tossed about from check-in to plane.

Smooth, silent spinner wheels along with an ergonomic aluminum telescoping handle make traveling light and brisk. Zippered pockets inside the case make organizing for travel easier.

You can upgrade your purchase to include a TSA-compliant lock for smoother check-ins. A 2-year warranty is included.

Pros

  • ABS and corner guards deflect shock
  • varying sizes for travel options
  • 2-year warranty

Cons

  • not scratch-resistant
  • report of broken zipper first use
  • TSA-approved lock not included
SEE ON AMAZON

Best For Long Trips

DELSEY Paris Checked-Large Luggage

DELSEY Paris Helium Aero Hardside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels, Titanium, Checked-Large 29 Inch

From the Helium Aero collection, the DELSEY Paris checked-large is 29 inches high and 12.5 inches wide. It provides enough packing space for at least a week’s journey. The hard shell is made of 100 percent polycarbonate with a scratch-resistant twill texture. The glossy finish gives it a modern, eye-popping look. Get it in basic black, silver, or in a choice of 7 vibrant colors.

Ease in use features includes a push-button locking handle that locks in 2 positions, an ergonomic comfort grip handle, and double spinner wheels for smooth, easy rolling. A TSA-approved combination lock keeps your gear secure while allowing the agent to quickly check your luggage.

The interior is fully lined and has 2 compartments to help organize clothes and travel accessories. A zipper expander allows you to pack more. Lined dividers help minimize shifting. A pouch along the seam holds small accessories.

Purchase the Delsey Paris checked-large for the typical week-long vacation. Other sizes are available as your travel needs change.

Pros

  • holds a week's worth of gear
  • tough,hardshell exterior
  • easy to maneuver

Cons

  • report of broken handle 2nd use
  • report of scratched finish
SEE ON AMAZON

Kenneth Cole 3-Piece Hardcase Luggage

Kenneth Cole REACTION Out of Bounds Lightweight Hardshell 4-Wheel Spinner Luggage, Rose Gold, 3-Piece Set (20', 24', & 28')

This sharp-looking 3-piece set is from the Kenneth Cole Out of Bounds collection. It includes a 20-inch carry-on, a 24-inch checked-medium, and a 28-inch checked-large. The carry-on passes for the overhead compartment on most U.S.-based flights. The hardshell cases are ultra-lightweight to help you avoid extra charges.

Available in 12 high-gloss metallic colors, the hardshells are durable and water-resistant, and corner guards absorb and deflect shock to keep your luggage looking in like-new condition trip after trip.

Four 360-degree spinner wheels allow for free and easy-rolling in all directions. Side feet let you stand the cases upright on the sides. The push-button telescoping handles are retractable, have two lock positions, and collapse for compact storage.

Two spacious inside compartments give you double-sided packing. Garment restraint straps hold clothing neatly packed, and a zipped organizer pocket makes packing easy. Each piece in the Kenneth Cole luggage collection lets you pack for every trip from overnighters to extended holidays.

Pros

  • durable and water-resistant
  • corner guards absorb shock
  • 12 attractive high-gloss colors

Cons

  • report of a popped wheel
  • not scratch-resistant
SEE ON AMAZON

Rockland 2-Piece Expandable Luggage

Rockland Melbourne Hardside Expandable Spinner Wheel Luggage, Charcoal, 2 Piece (20/28)

The Rockland 2-Piece Spinner Set is perfect for trips when you need more packing space in addition to a carry-on. The 20-inch case has a capacity of 38.3 liters and meets carry-on guidelines for most airlines. The 28-inch check-in holds 93.6 liters. Use the carry-on for weekend trips and the checked-large for longer stays.

The Rocklands is made of durable, lightweight material. Both cases have an expandable zipper allowing you to pack more and still travel light. The carry-on weighs 6 lbs and the checked-large weighs 10 lbs. Rockland luggage has passed rigorous testing for durability from hardshells to zippers and handles. Get them in basic black or white or choose from a myriad of exciting colors.

Each piece features multi-directional spinner wheels and an ergonomic telescoping handle for ease in maneuvering. The interior of both cases is lined with fabric. Interior mesh, a zip pocket, and an elastic pocket help organize your clothing and travel accessories.

Pros

  • durable and lightweight
  • expansive choice of colors
  • expandable zippers

Cons

  • no security lock
  • not scratch-resistant
SEE ON AMAZON

Best for Weekends

CHESTER Minima Carry-On Luggage

CHESTER Minima Carry-On Luggage / 22'x14'x9' Lightweight Polycarbonate Hardshell/Spinner Suitcase/TSA Approved Cabin Size (Surf (Sky Blue), Carry-On Luggage)

The CHESTER Minima is a lightweight carry-on with an unbreakable hardshell made of Makrolon for durability and water resistance. It’s the perfect size as a carry-on for both domestic and international flights with dimensions of 21.8 x 13.7 x 9.0 and lightweight at 7 lbs. Get it in sky blue or choose from 7 other colors.

The CHESTER has easy-rolling spinner wheels and an aluminum telescoping handle with 2 lock positions for effortless handling. The top and side handles allow for easy carrying. A TSA-approved combination code lock makes check-in quicker.

The fully-lined inside includes 2 roomy compartments and 3 organizers for smaller accessories. A nylon laundry bag keeps soiled items separate. It’s roomy at 38 liters and holds 3-5 outfits plus accessories. Packing dimensions are 20.0 x 13.5 x 8.5 inches.

Pros

  • spacious yet lightweight
  • carry-on for domestic and international flights
  • includes nylon laundry back
  • TSA-approved lock

Cons

  • no compression straps
  • no expandable zipper
SEE ON AMAZON

Travelers Club Chicago Carry On

Travelers Club Chicago Hardside Expandable Spinner Luggage, Rose Gold, 20' Carry-On

The Travelers Club Chicago is a 20-inch hardcase approved by all airlines as a carry-on. It’s ultra-lightweight at 5.6 lbs and has a capacity of 47 liters. The sleek, attractive case is available in 7 vibrant colors. Made of durable ABS material, the Chicago expands for extra packing capacity.

Four single spinner wheels roll multi-directional at 360-degrees for free-weight, easy rolling. A recessed push-button locking handle system gives you ease in maneuvering and storage when not in use or loading in your car’s trunk. Top and side handles provide easy lifting.

The Chicago’s interior is fully lined and features an accessory pocket. One side has compression straps to hold items snugly. The other side has a panel that zips to keep clothes secure when the carry-on is opened.

Several customers report being amazed at how much they could pack in Chicago. It’s ideal for a long weekend trip.

Pros

  • expands for extra packing
  • approved carry-on for all airlines
  • compression straps secure clothing

Cons

  • no TSA-approved lock
  • reports of wobbly handle
SEE ON AMAZON

What To Look For

Our Best Away alternatives are all lightweight and durable. Some are scratch-resistant or water-resistant. They all feature spinner wheels and retractable locking handles for easy maneuvering. Consider your usual travel lengths and the airlines you normally use for carry-on specifics.

If you travel extensively or plan to in the future, consider purchasing a two or three-piece set. Other features to look for include packing organization, prices, and features for extra durability against rough airport treatment, especially if you travel frequently.

Durability

All of the hardcases in our collection are made of either polycarbonate or ABS material. Both are highly durable. A few have molded corner guards for extra protection. Some are scratch-resistant, and some are water-resistant.

Features

Several of the carry-ons and check-ins have a TSA-approved combination lock meaning only you can access your belongings, and the TSA agent will have a special key to get you checked in with less hassle.

Other features to consider are expandable zippers for extra packing, cross ribbons or compression straps for securing clothing, and organizational features liked zippered pockets, modesty pockets, and separate laundry bags.

Consider if you want a basic color like black, white, or silver, or perhaps an eye-popping color that makes your luggage easy to recognize.

Price

The carry-ons in our collection range from around $50 to just under $200. The 2 and 3-piece sets are between $90 and $100. The savings are quite significant since the Away carry-on prices start at $225 and checked-large prices start at $295.

Our Picks

Best for Weekends

The CHESTER carry-on, sized to fit both domestic and international flights is perfect for weekend travel with a capacity of 38 liters and features like 2 roomy compartments, 3 organizer pockets for accessories, and a separate nylon laundry bag.

Best for Week-Long Trips

The DELSEY Paris checked-large is ideal for week-long trips with 2 compartments for clothing, a pocket for smaller accessories, and a zipper expansion for more gear.

Sale
DELSEY Paris Helium Aero Hardside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels, Titanium, Checked-Large 29 Inch
  • Lightweight and durable polycarbonate shell that is extremely resilient to cracking or breaking; manufactured with an eye catching deep metallic finish
  • Four double spinner wheels assuring a stable base with multi-directional rolling with zero weight on your hand for easy travel

Best for Extended Travel

The Coolife Hardshell luggage is our choice for extended travel up to 2 weeks or more. The combined 3-piece set gives you a total of 191 liters of packing power with lots of organizational pockets and a TSA-approved combination lock.

Coolife Luggage 3 Piece Set Suitcase Spinner Hardshell Lightweight TSA Lock
  • Please note that ONLY FAMILY SET has 4 pcs, please ignore the product’s title and select the set you want.
  • 3 piece luggage set 20 inch,24 inch,28 inch upright, can be stored one into another.100% ABS, Lightweight yet extremely durable abs material.

Best for Durability

The Samsonite Omni Hardshell has a Micro Diamond polycarbonate texture for extremme scratch resistance and strong polyester lining to keep your luggage looking great inside and outside, trip after trip.

Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels, Carry-On 20-Inch, Teal
  • 20" SPINNER LUGGAGE maximizes your packing power and meets most carry-on size restrictions for those traveling domestically and looking to stay light
  • PACKING Dimensions: 20" x 14.5" x 9.5", Overall Dimensions: 22" x 15" x 9.75"