Monos Luggage Review (Are They So Amazing?)
Interested in Monos luggage? Then you’re definitely in the right place because this detailed guide will tell you everything you need to know about the brand and its luggage in this Monos luggage review!
Monos claims to be the first luggage brand to be entirely climate-neutral, which is intriguing when you’re trying to shop only for sustainable brands. They’re known as the Apple of suitcases and it’s not just because their bags are labeled Plus and Pro.
At A Glance: Best Monos Luggage
- Best Monos Carry-On Luggage Monos Carry-On ProJump To Review
- Best Monos Checked Luggage Monos Check-in LargeJump To Review
- Best Monos Zipperless Luggage Monos Hybrid Carry-OnJump To Review
This boutique luggage company manufactures hard side luggage of excellent quality, and they make no compromises when it comes to materials and features. Read on to learn more about Monos luggage, see their collection range, and find that one amazing suitcase for you!
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Top Products
Monos Carry-On
The Carry-On is Monos’ smallest, simplest, and most affordable piece of luggage. Every single feature that this suitcase has is also present in all the other models, from the durable polycarbonate construction to the YKK reverse coil zippers.
The carry-on luggage is made from aerospace-grade polycarbonate, for amazing performance and durability. This lightweight material is remarkably durable, which makes these suitcases great for air travel. It takes a very heavy impact to break a polycarbonate shell, much more than to break an ABS or a nylon suitcase.
With a capacity of almost 40-liters, the Carry-On is perfect for shorter trips up to five days. The main compartment fits quite a lot of clothes that you can easily keep organized thanks to the built-in compression pad, zippered pockets, and dividers. There’s also a TSA-friendly combination lock that secures the zippers of the packing compartment, for extra safety when traveling.
The Monos luggage carry-on suitcase is equipped with dual spinner wheels, as well as a telescopic wheel handle. The handle has four height settings, so it should be pretty easy to adjust it to a height that suits you well.
The main compartment is lined with anti-microbial fabric and it boasts vegan leather details. A luggage tag made from vegan leather is also included in the purchase, as are an anti-microbial laundry bag and two shoe bags.
Product Information
- Dimensions: 22" × 14" × 9"
- Case Dimensions: 20" × 13.5"
- Weight: 7.01 lbs
- Capacity: 39.9 liters
- Trip Length: 2-5 days
Monos Carry-On Plus
The Monos Carry-On Plus is just the bigger version of the Monos Carry-On luggage. The luggage has a larger case, which makes it suitable for trips up to a week. However, this also means that the case will be accepted as a carry-on bag with fewer airlines because of the larger dimensions. It won’t fit into the overhead bins on all planes, so keep that in mind when choosing a carry-on bag.
The Carry-On Plus means a bigger case that grants you 8 additional liters of storage, which is great for anyone who hasn’t mastered the art of packing light. Also, it’s worth noting that the Carry-On Plus is less than half a pound heavier than its smaller sister.
The other features of this Monos luggage are pretty much identical to that of the basic carry-on suitcase. The Carry-On Plus is also made from durable polycarbonate, with silent spinner wheels, and a height-adjustable wheel handle. The handle locks into four stages for easy adjustment.
The luggage is also equipped with a TSA-friendly combination lock, color-coordinated YKK zippers, and microfibre vegan leather details. Even the main compartment is practically identical to that of the basic carry-on, but bigger. It’s got an anti-microbial lining, a compression pad in one compartment, and a zippered divider with a pocket in the other.
On top of all that, Monos also includes a vegan leather luggage tag, an anti-microbial laundry bag, and two dedicated shoe bags with the purchase of this suitcase.
Product Information
- Dimensions: 23" × 15" × 9.5"
- Case Dimensions: 21" × 14.5"
- Weight: 7.38 lb
- Capacity: 48 L
- Trip Length: 3-7 days
Monos Carry-On Pro
The Carry-On Pro is a slightly different version of the basic Monos carry-on suitcase. It’s the same size but it’s got a smaller capacity, thanks to the presence of an external front pocket. This feature is extremely rare on hardside luggage, so this case is a must-buy if you prefer the durability of hardshells but the traditional organizational features of softshells.
The front compartment of the Monos Carry-On Pro takes away from the main compartment’s capacity, so you will be able to pack fewer things inside the suitcase. But it’s worth it if you want a dedicated laptop pocket on your suitcase. The Carry-On Pro’s external compartment features a dedicated laptop sleeve, two additional open pockets, and an organizer panel with several small zippered pockets.
The other Monos Carry-On Pro features are identical to those of the two other Monos luggage carry-ons. This case is also made from durable polycarbonate, it’s got smooth-rolling spinner wheels, and a wheel handle that locks into four height stages. The packing space is divided into two compartments, with a built-in compression pad on the bottom, and a divider with a zippered pocket in the top compartment.
It’s worth noting that the design of the top compartment is the same on the inside – the only difference is that it’s shallower because of that front pocket. The packing compartments even have the same anti-microbial lining and color-coordinated zippers.
Also, all the same, accessories are included with the purchase of this suitcase – the vegan leather tag, the shoe bags, and the laundry bag.
Product Information
- Dimensions: 22" × 14" × 9"
- Case Dimensions: 20" × 13.5"
- Weight: 7.8 lb
- Capacity: 36 L
- Trip Length: 2-5 days
Monos Carry-On Pro Plus
The Carry-On Pro Plus is the best, biggest, and most feature-packed carry-on suitcase Monos offers. It’s got the dimensions of the Carry-On Plus combined with the extra features of the Carry-On Pro. The total capacity of this Monos bag is 46 liters, which is only two liters less than the Carry-On Plus offers – not bad considering that there’s an entire additional compartment on the front panel.
The sleeve in the front compartment fits 15” devices easily, while the three zippered pockets on the organizer panel comfortably hold passports, boarding passes, cables, and other small items. There are two additional open pockets in this compartment, and they can hold magazines, papers, tablets, and pretty much anything slim.
As for the other features, if you read anything I wrote earlier you can guess it – the shell is durable polycarbonate, the double spinner wheels are Hinomoto Lisof Silent Run 360° wheels, and the combination lock is TSA friendly.
The interior of the luggage consists of two packing compartments. One is equipped with a zippered divider with a mesh pocket, while the other one features a built-in compression pad for effortless packing. There’s also anti-microbial lining in both packing compartments, and you’ll get an anti-microbial laundry bag with the purchase of the suitcase.
Just like all the other Monos suitcases, the Carry-On Pro Plus bosts minimalist vegan leather details. The brand even gives away a vegan leather name tag for the suitcase, as well as two shoe bags for the main compartment.
Product Information
- Dimensions: 23" × 15" × 9.5"
- Case Dimensions: 21" × 14.5"
- Weight: 8.38 lb
- Capacity: 46 liters
- Trip Length: 3-7 days
Monos Check-in Medium
The Check-In Medium is one of two Monos checked luggage bags. It’s a 25” case with a capacity of 70 liters, which makes it a great option for trips that are anywhere between a week and three weeks long, depending on how good you are at packing.
The suitcase makes it easier to pack more than you need, thanks to the built-in compression straps in the bottom compartment. This is also the first major difference between the Monos checked bags and carry-ons – while the carry-ons all have a built-in compression pad, the larger bags feature simpler compression straps and a built-in divider.
There are also pockets on the divider, and you’ll find even more pockets and dividers in the other packing compartment of the Medium suitcase. Both compartments are also lined with anti-microbial fabric and they feature color-coordinated YKK zippers.
The shell of the suitcase is made from water-resistant polycarbonate, which boasts amazing strength and durability. It’s got great impact resistance but it scuffs easily, so you might want to get a luggage cover if you don’t want the suitcase to get scratched quickly.
Other features of the Check-In Medium case include double spinner wheels, a height-adjustable double-barrel wheel handle, and a TSA-friendly lock. The top and side grab handles are both low profile, which helps maximize baggage allowances on most US airlines.
Product Information
- Dimensions: 26.5" × 18.5" × 10.5"
- Case Dimensions: 24.4" × 17.7"
- Weight: 9.59 lb
- Capacity: 70 liters
- Trip Length: 7-21 days
Monos Check-in Large
The Check-In Large is the largest suitcase Monos manufactures. The 30” luggage is suitable for trips up to three weeks, depending on just how many items you manage to fit in its 99-liter capacity.
The largest Monos bag is just as durable as the other because it is made from the same aerospace-grade polycarbonate. The exterior of the case is water-resistant and extremely sturdy for the best performance in changing conditions.
It also looks very sleek and refined, thanks to the color-coordinated details. There are even vegan leather accents on the suitcase, which just adds to the sophisticated look.
This suitcase features silent run wheels, a TSA-approved lock, and a telescopic handle that locks into four height positions. The packing compartment is lined with soft 350D anti-microbial fabric, and it boasts a divider, dual Y-shaped compression straps, and a zippered mesh pocket for easy organization.
On top of all that, this suitcase comes with all the extra features the other Monos suitcases include – bacteria-resistant laundry bags, shoe bags, and a vegan leather luggage tag.
Product Information
- Dimensions: 30" × 21" × 11"
- Case Dimensions: 28" × 20.5"
- Weight: 10.58 lbs
- Capacity: 99.2 liters
- Trip Length: 7-21 days
Monos Hybrid Carry-On
The Hybrid Carry-On is Monos’ take on a zipperless suitcase. It’s the same size as the basic Monos Carry-On, but it offers a slightly smaller capacity because of the zipperless closure. The case is made from aerospace-grade German polycarbonate that boasts excellent water resistance, impact resistance, and durability.
The Hybrid Carry-On also boasts an anodized aluminum frame and corner guards, for even better durability and impact resistance. Aluminum luggage is some of the most durable you can get your hands on, and it’s an excellent option if you want an ultra-durable suitcase.
The closure of the main compartment consists of two TSA-friendly latch locks. It’s worth noting that the locks are harder to close when the case is overpacked – if you need to sit on the case to get it to close, you likely need to take out something to avoid damaging the locks or the shell.
The good news is that the bottom compartment has a built-in compression pad that helps with overpacking. The top compartment has a zippered divider with a convenient pocket, for the effortless organization of your clothes.
Other features of the Monos Hybrid Carry-On include Hinomoto Lisof double spinner wheels, a height-adjustable wheel handle, and low-profile top and side grab handles. The interior of the case has some vegan leather details, plus you’ll get a vegan leather name tag with the case, as well as a laundry bag and two shoe bags.
Product Information
- Dimensions: 22" × 14" × 9"
- Case Dimensions: 20" × 12.95"
- Weight: 8.81 lbs
- Capacity: 36 liters
- Trip Length: 2-5 days
Monos Hybrid Carry-On Plus
The Hybrid Carry-On Plus is slightly larger than the basic Hybrid Carry-On. It’s got a total capacity of 43 liters, and it’s about an inch taller and wider than its smaller sister. That’s the key difference between this and the other hybrid suitcase from Monos.
It’s also made from a mixture of aluminum and German aircraft-grade polycarbonate. The frame and the corner guards are made from aluminum, while the rest of the shell boasts a sturdy polycarbonate construction. Also, it’s worth noting that everything about these suitcases is color-coordinated, from the handle to the wheel covers.
The case closes with two TSA-friendly latch locks that are virtually impossible to break into. They’re great if you need that extra assurance that your luggage is safe, but they do make the suitcase a little heavier – this hybrid case weighs as much as the Medium Check-In bag, which has a much larger capacity.
As for the other features, they’re identical to those of all the other Monos luggage. The Hybrid Carry-On Plus is equipped with double spinner wheels, a telescopic wheel handle, and two spacious packing compartments. The bottom compartment has a built-in compression pad while the top compartment boasts a divider with a zippered pocket, for easy organization while packing.
Product Information
- Dimensions: 23" × 15" × 9.5"
- Case Dimensions: 21" × 13.9"
- Weight: 9.25 lb
- Capacity: 43 L
- Trip Length: 2-5 days
What To Look For
About Monos
Monos is a luxury luggage brand that many call the Apple of suitcases. There are lots of similarities between the brand, and perhaps the most obvious one is that the luggage follows a naming scheme similar to that of iPhones – there’s the basic model, then there’s the Pro and the Pro Plus.
They’re also compared to Apple because of the simplicity of their products. Just like iPhones, Monos suitcases are sleek and simple on the outside, but extremely functional on the inside. They’re also sturdy, durable, and just a bit overpriced.
Free Trial And Limited Lifetime Warranty
Monos offers a free 100-day trial on all their luggage. You can buy a suitcase and if for any reason you decide you don’t like it, you can just initiate a return within the first 100 days and you’ll get your money back. The catch is that the suitcase must still be brand new, meaning you can roll it around the house fully packed, but you can’t actually use it for a trip.
It’s a good way to try out the suitcases and see which size is exactly right for you, but the wording is a bit misleading since you’re not actually allowed to take the bag out for a spin.
On top of that, it’s also worth noting that after the free trial expires, the limited lifetime warranty kicks in. Monos stands by the quality of their bags, and they will replace any parts that get damaged during regular wear and tear. The warranty extends to breaks in the shell, wheels, handles, and broken zippers. The warranty doesn’t cover scuffs, dents, stains, and any intentionally inflicted damage.
What The Suitcases Lack
If you’re looking for specific features, it’s easier to decide whether you like a suitcase when you know what features it doesn’t have. The Monos luggage collection is specific in that all the cases have a set of identical features, and they’re all missing the same things.
None of the Monos luggage bags have an expandable capacity, which is a deal-breaker for some people. This does make the cases more secure overall, but it still means that it’s going to be harder to pack if you do any shopping while you’re traveling.
Also, none of the carry-on suitcases have attachment points or sleeves in the back, which would allow you to attach them to larger cases. This makes traveling with multiple cases a bit trickier, but it is worth noting that this feature is pretty rare on hard side luggage.
There’s one more thing that can be improved with the Monos luggage, but it’s not necessarily a feature that’s missing. The wheel handle protrudes inside the bottom compartment, which means you’ll need to pack around the tubes. This makes clothes wrinkle quicker, but it’s a feature that’s present on most suitcases out there.
Only a few brands make luggage with handles on the outside, and most of them are considered luxury and high-end luggage brands. The price points of Monos luggage are certainly on the high-end scale, so this is something they could definitely improve in the future.
That’s it for the features that are lacking or that can be significantly improved. If any of these features is a deal-breaker for you, then Monos luggage simply isn’t what you’re looking for. But if you don’t care about the expandable capacity or wheel handle tubes, then Monos is still a great option for you.
Monos Luggage Review: Final Thoughts
Still not sure which Monos suitcase is the best option for you? Go with one of our top three picks, depending on the size and style of suitcase you’re looking for!
The Carry-On Pro is the best option if you want a feature-packed carry-on suitcase. It’s small enough to fit into the overhead bins on most international airlines, it’s got an external pocket that keeps the essentials easily accessible, and it’s made from very durable materials for excellent performance. If you’d rather have more space in the main compartment instead of an additional external pocket, stick with the classic Monos Carry-On bag.
If you’re looking for a checked bag, you have two options – the Check-In Medium or the Check-In Large. They’re both sturdy cases made from premium materials and all their features are identical, except for the size. You get a height-adjustable telescopic wheel handle, silent wheels, and a TSA-friendly lock. The only decision you need to make is whether you’re more comfortable with a 26” or a 30” suitcase.
In case you want to try out a zipperless suitcase, the Monos Hybrid Carry-On is an amazing option. It’s an extremely durable case made with polycarbonate and aluminum, with double spinner wheels, a telescopic wheel handle, and two TSA-friendly locks. Two spacious compartments provide enough packing space for shorter trips, and the small size of the case ensures it fits into the overhead compartments of most international airlines.
Follow the links in the post to learn more about Monos luggage and see even more photos of the bags. If you’re not sure this is the right luggage brand for you, check out our related posts for an interesting alternative!
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