Carry-On and Check-In Medium Set

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 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…

I love the feel of this product. It feels very sturdy yet not stiff. The inside lining is a very nice and durable, easily cleaning material. This is what I could fit in it on my trip:

Laundry bag

Baby wipes

Hair brush

Curling wand

Flat iron

Hair dryer

Down jacket

Beanie

Scarf

Hand mirror

6 pairs of socks

2 Sports bras

4 t shirts

2 pajama shorts

2 sweat pants

5 long sleeves/sweaters

4 leggings

1 pair of jeans

6 tank tops.

First and foremost, I purchased my first hard shell luggage 2 years ago and the company provided a 10 year warranty. On the first flight, the wheel area cracked and the company refused to replace it or refund me. I was beyond annoyed and decided to do my research when purchasing another luggage. I was initially going to avoid a hard shell until I stumbled on MONO. I read the reviews, watched the stress test video and looked over the warranty. After carefully considering other brands, I felt that MONO not only exude integrity, I really felt like they took pride in there products. I made my purchase with confidence and chose the light taupe colour for easy identification on the luggage belt. The only concern I had with this purchase was the fact it didn't have an extension option but that concern easily disappeared. I fit the same amount of items in this luggage with ease. The zipper was so easy to use and I had no issues closing the suitcase up. In 5 weeks, I took my luggage on 9 flights and dragged it through the rain forest and on a boat. This luggage was so easy to drag and swivel on different terrains. The luggage is obviously scuffed up but I don't care and have yet to try and wipe it clean. I am very satisfied with my purchase!

I was tired of carrying an over the shoulder bag and was looking to upgrade. My business trips are short so I wanted something I could always carry on. And would fit my walking shoes, heals, and running shoes. This bag did not disappoint. I was also able to drop my laptop in the middle easily once through security.

Most planes I fly on are smaller so I was worried about it fitting in the cabin. When it did not fit in the overhead bin, it did fit under the seat.