Verdict
Head-to-head · Best Checked Luggage

Away The Medium Checked Bag vs Monos Check-In Medium

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

The short answer

Away The Medium Checked Bag and Monos Check-In Medium score essentially the same (4.5 vs 4.5). Pick the one whose trade-offs match your priorities — the strengths and watch-outs below are where they actually differ.

Away The Medium Checked Bag
Ranked #4 in Best Checked Luggage
Away The Medium Checked Bag
$345as of Jul 7

Away's The Medium Checked Bag is a lightweight, spacious suitcase designed for checked travel, weighing 9.9 pounds and measuring 26 x 18.5 x 11 inches. Reviewers praised its ability to hold a lot of items including toiletries and styling tools without exceeding airline weight limits. The bag features a TSA lock and sleek design that coordinates with other AWAY products. While it lacks the expandable zipper of the Flex version, users appreciate its durability and functionality for longer trips. Some reviewers noted concerns about the petal color being prone to scuffs. This bag is best suited for travelers who need a reliable, well-designed checked suitcase that fits within the AWAY ecosystem.

Strengths
  • Lightweight for its size at 9.9 pounds
  • Holds a significant amount of items including toiletries and styling tools
  • Features a TSA lock for security
Watch-outs
  • Does not expand, unlike the Flex version
  • Color petal may be prone to scuffs during travel
  • Not suitable for carry-on use as it must be checked
Monos Check-In Medium
Ranked #5 in Best Checked Luggage
Monos Check-In Medium
$345as of Jul 7

The Monos Check-In Medium is a lightweight, durable hard-sided luggage piece designed for travelers seeking reliable checked baggage. Reviewers praised its 360° wheels, polycarbonate construction, and 70-liter capacity suitable for 7-21 day trips. The bag weighs 9.6 pounds and features an internal compression pad that helps maximize packing efficiency. While reviewers noted it's not the cheapest option, they found the quality and design justify the price point. Some users noted limited retail availability, with only a select Nordstrom selection available in the U.S. This luggage is ideal for frequent travelers who want a well-designed, durable option without the premium price tag of luxury brands.

Strengths
  • Lightweight design at 9.6 pounds
  • 360° smooth-rolling wheels for easy maneuverability
  • Durable polycarbonate shell with high-quality materials
Watch-outs
  • Not available in all retail stores (limited Nordstrom selection)
  • Price point may be higher than budget options

How they stack up

Away The Medium Checked Bag

Unlike the Travelpro Platinum Elite Medium Check-In Spinner, which offers a lifetime warranty and high-density nylon, the Away bag prioritizes a sleek, minimal aesthetic that coordinates with other AWAY products. While the Travelpro is expandable and more durable, the Away bag is lighter and better suited for those already invested in the AWAY ecosystem.

Monos Check-In Medium

While the July offers more robust protection, the Monos provides better value for frequent travelers.

Specs side-by-side

SpecAway The Medium Checked BagMonos Check-In Medium
Weight9.9 pounds9.6 pounds
Material100% polycarbonatePolycarbonate
Lock TypeTSA lockTSA-approved lock
Wheel Type360° smooth-gliding wheels360°
Dimensions26 x 18.5 x 11 inches26.5 × 18.5 × 10.5
Capacity72 L70 L
WarrantyLifetimeCare™ CoverageLimited lifetime warranty
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