Away Trunk Suitcase Review: The Ultimate Travel Companion
Discover why the Away Trunk is the perfect large suitcase for serious travelers seeking lightweight durability and style.
Away Trunk Suitcase Review: The Ultimate Large Luggage Solution
As an avid traveler, I’ve accumulated quite a collection of luggage across various sizes and styles. From compact carry-ons to mid-sized wheeled bags, I thought I had my travel needs covered. However, when I found myself packing for a destination wedding requiring a two-week stay in Mexico, I realized I needed something more substantial. I required a suitcase that was truly spacious, remarkably lightweight, and easy to navigate through crowded airports. This is where Away’s ‘The Trunk’ suitcase stepped in, priced at $435.
The Trunk represents Away’s largest suitcase offering, and I’ll admit I was initially apprehensive. I worried that such a large bag would be cumbersome and difficult to maneuver through busy terminals like New York’s or Puerto Vallarta’s airports. I’m pleased to report that my concerns were entirely unfounded. Not only does The Trunk deliver exceptional functionality, but I also received numerous compliments from both friends and fellow travelers about its striking appearance.
Design and Aesthetics
The Trunk’s aesthetic appeal is one of its standout features. The suitcase boasts a sleek, modern design that turns heads in the baggage claim area. Its tall, slender profile sets it apart from typical large luggage, offering a unique silhouette that’s both contemporary and sophisticated. The available color options provide versatility for different travel styles, whether you prefer classic neutrals or bolder choices.
What makes the design particularly impressive is how Away has managed to maintain a premium appearance while keeping the overall weight remarkably low. The 100% polycarbonate shell strikes an excellent balance between durability and lightness, preventing that bulky feeling associated with many large suitcases.
Technical Specifications and Capacity
Understanding The Trunk’s technical specifications helps explain its impressive performance:
- Exterior Dimensions: 31.3” x 17” x 13.7” (measurements include wheels)
- Interior Dimensions: 29.4” x 16.5” x 11.9”
- Weight: 12.3 lbs
- Capacity: 107 liters
For a suitcase of this size, The Trunk is incredibly lightweight and easy to maneuver. The 107-liter capacity provides substantial packing space without the weight penalty typically associated with large luggage. This combination made navigating crowded airports significantly less stressful than I anticipated.
Key Features and Functionality
The Trunk comes equipped with numerous features designed to enhance the travel experience:
Wheel System and Mobility
The premium 360-degree smooth-gliding wheels represent one of The Trunk’s greatest strengths. Whether navigating busy airport terminals or rolling across cobblestone streets in European destinations, these wheels provide exceptional maneuverability. The smooth action makes it easy to guide the suitcase even when fully packed, and the multi-directional rotation ensures you can navigate tight spaces without frustration.
Handle Design
The high-grade, quick-release trolley handle features two adjustable height settings, accommodating different user heights and preferences. Crafted from aluminum, the handle feels sturdy and reliable. An additional underside grab handle simplifies the process of lifting the suitcase from baggage claim carousels, which is particularly helpful given the suitcase’s generous capacity.
Zippers and Security
The ergonomic, reverse coil zippers are thoughtfully designed for easy access. They glide smoothly without snagging, maintaining their functionality even after multiple trips. The TSA-approved combination lock provides peace of mind regarding security, meeting airline requirements while allowing you to secure your belongings.
Packing Organization
The Trunk features a distinctive 30/70 lid opening design with a slimmer top lid and a deeper main compartment. This configuration offers exceptional organization capabilities. The interior includes three mesh pockets plus one hanging pocket, providing multiple options for organizing different items. A double-buckle compression pad helps maximize packing efficiency, allowing you to fit more items while keeping everything organized.
Packing and Organization Experience
The interior layout reflects Away’s philosophy of designing luggage for actual travelers. The compartmentalization makes it simple to separate different types of items. One dedicated section works perfectly for clothing, while the other accommodates bulkier items like shoes and toiletries. This separation prevents delicate garments from being crushed by heavier items.
The signature compression system features wide straps and multiple pockets for maintaining organization throughout your journey. During my two-week Mexico trip, I successfully packed everything I needed without the typical overflow that plagues most large suitcases. Upon arrival at my destination, removing items was straightforward thanks to the organized compartmentalization.
Included Accessories
Away includes thoughtful accessories that enhance the overall value:
- Water-resistant Laundry Bag: A large drawstring laundry bag made from water-resistant polyester keeps dirty clothes separated from clean items. The drawstring closure is a practical feature that previous versions lacked.
- Luggage Tag: A crafted black luggage tag made from 50% recycled leather adds a premium touch while promoting sustainability.
- Cleaning Tool: A Mr. Clean Magic Eraser helps address minor scuffs that inevitably occur during travel.
Performance and Durability Assessment
The Trunk’s durable, lightweight 100% polycarbonate shell has been rigorously tested to withstand harsh travel conditions. Throughout my two-week journey, the suitcase encountered typical travel scenarios—airport baggage handling, taxi trunks, and hotel storage. The shell maintained its integrity without visible damage or wear.
The wheels continued operating smoothly even after navigating uneven surfaces and heavy use. The zippers showed no signs of stress or degradation. After returning home, the suitcase appeared virtually untouched by its travels, speaking to Away’s quality manufacturing standards.
Comfort and Ease of Use
One of my initial concerns was whether I could comfortably manage such a large suitcase through airports and city streets. The two-height adjustable trolley handle proved invaluable, allowing me to set it to my preferred level for optimal ergonomics. The underside grab handle made retrieving the suitcase from baggage claim simple and efficient.
Rolling through New York’s LaGuardia and Puerto Vallarta’s airport terminals felt effortless thanks to the smooth-gliding wheels. The suitcase tracked straight without pulling or veering, even when navigating crowded hallways and security checkpoints. This stability significantly reduces travel fatigue.
Comparative Value Analysis
At $435, The Trunk positions itself in the premium luggage market. However, when considering the features, durability, and included accessories, the value proposition is compelling. The suitcase’s lightweight construction eliminates airline weight penalties on many carriers, potentially offsetting its cost through baggage savings on future trips.
The limited lifetime warranty covering shell damage, wheels, handles, zippers, and other functional elements provides confidence in your investment. Additionally, Away offers free returns and exchanges on unused items for the first 100 days, allowing you to thoroughly test the suitcase before committing.
Nesting Capability
A practical feature worth noting is that The Trunk can accommodate Away’s smaller models. Both The Carry-On and The Bigger Carry-On can nest inside, creating a flexible luggage system for various trip types. This capability adds long-term value if you’re building a complete Away luggage collection.
Sustainability Considerations
Away demonstrates environmental responsibility through various elements of The Trunk. The luggage tag is crafted from 50% recycled leather, the laundry bag is constructed from water-resistant polyester, and the suitcases ship in 100% recyclable exterior packaging. For environmentally conscious travelers, these details reflect a commitment to sustainability.
Potential Considerations
While The Trunk excels in most areas, a few considerations merit mention. The 107-liter capacity, while generous, might exceed baggage allowances on some international carriers. Additionally, at 12.3 pounds, the suitcase itself represents a modest weight allocation on most 50-pound baggage limits, but international flights occasionally enforce stricter restrictions.
The premium pricing reflects Away’s market positioning. Budget-conscious travelers might find less expensive alternatives, though typically without the same combination of features, durability, and design aesthetic.
Performance Rating Summary
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Value | 20/20 |
| Ease of Use | 20/20 |
| Quality | 19/20 |
| Aesthetics | 20/20 |
| Organization | 18/20 |
| Total Score | 97/100 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is The Trunk suitable for international travel?
A: Yes, The Trunk is excellent for international travel. At 12.3 pounds and 107 liters, it fits most international baggage allowances. However, always verify specific airline restrictions before traveling.
Q: How does The Trunk compare to other Away suitcase sizes?
A: The Trunk is Away’s largest offering. Its unique tall, slender profile distinguishes it from other models, and it can accommodate smaller Away suitcases through nesting capabilities.
Q: Can the handle settings be adjusted easily?
A: Yes, the quick-release trolley handle features two adjustable height settings that can be modified for different user preferences and optimal ergonomics.
Q: What is included with The Trunk purchase?
A: Each Trunk includes a water-resistant drawstring laundry bag, a luggage tag made from recycled leather, and a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser for maintenance.
Q: What is Away’s return policy for The Trunk?
A: Away offers free returns and exchanges on unused items for the first 100 days. Personalized items cannot be returned but remain covered by warranty.
Q: How durable are The Trunk’s wheels?
A: The premium 360-degree smooth-gliding wheels are extremely durable. They maintain smooth operation across various surfaces, from airport terminals to cobblestone streets.
Q: Is The Trunk TSA-compliant?
A: Yes, The Trunk features a TSA-approved combination lock, meeting security requirements for U.S. airport screening.
Final Verdict
After two weeks of extensive travel with The Trunk, I can confidently recommend it to anyone seeking a premium, large suitcase that doesn’t sacrifice functionality for style. The combination of lightweight construction, exceptional durability, thoughtful design features, and aesthetic appeal makes The Trunk a standout choice in the luxury luggage market.
Whether you’re planning extended vacations, business trips requiring substantial luggage, or simply upgrading your travel gear collection, The Trunk delivers exceptional value. The positive feedback I received from fellow travelers speaks to its appeal beyond functional benefits. At $435, this suitcase represents a solid investment in travel comfort and style that will serve you well for years to come.
