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15 Away Luggage Alternatives for Any Budget (2023 Guide)

Published on August 8, 2022 by Karlton Miko Tyack · Accessories May contain affiliate links ( what's this? )

In this article, we’ll share our favorite alternatives to Away Luggage.

Table of Contents

From its social media presence to celeb endorsements, luggage brand Away has really taken off. Their suitcases and travel bags are instantly recognizable thanks to their sleek, clean aesthetic, shell design, and palettes that include neutrals and metallics.

Style aside, Away does indeed build premium and functional luggage. They’re known for their 360-degree wheels, durable and lightweight constructions, and TSA-accepted locks. Plus, they have those zippered mesh seals that help prevent overstuffing, so you don’t have to sit on your suitcase just to get it closed.

Here are our top two recommendations from the list:

Coolife is an effective budget option and they make modern-looking suitcases. The expandable polypropylene suitcase set boasts streamlined design, horizontal lines, and sturdy look and build.

Read on for more info and the complete list…

15 Alternatives to Away Luggage for Any Budget

Away isn’t cheap (the famous aluminum carry-on will set you back well over $600). Many of the brands below are budget alternatives. Additionally, anytime you’re looking to invest in premium gear, it’s always good to know what else is out there!

We’ve rounded up 15 alternative luggage brands here that feature some or all of these excellent qualities.

Carl Friedrik

With a brand focus on premium leather accessories, Carl Friedrik’s luggage collection has a similarly sturdy and modern look as Away’s line, but each bag features Vachetta leather detailing.

Vachetta is Italian leather, often used in luxury bags like Vuitton and Coach, that will patinate over the years. I think this detailing adds a touch of elegance that doesn’t compromise the overall utilitarian look. 

The luggage line is made from polycarbonate, which is light yet strong. In fact, though polycarbonate bags are typically more affordable than Away’s aluminum line, they’re less likely to dent.

These bags boast quiet 360-degree spinner wheels and a zipperless aluminum frame for extra durability around the seal. 

Carl Friedrik is definitely on the same level as Away when it comes to quality and style. Unlike Away though, Friedrik distinctly blends modern-day functionality and vintage sophistication for a more gentlemanly aesthetic.

ULISSE B/Y Bric’s

The luggage line from ULISSE B/Y Bric’s sports an urbane and fashionable style, with a fun and matte look — a bit like Away’s technicolor luggage. They come in youthful colors like sky blue, pink, and mango, along with more neutral shades like gray and black. 

Also, the etched line design on the shell is more complex than the signature horizontal lines on Away bags, with overlapping figuration that add a bit of pizazz. It was inspired by intersecting city roads.

The layout doesn’t go overboard, though, since it’s visually balanced out by the matte monochrome design.

The luggage is made out of polypropylene, which may not be as durable as polycarbonate, but is lighter, looks similar, and is strong enough for the average airplane cargo area. Other features include an expandable zipper , a USB port, and a much lower price point than Away.

The 40-liter capacity spinner is $179 compared to Away’s cheapest equivalent, which is $275.

Tech-forward and chic, Level 8 luggage flaunt an almost military-level quality, both in build and visuals.

Their bags are often equipped with German Makrolon polycarbonate shells, which are extra robust, lightweight, and impact-resistant even at low temperatures.

The look is super unique, matte but with a peculiarly glass-like finish. Other Level 8 bags have finely-crafted Bayer Makrolon shells, which are aero-space grade.

Level 8’s laptop compartments are cleverly designed, with a secure pocket in its own section right at the front, in between the shell and the main compartment. It’s like a dedicated business center built into the bag, which makes Level 8 luggage perfect for professional travelers.

They offer a few cool designs, including the Away-esque Road Runner bags, and the extra distinct Glitter bags . The Glitter line sounds extra, but the shade and matteness of the black colorway temper the glitter without taking the panache away.

Calpak has a cool range of luggage sublines, and the Jen Atkin line is reminiscent of Away’s popular metallic bags, despite not actually being metallic. They’re made from polycarbonate, which is why they’re slightly more affordable, lighter, and less resistant to scratches.

Calpak adds polished texturing to the surface of the polycarbonate, which gives it this sort of brushed stainless steel effect. On top of that, the aluminum framing adds further sheen, particularly evident in the gold colorway.

Calpak also offers the Hue subline , which has a matte and minimalist look, and the Astyll subline , which has a marbled surface. They all come with a hard-sided construction, 360 wheels, and TSA-approved locks.

A brand that needs no introduction, Samsonite is known for having a huge range, a bang-for-buck core line, and staying up to date with luggage technology, having even patented a few. In a way, they’re like the Seiko of luggage brands.

Whether you’re looking for a wheeled duffel or an oversized suitcase, Samsonite will have it on offer. You can find a no-frills soft-shell or a high-tech bag with USB charger pockets.

You can also find bags with their GeoTrakR technology, which allows you to see where your luggage is in real-time. They even have a proprietary material, Curve, that’s extra light and strong.

Their hard-sided luggage lines, of which there are many, look most like the signature Away bags. The C-Lite Spinners are beautifully textured, and feature etched lines, just like an Away piece, but remixed to form a vertical seashell-like pattern.

If what you like about Away is its simple, functional, and signature shell look, but want something a touch snazzier, Olympia’s hard-sided luggage collections have a range of offerings. They’re in the same price bracket as Away, and are equally as well-built.

Made from ABS food-safe plastic, Olympia suitcases and travel bags have tremendous stress and chemical resistance. Their carry-ons even have a patented hidden expandable compartment inside.

The plastic construction is strong, and also allows for some unique surface designs.

The brushed surface of the Aerolites offers visual intrigue that conveniently camouflages scratches. Meanwhile, the Stardust bags each have a faux leather trim similar to Carl Friedrik luggage, and the Denmark carry-ons come in six bright shades.

The super shiny Matrix subline and the Phoenix subline are Olympia’s polycarbonate line, each with much more eye-catching etchings than Away’s bags has. 

Mark and Graham

The go-to baggage brand for monogramming, Mark and Graham luggage harkens back to the jet-set glamor of travel’s golden age.

The hard-shell versions have leather detailing, while the vegan leather options are still soft, durable, and super easy to clean and maintain.

The monograms come in a bunch of classic styles, from the single letter monogram to the signature three-letter diamond shape, in a range of fonts. Interiors have several efficiently organized sections with an Ivy League-esque navy stripe design.

All of the pieces are sturdily built and come at a lower price point than Away luggage. They have easy telescoping handles, perfectly accented to match the bag’s body and spinner wheels. Their Terminal 1 Collection even comes with a lifetime warranty.

Paravel is famous for its high-functioning eco-friendly luggage with an adventure-ready aesthetic. They also make matching totes that you can use to level up your beach or grocery game.

Their bags are made of recycled polycarbonate and are equipped with recycled zippers and a lining made from upcycled plastic water bottles. In fact, Paravel has upcycled 4.7 million plastic water bottles.

They’ve implemented a carbon-neutral shipping program and planted over 170,000 trees through restoration projects.

The stylish design is thoughtful and includes sharp and soft turns with black or tan accents made of leather (vegan, naturally).

Also recycled, the aluminum handle, which matches the four silver-toned accents on the top of the bag, is durably air-craft grade. Paravel is one brand that approaches form and function in a non-mutually exclusive way.

And at $350 for the carry-on , Paravel’s prices are similar to the mid-level Away pieces.

We know Victorinox because of their tough-as-nails watches and their convenient and functional multi-tools. Unsurprisingly, their luggage line has both of these qualities.

They have a pretty good range of travel bags, but their hard-sided options are definitely the best contenders when it comes to Away alternatives.

The Lexicon hard-sides are technical-forward bags made with military-level molding technology. The extra recessed wheels will help you move more smoothly, even over cracks and bumps. I think that the black polycarbonate shell has an authoritative tone to it like it’s the kind of luggage Batman would use.

Meanwhile, the Airox hard-sides are brighter, lighter, and have a shinier surface, which not only adds to the style factor but makes it easier to spot at baggage claim.

Each bag has a grilled surface for extra protection and sheen and comes in three colors. The butterfly opening system with two divider walls is worth noting. It just makes packing, organizing, and unpacking way more convenient.

Delsey Paris

Often considered the affordable go-to Away alternative brand, Desley Paris creates comprehensively-built luggage in modern styles.

Their bags are built with premium materials like 100% polycarbonate shells for strength and lightness, come with TSA-approved locks, and feature double wheels for easy maneuvering.

The Helium Aero designs are often compared to Away luggage because of their hard shell and etched lines. Still, the vertical grouped-line design is distinctly Delsey.

They come in 13 brushed metal colors, matte or shiny, and have an expandable main compartment with a lined two-compartment interior. The tie-down straps are a nice touch, especially for any technology you might be traveling with.

Coolife is an effective budget option and is absolutely easy to find on Amazon.

They make modern-looking suitcases and travel bags, with all the fixings. We’re talking TSA locks and 100% aluminum telescoping handles. 

The expandable polypropylene versions are similar to Away luggage because of their streamlined design, horizontal lines, and sturdy look and build. They come in five colors, including bright orange and an aquamarine-like shade called lake blue. They’re also durable, eco-friendly, and not easily scratched. 

Coolife has other comparably fashionable options, including the high-shine retro-futuristic PC-and-ABS luggage range (which looks like something out of Star Trek), and the distinct and sleek asymmetrical design set . 

Traveler’s Choice

Design-forward Traveler’s Choice boasts several awards, including the Red Dot Design of the Year and the Travel Goods Show’s Innovation Award.

Their Bell Weather Spinners are particularly sophisticated and eye-catching.

The creative vertical etchings overlaid with an organic-looking texturing create excellent lightplay on the metallic surface. The protective accents on the top corners are tonal, which displays nice attention to detail.

Some of Traveler’s Choice’s innovations include burst-resistant zippers to promote anti-theft, spherical wheels inspired by airplanes and lunar rovers, and the industry’s only hardside and softshell hybrid garment bag.

I especially love the ergonomic and stress-resistant handles, which make lugging suitcases up and down the stairs less taxing!

Alma Luggage by Kensie

Kensie Alma Luggage combines elegant and robust aesthetics, seen especially in the sleek accordion-designed travel bags. They’re certainly hearty-looking but still modern, polished, and chic. 

Most sellers categorize this bag as being for women, but there’s nothing traditionally feminine about the design, though it does come in colors like baby pink and light mint. A lot of the colorways come with rose gold-tinted hardware, which is more fun than the average silver-toned but not overstated.

Looks aside, Alma’s pieces are truly functional travel bags. They’re made of polycarbonate, feature a TSA locking system, and are fully equipped with spinner wheels for smooth mobility.

With its soft turns and hard indentations, Merax luggage pieces look like super stylish, extra-large coolers. If you like that futuristic igloo look, these bags have it down.

This is especially prevalent in the silver-blue colorway, which has that blocky but sleek and icy aesthetic. Other colors include red, blue, green, purple, and black-gray, which has gunmetal vibes.

They’re made with durable ABS hardshell, which is excellent for high-impact resistance, and telescoping adjustable handles — they have convenient side handles too!

Merax bags are super spacious inside. The interior is fully lined, with tie-down straps and zippered dividers, so everything stays in place. Plus, their expandability can increase the depth of capacity by a whopping 20%.

Herschel is another high-quality brand that builds design-focused hard-shell luggage at a lower price point than Away.

They’re made with polycarbonate shells, TSA-approved combination zippers, and multi-directional dual polyurethane wheels, which are oil-resistant and abrasion-resistant.

This is useful since nothing is worse than beat-up wheels that just won’t roll anymore.

Herschel luggage also has a modern signature look, with embossed lines and an embossed rubber diamond on the front.

They come in a few colorways, including youthful and fashion-forward options. There’s a cloudburst neon colorway, which is loud and playful, and a fun night camo, which is more understated, among several others.

FAQs About Away Luggage

Have questions about Away luggage, here are a few answers:

Is Away luggage a good brand?

Yes. Recognizability aside, Away luggage is highly functional, TSA-friendly, and durable, thanks to that high-quality shell design. 

What can I buy instead of Away Luggage?

Anything on this list! If you’re looking for a budget option, there’s Coolife .

If you’re looking for something of equal quality and style, Carl Friedrik is a good choice.

It depends on your priorities and what specific qualities you like (or don’t like) about Away.

Is Paravel better than Away?

They’re on par with Away’s mid-level lines, both in quality and price. Whether or not the style differences make them better is obviously subjective, but Paravel gets extra points for their focus on sustainability.

Which Luggage Brand Is for You?

A lot of the more affordable brands make their luggage out of ABS, rather than polycarbonate. ABS may not be as durable, but it’s definitely strong enough for most travelers.

Still, whether it’s in comparable build or style, there are several Away alternative options in a range of price points.

Questions? Comments? Leave them below!

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About Karlton Miko Tyack

Karlton Miko Tyack is a freelance writer covering watches, gear, and style. He was born in LA, studied art history in Boston, and is a lover of rugby, football, and optimism. Background: Karlton studied art in Boston while working in local galleries. This led to a career in corporate art consulting, hunting down the perfect pieces for specific brand or business. Transitioning into freelance writing, he moved back to his hometown of Los Angeles, where he managed top accounts with art publisher TASCHEN. His clientele included prominent names in fashion, luxury, and sports. He then moved to NYC to work as a client liaison at Sotheby’s auction house in New York, where he worked with collectors of fine art, as well as watches, wine, and whiskey. A lifelong watch enthusiast, Karlton has worked with quality timepieces of all price points and calibers, vintage and contemporary. Tyack’s watch obsession began when he received an Omega Seamaster for his 15th birthday. Expertise: Through his work in fine art and with Sotheby's auction house, Karlton has developed a deep knowledge of timepieces, whiskey and menswear. He's written for publishers like LA Weekly and Harvard. Here at TMM, Karlton covers watches and men's fashion.

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Reader Interactions

Ask me anything cancel reply.

Got questions? Want to share your opinion? Comment below!

August 8, 2022 at 10:47 am

Is there a reason you didn’t list any soft shell luggage? I could use some soft shell luggage. Hard shells feel cheap to me, and the wire cutter says soft shells always last longer.

August 16, 2022 at 12:54 pm

We assumed anyone looking for alternatives to Away wanted the hard shell look that the brand is known for.

I have both types. I kind of like the feel of hard shell better, but soft is easier to cram into a crowded vehicle.

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28 Stylish Alternatives to Away for Carry-On Suitcases in 2024

Discover the very best carry-on luggage from other brands like Away Travel for every budget and style.

What's Inside

In Search of Carry-On Luggage Like Away

While I love my carry-on suitcase from Away Travel , the brand has become ubiquitous, and some of their design and their style choices are not for everyone.

A range of Away dupes, upgrades, and alternatives have flooded the market, offering a wide range of carry-ons that fit every budget and, in some cases, offer design tweaks, alternative materials and upgrades to make travel easier.

When Jen Rubio and Steph Korey founded Away in 2015, they helped set a trend towards minimalist carry-ons that have decent functionality and that feel fashionable and luxurious without being too expensive. Social media became a major driving force behind Away’s success and has helped fuel the trend for suitcases similar to Away in overall design and function.

Away has a number of attractive features for carry-ons , including locks approved by the TSA, a fairly durable hard shell, and wheels that rotate 360 degrees. It also offers a 100-day return policy and a limited lifetime warranty.

( Away Travel came to fame in part by offering a built in battery to charge your devices, but security concerns and technology improvements have lessened the mass appeal.)

Chart: Compare Prices and Dimensions of Carry-On Suitcases

Compare carry-on luggage: away vs. monos vs. beis and more.

Away and a growing number of competitors offer a dizzying array of carry-on suitcases. Here are some things to keep in mind when choosing, and a comparison of carry-on luggage dimensions and prices.

• Start with Style: What kind of look are you going for? A minimalist hardshell ? A sleek aluminum body ? A vintage-styled, skater-inspired travel case ? A tanned, full grain leather spinner ? Mid-century modern nylon? An old-school Steamliner ?
• Hard-shell or soft-shell? Hardside suitcases tend to be more durable, but there are times when I prefer the give and flexibility of soft-shell nylon luggage. Some luggage brands offer a hybrid, with a hardshell suitcase body paired with a fabric front pocket.
• 2 wheels or 4 wheels? Most designer luggage tends to feature four-wheeled spinners these days, which in my experience is easier on the back and shoulders, though they tend to stray on declines.
• Wheel placement: Many brands design four-wheel hardshell suitcases to feature two wheels on each side when opened. This provides two distinct, symmetrical compartments for travel.  Some four-wheel suitcases, and many two-wheeled luggage, offer one asymmetrical, deep storage area. (I prefer the latter but have gotten used to the former.)
• Flexibility: Consider whether you need a laptop or front pocket for your suitcase, or an expandable model.
• Cost: How much are you willing to spend on your carry-on luggage? Stylish alternatives to away can cost anywhere from $89 to more than $1,000.

The Best Carry-On Luggage Like Away

There’s nothing truly wrong with Away’s luggage, but it’s always good to research your options. The following brands all share overlapping qualities with Away, but they’re each worth considering for their own unique combination of practical features and design elements.

Actress Shay Mitchell founded Beis in 2018 to provide relatively affordable, highly functional luggage that looks chic.

The standard carry-on rollers from this women-owned, California-based brand have a hard shell and come in a range of colors, from navy blue to vibrant pink or orange. They stand apart for their excellent internal organization , including pockets of different sizes, and their weight indicator, which alerts you if the carry-on is too heavy. The brand also offers a collapsible soft-sided carry-on that takes up less storage space when not in use.

Get $15 off your first purchase of Beis luggage .

Founded in 2008, Level8 emphasizes the value of forming and maintaining connections on the road. Two of its carry-on models, the Road Runner and the Pro , contain padded laptop pockets, and one of these models is designed with a USB port and extra space for a power bank.

The brand, which is based in New York, is also known for the exceptional durability of its carry-ons. One of its carry-ons is made of an aerospace-grade aluminum magnesium alloy, while others are made of Makrolon, a lightweight polycarbonate with impressive impact resistance.

Floyd boasts that it’s “giving modern travel its mojo back.”

Inspired by 1970s skateboard culture in Venice Beach, California, Floyd offers cool carry-ons with distinctive polyurethane wheels. The brand, which was founded in 1996 by Bernd Georgi and Horst Kern, has won design awards for its sleek and vividly colored luggage. The convenient features inside each hard suitcase include Floyd ’s signature tear-resistant fabric, multiple closable compartments, and a laptop holder.

Monos has positioned itself as a more durable and well-designed alternative to Away, and positive reviews point out the carry-ons’ smooth maneuverability, array of color choices, and beautiful workmanship, which includes detailing in vegan leather. The Canadian brand, which was launched in 2018, reinforces its carry-ons with a remarkably resilient polycarbonate shell and a handle made of high-grade aluminum that can adjust to four different heights. Each of these hard suitcases comes with a limited lifetime warranty.

Founded in 1989 by Edward and Judy Kwon , Calpak offers multiple types of cute and efficient carry-on luggage, and it’s an overall less expensive alternative to Away. Highlights from this California brand include the Ambeur model, which is designed with a grooved exterior and weighs only 6 pounds, and the Hue , a minimalist hard-shell suitcase. Both are expandable, contain TSA-approved locks, and have miniature and front-pocket variations on their design.

SteamLine Luggage

One of the pricier brands on this list is SteamLine Luggage , which offers vintage-inspired suitcases that make you feel like you’re a first-class traveler on an ocean liner. With carry-ons like the Diplomat and the Explorer , you enjoy richly colored leather and fabrics, including vivid prints decorating the interior. The Dublin-based brand, which was founded in 2005 by Sara Banks , also incorporates various convenient features into its suitcases, such as TSA-approved locks and internal zippered pockets.

Herschel Supply Company

Hard-shell carry-ons from Herschel Supply Company stand out for their simplicity and reliable durability. The Vancouver-based brand, which was founded by a pair of brothers in 2009, demonstrates high-quality workmanship and thoughtful design for the suitcases’ basic components, which include amazingly quiet, high-functioning Hinomoto wheels and an impact-resistant polycarbonate shell made largely out of recycled road barricades. The brand is confident enough to give you a 100-day trial to test its carry-ons, which are backed by a limited lifetime warranty.

Adrian Solgaard, who launched his brand in 2016, is a luggage innovator.

One of the most exciting products from Solgaard is the Carry-On Closet , an award-winning suitcase that comes in medium and large varieties. Within the powerful polycarbonate shell, you’ll find a remarkable shelving system that functions as a miniature closet, making it easier for you to stay organized and keep your clothes in good condition. The suitcase also comes with a USB charging port, and you have several color options for the exterior.

Lojel , which was founded in 1989 by Chih Chang Chiang, is a Japanese brand that promotes simplicity and security. It also demonstrates a commitment to ethical manufacturing practices.

One of its minimalist carry-ons, the Voja Small , offers a three-point lock system and multiple internal zippered pockets. Another model, the Cubo Small , has a large front pocket and an expandable body that can accommodate more items. Both of these carry-on suitcases come in several color options.

Among the delightful luggage options offered by Australian startup brand July is a double-wheel carry-on suitcase that the Australian brand claims is the lightest one in the world, as it weighs just under 4 pounds. It’s made with an aerospace-grade polycarbonate material and the brand’s proprietary SilentMove wheels.

July, which was founded by Athan Didaskalou and Richard Li, provides a lifetime warranty and a 100-day return window for its long-lasting carry-on luggage. You also have the option of personalizing your carry-on with customized text.

Made by Design (Target)

If you’re looking for a more affordable alternative to Away, you should check out Target’s Made by Design luggage. The Hardside Carry-On Spinner Suitcase comes in several colors, and it enhances maneuverability with swivel wheels and with both side and top handles. It also makes packing go smoothly with multiple internal compartments and compression straps.

Founded by Stefan Holwe and Jan Roosen, Horizn is a German brand best known for environmental sustainability. It uses only vegan materials for its luggage and relies on carbon-neutral shipping and eco-friendly packaging. Some of the luggage is made in Europe with a plant-based hard shell.

Longevity is another key quality to Horizn’s carry-on luggage, which is covered by a limited lifetime warranty. The brand is also technologically friendly. It broke ground by introducing a removable smart charger to most of its carry-ons, and some bags have water-resistant laptop pockets.

Briggs and Riley

Long-lasting luggage with excellent craftsmanship is what you can expect from Briggs and Riley , a high-end American brand founded in 1993. One of the bestsellers is the 21-inch Baseline , an expandable model that comes with an ergonomic handle, shock-absorbing wheels, and a tri-fold garment folder that can hold two suits while preventing wrinkling. For a couple of hundred dollars less, you can choose another bestseller, the 22-inch ZDX , which has multiple useful pockets and a nylon outer fabric that’s resilient against moisture, chafing, and dirt.

The stylish, natural-looking luggage from Moln , a Japanese minimalist brand, has been subjected to extensive endurance testing , including thousands of open-and-close tests on the zippers and a running test on rough surfaces for the casters. The five color options, which include moss, stone, and terracotta, form an earthy palette, and the dirt-resistant fronts are made of synthetic leather, adding beautiful texture to each piece. You have a choice of two carry-on models, one of which has a seamless pocket for a laptop.

As a luggage giant, Samsonite offers excellent carry-on suitcases at a range of prices, from roughly $100 to over $500. The brand dates back to 1910, when it was founded in Colorado by Jesse Shwayder, and over decades it has acquired other high-quality brands, including Tumi and Lipault.

Samsonite’s standouts include the Outline Pro , which has a USB port, an ergonomic and antimicrobial handle, and a WetPak pocket to keep damp items separate. Another customer favorite is the Carbon 2 , a textured hard-shell suitcase that resists dents and scratches.

Samsara Luggage

Whether you’re buying the smaller or the larger carry-on from Samsara Luggage , you enjoy a stylish suitcase for tech-savvy travelers. Each carry-on contains a Tag Smart tracking device and has a flat-top design that makes it useful as a laptop desk on the road. Founded in 2007, the brand also demonstrates a commitment to sustainability by using a recyclable polycarbonate material and aviation-grade aluminum in its luggage.

Carry-on suitcases from Thule have a soft and rugged look. They’re also tough, subjected to rigorous endurance tests, and they display various degrees of resistance to moisture and dirt.

The Swedish brand, which was founded by Erik Thulin in the 1940s, makes packing less complicated. The Aion carry-on comes with its own packing cube, and the Subterra has a compression panel that increases packing space. Another notable quality to the brand is its commitment to sustainable production, including membership in the Bluesign System .

Founded in the 1970s by Charlie Clifford , Tumi is a luxury brand, pricier than Away, and it offers numerous choices for carry-ons, each with an array of features promoting durability and functionality. For example, some of the carry-on luggage is made of Tegris, a lightweight but powerful thermoplastic found in body armor. Depending on the specific carry-on you purchase, other features range from multiple grab handles to a tracer that helps you track and recover lost luggage.

With Roam , you enjoy the option of customizing your own carry-on or picking from a ready-made selection . The brand, which was launched by Tumi founder Charlie Clifford and one of Tumi’s former executives, Larry Lein, offers carry-ons with a futuristic look and an exterior shell made of 100% virgin polycarbonate material. The standout features include water-repellent zippers, an antimicrobial lining, and the brand’s signature packing system.

Founded in England by John Boultbee Brooks, Antler has been producing innovative , high-quality luggage since 1914, and you can pick from a few different carry-on models, each with convenient features.

The Brixham , for example, has the lightest weight and comes with three zipped pockets, two of them internal. The Stamford offers a USB port and quiet Hinomoto wheels, which turn 360 degrees. And one variant of the Clifton model comes with both a laptop and a tablet pocket.

Committed to quality and sustainability, Paravel created the Aviator , the first carbon-neutral carry-on in the world. Founded by Indre Rockefeller and Andy Krantz in 2016, the brand uses recycled polycarbonate, aluminum, and vegan leather for the carry-on, which comes with double spinner wheels, a removable laundry bag, and a compression board to help you pack more effectively. It’s also a stylish suitcase, and you have the option of personalizing it with a monogram.

Carl Friedrik

Founded in 2013 by a pair of brothers in London, Carl Friedrik offers carry-on luggage with a classy, masculine look, which includes detailing in premium Italian leather. An aluminum lock frame gives each carry-on enhanced security, and the Hinomoto wheels are virtually silent. One variant comes with a large front pocket that can accommodate a laptop and smaller items you may want within easy reach.

Carry-ons from Lipault are plush, lightweight, and have a sheen, giving them a distinctive look.

Founded in 2005 by Francois Lipovetsky, the French brand produces carry-ons in various neutral and vivid colors, and they offer a pleasing amount of storage space, including a zippered front pocket and other compartments. Some of the carry-ons are foldable, taking up less space when you aren’t using them. Also, when browsing through the collection, you’ll be able to find items that are less expensive than what Away offers.

Arlo Skye has won multiple design awards , and its founders used to work for Louis Vuitton and Tumi. Reviews for the carry-ons mention nearly silent wheels, an antimicrobial interior lining, and a removable charger with USB ports.

The Frame model is made either entirely of aluminum or a combination of aluminum and an impact-resistant polycarbonate. It uses only clasps with TSA-approved combination locks. A second model, the Zipper , has a Free-Flex zipper that stretches to allow you to pack a few more items, and one variant includes a front pocket.

Nomatic, a Utah-based brand founded by two cousins, aims for peak functionality with its hard-shell carry-ons, which come in two versions. The Pro model comes with a detachable laptop case. At a lower cost, you can get the Classic model, which shares many of the same features, including Hinomoto wheels, TSA-locking zippers, a Makrolon polycarbonate shell, and efficient internal organization.

Rimowa is an iconic and innovative German brand founded in 1898, and its deluxe luggage has a well-known design of vertical grooves. The brand produced the first polycarbonate suitcase in the world and developed a wheel system that makes steering considerably easier.

Other perks for these luxury carry-ons include adjustable dividers for better organizing your belongings. Even the brand’s more compact model still has space for a 16-inch laptop. However, Rimowa’s prices are steep, so it can’t serve as an alternative to Away for anyone on a tight budget.

You can expect classy suitcases with a timeless style from Hartmann , a brand founded in Milwaukee in 1877 and currently owned by Samsonite. One highlight from Hartmann is a carry-on suitcase with a durable tweed exterior and plenty of well-designed features, including a 12-position ergonomic handle and a tri-fold suiter that will help keep your suits free from wrinkles. Along with the practicality of the design, you can enjoy the elegant touches, such as the leather insignia and the gleaming interior lining.

Italic , which was founded in 2018 by Jeremy Cai, is an online marketplace that obtains products from the manufacturers of high-end brands and sells them at a reduced cost without brand logos. Keep an eye on Italic’s travel section , because you may find well-crafted carry-ons that are similar to Away. These suitcases may include packing cubes, a laundry bag, and other useful features.

Away Travel Also Makes Amazing Carry-On Luggage

While there are plenty of brands like Away, there is only one original. I have enjoyed getting to know the brand since interviewing Co-Founder Steph Korey in 2016 when the brand first emerged to disrupt the travel industry.

There’s a reason why Away’s luggage is so ubiquitous at the airport: It’s a well-designed bag designed around the idea that it shouldn’t cost $1,000 for “a plastic box on wheels.”

I have gotten a lot of mileage out of my Away Bigger Carry-On with Pocket , and adore their portable pet carrier .

For Carry-On Suitcases, What’s Your Favorite Alternative to Away?

Drop a comment about your favorite brand and the aesthetic and functional features you’re looking for in your ideal carry-on luggage.

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The Best Alternatives To Away Luggage For Carry-Ons And More

Contract Commerce Writer, HuffPost

HuffPost may receive a share from purchases made via links on this page. Prices and availability subject to change.

Between stuffing your suitcase, making sure your travel wallet actually has your passport and boarding pass in it, and finding a ride to the airport, there’s a lot to figure out before you even get on a flight.

The last thing you want to worry about is a wheel on your suitcase breaking or your luggage getting beaten up before you get to baggage claim. You need a suitcase that’ll last. But finding the right one for your travels and your budget isn’t as easy as planning an itinerary for you vacation.

Away has been taking off as one of the most talked-about luggage brands. It has even had some high-profile collaborations with celebrities like Serena Williams . One of our editors had to see what the hype was all about, and wrote an Away luggage review about how it holds up during travel.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Away (@away) on Feb 21, 2020 at 6:00am PST

But if Away’s style or prices aren’t for you, there are plenty of alternatives. From well-known brands like Paravel and Mark and Graham to finds from places like Nordstrom Rack , we found the best spots to shop for luggage.

Here’s where to get non-Away luggage and suitcases:

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The 9 Best Dupes for the Iconic Away Carry-On

Long lines and frustrating delays are just two things you're guaranteed to find while traveling. These days, the third might be Away luggage . The now-famous travel accessories brand launched in 2015, featuring a line of minimalist hardside polycarbonate luggage in a spectrum of stylish colors. The model that truly put it on the map was the Carry-On suitcase .

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It doesn't take long to see why. The Away Carry-On is sleek, lightweight, and packed with smart features (think: 360-degree spinner wheels and an included laundry bag). For an extra $20, you can even add an optional USB phone charger. The only problem is the $275 price tag, which can force many travelers to look for comparable alternatives.

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Ahead, we've rounded up the very best Away Carry-On luggage dupes you can find on the internet. Sourced with style, price, and similar functionality in mind, we guarantee you'll find the right lookalike for you.

‌ (Note: If you can support the original maker, we are always in favor of that, but if you're not able to splurge right now, here are our favorite budget buys.) ‌

The Best Away Carry-On Luggage Dupes and Alternatives

Original: away the carry-on, $275.

1. Made By Design Hardside Carry-On Spinner Suitcase, $89.99

Target does it again — this time with an affordable spinner carry-on from its in-house brand, Made By Design. Constructed from polycarbonate and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), it features an expandable, minimalist shell; smart interior pockets and straps for more efficient packing; and multiple handles.

2. Wrangler Smart Luggage With Cup Holder and USB Port, $63.99

If Away's fan-favorite USB phone charger is what initially piqued your interest in its carry-on bag, allow us to present a more affordable dupe: the Smart Luggage Carry-On from Wrangler. Its charging port is conveniently located on the back side of the bag and is hidden underneath a built-in cup holder. Talk about smart.

3. Calpak Hue Carry-On Luggage, $195

Calpak is a major player in the travel space, and this carry-on bag from its Hue line proves why. The clean and simple shell creates a truly beautiful piece of luggage, offered in colors that range from neutral to vibrant. Inside, you'll find a number of handy zipper pockets and compression straps. Bonus: It also features a TSA-approved lock.

4. iFLY Hardside Luggage Fibertech Carry-On, $89

Look too fast and you might easily mistake this iFLY carry-on for an Away bag. Its polycarbonate and ABS outer shell features a familiar horizontal line pattern, and the carry-on bag is available in a handful of eye-catching hues, like mint and rose gold. Best of all, it's under $100 — perfect for budget-conscious travelers.

5. Béis The Carry-On Roller, $198

Founded by globe-trotting actress Shay Mitchell, Béis has quickly earned a reputation for producing functional, quality travel essentials, like its signature carry-on roller. Aside from its stunning 100% virgin polycarbonate shell and silhouette, it offers TSA locks, Hinomoto 360-degree wheels, and a genius built-in weight indicator.

6. Traveler's Choice Pagosa Indestructible Hardshell Expandable Spinner Carry-On, $110.50

Wear and tear are no match for this hardshell spinner carry-on by Traveler's Choice. Sold on Amazon, it's made from indestructible polypropylene and is resistant to scratches, abrasions, and water. Additional features include built-in USB and type C ports, a compartment to hold portable power banks, and large interior compartments with self-mending zippers.

7. Vacay Hardside Carry-On Suitcase, $99.99

Ooooh, ahhhh. That might be what you find yourself saying when looking at this hardshell carry-on from Vacay. It's available at Target for under $100 and is made sustainably from recycled plastic water bottles. Open it up to find versatile storage compartments and a gorgeous interior lining to match the many trending hues in which it's sold.

8. Coolife Carry-On, $109.99

Here's a sleek piece of luggage that's half the price of the original Away carry-on. It has a durable hardshell and an extra compartment in the front so you can easily access any small travel essentials. And if you also need check-in luggage, you can get a two-piece Coolife set for only $189.99.

9. Quince Carry-On Hard Shell Suitcase, $129.90

Lightweight and durable, this 48-liter carry-on looks just like a piece of Away luggage. It also has smooth spinner wheels and a laundry bag and can hold up to six to nine outfits. According to the brand, it's comparable to not only Away but other top-tier travel brands, like Monos and Paravel.

How We Chose

To find the best Away dupes, we took into consideration price points, similar designs to the original, and customer reviews.

The 12 Best Luggage Brands for All Your Travel Needs

We Tested 7 Luggage Brands — Here Are Our Honest Thoughts

The Best Amazon Luggage to Take on Your Next Vacation

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Fly the skies in style without breaking the bank.

Frequent flyers know that a decent suitcase is essential and a great suitcase can be game-changing. Away — the Instagram-famous luggage brand — built “the perfect suitcase” in premium materials, but their small carry-ons cost over $200, which is why so many people are looking for an Away luggage alternative that looks sleek but costs less.

Design & Functionality

In order to find a good alternative to the Away luggage, it's important to know what features set the bags apart. For starters, the clean design has brought it legions of fans. The high-quality shell (more on that later) is etched with minimalist horizontal lines and comes in a clean color palette that pops. Think white, pink, and muted neutrals, plus their luxe aluminum line that glistens in jaw-dropping metallics .

The suitcase's thoughtful functional details also win praise from busy travelers: 360-degree wheels, built-in TSA-approved combination locks, and zippered mesh enclosures for increased packing space, plus a removable laundry bag. Their carry-on sizes offer the option of a built-in (though ejectable) battery pack for charging on the go.

The good news is that the brands below combine most of the features listed above at a more budget-friendly price point.

Shell Materials

In terms of material, Away uses pure polycarbonate for most of their shells (they also have some pricey aluminum options). Polycarbonate is extremely lightweight, hard, and dent-resistant . Some of the picks below also feature polycarbonate shells. However, you’ll also find ones made with ABS plastic, which offers similar benefits at a lower price, since it's not quite as strong and durable . Some bags use a blend of polycarbonate and ABS to try to offer the best of both worlds: a durable shell at the most affordable price.

Whichever bag you decide to pack, these Away luggage alternatives on Amazon will get your stuff there in one (stylish) piece.

The Overall Best Away Luggage Alternative

What’s great about it: The DELSEY Paris Helium Aero luggage wins top honors as the best Away luggage alternative for using the same premium materials, smart features, and trusted quality at a more accessible price point. The 100% polycarbonate shell makes for a light yet durable suitcase, and a TSA-friendly built-in lock keeps valuables secure while remaining compliant. The interior makes smart use of limited space: like Away, this brand's Aero line features two full-sized packing compartments, with multiple pockets, so it's easy to stay organized. And thanks to the multi-directional spinner wheels, they're easy to glide no matter how much you pack. The best part: It's a fraction of the price of a comparably sized Away case.

According to one traveler: “ I purchased this after waiting months for a Solgaard that didn't show up in time for an upcoming trip. After having used both now I can say I really like this one much better. Lighter, maneuvers better, sturdier telescoping handle, and did I mention how light it is??! Got it up in that overhead bin like a breeze. Also seems to be better quality but time will tell.”

• Available colors: 11
• Available sizes: 2 carry-on sizes, 2 checked bag sizes, and several multi-piece sets.

This Carry-On With A Built-In USB Port For Charging On The Go

What’s great about it: One feature that separates Away from the competition is the option for an included battery pack in their carry-ons. You can come close to that same functionality with this smart suitcase with a built-in USB port so you can slide in your own power bank (note that the power bank itself isn't included). This compact bag is made with a polypropylene hardshell for a strong suitcase with 360-degree spinning wheels. This suitcase also has a clamshell design with two deep packing areas, along with multiple pockets, to make smarter use of every inch.

According to one traveler: “ I love it. Compartments are a plus, and the buckles are adjustable which is different from a lot of other luggage so it actually holds items in that opening half in place. It moves great, and the handle comes out smoothly. It looks good too. A plus.”

• Available colors: 5
• Available sizes: 2

A Set That Looks Like Pricey Aluminum Luggage

What’s great about it: Aluminum luggage has become a status symbol for frequent flyers who want a case that will last forever. You can get a similar look with this set of metallic luggage in ABS material available in three silver and gold tones, plus a beautiful navy with rose gold hardware and in glossy black. (Even though these look convincing, they naturally won't be as durable as real aluminum.) The set includes two checked bags at 28- and 24- inches, plus a 20-inch carry-on. All three pack spinner wheels and a TSA-compliant built-in combination lock, with an interior divider for maximum storage.

According to one traveler: “ Perfect carryon size!! Surprisingly spacious and the lock is easy to use and a very nice touch”

• Available colors: 3
• Available sizes: 1 multi-piece set

A Rose Gold Carry-On For The Smallest Overhead Bins

What’s great about it : This stylish, small carry-on suitcase from Kenneth Cole runs big on practicality, and it has racked up thousands of reviews on Amazon. This has a sturdy hardshell ABS construction with molded corner guards protecting a rose gold finish, and the dimensions are TSA and IATA-compliant to fit in most domestic and international overhead compartments. It features 360-degree spinning wheels, but no built-in locks. That hasn't stopped it from earning rave reviews, with fans echoing that this pick is supremely well-made, lightweight, and easy to maneuver.

According to one traveler: "I love this suitcase! It’s great quality at a good value! It meets the requirements for carry-on-size suitcases and is sturdy and easy to maneuver throughout my travels. It’s also sleek and stylish and has plenty of room inside. The zipper doesn’t stick or get stuck which is a super important factor when purchasing luggage.”

• Available colors: 12
• Available options: Multiple sizes, including two sets

A Budget-Friendly 3-Piece Set For All Your Travel Needs

What’s great about it: This set of multi-sized ABS suitcases is a great budget-friendly hardside luggage set . They have 360-degree spinner wheels so you can fly through the terminal and an expandable interior compartment that can hold up to 25% more. The built-in locks are also TSA-approved. "I would recommend these to anyone in need of affordable, durable luggage," one fan said. It's a complete set at an affordable price point that instantly covers all your bases, from carry-on to longer stays.

According to one traveler: “ The Merax 3 pcs luggage which arrived very quickly, has exceeded my expectations. The pieces are very light, and they survived a long trip overseas without any damage or breakage. A great value. And the set is convenient to maneuver and it looks nice as well.”

Some Chic White Luggage With Practical Corner Bumpers

What’s great about it : White hard shell luggage is absurdly chic, although easy to scuff. Offset potential marks by picking a white suitcase with practical corner guards to cover the most vulnerable areas so you can travel with style and peace of mind. This one is cast from a sturdy and resilient ABS and polycarbonate blend with built-in, three-digit TSA locks and 360-degree spinner wheels, plus a great double-sided packing space.

According to one traveler: “ Great suitcase seems very good quality and is super stylish...I love how many pockets it has on the inside and how nice it looks. This is a steal for the price."

• Available sizes: 3

Also Great: A Set Of Packing Cubes

What’s great about it : A set of packing cubes will make life on the road subtly yet immeasurably better. They help compress your clothes and keep your suitcase organized. I like this set because it comes with two each of the small and large cubes (as well as one medium), which fit together better in small spaces. They're lightweight and synthetic, so they don't take up as much room (or weigh as much) as sturdier sets but still provide similar benefits. You don’t realize what a difference it makes until you travel with these.

According to one traveler: “I typically destroy any organization within my suitcase when I look for the first thing I need. These have helped keep like items together or separate for different parts of my trip. They’d be great for kids clothes. Highly recommend!”

This article was originally published on June 20, 2020

Are Away Carry-Ons Worth the Hype?

In the past, we have not been fans of hard-sided luggage.

Hard-sided suitcases are not (despite what many may think) tougher than their soft-sided counterparts. But they do have attributes that some people may value over durability.

Hard-shell bags usually weigh less than fabric ones, and they come in far more colors, prints, and textures.

So if, for whatever reason, you prefer a hard-shell case, we recommend the  Away Carry-On after seven years of testing hard-sided suitcases.

Away The Carry-On

The best hard-sided carry-on suitcase.

This is a great-looking, resilient piece of hard-sided luggage, with top-of-the-line components—including sturdy zippers and the smoothest wheels we tested—at a decent price.

Buying Options

If you want the look and lighter weight of a hard-sided bag, the Away Carry-On is our choice. Weighing 7.6 pounds and able to hold nearly 40 liters, this bag stood out among competitors for its high-end components, such as sturdy zippers and the best-rolling wheels of any bag we tested. We liked the wide array of available colors and the strong yet flexible polycarbonate shell. Polycarbonate shells will always show more wear than soft-sided luggage. But after using multiple models over seven years, our testers found that the Away had endured most of the trials of traveling, with only a few scratches. Away bags are also backed by a lifetime limited warranty , which covers you for cracks in the shell and any broken hardware (wheels, handles, and zippers).

The research

Should you choose a hard-sided or soft-sided carry-on, is the away bag really the best hard-sided carry-on, our pick: away the carry-on, the competition.

I recommend soft-sided luggage for most people . This is a conclusion I’ve come to over nine years of testing bags, traveling with them, and interviewing travel experts, flight attendants, baggage handlers, and luggage designers. Soft-sided luggage picks up fewer scuffs and marks, and it generally provides multiple pockets and compartments, so it’s more adaptable to individual travel habits.

The ubiquitous clamshell design of a hard-sided case makes packing and unpacking clumsy. Split into two sections, the entire case splays out when you open it, which can be particularly awkward in confined spaces, such as small hotel rooms. It’s tricky to pack two shallow, equal-size compartments if you have large or bulky items. Counterintuitively, hard-sided luggage also lacks rigidity when it’s not fully packed, and most hard-sided designs lack external pockets.

So why would anybody still want a such a bag? Because hard-sided suitcases look great. They come in bold colors and patterns that soft-sided luggage is incapable of matching. The bags are sleek and minimal; they typically weigh less than fabric shells; and they’re as unencumbered by any pedestrian concerns over exterior pockets as the lithe influencer gliding through your Instagram feed is by traditional employment opportunities.

Okay, you want a hard-sided suitcase. Walk through any airport today and the Away’s popularity is self-evident. But Away is not the only brand out there creating a minimalist, hard-shelled piece of luggage. Which of these new pieces of luggage—deliriously engineered to make millennials pull out their wallets—are actually worth your money?

Bags like these have a few traits in common. They’re nearly always made of polycarbonate (that is, synthetic resin), although the less expensive models may use acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastics or blends of ABS plastic and polycarbonate to form their shells. (Polycarbonate is lighter and more flexible and has higher impact resistance than ABS.) These bags usually have a clamshell design—that is, they split down the middle and close with a zipper or locking hinge—and they normally come with four wheels, rather than two.

It’s difficult to know the strength of polycarbonate shells, and it’s difficult to test them. We can assess the flexibility, relative weight, and composition of the material, and take into account the brand’s reputation, but that’s only enough to give us a rough idea of the limits of these suitcases. Our primary goal here, however, wasn’t to find the strongest luggage. Instead, we wanted to figure out which bag was the best to pack and the best to travel with, and which was ultimately worth the price.

We chose seven models that we felt best represented this category of minimalist luggage: the Away Carry-On , the Muji Adjustable Handle Suitcase (since discontinued), Arlo Skye’s The Frame Carry-On , Lojel’s Cubo Medium , Herschel’s Trade Luggage Carry-On (since discontinued), Calpak’s Ambeur Carry-On , and the AmazonBasics Hardside Spinner Luggage - 24-Inch . We compared the bags’ layouts, the comfort of their handles, and their looks, and then narrowed down the list to our top four candidates. I’ve traveled intermittently with the Away since 2016. Over the years, we had additional testers travel with models of the Away, the Muji, the AmazonBasics, and the Arlo Skye.

I’ve tested the Away Carry-On for seven years now and have also lent the bag to several friends and frequent travelers to see how they would enjoy using it. The minimalism of the Away bag stands out among the other hard-sided suitcases we tested. There is (despite the impracticality) a peculiar comfort that comes from carrying a suitcase without external pockets. Everything you are traveling with is packed away in a single brick. The simplicity of the design, the matte texture of the plastic, the luxurious quality of the interior liner—all of it invites you to believe that there’s one less thing to worry about while you’re traveling.

The Away bag itself feels good in your hands, and its wheels are noticeably better than those of any other bag we tested, except for those on the Muji. Away formerly used YKK zippers, but as of 2023, the company is sourcing its zippers from a number of suppliers. We’ll keep an eye on how the zippers of newer Away bags perform. We also liked the compatible packing cubes sold by Away , which are shaped to fit perfectly into the bags’ beveled corners.

The Away’s polycarbonate feels similar to that used in more high-end suitcases, such as the Rimowa Cabin S, which is twice as expensive as the Away. The polycarbonate that Away uses is both strong and flexible. When we first started testing the Away, seven years ago, we found that flexibility to be a liability, especially on airport carpets—the Away tended to flex into itself and jam up its own wheels when we pushed it in front of us. But the company seems to have fixed that problem—I haven’t experienced it with any of the latest models of this suitcase.

Away makes a similar model of suitcase with an expandable zipper, The Carry-On Flex . For all intents and purposes, the Flex is the same overall bag as the standard Carry-On except for the expanding center zipper and the price (it’s $50 more; also, the Carry-On original does go on sale more frequently). Personally, I’m not a fan of expanding zippers on suitcases. It feels like potentially just one more thing to break. But some people may prefer having the extra flexibility.

The Away has the most pleasant online ordering experience. Pick your size, pick your color, and wait for your luggage to arrive at your door. If you want a set of luggage that nests within itself like a set of Russian dolls, Away’s regular Carry-On and The Medium  checked bag can both be stacked into  The Large  checked bag. If you need only a single carry-on but want a larger option, The Bigger Carry-On gives you 8 more liters of space than the Carry-On, which holds almost 40 liters.

Like many hard-sided cases we tested, the Away has an optional removable battery and external USB ports for charging. However, we still aren’t convinced that your luggage needs to have a battery inside. Portable batteries are cheap and come in a bunch of sizes , but they’re useful on a plane only when they’re close to you. The quick-release latch on the Away’s battery compartment made it the easiest to access the encased batteries that we tested. But it’s ultimately still just a fancy place to put a portable battery. (It’s also begging to be forgotten if your bag ends up getting gate-checked, which is unadvisable .) And without quick-charging USB-PD ports, the Away battery is also a step behind more-current models. In short, we think you’ll be happier buying a battery separately and keeping it in your pocket or your under-seat bag.

The Away is covered by a lifetime limited warranty that should cover you in the event of any large failure, such as the shell cracking or the zipper breaking. (Cosmetic damage isn’t included.)

Flaws but not dealbreakers

Our complaints about the Away mirror the complaints we’ve always had with hard-sided luggage, beyond any decreased durability. The clamshell design of all of these bags, which split down the middle and open into two parts, makes them frustrating to pack and unpack. Packing cubes help a bit, but after years of packing and unpacking soft-sided luggage with single lids, I definitely find a clamshell design to be more finicky. If you want or need a single compartment, you’ll prefer soft-sided luggage.

Ultimately, what I’ve found is that those who loved the bag went into testing it already wanting to love it. And those who disliked the bag resented it before they even held it. But if you’ve decided that the bag’s sleek aesthetic and simple, uncomplicated design will make you feel calmer while you travel, you probably won’t be disappointed.

Dimensions: 21.7 by 13.7 by 9 inches Weight: 7.6 pounds Capacity: 39.8 liters

We found it hard to square The Frame Carry-On , from Arlo Skye, with its price, which is $200 higher than the Away’s. It’s a decent piece of luggage, but at that price you could spend a bit more for one of our soft-sided luggage upgrade picks from Briggs & Riley , which would be a much better suitcase all around.

Although we liked the uncommon top-loading design of the Lojel Cubo Medium , the internal organization of the lid made packing it difficult. We also weren’t impressed by the Lojel’s zippered expansion system, which made the suitcase feel bulkier than our picks.

The Herschel Trade Luggage Carry-On is a little less expensive than the Away carry-on, but we preferred the Away’s more solid feel. If this bag were half the price, it would be a more competitive choice. (It’s now discontinued.)

The Calpak Ambeur Carry-on is fine but not great. We ultimately aren’t impressed with how the Calpak handled—it felt jittery on normal airport-floor surfaces.

The AmazonBasics Hardside Spinner Luggage - 24-Inch is a surprisingly good bag for just over $100. However, as with the Calpak bag, the weaker ABS plastic shell is just not as tough as a polycarbonate shell. We think it’s worth investing a little more in your luggage. Your suitcase will last longer and work better.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Meet your guide

Kit Dillon is a senior staff writer at Wirecutter. He was previously an app developer, oil derrick inspector, public-radio archivist, and sandwich shop owner. He has written for Popular Science, The Awl, and the New York Observer, among others. When called on, he can still make a mean sandwich.

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Away vs Monos: Which Carry-On Should You Take on Your Next Trip?

Pitting similar offerings from the two popular luggage makers against each other, we reached a clear answer.

By Hayley Helms

Every product is carefully selected by our editors. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission.  Learn more

Like many everyday goods, carry-on luggage has been direct-to-consumer-ified. Now, countless luggage brands offer as many options (in as many colors) as possible. But two in particular stand out from the crowd: Away and Monos .

They have quite a bit in common: the blanding associated with DTC startups, an extensive selection of colorways, add-ons and sizing, and similar pricepoints. However, there are a few key differences. Here’s what I found — and which carry-on I would take on a trip again.

Monos Vs. Away: What We Think

At $295, the Monos Carry-On Pro costs slightly more than Away’s Carry-On — and although it has a bit less storage in the main compartments, thanks to its smart storage, I was able to fit just as many of my belongings as I did in Away’s offering. The Monos Carry-On Pro rolls more quickly, feels more durable and is available in more color options than its competitor.

Don’t get me wrong: Away’s entry into the carry-on luggage category works just fine. But while I did appreciate the extra storage, I couldn’t get over the flimsy handle. For anyone debating between the two, here’s my two cents: Just get the Monos.

How We Tested

Whether for work or pleasure, I’m on the road at least once a month. Over the past year and a half, these suitcases has traveled thousands of miles with me to San Francisco, Orlando, Patagonia, Phoenix, Amsterdam, Paris, Montana and more. My extensive travel informed my opinion of how these specific carry-on suitcases perform.

To learn more about our testing methodology and how we evaluate products, head here .

Away The Carry-On

My first experience with this experiment was with Away . Founded in NYC in late 2015, the brand was touted as a female-founded, DTC phenom with ample funding and potential, with the Carry-On as its signature product. By late 2020, one of the co-founders was ousted , and a toxic company culture was exposed — yet the Carry-On continued to resonate with consumers and dominate the market. Today, Away manufactures and sells a whole suite of travel products, from a selection of polycarbonate luggage to backpacks , organizers and wellness items.

I decided to try the brand’s original Carry-On ; I’m a light packer and enjoy taking just the right amount of clothing on a trip. Plus, I appreciated features like the built-in charging capability and the light weight of the suitcase.

The Internal Storage Is Well Designed

The internal storage system features multiple compartments for clothes and other items such as shoes and toiletries. Zippered pockets make it easy to stash smaller items, a drawstring laundry bag isolates dirty clothes, and buckles help you make sure everything fits.

The Extending Handle Feels Flimsy

The most noticeable thing I didn’t like about Away’s case was its handle — it feels flimsy and at odds with the rest of the construction. When the suitcase is packed, pushing it by the handle leaves you feeling like it’s about to snap off; it doesn’t feel sturdy when stationary.

• Extra handle eases loading into overhead bins
• Generous internal space
• The handle feels flimsy and cheap
• No external storage pocket
• $275.00 at Away

Monos Carry-On Pro

Arguably Away’s biggest competition, Vancouver-based Monos debuted on the travel scene in 2018 and sells design-forward suitcases and accessories in Canadian and U.S. markets. Since its launch, Monos has expanded beyond luggage and offers convenience and quality-based items, including clothing and accessories. The brand leverages the name recognition of Away and claims to build upon that model with a greater focus on quality and design.

Therefore, I decided to pit the Monos Carry-On Pro against Away’s counterpart.

A More Premium Feel

Right off the bat, I couldn’t help but agree with Monos’ marketing claim: Its carry-on is smoother and feels more durable. The most immediate takeaway was the telescopic handle — using it brought a welcome feeling of security and stability after using the Away case and left a lasting impression as I made my way through the airport.

I also enjoyed the interior organization. Though I appreciate Away’s system, the Carry-on Pro’s felt more practical and intuitive, and offered more division for my items. The Carry-On Pro also came with two shoe bags, something the germaphobe in me celebrated.

A Disappointing Front Pocket & Scuff-Prone Material

Although my first impression of the Monos made me consider it the superior case, it’s not perfect, for a couple reasons. The first is the front compartment, which doesn’t expand very well. When I put my laptop, sunglasses, keys and a slim book inside, it was tough to close. As a result, I found myself using it to store soft goods that could squish down, like a t-shirt or extra socks. Still, it’s a step up over Away’s Carry-on, which has no exterior pocket at all.

The other drawback to the Monos was the scuffing. On my first trip, after I pulled it out of the overhead compartment, I had two large white scuffs down the side of the case. Since then, I’ve unintentionally added about three more, even when I try to baby the case through my trip. My carry-on is black, so maybe the lighter colorways don’t have this issue, but it was annoying to see the marks after just one use.

That being said, the Monos ultimately feels like a more high-touch and smooth-functioning product, and for just $20 more, that makes it worth giving the final nod.

• Smooth rolling
• Superior internal organizing
• Scuffs easily
• Exterior pocket doesn't expand
• $295 at Monos

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Best Away Luggage Alternatives: Top 7 Dupes, According To Travel Experts

If you’re obsessed with the look and durability of the Away brand but not so impressed with the price, we’re happy to report many affordable dupes out there are as good as or even better than the real thing. Away luggage products are known for their minimalist design and wide range of colors. This appeals to a wide demographic, especially millennials and Gen Z.  The company has effectively utilized social media and influencer partnerships to sell directly to consumers, bypassing the traditional retail model, but the price tag is still high. Luckily, the best Away luggage alternatives are equally as impressive without draining your bank account.

Having a sturdy carry-on is vital if you travel a lot. A recent study found on average, Americans plan to visit four different destinations in 2024, with Mexico, Canada, and France topping the list. Three in 10 individuals aim to become “experienced travelers” next year, focusing on learning and guided tours.

Given these trends, having reliable luggage is even more important. Beyond just looking for a suitcase that visually mirrors the Away aesthetic, you’ll also want to consider factors like durability, weight, storage features, and warranty.  Away suitcases do come with unique features, such as a battery for charging devices , a compression system to help pack more, and a laundry bag. These details cater to the modern traveler’s needs .

Fortunately, the luggage market is vast, and many brands have risen to the challenge, offering premium features without the premium price tag. What are the best Away luggage alternatives? Find out below and let us know if you travel with one you love just as much.

The List: Best Away Luggage Dupes, Per Travelers

1. made by design carry on spinner.

This carry-on from Target is considered one of the most identical alternatives to the Away Carry-On and makes the top spot on our list. SheKnows says, “It is also made of lightweight and durable polycarbonate and ABS, and it has lots of little compartments to keep you organized. Its compression system, built-in lock, telescoping handle, and spinner wheels make it a strong dupe , and it even comes in great colors like white and aqua.”

“Target does it again — this time with an affordable spinner carry-on from its in-house brand, Made By Design,” writes Hunker . “Constructed from polycarbonate and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), it features an expandable, minimalist shell; smart interior pockets and straps for more efficient packing ; and multiple handles.”

Extra Bux says this almost identical dupe costs a third of the price of the Away carry-on. “The interior sports zippered compartments, a mesh pocket, and cross straps to help you compress your clothes for more efficient packing, and the exterior features a built-in lock for easy use. Multiple handles allow for easy carrying, while a telescoping handle adjusts to meet you where you’re at. The swivel wheels also ensure you’ll have an easy time maneuvering this luggage through busy airports , city sidewalks, and anywhere else.”

2. CalPak Hue Carry-On

“Expandable up to two inches and with a TSA-approved combination lock, this 21.5-inch polycarbonate Away dupe by Calpak is the convenient travel buddy you’ve been looking for, says She Knows . “And spinner wheels? This one’s got them and they’re dual wheels for even more movability.”

Apartment Therapy loves how effortlessly this carry-on glides through the airport, “no matter how heavy you make it.” The website editor adds, “The Hue carry-on is the perfect little suitcase, and I already know it’s going to be a lifesaver once again during my international summer travels .”

3. Traveler’s Choice Pagosa Hardshell Expandable Spinner Carry-On

“Wear and tear are no match for this hardshell spinner carry-on by Traveler’s Choice, according to Hunker . “Sold on Amazon, it’s made from indestructible polypropylene and is resistant to scratches, abrasions, and water. Additional features include built-in USB and type C ports, a compartment to hold portable power banks , and large interior compartments with self-mending zippers.”

The Modest Man says this Away alternative is very advanced. “Some of Traveler’s Choice’s innovations include burst-resistant zippers to promote anti-theft , spherical wheels inspired by airplanes and lunar rovers, and the industry’s only hardside and softshell hybrid garment bag. I especially love the ergonomic and stress-resistant handles, which make lugging suitcases up and down the stairs less taxing!”

A review on Cosmopolitan states, “This is a value buy! I was looking on every site trying to find a quality suitcase. I took this to Dublin and back. There were several plane changes and it was PACKED. The zippers didn’t bust and I had all my wheels. Still cute. Honestly cannot complain. There isn’t anything I would change.”

4. COOLIFE Carry-On

“Coolife is an effective budget option and is absolutely easy to find on Amazon,” states The Modest Man . “They make modern-looking suitcases and travel bags , with all the fixings. We’re talking TSA locks and 100% aluminum telescoping handles. The expandable polypropylene versions are similar to Away luggage because of their streamlined design, horizontal lines, and sturdy look and build. They come in five colors, including bright orange and an aquamarine-like shade called lake blue. They’re also durable, eco-friendly, and not easily scratched.”

Hunker adds, “Here’s a sleek piece of luggage that’s half the price of the original Away carry-on. It has a durable hardshell and an extra compartment in the front so you can easily access any small travel essentials .”

“Getting the look you want for less than half the price can be an excellent pre-vacation esteem boost,” writes BestLife . “Fortunately, experts say you can find that with the COOLIFE Carry-On. Among some of its notable features are a double TSA lock for added privacy and a textured exterior that prevents the bag from being scratched, meaning it should stay looking relatively new for more miles.” It also comes with a two-year warranty.

5. Béis The Carry-On Roller

“It’s carry-on size and has the same 360° spinner wheels as the Away version,” according to SheKnows . “This one’s also expandable and its telescopic trolley handle has a silicone grip so your hand won’t accidentally slip when you’re dashing through the airport. Like all Beis products, it comes with a limited lifetime warranty .”

Hunker adds, “Béis has quickly earned a reputation for producing functional, quality travel essentials , like its signature carry-on roller. Aside from its stunning 100% virgin polycarbonate shell and silhouette, it offers TSA locks, Hinomoto 360-degree wheels, and a genius built-in weight indicator.”

Travel writer Laura Ratliff tells New York Magazine , “If you can’t travel without taking your entire closet, Béis’s luggage is for you.” She adds it’s expandable up to two inches which means you can fit more stuff in there. Thankfully there’s a built-in weight-limit indicator to make sure you don’t go over the 50-pound weight restriction if you plan to check this bag.

6. Wrangler Smart Luggage 20″ Carry-On

You may have to look more than once to realize this is not the Away carry-on. SheKnows writes, “This Wrangler suitcase is a dead ringer for the Away carry-on. We love the super cool features like a built-in USB port, a built-in cup holder, and a phone holder. It also has 360° spinner wheels, a telescopic handle, and it’s expandable.” One fan wrote, “I didn’t know Wrangler made suitcases but my golly they are sturdy and great to use. I’m rough with my luggage and they HOLD up.”

“If Away’s fan-favorite USB phone charger is what initially piqued your interest in its carry-on bag, allow us to present a more affordable dupe : the Smart Luggage Carry-On from Wrangler,” gushes Hunker. “Its charging port is conveniently located on the back side of the bag and is hidden underneath a built-in cup holder. Talk about smart.”

“Yes, Wrangler — the company you know for denim and western-style apparel — makes suitcases that are affordable, stylish, and loaded with smart features ,” says SFGate . “This carry-on alternative to certain Instagram-famous brands in the suitcase industry (and, to be honest, if you only travel a few times a year, you may not need the bells and whistles of a pricier model).”

7. Level 8 Pro with Laptop Pocket

Reviewers from Valerie and Valice have road-tested this dupe for a few months and writes, “The Level8 Pro Carry-On with Laptop Pocket is the perfect Away Luggage Alternative with this handy feature. It fits perfectly in all the spaces a carry-on should go, and if you’re looking to keep it all super organized, their organizer packing cubes fit perfectly within.”

“Tech-forward and chic, Level 8 luggage flaunts an almost military-level quality, both in build and visuals,” according to The Modest Man . “Level 8’s laptop compartments are cleverly designed, with a secure pocket in its own section right at the front, in between the shell and the main compartment. It’s like a dedicated business center built into the bag, which makes Level 8 luggage perfect for professional travelers.”

We Dream Of Travel states, “The luggage is sleek, sturdy, aesthetically pleasing, and allocates space incredibly well. The electronics pocket is ideally organized for quick access and maximizing space which is essential for digital nomads like ourselves who travel for work often. The wheels are the highest quality we have owned, which is important as this is often the first thing to go. We also love the TSA locks that are built in!”

You may also be interested in:

• Best Luggage Sets
• Best Luggage for Kids
• Best Carry-On Luggage
• Best Rolling Backpacks
• Best Life Online
• Valerie & Valise
• In The Know
• Rolling Stone
• Retail Me Not
• The Modest Man
• New York Magazine
• We Dream of Travel
• Apartment Therapy
• Cosmopolitan

Note: This article was not paid for nor sponsored. StudyFinds is not connected to nor partnered with any of the brands mentioned and receives no compensation for its recommendations.

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This Luggage Dupe Looks Nearly Identical to Away—Yet It Costs $200 Less

Katie decker-jacoby.

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If you’re obsessed with Away , you’ll know the brand is pretty top-notch as far as luggage goes . Away bags are known for being sturdy, lightweight, and aesthetically pleasing. But if you’re not too keen on a hefty price tag of at least $275 for a carry-on suitcase , you might be in the same boat as us: hunting down an Away luggage dupe that’s nearly matched in quality, durability, and style.

Open Story Hardside Carry On Spinner Suitcase

To get into the nitty-gritty details, both suitcases are almost the exact same weight and size , and both have near-identical capacities. And, Target’s suitcase weighs only 7.3 pounds itself, but can hold a whopping 100 pounds of belongings. That’s more than enough room for all of your clothing, toiletries, and souvenirs. So, it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to see that these two suitcases are as identical as Mary-Kate and Ashley and as strong as Superman himself. 

Even the Target reviews section is filled with glowing approvals of the luggage’s durability and stylish look. Take, for example, one shopper who confirms the dupe makes moving on the go an easier experience.

“Traveling can be exhausting, especially when you’re lugging around heavy bags,” they wrote. “That’s why I love this lightweight luggage. It’s made from durable materials that are surprisingly lightweight, making it a breeze to carry. I no longer have to worry about exceeding weight limits or straining my back while traveling. This luggage has truly made my trips much more enjoyable.”

“This luggage set is a true gem! The stylish design caught my eye, but it’s the functionality that truly impressed me,” said another.

Trust reviewers when they say this dupe lives up to its claims. Whether you’re planning your next trip or need a good gift idea, this carry-on suitcase is most definitely the way to go.

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5 best backpacks for every travel style

Editor's Note

My purple camo Trans by Jansport backpack served me well for 20-plus years. It accompanied me to several countries, on countless road trips and along many hikes.

However, as I improved my packing strategies and my needs changed, I realized my current backpack situation was not ideal.

My bag lacked padding for my laptop, which I never travel without these days. It didn't include enough compartments for me to stay organized, either. Also, I've lost more than a handful of water bottles over the years, thanks to the short and loose side pockets.

Backpack benefits

The best travel backpacks are durable, well-organized and roomy enough for all your travel essentials.

They can also be more comfortable for frequent use. Because they're better at distributing weight, they're less likely to cause musculoskeletal damage that lugging a heavy tote bag on one shoulder might.

"Carrying heavy weight on one side of the body can cause a forward tilt of the shoulder, and poor posture, which can lead to shoulder and back pain long-term," said Dr. Jenny Yu, head of medical affairs at Healthline Media (which is owned by TPG's parent company, Red Ventures).

Backpacks are also easier to manage than rolling carry-ons, making your sprint to your connecting flight a little more efficient.

It was time to level up. Choosing the perfect replacement was a daunting task, though. I researched several models from different brands in varied price ranges.

Considerations when choosing a backpack

The type of bag you choose depends largely on how you plan to use it. Will it serve as your go-to bag for day trips, work commutes and road trips? Or, do you need a sturdy backpack for camping, hiking and long-haul flights or extended travel?

Once you narrow down your needs, it's easier to hone in on your other requirements.

Your travel plans and how you plan to use your backpack will likely determine how small or large your bag should be.

A park day out with the kids or a cruise port shore excursion may just require a small (6–10L) bag. Daypacks, typically 10–30L, are fine for your work commute or hiking. For travel purposes — from weekend getaways to multiday vacations — backpacks in the 30–45L range are your best bet.

On most U.S. airlines, a 45L backpack is the maximum size carry-on allowed. If you're flying on a budget carrier, you'll probably want to stick with something under the 40L range.

For packing purposes, a 45L bag is a good option if you're not bringing another carry-on. It should be able to hold four large packing cubes, a medium packing cube and a toiletry bag. This size fits in the overhead compartment.

Storing your backpack in the overhead bin? It shouldn't be larger than 22 by 14 by 9 inches.

You can fit two large packing cubes, a medium cube and a small toiletry bag in a 35L backpack. It should fit under the seat in front of you on the aircraft.

If you want to ensure your backpack fits under the seat, it can't exceed 18 by 14 by 8 inches, according to airline policy.

Related: How to tell if your backpack counts as a personal or carry-on item.

Backpacks can feature a variety of anti-theft components — some styles are more robust than others.

You may not need your bag to be at a Fort Knox level of security, but it should inclfeatures that can protect you (and your belongings) from thieves or pickpockets.

Consider a backpack constructed with slash-resistant material and straps, as well as lockable zippers.

Bags that offer RFID protection are lined with a special material that blocks accidental payments and intentional skimming of credit cards. They can prevent criminals from electronically accessing your personal information.

Compartments

If you use packing cubes, this might not be as big of a consideration for you. Even with packing cubes, I like having smaller sections for things I need to access easily — my phone, chargers, reporter notebook (yeah, I'm old school), passport and other necessities.

What do you typically pack in your backpack? As I mentioned, a laptop pocket is essential for me. I also like to have hidden pockets to store my passport, COVID-19 vaccine card and wallet. Separate areas to stash my sunglasses, chargers, keys and other important items I travel with are important, too.

Keeping the above features in mind, I reviewed five backpacks ranging in price and style. Here's the round-up.

Related: Here's what to pack in a carry-on bag every time you travel

Patagonia — Black Hole 32L Travel Pack

What I liked

The Patagonia Black Hole 32L Travel Pack is completely constructed with 100% recycled materials, including the body fabric, lining and webbing. It comes in a handful of colors — gold, red, black and gray/blue. The shinier shell has a polyurethane coating that makes it water-resistant.

This bag is also Fair Trade Certified™ sewn (as are all Patagonia products). Since the program launched in 2014, it has impacted more than 75,000 workers in 10 countries.

The lightweight bag packs flat and is very flexible. At first glance, I wondered if it would be structured enough to protect my laptop. However, the padded pocket worked well and fits most 15-inch laptops. The pocket is also slightly elevated from the bottom of the bag, which can protect your laptop if the bottom of your bag gets wet.

Both my 28- and 40-ounce insulated water bottles fit easily in the side pockets.

I tested this bag (along with the Away F.A.R. backpack) during a recent long-haul trip to South Africa. I packed:

• My 13-inch laptop.
• A 28-ounce insulated water bottle (filled once I passed through security).
• Compression socks.
• Travel pillow.
• Cross-body bag containing my passport, credit cards and money.
• A small reporter's notebook.
• Two paperback books.
• Makeup bag.
• Toiletry bag.
• A large Ziploc bag filled with snacks (protein bars, as well as bags of almonds and trail mix.

Filled, the backpack weighed just under 10 pounds.

I was impressed with the number of items I was able to pack. This backpack is like the clown car of backpacks. The sturdy straps held it in place and it never felt cumbersome to carry.

The pocket section of the bag zips open so you can lay it flat for going through the TSA scanner. (If you have Global Entry or TSA PreCheck , you won't need to worry about that, though.)

I liked the two rows of daisy chain-style loops on the outside of the bag. It's good for hanging bulky items or things you don't want to get crushed inside.

If you plan to long-distance hike with this bag, there's a hole at the top for the hose of your hydration pack.

Other considerations

The Patagonia Black Hole Travel Pack doesn't offer RFID protection. However, if the wallet that holds your ID and credit cards has the RFID protection feature, you should be covered.

Although this bag has an air mesh back panel for increased ventilation, other reviewers commented that the airflow wasn't substantial enough to prevent a sweaty back. I didn't encounter that issue. This bag doesn't include a hip belt, which could provide more stability. I typically don't use hip belts on backpacks, so I didn't mind it missing here.

Sizing: 16.93 by 7.87 by 23.03 inches, 1.1 pounds (empty).

Price: Around $249 on Amazon.

Arlo Skye — The Backpack

The brand's luggage line consistently garners high praise from reviewers, so I figured its one backpack offering, The Backpack , would be pretty solid. Color options are mint and black. It arrived tucked in a large reusable drawstring bag that included a handy silica gel pack, one of my essential travel accessories .

I tested a black backpack. I liked the bag's sleek design and leather top handle and trim. The water-resistant material is a nylon and polyester blend.

A tiny zip pocket at the top of the bag is the ideal spot to stash my earbuds, charger or a small pair of sunglasses. If you don't have a clunky set of keys, they may fit as well. I set off my car alarm attempting to shove mine into the small pocket.

The front section has a zippable mesh pocket, and two RFID-lined slip pockets for secure storage of your credit cards, ID and passport. A decent-size (9.5 by 7 inches) front pocket with a zipper provides easy access to your smartphone, keys and other items. There was room enough to store my Kindle (without its cover). There's also an attached key leash.

A middle section provides an open pocket for a tablet or iPad, and two smaller pockets — one of them, an expandable mesh. The third (back) portion of the bag is a padded laptop compartment that fits up to a 15" laptop.

The backpack also features a wide back sleeve that fits securely over the handle of carry-on luggage.

If you need a backpack that could serve as your one and only carry-on, this may not work for you. It's roomy enough for basics and a minimalist packer could possibly fit a weekend's worth of clothes and essentials in it. However, I think it would be a better option for your daily commute, weekend road trips or day trips.

The water bottle pockets were kind of useless to me. The pockets don't expand and there is no give in the material, so you're somewhat limited in bottle size.

It barely fit my 28-ounce insulated water bottle (I couldn't push the bottle all the way to the bottom of the pocket). However, you would probably be fine with a purchased 16-ounce plastic bottle of water.

I don't like storing my water bottle inside my backpack because of potential leaks (and water damage to my laptop), so I ended up carrying my 40-ounce bottle separately. There is a metal hook on one side of the bag so you could attach an insulated bottle to it with a carabiner.

Sizing: 11.8 by 7.5 by 17.7, 2.1 pounds (empty).

Price: $250.

Away — F.A.R. Backpack 26L

Away has a sizable fan base ( including TPG staffers ) thanks to its stylish hard-side rolling luggage.

F.A.R. (For All Routes) is the brand's recently launched outdoor line. The collection is designed with frequent travelers and outdoor adventurers in mind. Bags in the collection are constructed with lightweight 100% recycled polyester, and are abrasion- and water-resistant. The zippers and webbing are also made with recycled materials.

I tested the 26L backpack . The bag arrived wrapped in a plant-based compostable plastic bag, which is in line with the brand's push toward offering more sustainable and environmentally friendly products.

It's available in five colors — black, vivid blue, red-orange, burgundy and (dark) green.

As I mentioned above, I tested this bag on my return long-haul flight from South Africa. On the trip home, it contained everything I packed in the Patagonia backpack, as well as two small bags of souvenirs I snagged at the airport on the way out.

Since it's a bit smaller than the Patagonia backpack I carried first, I was concerned it wouldn't hold everything I started my trip with. I was pleasantly surprised it did with no issues.

The two side pockets for water bottles are roomy. The features list reads that the pockets fit up to 32-ounce bottles, but my 40-ounce insulated bottle fits easily (though I traveled with a 28-ounce bottle).

This backpack had lots of pockets and hidden storage. The front compartment has interior slip pockets for easy access to small essentials like your wallet, smartphone, passport, a book or two, chargers and other items. It was a slightly tighter fit once filled, but I suspected it would be given the size difference.

The main compartment features a larger slip pocket for your laptop. The padding wasn't quite as thick as the Patagonia laptop pocket, but it was enough that I didn't worry about it being damaged.

Two hidden zipper pockets on each side are so well concealed I wouldn't have found them if I hadn't read the features card included with the backpack.

You can attach your keys or other items to the bag's wide front webbing loops. Also, the thick backpack trolley strap slips easily onto your luggage handle.

In addition to the backpack I tested, the F.A.R. line includes three sizes of duffles, a 45L backpack, a water bottle bag, a packing cube, a zippered pouch and a messenger bag.

Of the five backpacks I tested, this was probably my favorite. Based on my experience with this brand, I will likely add more F.A.R. products to my travel arsenal.

Sizing: 19 by 12.6 by 7.7 inches, .78 pounds (empty).

Price: $130.

Solo Re:Claim

One of the products in Solo's Re:Cycled collection, the Solo Re:Claim is made from Polyethylene terephthalate (PET), a type of strong, lightweight and 100% recyclable plastic. The collection is reasonably priced and includes additional backpacks, totes, rolling cases, laptop sleeves and other products (all constructed from recyclable plastic).

The bag I tested was heather-grey. It also comes in burgundy and navy (though the navy backpacks were unavailable at the time of writing this).

The backpack is water-resistant and comes with a five-year limited warranty. It features a smaller padded front zippable pocket with compartments for pens, cards, your phone and a tablet, as well as a small clip for your keys. A roomy fully-padded compartment fits 11- to 15.6-inch laptops.

There are mesh pockets on each side for water bottles. Although the pockets give a little, I struggled to squeeze in my 28-ounce insulated bottle. Once I got it in, though, I felt confident it wouldn't fall out.

A tag was included in the packaging with information about Solo's partnership with the National Forest Foundation. The company plants trees with every bag sold from its Recycled Collection.

I didn't really care for the two handles at the top of the backpack. They were located on each side of the opening with a wrap-like velcro to connect them. It was kind of annoying to have to take it apart every time I wanted to unzip the bag.

I usually travel with a 40-ounce bottle, which did not fit in the side pockets.

Sizing: 16.5 by 12.25 by 6.75 inches, 1.2 pounds (empty).

Price: About $67.26 on Amazon.

Briggs & Riley — @Work Large Cargo Backpack

This backpack is ideal for work commuters and business travelers who need a sleek and professional-looking bag to carry their business essentials. It's also roomy enough to pack clothes and toiletries you'd need for an overnight stay if needed.

The hefty price tag might intimidate you. However, when you consider the company's lifetime replacement warranty and consistently positive customer reviews, I feel like it's worth the investment.

It has an interior organizer, main and laptop compartments, a durable fabric lining, an RFID-blocking pocket with two hidden credit card pockets that hold a wallet and passport.

There are also three elastic slip pockets with leather tabs to organize smaller items such as cords and USB drives and two more slip pockets to store other items.

Its top cargo pocket on the front panel holds travel accessories. It features two elastic pen loops, a large main compartment, a full-length slip pocket in the main compartment for storing folders or files, as well as two elastic pockets in the main compartment for storing cables and chargers.

It also includes a laptop compartment with a padded sleeve, plus a padded tablet pocket in the laptop compartment.

The exterior is 1600D ballistic nylon that resists wear, moisture, dirt and abrasion. The front panel also has a leather nameplate on the front (that you can monogram), a deep zip pocket on the front panel for easy access to items such as sunglasses or a smartphone, top-grain leather carry handles and a gusseted side u-zip pocket with an elastic band for a water bottle.

The backpack has adjustable padded straps, an aerated mesh back padding and a slip-through back panel that allows the backpack to slide over a luggage handle and bottom corner guards to protect the backpack from wear and tear.

It's very comfortable. I'm surprised at how light it feels given its large size. I tested it during my daily office commute. It holds my laptop, charger, wallet, phone and an extra pair of shoes.

I also appreciated the light contrasting shade of the bag's inside lining — it's so much easier to find my items.

Color choices are limited to black and dark grey. However, if you're using it for daily work or business travel, you want something that looks professional and this definitely fits the bill.

Additionally, there aren't any real external gear attachment options. The bag does include a removable luggage tag, which is nice.

Sizing: 19 by 15 by 8 inches, 3.2 pounds (empty).

Price: $379.

Related: What your luggage brand says about you

Bottom line

A well-organized and sturdy travel backpack is worth its weight in gold.

If you expect a lot out of your bag and want it to last through all your future travels, you may want to spend a little more on it. If you travel occasionally and just need a backpack for convenience, lower-priced options should suffice for your needs.

Before you buy your next backpack (or other travel essentials), check out TPG's guides to airline and shopping portals, as well as the best credit cards for online shopping. That way, the gear you buy for your next trip can also help you pay for it.

Do you have a backpack you can't do without? Let us know in the TPG Lounge or email us at [email protected]. We're always on the lookout for products that make travel easier and we would love to hear from you.

Protect Your Trip »

Monos vs. away: luggage comparison charts.

An Away expert and a Monos fan compare these two well-known luggage brands.

Monos vs. Away Comparison Charts

Courtesy of Away and Monos

When it comes to purchasing new luggage, the final decision for many buyers often comes down to two brands: Monos and Away. Both brands offer similarly designed hard-sided luggage in the same price range. They've both been around for about the same amount of time as well – Away launched in 2015, and Monos made its debut in 2018.

With so much in common between these brands, you may have difficulty deciding which luggage brand makes the most sense for your travel needs. That's why we've taken Away and Monos head to head in a series of comparisons below.

(Note: Prices were accurate at the time this article was published; they may fluctuate due to demand or other factors. Because of the popularity of these brands, certain pieces or color choices may be sold out.)

Monos vs. Away: The Basics

Key differences: Monos luggage is slightly more affordable and lightweight than Away. It's also available in a wider variety of colors, including limited edition options.

Monos vs. Away: Top Features

Key differences

• Away's expandability: Most of Away's carry-on and checked bags are available in Flex form (for example, The Medium Flex ); these suitcases offer all the same features as their Classic counterparts, but with additional expandability. While you won't find this option with Monos luggage, Monos does offer an external pocket on its Carry-On Pro and Carry-On Pro Plus .
• Monos' sustainability: Monos luggage is crafted from partially recycled materials and features vegan leather.

Pros and Cons

Away Luggage Pros & Cons

Lightweight

No external pocket on carry-on bags

Can roll away on uneven surfaces

Can be easily scratched

Monos Luggage Pros & Cons

Removable interior compression panel

Release button telescoping handle

Lighter colors show wear and tear easily

Vegan leather details have a slight odor

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Monos vs. Away: Luggage Comparisons

Carry-on luggage.

Key differences: In addition to The Carry-On and The Bigger Carry-On, Away offers The Carry-On Flex and The Bigger Carry-On Flex , which feature additional expandability. Monos has the Carry-On Pro and the Carry-On Pro Plus , which offer a large exterior pocket instead of expandability.

Medium Checked Luggage

Large Checked Luggage

Key differences: The Trunk by Away is made of polycarbonate, while the Monos Hybrid Trunk features a polycarbonate shell with an aluminum frame and corner guards. Additionally, the Trunk by Away is slightly larger than the one offered by Monos.

Monos vs. Away: Aluminum Luggage Comparisons

Key differences: Away's aluminum luggage features a fully aluminum shell. Monos' hybrid line combines a polycarbonate shell with two aluminum features: an aluminum frame and aluminum corner guards. Also, Monos offers a Hybrid Trunk while Away does not.

The Verdict

Both Monos and Away offer lightweight yet sturdy hard-sided luggage with key features including smooth 360-degree spinner wheels, strong handles, sturdy zippers, and interior compression and organization.

If expandability and durability are essential to you, Away is your best option. In our testing, we found Away's luggage to be more scratch-resistant than Monos' suitcases. Away also has an overall more attractive aesthetic. For almost everything else – a slightly lower price point and weight, more color choices, the option to have an external pocket and a focus on sustainability – Monos comes out on top.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

For these comparisons, Rachael Hood and Amanda Norcross drew from their personal experiences with Away and Monos luggage. Norcross has been traveling with Away luggage for more than five years, while Hood has been traveling with Monos luggage for about a year and testing a variety of luggage for as long as she can remember.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Carry-on Luggage
• The Best Checked Luggage
• The Best Luggage Sets
• Hard vs. Soft Luggage: Which Type Is Right for You?
• The Best Luggage Brands

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Away The Everywhere Bag Review

Meet your versatile new best bag-friend

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Away The Everywhere Bag

TripSavvy / Joy Merrifield

Fits perfectly over most carry-on handles

Easy to clean

Lightweight

Discreet umbrella pocket

Odd laptop sleeve gussets

Always sold out

The Everywhere Bag from Away is a modern, minimalist delight that we are happy to endorse.

• Ease of Cleaning
• Competition
• Final Verdict

We purchased the Away The Everywhere Bag so our expert reviewer could thoroughly test and assess it. Keep reading for our full product review.

Designed to hold its own solo or nest on the handle of a rolling suitcase, The Everywhere Bag is Away’s crack at a truly take-anywhere accessory. Since the company’s 2015 launch, Away’s design mission has been to offer an easy, effortless uniform that works for the masses but feels unique to the individual. We enjoyed taking Away’s Bigger Carry-On for a spin and were interested to see if the weekender iteration could measure up to its big sister and to its name. And how better to test an Everywhere Bag than to take it absolutely everywhere? 

Design: Minimalism, maximized

Classic and a little boxy, the Everywhere Bag doesn’t take up a lot of visual real estate at first glance. Away’s brand M.O. so far has been to boil down travel accessories to their most essential, useful roots, applying thoughtful design to a field that can be overrun by heavy design details like outsized hardware and thick leather features. 

We reviewed the nylon version, which is available in a wide choice of colors (we went with the neutral Sand). Constructed of—you guessed it—thick, waterproof nylon, the bag is minimally accented with narrow black leather handles, a removable black shoulder strap in soft cotton webbing, and coordinating black zippers and pocket piping. Away also offers The Everywhere in leather , as well as other limited-run premium fabrics—if you can get your paws on them before they sell out. The color combos for non-nylon vary, but the basic bone structure remains the same.

The bag construction employs a hint of origami, using strategically placed darts rather than stitched-together panels to create the boxy shape. Away has cleverly managed to make the majority of the exterior from one large piece, which is great for weatherproofing and gives it shape without rigidity. This is probably the most low-key but crucial evidence of its modern design. It’s unlikely that you’d notice the darts outright, but the absence of side panels is what keeps the design from dipping into gym bag territory. They also help it maintain its shape when empty, which, as anyone who’s tried to pack a floppy duffel bag before will know, is merciful.

The Everywhere features a subtly integrated exterior panel that you can slip over the telescopic handle of most rolling suitcases (Away or not), so they can roll together. These are sometimes called a “trolley sleeve,” and while Away didn’t invent them, they’ve certainly gotten them some good—and well-deserved—publicity. They’re genius. If you’ve ever attempted to run to your gate while balancing a personal item on your rolling suitcase, then you know how very real the struggle can be. 

Storage: Pockets, pockets, pockets

Besides the trolley sleeve, the wealth and variety of pockets is where The Everywhere Bag shines. One thing Away clearly understands is the power of partitioned storage. A waterproof, virtually invisible zippered compartment in the base of the bag is designed to hold umbrellas, leaving us to wonder why every bag ever designed doesn’t have this. How many commutes with dripping umbrellas have we had to suffer through before this? 

The exterior also has a zippered pocket over the trolley sleeve, and a small, accessible phone pocket. Our larger phone stuck out of the pocket a little, which didn’t feel very secure, so we opted to keep it in the zippered pocket instead.

Besides the trolley sleeve, the wealth and variety of pockets is where The Everywhere Bag shines.

The interior has more piped and zippered pockets, including a snap-closure laptop pocket that will accommodate up to a 15-inch computer. The sides of the laptop pocket are gusseted to handle either thick laptops or laptops kept in their sleeves. The width was just right for a 15-inch MacBook Pro, but the gussets give it too much room to flop forward and backward. It would’ve been nice if Away had designed the pocket’s closing strap to be adjustable to account for computer size variation.  

Though great, the other interior pockets don’t need individual calling out, except for one: There’s a discreetly placed pocket in the very bottom interior. We’re pretty sure you’re supposed to tuck the umbrella sleeve into it when not in use, but it’s also roughly passport-sized. Maybe a bonus security feature?

Capacity: A perfect personal item

The airline gods would categorize The Everywhere Bag as a “personal item” rather than luggage. As the name implies, you can take it anywhere, but with a capacity of 20 liters, don’t plan on stretching it out to an extended stay. For comparison, your average school backpack will have a capacity falling somewhere between 18 and 25 liters. 

You can take it anywhere, but with a capacity of 20 liters, don’t plan on stretching it out to an extended stay.

The Everywhere is designed to harmonize with Away’s rolling suitcases, letting them manage the heavy lifting while keeping the laptop and toiletries (in their chic, quart-sized clear bag) close at hand. As luggage, you aren’t going to be able to fit much more than a weekend’s worth of essentials in there, unless you’re planning for a week spent exclusively in sarongs and flip flops. And if that’s the case, can we come?

If you’re looking for a larger bag, Away’s Weekender Bag , with an almost 39-liter capacity, may be better for you. It’s about the same size as a small carry-on and can fit in both the overhead compartment and under the seat.

Uses: Great almost everywhere, for almost everything

We were impressed with how convertible this bag was. We ferried a 15-inch laptop around the city in it, commuted back and forth to work in the rain with it, took it to work meetings, packed it for a weekend trip, and used it as our gym bag for a month. By keeping the design neutral and the capacity intermediate, the Everywhere really did work almost everywhere. The Nylon Sand colorway we reviewed felt a little out of place in a nice restaurant, but the leather version, currently offered in either black or blush, wouldn’t have. 

The Everywhere really did work almost everywhere.

Ease of Cleaning: Spot clean only

The exterior of the Everywhere we reviewed is abrasion- and water-resistant performance nylon. Away recommends that you skip the washer and dryer for this fabric and spot clean with a damp cloth and gentle soap. After a month, we didn’t notice any stains or marks on our light-colored bag, but we did notice that the waterproof umbrella pouch will stay wet forever if you let it. You should turn it inside out to dry at the end of a rainy day—and try not to forget your wet umbrella in it for an entire weekend as we did. 

Price: A little expensive

At $195, the price of Away’s Everywhere Bag does seem a little expensive. It’s obviously well made, and we love all the storage pouches and pockets. The nylon quality is excellent, and the accent leather is fine—maybe not the most durable, but buttery soft. At the end of the day, though, it’s a small, nice nylon bag that costs nearly as much as the rolling suitcase that made Away famous, and it doesn’t even come with its own charging station. We wish they would’ve found a way to price it $30 to $50 cheaper.

Competition: It’s fierce (and trendy) out there

Dagne Dover Ryan Laptop Bag: Slimmer, trendier, and better built for business than the Everywhere Bag, the Ryan Laptop Bag from Dagne Dover has a trolley sleeve that slides over your suitcase handle to lock in place, but it caters more to electronics than weekend outfits. Fabricated from neoprene in some ridiculously cute colorways and loaded down with pocket features, the Ryan is 100 percent business, but 0 percent buttoned up. 

Lo & Sons O.M.G.: The Everywhere Bag is certainly multi-use, but it would never be mistaken for a purse. If you love the pockets, dividers, and trolley sleeve of the Everywhere Bag but don’t love the idea of carrying a separate suitcase, laptop bag, and purse on your travels, the O.M.G. from Lo & Sons is a great compromise. Roomy without being too obviously functional, the O.M.G. has roughly the same capacity as the Everywhere Bag (20 liters) and holds a 13-inch laptop. It even has a discreet shoe compartment at the bottom, which is great for when the business dinner finally ends and you get to slip on some Keds to explore the new city. 

Everlane The Twill Weekender: Similarly styled with strong, modern solids and polished black leather accents, the Twill Weekender from Everlane is a more laid-back alternative to the Everywhere Bag. It doesn’t offer much in the way of dedicated pockets, and it doesn’t have the trolley sleeve, but it’s a handsome, classic weekender with a generous 36-liter capacity and of-the-moment brand appeal.  

Minimal and exceptionally versatile, The Everywhere Bag from Away truly did find a way to fit into every setting. We love that the size and quality are adaptable to the gym, commuting, work, travel …  everywhere! We think it’s a little expensive for a smallish nylon bag, but the design and the features sold us anyway. If it’s in the budget (and if it’s in stock), we’re even considering a level up to the elegant leather version. Even in the nylon fabrication, though, we can easily add our recommendation to this one. 

• Product Name The Everywhere Bag
• Product Brand Away
• Price $195.00
• Weight 2.6 lbs.
• Product Dimensions 16.3 x 7.3 x 10.2 in.
• Color Nylon: Black, Navy, Green, Asphalt, Sand; Leather: Black, Blush
• Outer Material Nylon, leather
• Lining Material Nylon
• Capacity 20 L
• Handle Drop 7 in.
• Warranty 100-day no-question return policy

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A Checked Bag for Cheap: This Away Luggage Dupe Is Just $99

By Tim Chan

If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Rolling Stone may receive an affiliate commission.

Away has had a foothold on the luggage and travel accessories category for many years, and the company continues to release new and inventive products each season. But Away luggage isn’t cheap, with a basic carry-on starting from $275 and a checked bag starting at $345 .

That’s why we’re big fans of this suitcase from Brandless, a company that’s less about labels and more about value. Case in point: This hard-sided spinner, which you can get right now for just $99 — a whopping $240 less than a comparable suitcase from Away. 

It’s not just a great deal for an Away alternative — it’s a great luggage deal, period.

Buy Brandless Checked Suitcase $99

The four Hinomoto wheels are smooth and tangle-free, even on grass or thick carpeting. We also like the telescoping handle, which can adjust to two different heights.

Inside, find two compartments to store your stuff. Use the zippered compartment to keep shoes and accessories neatly organized, then pack your clothes into the other compartment, which has two adjustable flaps to keep your stuff “strapped” in. There are a ton of pockets for additional storage options too.

What we like: this is not only an affordable suitcase, it’s an eco-friendly one too, with a recyclable polycarbonate shell and an interior lining made with recycled PET plastic (I.e. plastic bottles).

At 18.5″ wide x 10.8″ long x 25.8″ tall, this is just slightly larger than carry-on dimensions but not so big that you’re lugging around a huge suitcase. It’s an ideal checked bag for a week-long vacation or long weekend getaway.

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Similar suitcases run into the hundreds of dollars, and Brandless usually has this one priced at $130, but it’s on sale now for just $99. See full deal offers for this Away dupe at Brandless.com .

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From Tumi to Globe Trotter: The 6 best Rimowa alternatives

If you want great new luggage but you don’t want to plump for Rimowa, there are still plenty of options with many of the best luggage brands suiting your needs. Whether you want something with a different style to Rimowa, looking for additional features, or just want to try something other than the brand that tops our look at the best luxury luggage brands , we’re here to help.

Below, we’ve picked out all the best Rimowa alternatives currently available. It’s a pretty exciting bunch with some great options for cool looks or if you simply need something bigger, or want to think sustainably with your purchase. Excited to see what we’ve featured? Let’s take a look.

The best Rimowa alternatives in 2024

• Buy if you want the best overall alternative.
• Buy if you want a more affordable Rimowa alternative.
• Buy if you want a versatile luggage brand.
• Buy if you want a cool timeless look.
• Buy if you want large luggage.
• Buy if you want a sustainably made luggage set.

Best overall

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Tumi offers a wide range of luggage options. It’s possible to filter its range down according to luggage size, trip duration, as well as weight, and the material it’s made out of. That gives you plenty of options with many different color choices too so you can find the right design for you.

One of its best models is the 19 Degree International Expandable Carry-On. It’s made with a recycled polycarbonate shell and it’s built for both international and domestic travel so it’s fairly flexible. The model has a built-in USB port along with plenty of storage options such as zip pockets, and compression straps. Its wheels are robust while there’s easy zip entry and retractable handles for your convenience. Other models include the Extended Trip Expandable Checked Luggage which is useful for bigger trips and you can also choose carry-ons designed for short journeys. There’s truly something for every occasion here.

Best affordable Rimowa alternative

Away is a highly affordable alternative to Rimowa. If you’re looking for style, well, that’s where the price cuts are shown. Away luggage looks nice but isn’t exactly exciting looking so if you want something to attract attention at the airport, this isn’t it. However, if you want to keep costs down, Away is reliable. A basic example is the Carry-On Flex which is available in many different colors. The name is there because it has a flex feature where you can create some extra space for last minute items by fully expanding it. Before that though, the luggage works well as a carry-on option but you can also go bigger with other choices in the Flex range. It has a durable yet lightweight shell while there are plenty of storage pockets.

Away also has aluminum options with its The Carry-On: Aluminum Edition while there’s also The Trunk for something that’s even more robust. In all cases, you get 360-degree spinner wheels, along with some smartly designed interior organization so you can’t go wrong.

Best versatile Rimowa alternative

Established back in 1910, Samsonite is a well-known luggage brand for good reason. It knows how to develop sturdy and well-made luggage with many different designs. Over the years, it’s adopted necessary TSA-approved locks along with expandable compartments and robust materials. Its luggage is frequently made from polypropylene so it won’t crack. Much of its range has expandable storage while there are packing cubes and compression bags for more room. Not all of its range has 360-degree spinner wheels which is a minor downside but they’re still pretty good.

Look out for luggage like the C-Lite and Respark with each offering plenty of ways to store items, useful additions like an integrated USB port, and plenty of handles, a TSA-approved lock and everything else you could need. A plentiful supply of color choices gives you the personal touch but you can also add a laser-engraved message on the handle to truly make it yours.

Globe Trotter

Best timeless look.

For a luggage set that will last through the generations and have a timeless look from days gone by, you need to invest in Globe Trotter. Everything it sells looks great with a focus on luggage that looks like it’s from centuries ago in the good way. Delivery usually takes a little bit so you’ll need to plan ahead rather than use this as a last-minute solution but it’s worth investing.

The highlight is its Centenary range with many different colors and designs. All are made with a famous 14 layers of recycled paper bonded with zinc to create Vulcanized fiberboard. It’s built to be tougher than leather yet lighter than aluminum. Durable handles come from core materials bonded together for 48 hours before construction while there are gorgeous leather corners to ensure robustness and style. It’s hardly surprising that Globe Trotter has collaborated with Aston Martin in recent times with exclusives like a No Time To Die luggage set also featuring. It’s all classy stuff.

Best for large luggage

Antler offers some truly spacious luggage that is perfect for those long-haul extended vacations. Its hard shell cases use a polycarbonate exterior so there’s plenty of strength here although users have reported minor scratches are quite easy to come by. One highlight in the range is the Stamford collection which combines British design with Japanese innovation.

It has built-in functionality to keep its wheels well-greased so the luggage lasts longer. Said wheels are whisper quiet with 360-degree rotation. On the inside is a removable packing divider with a pocket that sits under compression packing straps. There’s also an expander zip on the case which extends the space with a plethora of different pockets for easy storage. Antler also sells luggage sets if you want to kit yourself out with everything possible.

Best sustainable alternative

Monos is a great option for anyone worried about the planet as its entire range is made with ultra-microfiber vegan leather details with a partially recycled aerospace-grade and water-resistant polycarbonate hard shell. It’s still robust though although some people have reported minor scuffs on the material.

Highlights like the standard Carry-On also has a built-in removable compression pad with zippered pocket for flat items while there are color-coordinated YKK reverse coil zippers and 360-degree spinner wheels. Even the handle has been well thought out with a telescopic handle that’s been built to last with a neat release button that is hidden underneath. There’s a lot of attention to detail placed on Monos luggage with a wide range of sizes sure to keep you happy.

How we chose these Rimowa alternatives

Once you’ve figured out you want one of the best Rimowa alternatives, it’s time to think about some other key factors before hitting the buy button. While collating this list, we considered the same things that you need to before making a purchase.

That means we gave a lot of thought to style. Luxury luggage that rivals Rimowa needs to look good and be eye-catching at the airport, so we considered that each step of the way. We also then went straight to thinking about what you’re packing and how much space you need. We made sure that each brand we featured offers an extensive range of sizes so there are basic carry-on options along with much larger forms of luggage.

Finally, we thought about any special additions. These could be particularly well-designed wheels or simply easy-to-access USB ports. It’s always good to see innovation so we focused on that.

Editors' Recommendations

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• The Best of the Best

Whether your existing luggage is worn down or you don't even have any yet, you're gonna need somewhere to stow your belongings for your next trip. There are a ton of great luggage brands on the market, but at some point, you'll narrow your choices down to one or two options. If that's the case, and you're currently weighing Tumi vs Rimowa luggage, well, you've ended up here. A head-to-head between these two brands makes a lot of sense because they are similar in many ways. Of course, there are some differences, too, and that might help you make your decision on which to choose for your next luggage set. We've got the low-down right here, so let's discuss. Tumi vs Rimowa luggage: Who wins?

If you're not interested in the full comparison and just want to know which brand you should purchase, the answer is, well, complicated. Rimowa is more expensive but also uses premium materials and is well-known for its long-lasting products. Tumi, on the other hand, is more affordable and accessible, with a more versatile selection of practical luggage solutions. So, what's the deciding factor? It depends on what you're looking for and what you need. If you have the budget then go with Rimowa, but if you need to save a little cash for your trip, Tumi will be just fine. Ultimately, there is no clear winner, and that's okay.

Most major airlines have a loyalty scheme that rewards frequent flyers with various levels of status and associated perks. Some have an extra invite-only level of status that is applied to some of their most valued customers. For United, this is “Global Services.”

Not much has actually been published about Global Services, with United’s MileagePlus program seemingly capping out with Premier 1K status. However, you may notice Global Services members called for pre-boarding, spot one of their dedicated check-in kiosks, or see it written on the side of one of those carts they use to transport elite members from the lounge to the gate.

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The difference between a luxury cruise and a regular cruise extends beyond varying price points. A regular cruise often comes with all of the standard amenities and service levels, while a luxury cruise takes the experience a step further by offering an unparalleled level of opulence and refinement. Luxury cruises often include gourmet dining experiences, unique amenities, and VIP privileges, including priority embarkation and access to exclusive events.

More From Forbes

15 affordable places to travel in 2024, ranked in a new report.

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Want to take an affordable vacation in 2024? You’ve come to the right place. Although travel costs are on the rise this year ( up 3.1% ), it’s still possible to save money in 2024—if you know where to go.

A new travel report from the U.K.’s Post Office —a British-based mail and financial services company — has just unveiled some of the most budget-friendly destinations for 2024. And although the annual report is aimed at U.K. travelers, it’s a helpful list for Americans, too.

By analyzing currency strengths, local prices and essential tourist expenses in 40 popular vacation destinations around the globe, the Holiday Money Report 2024 highlights some of the cheapest places to travel. The report ranks the destinations based on a barometer that takes the local price of eight tourist essentials into consideration—including coffee, beer, cola, wine, water, sunscreen, insect repellent and a three-course meal. And while the report doesn’t include factors like hotels and airfare, it helps give a good sense of where your dollars will stretch the furthest.

This is the 18th year that the Post Office has done this report. And the good news: Prices have fallen since last year in 25 spots on the list. (A note that the original report included prices in pounds sterling, which have been converted into dollars here.)

An aerial view of Hoi An, Vietnam, the most affordable destination to travel in 2024, according to a ... [+] new report.

Leading the list as the cheapest place to travel right now is Hoi An, Vietnam. According to the Post Office report, a total estimated cost of just $64.54 a day for the travel essentials makes this charming gem the ultimate bang-for-your-buck destination that won’t break the bank. Located on the central coast of Vietnam, Hoi An entices visitors with its UNESCO -recognized Ancient Town, a picturesque spot where lantern-lit streets lead to quaint shops and street food stalls. It is also convenient to stunning white-sand beaches—some of the most beautiful in Asia .

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Following closely behind in the second spot is Cape Town, South Africa, where an outlay of $68.54 a day for the essentials promises an unforgettable experience against the backdrop of Table Mountain and pristine coastlines. Here, you can dive into the vibrant culture and indulge in world-class dining (a three-course meal for two people averages less than $44.14) without denting your travel fund.

The coastline of Mombasa, Kenya, with a pair of camels on Diani Beach.

Mombasa, Kenya takes the third spot on the list. This beachfront destination on the east coast of Africa beckons with its white-sand shores, vibrant markets and rich Swahili heritage, offering an immersive experience for travelers seeking both relaxation and cultural exploration.

In a surprising twist, Tokyo, Japan—a bustling metropolis where tradition meets modernity—secures the fourth spot on the list. According to the Post Office, just $59.05 a day is needed for essential tourist purchases. Helping drive this ranking was the cost of a glass of wine (an average of only $4.57) and a bottle of water (averaging 77¢).

The cliffs of the Algarve overlooking the Atlantic Ocean above the Benagil cave in Lagoa, Portug.a

Rounding out the top five is the Algarve in Portugal, which combines culture, history and natural beauty at a fraction of the cost compared to previous years. With its sun-drenched beaches, charming villages and delectable seafood, the Algarve offers an idyllic escape for travelers seeking an affordable yet enriching getaway.

Here are top 15 best-value spots from the 2024 report. You can also download the full Worldwide Holiday Costs Barometer for more locations and more details.

Overlooking a pristine beach in Hoi An, Vietnam.

• Hoi An, Vietnam - $64.54
• Cape Town, South Africa - $68.54
• Mombasa, Kenya - $69.96
• Tokyo, Japan - $74.68
• Algarve, Portugal - $75.64
• Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt - $77.74
• Sunny Beach, Bulgaria - $79.38
• Kuta, Bali - $80.45
• Marmaris, Turkey - $83.44
• Paphos, Cyprus - $92.64
• Penang, Malaysia - $94.27
• Phuket, Thailand - $98.77
• Delhi, India - $98.90
• Costa del Sol, Spain - $103.50
• Montego Bay, Jamaica - $110.26

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The Best Airbnb Alternatives, From Plum Guide to Bnbfinder

Whether you’re looking for vacation rentals with a more luxurious appeal or to avoid outrageous cleaning fees, these alternatives are a great way to elevate your next getaway.

Mia Maguire

Managing Editor, Commerce

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While I absolutely live for hotel stays (themed hotels and fantasy suites are my primary passion in life, but I adore my tried-and-true Double Trees, too), even I can admit that there are some notable advantages to staying at a vacation or home rental from platforms like Airbnb or VRBO. They’re usually more spacious, making them great for larger group getaways, bachelorette parties, family reunions, and the like. Plus, vacation rentals often are decked out with other convenient amenities, including full kitchens, laundry machines, hassle-free digital check-in (i.e., not having to talk to anyone IRL to get inside the property), and generally being more pet-friendly.

As a hotel loyalist who rarely uses these alternative lodging options, I have to admit the main reason I would opt for a homeshare listing as opposed to booking a room somewhere is usually an attempt to save some dough. Lately, though, while I love Airbnb’s unparalleled offering of unusual and themed accommodations, I’ve found its rentals to be far more expensive (especially after factoring in booking, service, and cleaning fees) than some five-star resorts. After recently forgoing an Airbnb rental for a hotel due to a series of additional fees, I began to wonder if there are any other alternatives that have emerged since the last time I had booked with the O.G. vacation rental company (it was, like, 2012, for reference and, spoiler alert: there are a lot.)

It turns out I’m not the only one who has become increasingly disillusioned by the staggering fees and surprise expenses you often find with ubiquitous vacation rental players—not to mention taking out my own trash, doing the dishes, and making the bed during the final moments to complete the checkout process. According to a recent survey by bnbfinder, 92 percent of people say price is a factor when booking travel accommodations and traveler frustration with vacation rental website service fees is an 8 on a 1-10 scale.

“The data tells us there’s a growing trend among savvy travelers to use sites like Airbnb or Vrbo, almost like a search engine to source a vacation rental, and then explore ways to book that same property directly to sidestep paying service fees,” said Eric Goldreyer, CEO and owner of bnbfinder in a press release . “At the same time, with many Americans expecting to spend more on their trips this year, it’s evident travelers aren’t just budget-driven—they’re craving overall value in their vacation rentals.”

I realize that many people aren’t hotel people — even if saving money or looking for overall value in a rental isn’t a consideration. While I find it hard to believe there are people out there who actually prefer to make their own beds and forgo the luxury of having housekeeping on speed dial for a complimentary toothbrush or comb if forgotten at home, some people favor booking a true home away from home instead. If you’re one of these people who prefer the benefits of non-hotel lodging when you’re away from home, Airbnb isn’t the only platform to choose from these days—and it’s certainly not the most wallet-friendly if you’re trying to avoid extra fees. Read on to check out the best Airbnb alternatives when booking your next trip.

Plum Guide is certainly not the booking platform for cutting costs per se, but it is the sexiest option on the market right now. “Restaurants have the Michelin Star. Books have the New York Times Bestseller List. Vacation homes have the Plum Guide,” is the brand’s tagline, and it couldn’t be more spot on. In a heavily oversaturated booking website market, Plum Guide aims to offer a tightly curated selection of the absolute, hands-down best of the best vacation rentals around the world—it’s all about quality over quantity. Plum Guide’s experts vet every home available for rental—many of which don’t make the cut—ensuring that only the best of the best are available on the platform. The company uses a proprietary algorithm and works with hospitality critics to interview hosts and inspect properties. This ensures that travelers have access to top-notch accommodation.

Not only do they strictly vet every host to make sure they’re reliable, responsive, and trustworthy and inspect the home to make sure it’s immaculately clean, but they also look for the “strengths and weaknesses” of a home, including things like shower pressure, WiFi speed, and other details that often don’t get mentioned in other vacation rental booking sites. Plum Guide is truly a next-level vacation rental experience that anyone with a taste for luxury, an appreciation for interior design and architecture, or just someone with anxiety about staying in someone else’s home without knowing them will love. All of the benefits of certain AirBnb rentals apply here: greater privacy (less shared walls, etc.), unique properties, local immersion, etc., but the luxury settings and curation come at a premium price, sure to delight those willing and able to splurge a little on their next vacation or staycation. Initially only available at a handful of these curation locations, Plum Guide now includes more than the traditional vacation and travel spots, even including some rural, coastal, and less-frequented locations.

Committed to offering guests “hotel amenities without hotel formality,” Sonder bridges the gap between a full-service hotel and rental platforms, offering mostly aesthetically-focused short-term apartment rentals in the U.S. and abroad. Sonder is all about delivering a mobile-first service, including seamless check-in and check-out, dinner recommendations, towel requests, and more right from your phone. Unlike some booking platforms, Sonder manages, maintains, and runs its rental properties—not the host, so you don’t have to deal with meeting someone ahead of check-in to get the key, figure out parking, or get an unwanted tour or invite for a communal breakfast.

Most of the listings are units within a larger building, meaning you often have access to on-site security, parking, and premium amenities like a fitness room, pool, and on-property laundry. The Sonder app is basically a digital concierge, containing wifi instructions, neighborhood guides and dining recs, and options for requesting toiletries, late check-out, and more. Reviewers say staying at a Sonder rental feels more like a hotel rather than staying in someone else’s space, making it a great choice for those who are new to this type of accommodation rental or for those who live for a supremely minimalist apartment with resort-level perks.

For those of us looking to skip the hotel and steep service fees common on many vacation rental platforms, look no further than bnbfinder. While it’s smaller than some of its competitors, what you see is what you get—no surprise service fees. bnbfinder describes itself as a “book direct marketplace,” void of added fees and commissions, which means renters save money and its professional hosts earn more profit compared to its competitors.

As the name suggests, travelers can book traditional bed and breakfast accommodations, apartments, and single-family homes in a variety of cities in the U.S. The service-fee-free options are more limited compared to other platforms, but if you’re looking to save money as a renter or make more money as a host, bnbfinder is an excellent choice.

Vrbo (Vacation Rentail By Owner) is the most well-known rental accommodation platform next to Airbnb (even though Vrbo has been around since 1995—Airbnb was founded in 2008), known for offering more luxury properties and being more pet-friendly overall. Unlike other property rental companies, Vrbo only offers stand-alone homes, whereas Airbnb and other services have options for mutually shared spaces (i.e., staying in someone’s guest house or renting a bedroom in the host’s home).

Compared to Airbnb, reviewers seem to find that Vrbo has fewer service fees, though, unlike Bnbfinder, you will encounter additional charges depending on the host and the type of rental. Vrbo has a slew of themed, premium, and luxury whole-home houses for rent and less out-of-the-box accommodations like RV rentals, campsites, and private rooms in a home. Plus, reviewers applaud Vrbo for its superior customer service and renter protection, making it a reliable Airbnb alternative for those seeking an entire home.

The Blueground

For those looking for longer-term (a month and over) apartment rentals with all the bells and whistles of a typical apartment rental and some hotel-like amenities, the Blueground , a newer apartment rental start-up, is a fantastic option. The pricing for Blueground rental apartments is per month, making this a great alternative for those working in a city for an extended period of time, those in need of temporary housing for a summer internship or extended vacation, or if you’re in between housing during a move or in escrow and are OK with a furnished unit.

And, unlike a month-to-month lease (which is pretty tough to find these days), the Blueground offers on-demand support for any issues that should arise during your stay.

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How to travel around the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse in Baltimore: A look at the traffic impact and alternate routes

By Rohan Mattu

Updated on: March 29, 2024 / 5:01 AM EDT / CBS Baltimore

BALTIMORE -- The collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore early Tuesday  led to a major traffic impact for the region and cut off a major artery into and out of the port city. 

A bridge column was hit by a large container ship around 1:30 a.m., sending bridge workers and vehicles into the Patapsco River. A water search for six missing workers turned to a recovery effort Tuesday night.

Drivers are told to prepare for extra commuting time until further notice.

Alternate routes after Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse

Maryland transit authorities quickly put detours in place for those traveling through Dundalk or the Curtis Bay/Hawkins Point side of the bridge. The estimated 31,000 who travel the bridge every day will need to find a new route for the foreseeable future. 

The outer loop I-695 closure shifted to exit 1/Quarantine Road (past the Curtis Creek Drawbridge) to allow for enhanced local traffic access. 

The inner loop of I-695 remains closed at MD 157 (Peninsula Expressway). Additionally, the ramp from MD 157 to the inner loop of I-695 will be closed. 

Alternate routes are I-95 (Fort McHenry Tunnel) or I-895 (Baltimore Harbor Tunnel) for north/south routes. 

Commercial vehicles carrying materials that are prohibited in the tunnel crossings, including recreation vehicles carrying propane, should plan on using I-695 (Baltimore Beltway) between Essex and Glen Burnie. This will add significant driving time.    

Where is the Francis Scott Key Bridge? 

The Key Bridge crosses the Patapsco River, a key waterway that along with the Port of Baltimore serves as a hub for East Coast shipping. 

The bridge is the outermost of three toll crossings of Baltimore's Harbor and the final link in Interstate 695, known in the region as the Baltimore Beltway, which links Baltimore and Washington, D.C. 

The bridge was built after the Baltimore Harbor Tunnel reached capacity and experienced heavy congestion almost daily, according to the MDTA. 

Tractor-trailer inspections

Tractor-trailers that now have clearance to use the tunnels will need to be checked for hazardous materials, which are not permitted in tunnels, and that could further hold up traffic. 

The MDTA says vehicles carrying bottled propane gas over 10 pounds per container (maximum of 10 containers), bulk gasoline, explosives, significant amounts of radioactive materials, and other hazardous materials are prohibited from using the Fort McHenry Tunnel (I-95) or the Baltimore Harbor Tunnel (I-895).  

Any vehicles transporting hazardous materials should use the western section of I-695 around the tunnels, officials said. 

• Francis Scott Key Bridge
• Bridge Collapse
• Patapsco River

Rohan Mattu is a digital producer at CBS News Baltimore. Rohan graduated from Towson University in 2020 with a degree in journalism and previously wrote for WDVM-TV in Hagerstown. He maintains WJZ's website and social media, which includes breaking news in everything from politics to sports.

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Trains Moscow to Elektrostal: Times, Prices and Tickets

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• Seasonality
• Accommodations

Moscow to Elektrostal by train

The journey from Moscow to Elektrostal by train is 32.44 mi and takes 2 hr 7 min. There are 71 connections per day, with the first departure at 12:15 AM and the last at 11:46 PM. It is possible to travel from Moscow to Elektrostal by train for as little as or as much as . The best price for this journey is .

Get from Moscow to Elektrostal with Virail

Virail's search tool will provide you with the options you need when you want to go from Moscow to Elektrostal. All you need to do is enter the dates of your planned journey, and let us take care of everything else. Our engine does the hard work, searching through thousands of routes offered by our trusted travel partners to show you options for traveling by train, bus, plane, or carpool. You can filter the results to suit your needs. There are a number of filtering options, including price, one-way or round trip, departure or arrival time, duration of journey, or number of connections. Soon you'll find the best choice for your journey. When you're ready, Virail will transfer you to the provider's website to complete the booking. No matter where you're going, get there with Virail.

How can I find the cheapest train tickets to get from Moscow to Elektrostal?

Prices will vary when you travel from Moscow to Elektrostal. On average, though, you'll pay about for a train ticket. You can find train tickets for prices as low as , but it may require some flexibility with your travel plans. If you're looking for a low price, you may need to prepare to spend more time in transit. You can also often find cheaper train tickets at particular times of day, or on certain days of the week. Of course, ticket prices often change during the year, too; expect to pay more in peak season. For the lowest prices, it's usually best to make your reservation in advance. Be careful, though, as many providers do not offer refunds or exchanges on their cheapest train tickets. Unfortunately, no price was found for your trip from Moscow to Elektrostal. Selecting a new departure or arrival city, without dramatically changing your itinerary could help you find price results. Prices will vary when you travel from Moscow to Elektrostal. On average, though, you'll pay about for a train ticket. If you're looking for a low price, you may need to prepare to spend more time in transit. You can also often find cheaper train tickets at particular times of day, or on certain days of the week. Of course, ticket prices often change during the year, too; expect to pay more in peak season. For the lowest prices, it's usually best to make your reservation in advance. Be careful, though, as many providers do not offer refunds or exchanges on their cheapest train tickets.

How long does it take to get from Moscow to Elektrostal by train?

The journey between Moscow and Elektrostal by train is approximately 32.44 mi. It will take you more or less 2 hr 7 min to complete this journey. This average figure does not take into account any delays that might arise on your route in exceptional circumstances. If you are planning to make a connection or operating on a tight schedule, give yourself plenty of time. The distance between Moscow and Elektrostal is around 32.44 mi. Depending on the exact route and provider you travel with, your journey time can vary. On average, this journey will take approximately 2 hr 7 min. However, the fastest routes between Moscow and Elektrostal take 1 hr 3 min. If a fast journey is a priority for you when traveling, look out for express services that may get you there faster. Some flexibility may be necessary when booking. Often, these services only leave at particular times of day - or even on certain days of the week. You may also find a faster journey by taking an indirect route and connecting in another station along the way.

How many journeys from Moscow to Elektrostal are there every day?

On average, there are 71 daily departures from Moscow to Elektrostal. However, there may be more or less on different days. Providers' timetables can change on certain days of the week or public holidays, and many also vary at particular times of year. Some providers change their schedules during the summer season, for example. At very busy times, there may be up to departures each day. The providers that travel along this route include , and each operates according to their own specific schedules. As a traveler, you may prefer a direct journey, or you may not mind making changes and connections. If you have heavy suitcases, a direct journey could be best; otherwise, you might be able to save money and enjoy more flexibility by making a change along the way. Every day, there are an average of 18 departures from Moscow which travel directly to Elektrostal. There are 53 journeys with one change or more. Unfortunately, no connection was found for your trip from Moscow to Elektrostal. Selecting a new departure or arrival city, without dramatically changing your itinerary could help you find connections.

Book in advance and save

If you're looking for the best deal for your trip from Moscow to Elektrostal, booking train tickets in advance is a great way to save money, but keep in mind that advance tickets are usually not available until 3 months before your travel date.

Stay flexible with your travel time and explore off-peak journeys

Planning your trips around off-peak travel times not only means that you'll be able to avoid the crowds, but can also end up saving you money. Being flexible with your schedule and considering alternative routes or times will significantly impact the amount of money you spend on getting from Moscow to Elektrostal.

Always check special offers

Checking on the latest deals can help save a lot of money, making it worth taking the time to browse and compare prices. So make sure you get the best deal on your ticket and take advantage of special fares for children, youth and seniors as well as discounts for groups.

Unlock the potential of slower trains or connecting trains

If you're planning a trip with some flexible time, why not opt for the scenic route? Taking slower trains or connecting trains that make more stops may save you money on your ticket – definitely worth considering if it fits in your schedule.

Best time to book cheap train tickets from Moscow to Elektrostal

The cheapest Moscow - Elektrostal train tickets can be found for as low as $35.01 if you’re lucky, or $54.00 on average. The most expensive ticket can cost as much as $77.49.

Find the best day to travel to Elektrostal by train

When travelling to Elektrostal by train, if you want to avoid crowds you can check how frequently our customers are travelling in the next 30-days using the graph below. On average, the peak hours to travel are between 6:30am and 9am in the morning, or between 4pm and 7pm in the evening. Please keep this in mind when travelling to your point of departure as you may need some extra time to arrive, particularly in big cities!

Moscow to Elektrostal CO2 Emissions by Train

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Mint's shutdown is fast approaching — here are 7 budgeting apps to consider before losing access this weekend

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• The popular budgeting app Mint is going away on March 23. 
• Intuit says app users can transition to Credit Karma, but it won't have the same budgeting features.
• If you used Mint to make budgets, here are seven alternative options.

Mint's shutdown is quickly approaching. The popular budgeting app is going away on this weekend, on March 23.

Intuit is asking Mint users to move to Credit Karma, one of the company's other personal-finance platforms. On Credit Karma, you will still be able to view your bank accounts, transaction history, spending, cash flow, and net worth . Credit Karma currently doesn't let you make monthly budgets or category budgets, though.

If you've been using the Mint app for its budgeting features, you'll have to consider other options. 

50% off Simplifi and all Quicken products for all new customers (offer ends March 31, 2024)

$3.99 monthly subscription or $47.88 annual subscription

50% off (offer ends March 31, 2024)

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Connect all your bank accounts, investments accounts, and credit cards
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Help you save for individual savings goals
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Create a budget
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Track expenses
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. 30-day money-back guarantee
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Must buy a subscription (no free option)

Quicken Simplifi is a great budgeting tool if you want to create a detailed monthly spending and savings plan and don't mind paying for a subscription. If you would rather get a budgeting app that doesn't have a subscription fee, you'll have to consider other options.

• 50% off on Simplifi for new customers
• Stay on top of your finances in under 5 minutes per week.
• Check your custom budgeting plan — anytime, anywhere!
• Track your spending
• See where your money is going and discover places to save.
• Keep your bills in check
• Find subscriptions you don't use and start saving from day one.

Here are seven of the best budgeting apps to explore if you prioritize an app that lets you make a monthly or categorized budget.

1. Honeydue

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Budgeting app for couples
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Can have individual and shared finances
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Create monthly bill reminders
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Can discuss finances through chat feature
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Only available through mobile app

Honeydue is featured in our best budgeting apps guide as the best option for couples. It's a great option if you don't want to pay a fee. It also allows you to have individual and shared finances.

Honeydue is a personal-finance app for couples. It lets you create a monthly budget by linking credit cards, loans, investments, and bank accounts. Couples choose what they share and can create a joint budget.

Honeydue is free to use. The mobile app is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in the Apple store and 3.5 out of 5 stars in the Google Play store.

2. Monarch Money

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Premium Plan with a 7-day free-trial, then $14.99 per month or $99.99 annually

30 day free trial plus a 50% discount off the first year of an annual subscription to new subscribers (offer expires March 31, 2024)

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Link bank accounts
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Create unlimited budgets and make customizable categories
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Track individual savings goals
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Graphs and charts that track your spending and savings
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. No free plan

Monarch Money is an overall solid option if you prioritize creating monthly budgets and saving for individual savings goals. The main downside of the app is that it doesn't offer a free plan. You'll have to a monthly or annual subscription fee.

Monarch Money lets you create a customizable budget, meaning you can create your own categories to track your spending for certain areas. 

The mobile app has a monthly or annual plan. The monthly plan costs $14.99 a month. The annual plan is $99.99 a year, which breaks down to about $8.33 a month.

Monarch Money has 4.8 out of 5 stars in the Apple store and 4.7 stars out of 5 in the Google Play store.

3. PocketGuard

Free Plan is $0; PocketGuard Plus has a monthly plan ($7.99 per month), an annual plan ($34.99 per year), and a lifetime plan ($79.99)

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Create a monthly budget
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Track bill payments
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Save for individual savings goals
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Free plan has limited features

Pocketguard may be worthwhile if you want a budgeting app with standard features. You can create a monthly budget, track bill payments, and save for individual savings goals. The free plan has limited features though, and PocketGuard Plus requires a subscription fee.

• Free plan and premium plan available
• PocketGuard Plus has a monthly plan ($7.99 per month), an annual plan ($34.99 per year), and a lifetime plan ($79.99)

PocketGuard allows you to make a monthly budget through the free or premium plan (called PocketGuard Plus). PocketGuard Plus lets you make customizable budget categories and unlimited budgets — for example, a personal budget, a business budget, and a couples' budget. 

The free plan is $0, while PocketGuard Plus has monthly, annual, and lifetime plans. The monthly plan is $7.99 a month, and the annual plan is $34.99 a year (which ends up being just under $3 a month). The lifetime plan is $79.99.

The app is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in the Apple store and 3.8 out of 5 stars in the Google Play store. 

4. Quicken Simplifi

Quicken Simplifi has budgets with customizable categories. The platform also analyzes your spending and savings through charts and can generate monthly reports for your spending, general income, income after expenses, savings, and net worth.

There's also a special offer available: it's 50% off Simplifi and all Quicken products for new customers (offer ends March 31, 2024).

Quicken Simplifi has received 4.0 out of 5 stars in the Apple store and 4.0 out of 5 stars in the Google Play store. 

Quicken Simplifi Review

5. Rocket Money

Free to create a budget. Subscription fee applies to premium services.

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Connect all your bank accounts, credit cards, and investment accounts to track spending
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Bill negotiation feature
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Free plan available
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Limited features available with free plan
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Limited customer support availability

Rocket Money is featured in our best budgeting apps guide. While the Rocket Money app is free, there is a subscription fee if you want to use Premium features, like concierge services or premium chat.

Rocket Money has free and premium plans that allow you to make a monthly budget. The free plan lets you create a monthly budget using select categories. If you get the premium plan, you can make unlimited budgets. The premium plan also allows you to make customized budgeting categories.

The free plan costs $0. Meanwhile, the premium plan has a 7-day free trial. After that, you'll pay what you think is fair through a sliding scale that has price points from about $4 a month to $12 a month. If you select the $4 and $5 monthly plans, you'll be billed annually instead of monthly.

Rocket Money is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in the Apple store and 4.2 out of 5 stars in the Google Play store. 

Rocket Money Review

34-day free trial; Then $14.99 per month or $99 per year

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Available on computer, phone, or tablet
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Reports for spending and net worth

YNAB may be a good option if you are interested in using the zero-sum budget strategy. It also may be worthwhile if you want to use a platform that's available through a computer, phone, or tablet. You'll want to consider other options if you do not want to pay a subscription fee, though.

YNAB helps you create a category budget through its four-rule method.

With the first rule, you'll implement a zero-sum budget, which means you'll assign every dollar you earn a purpose. The second rule requires you to factor in non-monthly expenses, such as holiday shopping or car maintenance. The third rule reminds you to be flexible with your monthly budget and make adjustments if you see that you're overspending in a certain category. The fourth rule encourages you to age your money. Essentially, the last rule points out that once you've focused on mastering the first three rules, you'll know where your money is going and spend less than you earn. 

Ultimately, the four rules make sure you think about where all your money is going and how to adjust for your future savings. 

YNAB can be used on the computer or through the mobile app. It costs $14.99 a month or $99 annually, which comes to about $8.25 monthly. 

The app is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in the Apple store and 4.6 out of 5 stars in the Google Play store. 

YNAB Review

Free plan is $0; Zeta+ is $6.99 per month

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• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Joint bank accounts
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Create a budget with the envelope method
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You might like the Zeta personal finance app if you want to organize finances with a child, partner, or other family members. It also may be a decent option if you find the envelope budgeting method appealing, or want to open a joint bank account. That said, Zeta has limited mobile app ratings.

Zeta is another personal-finance app for couples and families. Zeta has joint bank accounts and uses the envelope budgeting method, which means you put a set amount of money into specific categories. Each month, you'll spend what you have for that category.

Zeta has a free plan and a premium plan called Zeta+. Zeta+ can be used by families or people who want to automate their banking. The free plan costs $0. Zeta+ costs $6.99 a month. 

The mobile app is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in the Apple store and 3.8 out of 5 stars in the Google Play store. 

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Tulum airport opens to U.S. flights, helping tourists skip Cancún crowds

New routes from american, delta and united connect the beach destination to hubs like atlanta, dallas and miami.

Traveling to the Mayan Riviera in Mexico is about to get easier.

Starting this week, visitors to the east coast of the Yucatán Peninsula can say goodbye to the crowded halls of the Cancún airport and potentially hours-long drive south; U.S.-based flights to recently opened Tulum International Airport start Wednesday.

American Airlines and Delta Air Lines begin flights on March 28, followed by United Airlines on March 31. The new routes will connect Tulum to major hubs like Atlanta, Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston , Miami, and Newark.

Air Canada starts flying to Tulum in May, and JetBlue Airways and Panama’s Copa Airline s in June.

“Imagine taking a morning flight from the United States, and by lunchtime, you’re sipping margaritas on our beautiful beach,” said Laura Diver, the marketing manager for Colibri Boutique Hotels , which manages several properties in Tulum.

A bumpy start

The Tulum airport, like many of the big recently opened infrastructure projects championed by Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, remains a work in progress.

Construction continues despite some domestic flights beginning in December. Karla Cayetano, a reservations manager at the Kanan Tulum resort, said workers were still “finishing some details” to the terminal and access road. Despite this, she said some of the resort’s guests are already arriving there rather than to Cancún.

Ground transportation options are limited and costs are high. David Ortiz Mena, the president of the Tulum Hotel Association, highlighted this as a “great concern” in a December statement . Talks with the airport and government authorities over lowering the ground transportation tax were still underway in mid-March.

And protesters have blocked the access road to the airport, and adjacent Tren Maya station, over land rights.

The issues are not unlike those that have plagued the Tren Maya since it opened in December. Trains are limited and delays are frequent on the ambitious and controversial 947-mile passenger rail loop pushed by the Mexican president. The booking system has been unreliable . Much of the track that will eventually encircle the Yucatán has yet to open.

But the Tulum airport, like the Tren Maya, is widely expected to significantly improve access to the Mayan Riviera once the kinks are worked out.

Alternative to Cancún

The Mayan Riviera is one of the most popular beach destinations in Mexico. It stretches from north of the all-inclusive resorts of Playa del Carmen to south of chic Tulum, with its beachside Mayan ruins.

Last year, the Riviera Maya boasted the most available hotel rooms — and occupied rooms — in the country, beating nearby Cancún and Los Cabos on the Pacific coast, according to data from the government of Mexico’s tourism secretary.

The Cancún airport is the main gateway for visitors to the region. In fact, last year the airport was the main gateway to all foreign visitors to Mexico, and the most popular among American tourists. A presentation from Mexico’s tourism secretary shows nearly 4.8 million American visitors to Mexico passed through the Cancún airport last year, representing more than a third of all the Americans who visited the country.

That’s why airlines are clamoring to fly to Tulum, even with its early issues. The new airport gives travelers an alternative to the busy Cancún airport.

“We’re pretty excited about some of the [travel] demand we’re seeing,” said Amy Martin, vice president of North America network planning at Delta.

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The Moscow Metro Museum of Art: 10 Must-See Stations

There are few times one can claim having been on the subway all afternoon and loving it, but the Moscow Metro provides just that opportunity.  While many cities boast famous public transport systems—New York’s subway, London’s underground, San Salvador’s chicken buses—few warrant hours of exploration.  Moscow is different: Take one ride on the Metro, and you’ll find out that this network of railways can be so much more than point A to B drudgery.

The Metro began operating in 1935 with just thirteen stations, covering less than seven miles, but it has since grown into the world’s third busiest transit system ( Tokyo is first ), spanning about 200 miles and offering over 180 stops along the way.  The construction of the Metro began under Joseph Stalin’s command, and being one of the USSR’s most ambitious building projects, the iron-fisted leader instructed designers to create a place full of svet (radiance) and svetloe budushchee (a radiant future), a palace for the people and a tribute to the Mother nation.

Consequently, the Metro is among the most memorable attractions in Moscow.  The stations provide a unique collection of public art, comparable to anything the city’s galleries have to offer and providing a sense of the Soviet era, which is absent from the State National History Museum.  Even better, touring the Metro delivers palpable, experiential moments, which many of us don’t get standing in front of painting or a case of coins.

Though tours are available , discovering the Moscow Metro on your own provides a much more comprehensive, truer experience, something much less sterile than following a guide.  What better place is there to see the “real” Moscow than on mass transit: A few hours will expose you to characters and caricatures you’ll be hard-pressed to find dining near the Bolshoi Theater.  You become part of the attraction, hear it in the screech of the train, feel it as hurried commuters brush by: The Metro sucks you beneath the city and churns you into the mix.

With the recommendations of our born-and-bred Muscovite students, my wife Emma and I have just taken a self-guided tour of what some locals consider the top ten stations of the Moscow Metro. What most satisfied me about our Metro tour was the sense of adventure .  I loved following our route on the maps of the wagon walls as we circled the city, plotting out the course to the subsequent stops; having the weird sensation of being underground for nearly four hours; and discovering the next cavern of treasures, playing Indiana Jones for the afternoon, piecing together fragments of Russia’s mysterious history.  It’s the ultimate interactive museum.

Top Ten Stations (In order of appearance)

Kievskaya station.

Kievskaya Station went public in March of 1937, the rails between it and Park Kultury Station being the first to cross the Moscow River.  Kievskaya is full of mosaics depicting aristocratic scenes of Russian life, with great cameo appearances by Lenin, Trotsky, and Stalin.  Each work has a Cyrillic title/explanation etched in the marble beneath it; however, if your Russian is rusty, you can just appreciate seeing familiar revolutionary dates like 1905 ( the Russian Revolution ) and 1917 ( the October Revolution ).

Mayakovskaya Station

Mayakovskaya Station ranks in my top three most notable Metro stations. Mayakovskaya just feels right, done Art Deco but no sense of gaudiness or pretention.  The arches are adorned with rounded chrome piping and create feeling of being in a jukebox, but the roof’s expansive mosaics of the sky are the real showstopper.  Subjects cleverly range from looking up at a high jumper, workers atop a building, spires of Orthodox cathedrals, to nimble aircraft humming by, a fleet of prop planes spelling out CCCP in the bluest of skies.

Novoslobodskaya Station

Novoslobodskaya is the Metro’s unique stained glass station.  Each column has its own distinctive panels of colorful glass, most of them with a floral theme, some of them capturing the odd sailor, musician, artist, gardener, or stenographer in action.  The glass is framed in Art Deco metalwork, and there is the lovely aspect of discovering panels in the less frequented haunches of the hall (on the trackside, between the incoming staircases).  Novosblod is, I’ve been told, the favorite amongst out-of-town visitors.

Komsomolskaya Station

Komsomolskaya Station is one of palatial grandeur.  It seems both magnificent and obligatory, like the presidential palace of a colonial city.  The yellow ceiling has leafy, white concrete garland and a series of golden military mosaics accenting the tile mosaics of glorified Russian life.  Switching lines here, the hallway has an Alice-in-Wonderland feel, impossibly long with decorative tile walls, culminating in a very old station left in a remarkable state of disrepair, offering a really tangible glimpse behind the palace walls.

Dostoevskaya Station

Dostoevskaya is a tribute to the late, great hero of Russian literature .  The station at first glance seems bare and unimpressive, a stark marble platform without a whiff of reassembled chips of tile.  However, two columns have eerie stone inlay collages of scenes from Dostoevsky’s work, including The Idiot , The Brothers Karamazov , and Crime and Punishment.   Then, standing at the center of the platform, the marble creates a kaleidoscope of reflections.  At the entrance, there is a large, inlay portrait of the author.

Chkalovskaya Station

Chkalovskaya does space Art Deco style (yet again).  Chrome borders all.  Passageways with curvy overhangs create the illusion of walking through the belly of a chic, new-age spacecraft.  There are two (kos)mosaics, one at each end, with planetary subjects.  Transferring here brings you above ground, where some rather elaborate metalwork is on display.  By name similarity only, I’d expected Komsolskaya Station to deliver some kosmonaut décor; instead, it was Chkalovskaya that took us up to the space station.

Elektrozavodskaya Station

Elektrozavodskaya is full of marble reliefs of workers, men and women, laboring through the different stages of industry.  The superhuman figures are round with muscles, Hollywood fit, and seemingly undeterred by each Herculean task they respectively perform.  The station is chocked with brass, from hammer and sickle light fixtures to beautiful, angular framework up the innards of the columns.  The station’s art pieces are less clever or extravagant than others, but identifying the different stages of industry is entertaining.

Baumanskaya Statio

Baumanskaya Station is the only stop that wasn’t suggested by the students.  Pulling in, the network of statues was just too enticing: Out of half-circle depressions in the platform’s columns, the USSR’s proud and powerful labor force again flaunts its success.  Pilots, blacksmiths, politicians, and artists have all congregated, posing amongst more Art Deco framing.  At the far end, a massive Soviet flag dons the face of Lenin and banners for ’05, ’17, and ‘45.  Standing in front of the flag, you can play with the echoing roof.

Ploshchad Revolutsii Station

Novokuznetskaya Station

Novokuznetskaya Station finishes off this tour, more or less, where it started: beautiful mosaics.  This station recalls the skyward-facing pieces from Mayakovskaya (Station #2), only with a little larger pictures in a more cramped, very trafficked area.  Due to a line of street lamps in the center of the platform, it has the atmosphere of a bustling market.  The more inventive sky scenes include a man on a ladder, women picking fruit, and a tank-dozer being craned in.  The station’s also has a handsome black-and-white stone mural.

Here is a map and a brief description of our route:

Start at (1)Kievskaya on the “ring line” (look for the squares at the bottom of the platform signs to help you navigate—the ring line is #5, brown line) and go north to Belorusskaya, make a quick switch to the Dark Green/#2 line, and go south one stop to (2)Mayakovskaya.  Backtrack to the ring line—Brown/#5—and continue north, getting off at (3)Novosblodskaya and (4)Komsolskaya.  At Komsolskaya Station, transfer to the Red/#1 line, go south for two stops to Chistye Prudy, and get on the Light Green/#10 line going north.  Take a look at (5)Dostoevskaya Station on the northern segment of Light Green/#10 line then change directions and head south to (6)Chkalovskaya, which offers a transfer to the Dark Blue/#3 line, going west, away from the city center.  Have a look (7)Elektroskaya Station before backtracking into the center of Moscow, stopping off at (8)Baumskaya, getting off the Dark Blue/#3 line at (9)Ploschad Revolyutsii.  Change to the Dark Green/#2 line and go south one stop to see (10)Novokuznetskaya Station.

Check out our new Moscow Indie Travel Guide , book a flight to Moscow and read 10 Bars with Views Worth Blowing the Budget For

Jonathon Engels, formerly a patron saint of misadventure, has been stumbling his way across cultural borders since 2005 and is currently volunteering in the mountains outside of Antigua, Guatemala.  For more of his work, visit his website and blog .

Photo credits:   SergeyRod , all others courtesy of the author and may not be used without permission

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An alternative guide to Leeds: a city with an independent spirit

A book club in a disused petrol station, an electronic music hub in an old bus garage … Yorkshire’s largest city is a hotbed of grassroots creativity

‘L eeds has an independent, thriving arts scene,” says Emma Beverley, the director of programmes at last year’s cultural showcase, Leeds 2023. “A lot of that is grounded in an artist-led movement that is pretty pioneering.”

In 2017, Leeds had put in a bid to become European capital of culture, with £1m already invested, which hit the buffers when Brexit automatically ruled any British cities out of contention. In typically stubborn Yorkshire fashion, the city pressed ahead with its own year-long celebration of culture.

As someone who has lived in the West Yorkshire city for five years, I can testify that it is worthy of being a capital of culture. There’s a strong food and drink scene, vibrant nightlife and live music, as well as offbeat cultural institutions where grassroots artists thrive. It also ranks as one of the best student cities in the UK , with many alumni staying on and contributing to an exciting cultural renaissance.

Leeds is a compact city and, with the recent pedestrianisation of its centre, has never been easier to explore on foot. The centre is where most of the action takes place: from the characterful Kirkgate neighbourhood, with its market and majestic Corn Exchange, to the creative waterside district of Leeds Dock. However, neighbourhoods such as Headingley retain an independent vibe, with boutiques, charity shops, eateries and the Cottage Road Cinema , the oldest cinema in continuous use in the city. From cultural spaces, including the Old Red Bus Station with its electronic music hub and Hyde Park Picture House , to on-point bars and innovative restaurants, leftfield Leeds is hidden in plain sight.

As well as big-name institutions ( Royal Armouries , Leeds Art Gallery ), you’ll also find alternative cultural spaces in Leeds. A 30-minute walk from the city centre is Hyde Park Book Club , a disused petrol station that has been transformed into a creative hub showcasing artists, musicians and writers. With a basement and outdoor area, a bar and a bookshop with a section dedicated to Yorkshire writers, this is the perfect place to soak up the creative energy of the city.

For a mix of culture and retail, Leeds Corn Exchange in the city centre is a Grade I-listed landmark dating to 1863. Worth visiting for the architecture alone, it’s also home to independent shopkeepers, such as Indie Makers, Colours May Vary and Chinese Laundry, craft stores, chefs and collectors, as well as hosting record fairs, art shows and festivals.

Less than 10 minutes’ bus ride west of the centre, in Armley, is Assembly House , an artist-led community arts organisation with studios, exhibition spaces and galleries. Providing a stage for established and emerging artists, its calendar features exhibitions, performances and film screenings.

With more than 200,000 students living in the city Leeds offers one of the best nights out in the north. There are LGBTQ+ clubs in the Freedom Quarter near the Calls area, and a range of music venues: from intimate boltholes where grassroots artists play to large-capacity spaces, such as the First Direct Arena. A favourite for indie bands is the Wardrobe , one of the city’s oldest independent venues. Unlike the bar and restaurant on street level, the basement is a dark and cosy space where the gigs range from local bands to international acts.

Smokestack is another Leeds institution, a speakeasy-style bar showcasing the best funk, jazz and soul with a side of southern-style cocktails. For more jazz and funk, Sela Bar offers free or pay-as-you-feel gigs.

No night out in Leeds is complete without a visit to Belgrave Music Hall . A 1930s venue for live gigs, comedy, film and art spread across three floors, it offers pizza from the Dough Boys, cosy seating areas and a skyline view from the rooftop terrace. There’s also a 300-capacity venue where you can catch the latest indie acts.

The city’s self-proclaimed title of “foodie capital of the north” is a bold statement but, for a city of its size, Leeds has an impressive choice of independent coffee shops, bakeries and restaurants. Local produce shines thanks to its location on the doorstep of the Yorkshire Dales and east coast.

It’s worth planning a visit in May when the North Leeds food festival takes over Roundhay Park, one of Europe’s largest city parks. This two-day celebration features street-food vendors from around the UK, artisan markets, live music, chef demonstrations, interactive tasting sessions and family entertainment.

When the festival isn’t on, there’s street food to be had at Leeds Kirkgate Market . Its food hall specialises in global cuisine, including Turkish grilled fish at Mr Mackerel and Caribbean dishes at Jenny’s Jerk Chicken . For home comforts, head to the Fisherman’s Wife for fish and chips direct from the North Yorkshire coast or try a twist on the classic Sunday roast with a yorkshire pudding wrap – complete with all the trimmings – from the Yorkshire Wrap Company .

A personal favourite is Bánh & Mee , which serves Vietnamese dishes such as pho and crunchy summer rolls (mains from £5.50), while the award-winning Manjit’s Kitchen sells vegetarian Punjabi dishes (chilli paneer wraps and thali plates) with mains from £6.50. Near the market is Wapentake , a “proper Yorkshire” cafe, bar and bakery. It serves guilty pleasures such as crisp butties, cooked breakfasts and the bestselling gravy-drenched yorkshire pudding burgers (brunch from £5.50).

For something more refined, Ox Club is a modern, light-filled space whose grill transforms Yorkshire produce into imaginative dishes, including cod loin with seaweed butter sauce (mains from £21) . It’s within the multipurpose venue Headrow House , so round off your meal with drinks on the rooftop terrace.

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Around the city you’ll find everything from traditional, no-nonsense pubs to cool indie bars. Call Lane, in a former industrial area near the River Aire, is lined with some of the city’s best bars. Hopping from one to the next, it’s possible to sample more than 50 types of tequila at Neon Cactus or sip sophisticated cocktails at the Maven .

A short walk from Call Lane is Duck & Drake : an old-school boozer in the Kirkgate area with original Victorian features, including marble doorway jambs, globe light fittings and bare floorboards. It’s known for its wide selection of local cask ales and free live music performances (pints from £4). Also in Kirkgate is Doghouse Bar & Bagel Shop , a casual and intimate venue where you can sink into leather armchairs and enjoy the retro artwork as you nurse a pale ale. There are lagers and cask options, too, as well as cocktails and wines. If you’re feeling peckish, the selection of bagels hits the spot (bagels and pints from £5.50).

Despite being in the centre, it’s easy to miss the discreet sign for Below Stairs . In the basement of a Grade II-listed building, this upmarket bar specialises in experimental cocktails. Its menu is separated into different sections – sugar, salt, acid and fat – and uses unexpected ingredients such as Japanese Togarashi spice blend and sea foam. It’s a tough choice, but its standout cocktail is the Corn & Silk made with Jack Daniels Old No 7, Mellow Corn, Cereal Milk, BS Cornsilk and Meadowsweet Liqueur, Grand Josiene and Oat Creme Fraiché (cocktails from £9.95).

Neighbourhood

A 15-minute bus ride from the city centre is Chapel Allerton, a lively village-like neighbourhood. Creativity is at the heart of the area, with the annual Chapel Allerton arts festival marking its 26th year this September. Even if you’re not there for the festival, Seven is worth visiting, offering an independent arts space that features film, theatre, comedy and dance.

The Little Bookshop features amid a run of independent shops and offers an eclectic selection, while Chirpy is a lifestyle design store with a range of workshops and events, and visit Oakwood Vintage for its curated furniture collection. George & Joseph is an artisan cheese emporium with Yorkshire and British cheeses, Wayward Wines sells natural and organic wines from a range of small producers and Caspar’s Bottle Shop sells craft beer.

Appetite whetted, check out Hern , a bistro where seasonal produce shines. Expect dishes such as crispy chicken terrine with chilli and blue cheese, followed by rhubarb pavlova with lemon thyme baked cream. For comfort food, Crust & Crumb serves brunch favourites, as well as wraps, soups and home-baked treats.

Leeds has long been renowned for its breweries, and North Brewing Co is one of its finest with a bar and music venue in Chapel Allerton called Alley Cats , as well as Further North , a living room-like venue providing a homely atmosphere to catch up with friends over a large range of indie brews. Alternatively, the Woods is the ideal place to soak up the sun with craft beers and pizza on its outdoor terrace.

Quebecs Hotel may be in the financial and legal quarter (a two-minute walk from Leeds train station), but you’ll feel as if you’ve just stepped into a French chateau. Each of the 44 bedrooms in the Grade II-listed 19th-century building have been individually designed with classic touches. Elsewhere in the hotel, the Gallery is a cosy spot with stained-glass windows, while the Conservatory offers views across the rooftops. From £129 a night room-only.

Next to Leeds railway station, the palatial Queens Hotel was built for the former London, Midland & Scottish Railway. Combining art deco glamour with modern touches, the rooms are spacious and elegant. There’s a bar and restaurant, but you’re also just a three-minute walk from the Trinity Leeds shopping centre and city centre eateries. Doubles from £94.50 room-only.

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