Originally Posted by
Kacee
I just got the Away Bigger Carry-On. I ordered it because I need something that can carry a little more than my Rimowa Limbo 53 Cabin Multi-Wheel and that I won't be afraid to check on occasion (the Limbo is too pretty to check, IMO). The Away is a little larger in every dimension than the Rimowa, and also has some stretchability with the zipper closure compared to my Rimowa (which has a rigid aluminum frame and latches).
On first impression, I'm not very impressed. It's very light and both looks and feels much lower quality than my Rimowa. (Which I suppose should not be a surprise at only 30% of the cost.) As others have noted, the telescoping handle is particularly flimsy and, unlike Rimowa's, is not infinitely adjustable. Will give it a try on an upcoming trip and report back.
A lot of people seem to be down on Rimowa after their recent rebrand, but having seen the new bags and reading reviews like this, it still seems like Rimowa is the better option if you can swing the higher cost. That said Away seems to be a nice low cost option to have, especially in the “bigger” carry-on size (my Rimowa carry one are the smaller size)