For the Frequent Flyer

For some background, I was in the market for a new suitcase as my old Samsonite roller was falling apart. I couldnt ignore the presence of Away on social media, so I decided to purchase their suitcase. Shortly after, I saw ads for Monos and decided to purchase it as well to compare the two as they both had 100 day return policies (caveat: I believe Monos only takes unused suitcases for return, but I didnt return it so I cant confirm). I will mention that the Away came in week, while the Monos came in 2 weeks, and I live in Manhattan, NY.

TLDR: Lets be real - these suitcases look extremely similar. Quality- and design-wise, Monos knocks it out of the park at every point of comparison.

Im aware that Monos has a list of differences vs Away that they will send upon request, which might be worth asking for if youre on the fence. I did not ask for such a list, I havent seen what they have to say, and I made my own having directly compared the two when they arrived:

- Handles: the Monos handle is noticeably sturdier, and the suitcase seems better balanced - the Away suitcase body shakes when I jiggle the handle, while the Monos body stays still. Night and day quality difference here.

- Shell: I immediately noticed how thin the Away was - comparing the two side by side, the Monos is much thicker and sturdier while the Away felt like a childs toy.

- Zipper: the Monos zipper is sturdy and flush, while the Away zipper is recessed and feels flimsy; given Aways design…

I had the original Metro backpack in my cart for awhile but decided not to purchase it because of the unattractive clips on the bag when the kit was removed. I was quite happy when Monos listened to the suggestions of customers and redesigned the bag. The NEW design has a removable pouch with a flap and magnet that slides into the bag making it quite secure. I feel confident it will not fall off and the backpack looks attractive even when the pouch is removed. However, I would honestly purchase another backpack and duffel bag if they designed the metro kit / pouch with clips for optional crossbody option. I took a strap off another bag and made my own crossbody just to show what the possibilities could be. My goal is to buy the entire set for my travel bag collection if this becomes an option. It's a stunning bag. For reference, I am 5'3" (size M) and the backpack fits just right.

I hope this review will be considered by the design team.

I had been researching luggage for over a year when I came across Monos. I was so close to getting the other known brand but dove deep into the story behind Monos and what they bring to the table. After going through articles, reviews, YouTube videos, employee comments and their production factory; this company blew the other one Away. I felt investing in luggage with Monos was going to be worth the cost and walk away with a superior luggage.

I finally decided on the ones I wanted; carry-on (regular) in colours Ocean Blue & Olive Green. I ended up purchasing a complete set with Monos compression cubes & Metro backpacks (see other reviews for more info). I ordered back in December and revived them at the end of January. I was so giddy with excitement opening up the products and they did not disappoint.

The luggage itself; gorgeous with complete functionality. The exact measurements came in a tad under what is stated, which is to be expected If it’s to fit in any overhead luggage compartment on any plane. Looks closer to 21.5 x 8.75 x 14.5 and weights empty at 6.5 lbs (with no shoe bags, luggage tag, etc). Weighs 8.5 lbs with 4 compression cubes (empty), luggage tag, laundry bag, and 2 shoe bags (all empty). The inside antibacterial material is smooth like butter, feels amazing to the touch.

The compression pad itself I was so happy to feel that it’s not entirely a pad material! To strengthen itself for compression, the outer rim of the compression pad feels like it has…