Away The Bigger Carry-On
Away's Bigger Carry-On combines a sleek polycarbonate shell, exceptional wheel performance, and 47.9 liters of intelligently organized space, making it Forbes' top carry-on pick for 2026 — though prospective buyers should be aware of recent zipper reliability reports.
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- +100% polycarbonate shell is lightweight at 7.4 lbs and resists cracks, dents, and impacts effectively
- +Hinomoto 360-degree spinner wheels are whisper-quiet and consistently praised for long-term durability
- +47.9-liter capacity with interior compression straps and removable laundry bag maximizes packing space
- −Zipper failures have been reported with regularity in 2025 and 2026 owner communities, though Away replaces defective bags under warranty
- −Smooth polycarbonate shell shows scuffs and scratches more readily than textured finishes
- −No exterior pockets — accessing anything mid-flight requires opening the bag fully
Away's The Bigger Carry-On earns its place as the best premium hardside carry-on in 2026 and holds the top spot in Forbes' carry-on luggage rankings, praised for its combination of visual appeal, practical organization, and best-in-class wheel performance. The 100% polycarbonate shell at 7.4 pounds provides excellent impact resistance without the weight penalty of heavier materials, and the Hinomoto spinner wheels are consistently cited by owners and reviewers alike as the smoothest and most durable in this price category.
At 22.7 x 14.7 x 9.6 inches and 47.9 liters, it offers generous packing capacity for a carry-on. The interior divides into two sections: one with cross-compression straps and a removable compression pad with mesh zippered pockets, and one with a removable laundry bag to separate worn clothes from clean ones. A flush-set TSA-approved combination lock, underside grab handle, and aluminum telescoping handle with multiple height settings complete the functional package. Away now offers personalized monogramming and a broad color selection including seasonal limited editions.
Two reliability concerns have emerged more prominently in 2025 and 2026 that prospective buyers should weigh. First, owner communities have documented a recurring pattern of zipper failures — some occurring within a single trip, others after a year of regular use — particularly with bags manufactured after Away's 2023 redesign. Away's warranty response is generally smooth, with replacements shipping within a week, but the pattern of failures recurring suggests a genuine ongoing quality concern rather than isolated incidents. Second, Away sells a confusingly named variant called the 'Bigger Carry-On with Pocket' that actually holds only 38L — less than the standard Carry-On. Buyers specifically wanting the full 47.9L version should confirm the exact product variant at checkout.
For travelers who take a moderate number of trips per year, Away's 100-day trial and limited lifetime warranty provide a reasonable safety net. For very high-frequency business travelers, the zipper reliability concern warrants additional consideration. The price of $295 to $325 positions it in the premium mid-range, where it remains one of the best overall hardside packages available.
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Away The Bigger Carry-On – FAQs
Yes, for most buyers. The Away The Bigger Carry-On stands out for: 100% polycarbonate shell is lightweight at 7.4 lbs and resists cracks, dents, and impacts effectively and Hinomoto 360-degree spinner wheels are whisper-quiet and consistently praised for long-term durability. The main trade-offs are Zipper failures have been reported with regularity in 2025 and 2026 owner communities, though Away replaces defective bags under warranty. Check our full Luggage comparison for alternatives.