Luggage Alternatives • Updated January 2025
Best Away Luggage Alternatives (2025) - Same Quality, Better Value
Looking for alternatives to Away The Carry-On ($295)? Save $100-$255 with these tested alternatives.
Why is Away The Carry-On so expensive?
Away's pricing reflects three things: premium marketing (those subway ads aren't cheap), direct-to-consumer convenience, and genuinely good components. Their polycarbonate shell is durable, the Hinomoto wheels are smooth, and the ejectable battery is convenient. But you're also paying for the brand cachet—that recognizable minimalist design that signals "I travel well." Many competitors offer equivalent materials and features for less because they don't spend millions on lifestyle marketing.
Best Alternatives
Calpak Ambeur Carry-On
Same aesthetic appeal with 15+ color options, lighter weight at 6.9 lbs vs 7.6 lbs, and $100 less. You lose the battery feature but gain style versatility.
- Fashion-forward colors
- Lighter weight
- TSA lock
- Great value
Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Backpack
Different approach: a travel backpack that's more versatile than rolling luggage. Lifetime warranty, supreme comfort for walking through airports, and no checked bag fees on budget airlines.
- Lifetime warranty
- Comfortable suspension
- Lockable zippers
Matein Travel Laptop Backpack
If you're on a tight budget and don't mind a backpack, the Matein delivers incredible value with USB charging, laptop protection, and enough space for a week's worth of clothes.
- Amazing value
- USB charging port
- Fits 17-inch laptops
Why Look for Alternatives?
Away luggage has become the status symbol of millennial travelers, but at $295 for a basic carry-on, it's not exactly budget-friendly. The good news? You can get nearly identical features—polycarbonate shells, smooth-rolling wheels, interior compression, and TSA locks—from other brands at significantly lower prices.
After testing dozens of hard-shell carry-ons, we've found alternatives that match Away's quality without the Instagram-inflated price tag. Whether you're looking for a premium alternative that costs slightly less or a budget option that saves you $200+, this guide covers the best Away luggage alternatives for every traveler.
Quick Comparison
| Product | Price | Savings | Rating | Tier |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Away The Carry-On | $295 | — | — | Original |
| Calpak Ambeur Carry-On | $195 | $100 | 4.4 | premium |
| Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Backpack | $185 | $110 | 4.7 | mid-range |
| Matein Travel Laptop Backpack | $40 | $255 | 4.5 | budget |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Away luggage really worth the premium price?
Away is a quality product, but you're paying a premium for branding. The materials and construction are good but not exceptional—several alternatives use the same Hinomoto wheels and similar polycarbonate shells for less money.
What makes Away's battery feature special?
Away's ejectable battery is convenient for charging devices at the airport. However, most travelers now carry portable chargers anyway, and the battery adds weight. Alternatives without batteries are often lighter and less expensive.
Do cheaper alternatives last as long as Away?
Durability depends more on shell material than brand name. Polycarbonate shells (Away, higher-end alternatives) flex and bounce back from impacts. ABS plastic (budget options) may crack under stress. Check materials, not just brand reputation.
Can I get the same minimalist look for less?
Yes. Calpak Ambeur has a similar aesthetic with more color options. Monos, July, and Level8 are other direct-to-consumer brands with Away-like designs at lower prices.