Away Brand Review: Broken Suitcases Equals Bright Ideas

By now, it is nearly improbable to stroll around a notable airport without noticing an Away carry-on effortlessly moving past you. Even if you are preoccupied and not paying attention to people or their luggage, there’s a high chance that you have encountered an advertisement on social media urging you to discard your old hand-me-down and opt for one of their collections.

If you have come across any of Away’s products and are contemplating buying one, but require additional information about the brand before making a decision, this review would give you all the relevant details that can aid in your purchase decision.

“Build your own dreams, or someone else will hire you to build theirs.” 

We all have experienced that massive unexpected problem that turns us out of control at the most inconvenient time. For some people, it is a broken suitcase while in transit. This was the same issue that Jen Rubio the founder of Away Travel experienced during a trip to Switzerland. Her clothes and toiletries spilled out of her suitcase at the airport and she had to MacGyver it with some straps and tape just so she could make it to where she needed to go.

After that, Rubio sought a superior suitcase and contacted her ex-coworker from Warby Parker, Stephanie Korey. The duo brainstormed the concept of hard-shell luggage that includes wheels and a built-in battery pack to recharge mobile phones and tablets. Now, this screams girl power and making lemonade out of lemons!

In 2011, Rubio and Korey crossed paths at Warby Parker where they held the positions of a social media manager and head of a supply chain. Armed with knowledge about their target audience and a steadfast online marketing approach, the duo interviewed over 800 individuals to determine what features would comprise an ideal bag.

From there, they set out on a mission to design the ultimate lightweight suitcase that was sturdy enough not to fall apart and did not cause any awkward moments for users—ultimately leading them to establish Away as a brand in 2015.

You might wonder why the travel brand is named “Away” Our guess is that they chose the name “Away” from the idea of being able to transport yourself away from your everyday life and embark on an adventure.

Collection

The brand provides a wide range of travel essentials to make travel more accessible and enjoyable for all kinds of travelers. Other than their signature product “The Carry-On”, the brand also has several series of luggage and bags which includes carry-on, check-in, duffles, backpack, totes, and more. In addition, Away Travel provides various travel accessories such as packing cubes, toiletry bags, and travel blankets to ensure that you are equipped for any journey.

Features and Colour

Functionality and style are the watchwords of Away. The brand offers stylish and functional gear, along with cool features such as trolley sleeve slips that easily fit over luggage handles, built-in TSA-approved combination locks, 360-degree spinner wheels, interior organization, and a compression system for efficient packing. Some models even come with a removable battery, and all come with a lifetime warranty.

One of the standout features of their travel collection is the variety of colours available. When browsing through Away’s collections, you’ll notice colours like black, navy, asphalt, green, sand, white, and more. Additionally, Away Travel surprises its customers with limited edition shades from time to time. Currently, the larger carry-on comes in a stunning sunrise colour that’s hard to resist!

Success and Growth

Away Travel has experienced tremendous success and growth since its establishment in 2015. The brand started with a revenue of $12 million in its first year and has risen to over $150 million. The brand’s success can be attributed to its effective marketing strategy, which includes the use of social media influencers and celebrity endorsements.

The brand has partnered with celebrities like Karlie Kloss and Serena Williams, Rashida Jones, and NBA star Dwyane Wade. The company also partnered with Instagram influencers like Marianna Hewitt and Lauren Elizabeth to showcase its products on social media platforms like Instagram and YouTube. These partnerships with celebrities and influencers have helped to increase brand awareness and appeal to a wider audience.

 

Since its beginning up until now, away has sold more than 100 thousand suitcases and expanded its product range by incorporating bags, and accessories, as well as limited edition partnerships. The brand has been recognized by Forbes as one of the Next Billion-Dollar Startup List.

How is Away Travel Brand Unique

No doubt Away Travel has managed to stand out of the crowd in the travel industry. They have created a unique identity for themselves, blending design, innovation, customer experience, and social responsibility into a cohesive brand that people can connect with.

Away Travel is dedicated to fulfilling its social responsibility by collaborating with non-profit organizations including Together We Rise, the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association, and Global Glimpse. In partnership with Together, We Rise, the brand is helping at-risk youth access essential resources, top-quality products, scholarship opportunities, and enriching programs for a brighter future.

Additionally, Away Travel is an active member of the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association that advocates for equality and safety for LGBTQ+ travellers worldwide. The company supports research, leadership development, and travel resources for LGBTQ+ travellers.

The brand also partnered with Global Glimpse and launched Global Glimpse’s Passport Scholarship Fund to remove the financial barrier for students getting their first passport.

Additionally at Away, doing good is not just a catchphrase, it’s one of their core values. This travel brand recognizes the importance of giving back to the community and has incorporated volunteerism into its business model.

Every employee, whether based in their New York City headquarters or at stores across the world, receives paid time off to volunteer. This commitment to volunteerism has resulted in the Away team dedicating over 2,000 hours of service to global non-profit partners, including Start Small Think Big, Together We Rise, and God’s Love We Deliver.

Away believes that by providing opportunities for their employees to give back, they can make a meaningful impact on society and contribute to a better world.

Away Travel Products Customers Review

I have always been curious about the Away travel brand, and this carry-on does not disappoint. I enjoy the compartmentalization of the travel case, its available zipper netting inside the case, and the available travel laundry bag is neat. The closing zippers are great, and the TSA-approved lock is very handy. I was able to catch this case in the Read More about review stating The Bigger Carry-On – Distinct Valuelimited American Express colours which I love. You will enjoy this travel case!

Johnny W., March 9th, 2020

Away Travel is hands down the best travel brand I’ve come across. Their luggage is not only stylish and durable, but also incredibly functional. I’ve travelled with my Away luggage countless times and it’s held up exceptionally well. The built-in battery has been a lifesaver on many occasions. Beyond its amazing products, the company’s commitment to social responsibility is truly commendable.

John Smith, May 15th, 2022

I recently purchased an Away suitcase for an international trip and I couldn’t be happier with my decision. The suitcase is sleek and sturdy, with plenty of compartments to keep my belongings organized. The customer service was also fantastic. When I had a minor issue with my order, the team was quick to resolve it and went above and beyond to make sure I was satisfied. I will definitely be a repeat customer.

Emily Johnson, August 2nd, 2021

As someone who frequently travels for work, I need luggage that can withstand constant wear and tear. I decided to give Away Travel a try and I was blown away by the quality of their products. The suitcase I purchased exceeded my expectations and has held up beautifully on numerous trips. I also appreciate the company’s commitment to social responsibility and its efforts to give back to the community. I highly recommend Away Travel to any frequent traveller.

David Lee, January 10th, 2023

Amazing customer service and beautiful reliable luggageBought a suitcase and a weekend bag from them, I had an issue with the zip on the small bat, the washing bag that comes inside the suitcase, and the battery pack of the suitcase – all have been replaced even outside of the warranty. I received a helpful reply to all my emails in a very reasonable time and best of all I absolutely love the suitcase, being a long haul cabin crew my case gets LOTS of use and this is my favourite brand of luggage I’ve ever used. The suitcase glides beautifully and is made well. Well worth the cost!!

Sophie, January 18th, 2023

Where to Purchase Away Travel Products

You can purchase Away Travel products on its official website or in one of its brick-and-mortar stores across the U.S. and Toronto, Canada. Find the list of in-person stores Away Stores

“The more we travel, the better we all become.”

– Away Travel

Frequently Asked Questions of Away Travel Brand

Q: Which celebrities use Away luggage?

A: Some celebrities include Karlie Kloss, Jessica Alba, Serena Williams, Rashida Jones, Gigi Hadid, Margot Robbie, Meghan Markle, and more

 

Q: What country is Away luggage from?

A: It’s a US-based company.

 

Q: Do Away suitcases break?

A: Similar to all types of suitcases, there are situations in which they may become damaged. Nevertheless, away suitcases were created with longevity in mind and included a one-year warranty.

 

Q: Do all Away suitcases have batteries?

A: No, only certain models come with a built-in battery.

 

Q: Where do shoes go in an Away suitcase?

A: There’s a designated compartment for shoes in

some models, or they can be placed in packing cubes.

 

Q: Is Away luggage covered by a lifetime warranty?

A: Yes, they offer a lifetime warranty on all their products.

 

Q: Does Away suitcases have a key?

A: No, they come with a combination lock.

 

Q: What is unique about Away luggage?

A: It’s known for its durable materials, sleek design, built-in battery, compression

system, lifetime warranty, and a 100-day trial period.

 

Q: Are Away suitcases allowed on planes?

A: Yes, Away suitcases are generally allowed on planes as carry-on or checked luggage, provided they meet the size and weight restrictions of the airline you’re traveling with. It’s always a good idea to check with your airline ahead of time to confirm their specific luggage restrictions, as they can vary depending on the airline and even the specific flight. Additionally, if your Away suitcase has a built-in battery, you should check with your airline to ensure that it meets their guidelines for lithium-ion batteries in luggage.

Image Credit: Away